Michael Ballard Net Worth 2024- Career, Wife, Age, Height, and …
Michael Ballard is a name that resonates with motorcycle enthusiasts and reality TV fans alike. As the owner of Full Throttle Saloon, dubbed the “world’s largest biker bar,” Ballard has carved out a unique niche in the entertainment and hospitality industry. His journey from a small-town troublemaker to a successful entrepreneur is a testament to his vision, determination, and business acumen.
Who is Michael Ballard?
Born in 1965 in the small town of Trimble, Tennessee, Michael Ballard was known for his mischievous nature from an early age. His antics were so notorious that local police nicknamed him “Little Al Capone.” Growing up, Ballard was fascinated with bars and liquor, sneaking into the town’s most extensive bar, the Silver Dollar Cafe, when he was just 12 years old.
Ballard’s early experiences shaped his future path, instilling a love for the bar atmosphere and the biker culture. This passion would later fuel his entrepreneurial ventures and lead him to create one of the most iconic biker destinations in the United States.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Michael Ballard |
| Date of Birth | 1965 |
| Age (2024) | 59 years old |
| Place of Birth | Trimble, Tennessee, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Profession | Entrepreneur, Reality TV Star |
| Height | Not widely publicized |
| Physical Appearance | Rugged, biker-style look |
| Nickname | “Little Al Capone” |
Where is Michael Ballard now?
Currently, Michael Ballard splits his time between Sturgis, South Dakota, where he runs the Full Throttle Saloon, and his hometown of Trimble, Tennessee. In Trimble, he has established another successful venture, the Full Throttle Moonshine distillery. This dual-location lifestyle allows Ballard to manage his diverse business interests while staying connected to his roots.
Age and Physical Appearance
As of 2023, Michael Ballard is 58 years old. While specific details about his physical appearance are not widely publicized, Ballard is known for his rugged, biker-style looks that match the atmosphere of his famous saloon. He often sports a beard and casual attire, embodying the laid-back yet challenging image of the biker community.
Personal Life and Relationships
Michael Ballard’s personal life has been as colorful as his professional career. He is married to Angie Carlson, who plays a significant role in the Full Throttle Saloon business. Angie serves as the Marketing Director and leads a team of performers known as the “Flaunt Dancers.”
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Relationship Status | Married |
| Spouse | Angie Carlson |
| Children | Daughter |
| Angie’s Role | Marketing Director and leader of the “Flaunt Dancers” at Full Throttle Saloon |
The couple’s relationship has been a critical feature of the Full Throttle Saloon reality TV show, showcasing their personal dynamic and professional partnership. Together, they have a daughter, adding another dimension to Ballard’s life as he balances family responsibilities with his demanding business ventures.
Professional Career and Achievements
Michael Ballard’s professional journey began in the cellular phone business. He founded and ran a company called Cellular Plus, which he later sold to pursue his true passion. In the late 1990s, Ballard took a trip to Sturgis, South Dakota, that would change his life.
Inspired by the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, Ballard used the proceeds from selling his cellular business to purchase 30 acres of land in Sturgis. He built the Full Throttle Saloon on this land, a massive indoor/outdoor entertainment complex that would become his claim to fame.
The Full Throttle Saloon is more than just a bar. It features multiple restaurants, a tattoo parlor, stores, two stages for performances, a wrestling ring, a zip line course, a burn-out pit, and 200 cabins. During the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in August, the facility can host up to 20,000 people per night.
Ballard’s most significant professional achievement came in 2009 when truTV approached him about creating a reality TV series based on the Full Throttle Saloon. The show, which ran for six seasons from 2009 to 2015, brought national attention to Ballard’s business and cemented his status as a notable figure in the entertainment industry.
Net Worth and Salary Details
As of 2023, Michael Ballard’s net worth is estimated at $10 million. This impressive figure results from his various business ventures, primarily the Full Throttle Saloon and the reality TV show.
While exact salary details are not publicly available, it’s known that the Full Throttle Saloon generates significant revenue, especially during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. The bar reportedly goes through two tractor-trailers worth of beer each night during peak season, indicating substantial sales.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Net Worth (2024) | Approximately $10 million |
| Primary Income Source | Full Throttle Saloon, Reality TV show, S’loonshine distillery |
| Revenue Details | Substantial sales during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally |
Additionally, Ballard’s earnings from the reality TV show and merchandise sales have contributed to his wealth. The exposure from the show has allowed him to expand his brand and create additional revenue streams.
Company Details and Investments
Michael Ballard’s primary business is the Full Throttle Saloon, which operates from March to mid-November each year. The saloon’s unique business model, focusing on the peak motorcycle rally season, has proven highly successful.
In 2013, Ballard expanded his business interests by launching the Full Throttle S’loonshine distillery in his hometown of Trimble, Tennessee. This venture into the liquor production industry demonstrates Ballard’s ability to leverage his brand and diversify his business portfolio.
While specific details about Ballard’s real estate investments are not widely known, his purchase of the 30-acre property in Sturgis for the Full Throttle Saloon was a significant and successful investment. Given the success of the business, the value of this property has likely appreciated considerably since its initial purchase.
Investment and Funding
Michael Ballard’s approach to investment and funding has been primarily self-driven. He used the proceeds from selling his cellular phone business to fund the initial development of the Full Throttle Saloon, giving Ballard complete control over his vision for the business.
Ballard could reinvest earnings into expanding and improving the facility as the Full Throttle Saloon grew in popularity and profitability. The success of the reality TV show likely provided additional capital for investments and expansions.
While there is no public information about external funding or investors, Ballard’s business model appears to be self-sustaining. Revenue from the saloon, merchandise, and media ventures funds further growth and new projects like the S’loonshine distillery.
Contact Details and Social Network Handles
Michael Ballard maintains a public presence primarily through the Full Throttle Saloon’s official channels. The saloon has an active Facebook page (@FullThrottleSaloon) where fans can stay updated on events and news.
The Full Throttle Saloon website (fullthrottlesaloon.com) provides contact information for business inquiries. However, Ballard keeps a relatively low personal profile on social media, preferring to interact with fans through his business platforms and public appearances.
| Platform | Handle/Details |
|---|---|
| @FullThrottleSaloon – Official page for updates and news | |
| Website | Full Throttle Saloon – Contact details for business inquiries |
| Social Media Profile | He prefers interacting through business platforms and public appearances |
Conclusion
Michael Ballard’s journey from a small-town troublemaker to a successful entrepreneur and reality TV star is a testament to his vision and determination. His creation of the Full Throttle Saloon has made him a millionaire and an iconic figure in the biker community. Ballard’s story continues to inspire aspiring entrepreneurs, proving that it’s possible to build a thriving business empire with passion, hard work, and a unique idea.