Today’s episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is sponsored by SouthPark Community Partners, an independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to lead SouthPark's advancement by driving economic vitality, creating memorable experiences, and ensuring an extraordinary quality of life.
Michal Bay was born in a small village in Mesopotamia, where his childhood was marked by hard work. Despite his humble beginnings, his ambitions took him far beyond the borders of his village. From helping tourists as a young boy to moving to London driven by the dream of a better life, Bay’s path has been anything but conventional.
In London, he started from scratch, washing dishes before venturing into import-export businesses, and later navigating the challenges of mad cow disease that disrupted his thriving beef trade. His journey continued across numerous countries, including Japan, South Africa and Russia, before he ultimately found a new home and purpose in the United States.
Today, Bay is owner of Merino Mill in Mooresville and three restaurants, The Barcelona Burger & Beer Garden, Alino Pizzeria and Picasso Taqueria. He also owns The Barcelona Burger in Winston-Salem.
On this episode of The Charlotte Ledger Podcast, Bay discusses:
His childhood growing up in Mesopotamia.
How he became an entrepreneur.
Overcoming setbacks in his business endeavors.
His philosophy for business success.
The importance of fostering a community.
His advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Bay received The Ledger’s 40 Over 40 Award in 2024.
This podcast episode is part of a series highlighting winners of The Ledger’s 40 Over 40 awards, which honor and celebrate often unheralded people over the age of 40 who are making important contributions to Charlotte. It’s hosted by Steve Dunn of Miles Mediation and Arbitration.
Find out more about the 40 Over 40 awards by going to Ledger40over40.com.
We hope you enjoy the conversation with Michal Bay.
The Charlotte Ledger Podcast is produced by Lindsey Banks.
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