Mike Lindell, born on June 28, 1961, in Mankato, Minnesota, is an American entrepreneur, political activist, and conspiracy theorist, best known as the founder and CEO of MyPillow, a company specializing in pillows, bedding, and slippers.
Early Life and Struggles
Raised in Chaska and Carver, Minnesota, Lindell developed a gambling addiction during his teenage years. After briefly attending the University of Minnesota, he dropped out and, in his twenties, became addicted to cocaine, later escalating to crack cocaine in the 1990s. These addictions, combined with gambling debts, led to the foreclosure of his home and the dissolution of his marriage. In 2009, Lindell credits his sobriety to prayer.
Entrepreneurial Journey
In the 1980s, Lindell ventured into various small businesses, including carpet cleaning, lunch wagons, and bars and restaurants in Carver County, Minnesota. In 2004, he invented MyPillow, a pillow filled with interlocking shredded foam pieces. He transformed this invention into a manufacturing company based in Minnesota.
MyPillow Company
Under Lindell’s leadership, MyPillow achieved significant success. However, in 2017, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) revoked the company’s accreditation, downgrading its rating to an F due to consumer complaints. In 2021, several major retailers discontinued MyPillow products, a move Lindell attributed to his political statements, particularly regarding the 2020 U.S. presidential election.
Political Involvement
Lindell is a staunch supporter of former President Donald Trump. After the 2020 presidential election, he actively supported and financed efforts to overturn the results, promoting unfounded conspiracy theories about widespread electoral fraud. He also advocated for unproven COVID-19 treatments.
Philanthropy
In the early days of MyPillow, Lindell donated to organizations like the Salvation Army and the United Way. He established the Lindell Foundation to assist individuals recovering from addiction. In 2019, he launched the Lindell Recovery Network, connecting those in recovery with others who have navigated similar challenges, as well as faith-based healing centers and other recovery organizations.
Personal Life
Lindell has been married twice. His first marriage to Karen Dickey lasted approximately 20 years and resulted in four children. He married Dallas Yocum in June 2013, but they divorced shortly after. Lindell is an evangelical Christian and received an honorary business doctorate from Liberty University in 2019. That same year, he self-published his memoir, “What Are the Odds? From Crack Addict to CEO,” detailing his journey from addiction to entrepreneurship.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mike Lindell
Who is Mike Lindell?
Mike Lindell is an American entrepreneur, best known as the founder and CEO of MyPillow, a company specializing in bedding products.
What is Mike Lindell’s net worth?
As of 2024, Mike Lindell’s net worth is estimated to be around $40 million, a decrease from his peak of $70 million before 2020.
What controversies has Mike Lindell been involved in?
Lindell has faced controversies due to his promotion of unproven election fraud claims and unverified COVID-19 treatments.
What is MyPillow?
MyPillow is a company founded by Mike Lindell, known for its pillows and bedding products.
What legal challenges has Mike Lindell faced?
Lindell has been involved in multiple defamation lawsuits related to his election fraud claims, resulting in significant legal expenses.
What philanthropic efforts has Mike Lindell undertaken?
Lindell founded the Lindell Foundation, assisting former addicts and veterans, and launched the Lindell Recovery Network to connect individuals with recovery resources.
What is FrankSpeech?
FrankSpeech is a video streaming platform launched by Mike Lindell, focusing on conservative content and news.
What is FrankSocial?
FrankSocial is a social networking site developed by Mike Lindell, offering a platform for free speech and conservative discussions.
What is the Lindell Recovery Network?
The Lindell Recovery Network is an initiative by Mike Lindell to connect individuals recovering from addiction with support groups and treatment centers.
What is the Lindell Foundation?
The Lindell Foundation is a non-profit organization founded by Mike Lindell, providing assistance to former addicts, cancer victims, and veterans.
