Bardell always knew he wanted to own his own business. In 2001, he realized that dream when he purchased his first McDonald’s restaurant, the location on Bullard Avenue in New Orleans. Shortly thereafter, he became the Owner/Operator of two restaurants on Canal Street in downtown New Orleans. By 2005, Bardell owned six restaurants in the market. When Hurricane Katrina struck the city, all six of his restaurants were damaged and closed. Over the next several months, he helped many of his managers move back to the area, and with their help, was able to re-open his existing restaurants and buy additional ones. By 2008, he owned and operated 17 restaurants in the Greater New Orleans area. 

In 2008, Bardell was selected by McDonald’s Corporation to attend the National African American History Month celebration at The White House. The invitation was extended to Owners/Operators who are considered outstanding ambassadors and leaders in their communities. On a national level, Bardell has served on the Executive Board of Directors for the National Black McDonald’s Owners Association for several years.  He serves on two teams within McDonald’s consisting of a small group of Owner/Operators from across the country and company employees; the National Operations Team which works to simplify operational procedures within the entire system and the National Supply Leadership Council which works with vendors who supply the restaurants with all required goods.  

Bardell gives back to his community in one other notable way as well: he is a reserve police officer in St. John the Baptist Parish. Bardell enjoys working with his fellow police officers to keep the area safe.  He looks forward to teaching children in his community good decision-making skills to help them lead safe and healthy lives.