The Whole Story

Adventures in Love, Life, and Capitalism

By: John Mackey

Narrated by: Adam Barr, John Mackey

Whole Foods Market's cofounder and CEO for forty-four years, John Mackey offers an intimate and provocative account of the rise of this iconic company and the personal and spiritual journey that inspired its remarkable impact.

The Whole Story invites listeners on the adventure of building Whole Foods Market: the colorful cast of idealists and foodies who formed the company's DNA, the many breakthroughs and missteps, the camaraderie and the conflict, and the narrowly avoided disasters. Mackey takes us inside some of the most consequential decisions he had to make and honestly shares his regrets looking back.

Beyond the Whole Foods story, Mackey also dives into his:

- Spiritual journey: from Christianity to New Age mysticism, Eastern wisdom, and life-changing awakenings through psychedelics.

- Political and intellectual development: from countercultural co-op dweller to libertarian and Conscious Capitalist.

- Philosophical and ethical awakenings: especially with regard to animal welfare and the tension between his personal values and industry practices.

- Personal passions: most notably, his love of long-distance, ultra-light backpacking on the great trails of our country and planet.

©2024 John Mackey (P)2024 Ascent Audio

Great Story!

Thank you John Mackey for writing this book! I love you more now than I did when I first discovered Wholefoods Market. Thank you for letting me in on your life story! I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it in every aspect! I look forward to this new adventure! Love Life! It sounds perfect! I’m already a fan! Blessings!

Such an amazing story and so beautifully written

Wow. Super valuable content. Great inspiring story and wisdom to be learned and integrated. Thanks to the magic of this book and its inherent genius that lives in those who dream big and can relate. Keep nurturing that soul and mind. Its all possible with conviction, trust and deep desire. Like I learned in this book

Listen up, Entrepreneurs!

Well written and inspiring. Wished the author would have narrated the entire book, but other than that - a five star experience.

top 10

love the unique & well told story. one
of my favorite biographies yet. very engaging and though provoking.A+

Loved this!

I began my Whole Foods journey back in late 80’s/early 90’s with Bread&Circus in New England (Boston/Providence) and found them in Arlington, VA in late 90’s when I moved here. I was perplexed by the Fresh Fields in Vienna, VA, because it felt the same, but I didn’t know the “whole story”. Loved Whole Foods ever since. I too was worried about Amazon taking over, and have noticed things that weren’t as great (less local offerings, although there is still a decent amount). However, it saved me during COVID with the delivery and I have been happy to see the demographic evolve with the lower prices.
I could not stop listening to this audio book. I found the back story fascinating and John Mackey inspiring. I think it is a must read.