The Whole Story Audiobook By John Mackey cover art

The Whole Story

Adventures in Love, Life, and Capitalism

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The Whole Story

By: John Mackey
Narrated by: Adam Barr, John Mackey
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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 Leadership Management & Leadership Inspiring
Inspiring Business Journey • Fascinating Backstory • Excellent Storytelling • Personal Reflections • Entrepreneurial Wisdom
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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!

Great Story!

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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.

Loved this!

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It was an entertaining account of John Mackeys life, including thoughtful decisions, many lessons in business, musings on spirituality. He provides nice context for each of the situations. I’ve gained an appreciation for this man, and feel inspired by him- his thoughtfulness, his passion, his humility, his willingness to patiently seek and wait and humbly seek some more when times got challenging or he didn’t know what to do. What a fun journey this was. Thanks John for taking me along.

Entertaining, informative, interesting, well written and performed

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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

Such an amazing story and so beautifully written

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Let be the journey in a great man’s life. Would have loved a bit more detail on what worked and what failed on the shop floor.

Eyes wide open to new

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John Mackey is an excellent storyteller. This book had me completely hooked from the opening. His humility, openness, and love shine through as he gives a behind the curtain look at the building of Whole Foods and his personal journey from college dropout to CEO of a major company. It's the sort of book that makes you also think deeply about your own life choices - highly recommend.

A Fabulous Rollercoaster of life, love and liberty

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Incredible book! I spent 1/3 of my life working for Whole Foods Market and I can honestly say it was the best time of my life.

Love and the trials life throws at us to challenge this powerful state of being.

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John Mackey lays it all out warts and all about the origins of Whole Foods and theany trials & tribulations of raising this company and all the journey it took to overcome!! 10/10

Amazing story about Whole Foods!(up there with Shoe Dog for best business book!)

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

Listen up, Entrepreneurs!

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

top 10

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