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

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.

Eyes wide open to new

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.

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

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.

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!

Excellent Audi Book

John Mackey wrote a very good book on this journey with Whole Foods. I found the content to be very engaging. Just an incredible story.

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+

Inspiring and Conscious Business Journey

John McKay’s The Whole Story: Adventures in Love, Life, and Capitalism offers an insightful look into the unconventional life of the Whole Foods founder. Blending business with personal growth and conscious living, McKay takes readers on a journey that touches on love, life, psychedelics, and his pursuit of consciousness. These aspects of his life are woven into his approach to running a profitable yet socially responsible business, making this book both unique and inspiring.

The journey of Whole Foods, from its humble beginnings to becoming a national success, is fascinating. However, the book leaves readers wanting more details about the acquisition by Amazon, which is only briefly mentioned. This would have been a crucial part of the story for those curious about the implications of such a massive business move.

Despite this, The Whole Story is a must-read for anyone interested in Whole Foods, John McKay, or the broader concept of Conscious Capitalism. It’s also a powerful, inspirational business narrative for anyone who wants to learn about creating positive change through entrepreneurship.

While Conscious Capitalism may be more widely known, The Whole Story feels more personal and reflective. It stands alongside some of my favorite business books, including Yvon Chouinard’s Let My People Go Surfing, and ranks high in my top five business reads.

We need more John Mackey's in the world

As an entrepreneur I'm pretty jaded, especially about the healthy food industry (one of my ventures), The Whole Story really painted a picture of someone who built a business using his personal values as his guiding principles, even, and especially when things got tough. I absolutely loved hearing John Mackey's whole story.