From Whole Foods CEO to Thru-Hiker: A Conversation with John “Strider” Mackey

Hold onto your hiking poles, folks, because this week on Backpacker Radio, we’re trekking into uncharted territory with a guest who’s as comfortable in the boardroom as he is on the trail. We’re joined by none other than John Mackey, the entrepreneurial legend behind Whole Foods, who also answers to the trail name “Strider.” We’re diving deep into his journey from grocery guru to ultralight backpacking enthusiast, exploring his fascinating life on and off the trail.

Early Days and Unexpected Beginnings

John kicks things off with a hilarious anecdote about his early days of romance, proving that even captains of industry can be adorably awkward. Imagine this: a first date, a peek inside the refrigerator, and a glimpse into his future wife’s dietary habits – a story that’s equal parts charming and, dare we say, a little bit extra. But it’s this genuine curiosity and willingness to be open that shines through as John talks about his life’s journey.

From those early days to building a business empire, John shares how expressing his feelings openly, something he learned early on, became a cornerstone of his leadership style. It’s a refreshing perspective from someone who’s often defined by his business acumen but clearly prioritizes human connection.

Gossamer Gear and the Allure of Ultralight Hiking

Buckle up, gearheads, because John’s passion for ultralight backpacking is contagious! He dives into the nitty-gritty of his gear choices, revealing a mind-bogglingly low base weight that would make even the most seasoned thru-hiker do a double-take. We’re talking about a setup so streamlined it could practically float down the trail on its own.

But it’s not just about shaving ounces for John. He paints a vivid picture of how Ray Jardine’s iconic book, “Beyond Backpacking”, revolutionized his approach to hiking. It’s a philosophy that resonates deeply with the minimalist ethos, emphasizing experience over equipment.

And hold on to your hats because John drops a bombshell: he conquered the Appalachian Trail while still at the helm of Whole Foods! Talk about extreme multitasking! He shares how the simplicity of the trail provided a much-needed respite from the demands of leading a Fortune 500 company.

But it’s not all business and base weights. John reveals a hidden artistic side, one that found expression in the most unexpected of places: AT shelter logs. Forget cheesy poems or mundane musings, John was spinning epic fantasy tales, leaving fellow hikers wondering who this mysterious wordsmith could be. It’s a testament to the power of the trail to inspire creativity in the most unexpected ways.

And of course, no conversation about thru-hiking would be complete without a discussion of trail food. John, a longtime vegan, spills the beans on his go-to snacks and the cravings that hit hardest when you’re burning thousands of calories a day. Let’s just say, even CEOs aren’t immune to the siren song of a good trailside burger fantasy.

Psychedelics, Parents, and the Path Less Traveled

John’s journey takes an unexpected turn as he opens up about the role of psychedelics in his life, a topic not often broached by business titans. He speaks candidly about how these experiences shaped his worldview and influenced his entrepreneurial spirit. It’s a refreshingly honest perspective that challenges conventional notions of success and personal growth.

But it wasn’t always smooth sailing for the young entrepreneur. John paints a humorous picture of his parents’ reactions to his early ventures, including the birth of Safer Way, a precursor to Whole Foods. Let’s just say, they weren’t exactly hanging congratulatory banners just yet. It’s a relatable tale of parental skepticism and the unwavering belief in one’s vision that it takes to defy expectations.

And then there’s the Whole Foods saga itself. John recounts the exhilarating highs and the gut-wrenching challenges of leading a company through a period of explosive growth. It’s a masterclass in navigating the complexities of scaling a business while staying true to its core values.

From Bookworms to Bezos: Insights and Reflections

For all the aspiring entrepreneurs out there, John doesn’t disappoint. He drops some serious knowledge, sharing a treasure trove of book recommendations that have shaped his leadership philosophy. Consider it required reading for anyone looking to make their mark on the world.

And in a particularly timely discussion, John weighs in on REI’s approach to unionization, offering a nuanced perspective on a hot-button issue. He goes beyond the headlines, sharing insights into building a company culture that values its employees and fosters a sense of shared purpose.

Of course, no conversation with John Mackey would be complete without addressing the elephant in the room: the Whole Foods merger with Amazon. He reflects on his interactions with Jeff Bezos, pulling back the curtain on one of the most significant business deals in recent memory. It’s a glimpse into the minds of two titans of industry and the forces shaping the future of retail.

Beyond the Boardroom: Trails, Tales, and European Escapades

But lest you think John’s life is all business all the time, he quickly sets the record straight. He’s a man of many trails, having conquered not just the AT but also the Pacific Crest Trail, the Via Francigena in Europe, and the Alpe Adria Trail. He shares his favorite European trails and the unique joys of exploring new cultures on foot.

And like any good storyteller, John has a knack for recounting memorable moments from his adventures. From chance encounters with fellow hikers to breathtaking vistas that took his breath away, he reminds us that the real magic of hiking lies in the unexpected moments of connection and awe.

Join the Conversation: Tune in to Backpacker Radio

This is just a taste of the wisdom, humor, and genuine love for the outdoors that John Mackey brings to Backpacker Radio. So, grab your headphones, lace up your hiking boots (or slip into your comfiest slippers), and get ready for a conversation that’s as insightful as it is entertaining.

Don’t forget to check out the show notes for all the links, resources, and discount codes mentioned in the episode. And be sure to subscribe to Backpacker Radio wherever you get your podcasts so you never miss an episode.