The Midlife Chrysalis Psychedelics, Purpose & the Next Chapter of John Mackey’s Life
Jul 2, 2025
John Mackey, the visionary founder of Whole Foods Market and advocate for conscious capitalism, shares his journey of reinvention at 69. He delves into transformative experiences with psychedelics that led to profound spiritual breakthroughs. Mackey discusses the evolution of conscious capitalism and why love is the ultimate business strategy. He opens up about his transition from leadership at Whole Foods, the challenges of building Love Life wellness centers, and how embracing purpose can redefine retirement and longevity.
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Purpose Drives Longevity
- Purpose signals the body to keep going and supports longevity.
- John Mackey says a clear life purpose helps cells sustain life longer.
Ego Death Led To Food Purpose
- At age 22 John took a large dose of LSD and experienced ego death.
- That experience led him to vegetarianism and launched his lifelong passion for food.
Love Became The Core Strategy
- MDMA opened John's heart and convinced him love mattered most.
- That insight steered Whole Foods' culture toward making it "the happiest place to work."
