Walmart CEO Doug McMillon Highlights the Most Impactful Book of 2024
Doug McMillon, the CEO of Walmart, has shared his annual reading list for 2024, shedding light on the books that influenced him the most throughout the year. Spanning topics such as artificial intelligence, leadership, financial literacy, and innovation, the list reflects a balance between personal growth and professional insight. Among the ten books he highlighted, McMillon credited Sam Walton’s "Made in America" as the one that left the deepest impression on him.

Doug McMillon, the CEO of Walmart, has shared his annual reading list for 2024, shedding light on the books that influenced him the most throughout the year. Spanning topics such as artificial intelligence, leadership, financial literacy, and innovation, the list reflects a balance between personal growth and professional insight. Among the ten books he highlighted, McMillon credited Sam Walton’s "Made in America" as the one that left the deepest impression on him.
Speaking about the autobiography written by Walmart’s founder, McMillon remarked, “It was most impactful reading Sam’s book again. Every time I read it, I pick up new ideas and am reminded of why our culture is so successful.” Originally published in 1992, "Made in America" outlines Walmart’s journey from a single store to a global retail leader, while emphasizing the values and principles that shaped its growth.
McMillon’s 2024 list also reflected a growing interest in artificial intelligence, with three titles on the subject making the cut. These books delve into how AI is shaping industries, influencing innovation, and redefining leadership in the digital age.
The list includes the following titles, offering diverse perspectives on leadership, technology, and personal development:
- "How to Know a Person" by David Brooks explores how psychological principles can help individuals connect more deeply with others, fostering meaningful relationships in both personal and professional settings.
- "Just the Good Stuff" by Jim VandeHei presents actionable strategies for achieving success, drawing from the author’s experiences as a cofounder of Axios and Politico.
- "Financial Literacy For All" by John Hope Bryant provides practical guidance for building financial knowledge and achieving long-term financial goals.
- "Genesis" by Henry Kissinger, Craig Mundie, and Eric Schmidt examines the transformative potential of AI and its implications for humanity’s future.
- "Co-Intelligence" by Ethan Mollick advocates for using AI to complement, rather than replace, human capabilities, exploring ways to leverage technology for greater productivity.
- "Competing in the Age of AI" by Marco Iansiti and Karim R. Lakhani outlines strategies for businesses to thrive in an AI-driven world by embracing innovative organizational structures.
- "How Stella Saved the Farm" by Vijay Govindarajan and Chris Trimble uses a parable about a struggling farm to illustrate the importance of innovation.
- "Collaborative Disruption" by Tom Muccio reflects on the partnership between Walmart and Procter & Gamble, highlighting its transformative impact on the retail industry.
- "The Wisdom of the Bullfrog" by Adm. William McRaven draws leadership lessons from the author’s distinguished military career.
McMillon’s reading habits offer a glimpse into the evolving priorities of business leaders, especially as technology continues to redefine industries. His emphasis on Sam Walton’s "Made in America" underscores the enduring relevance of foundational values, even in an era dominated by digital transformation.
By sharing his reading list, Doug McMillon not only highlights his personal and professional growth but also provides inspiration for others seeking to navigate the complexities of modern leadership and innovation. The inclusion of AI-centric works reflects a broader trend among business leaders to stay ahead in a rapidly changing landscape.