My Father's Business

My Father’s Business is a MUST-READ for an aspiring young entrepreneur and an enjoyable read for anyone.–Dr. Thomas Frist, co-founder, Hospital Corporation of AmericaMy Father’s Business is the story of what it took to build Dollar General into a national retail chain from its rural, Kentucky roots and will encourage anyone with a dream of building a business.–Doug McMillon, president and CEO, WalmartMy Father’s Business ought to be required reading in any business school … . a great book!–Peter Handal, President and CEO, Dale Carnegie Training[This] well-written, honest book…is recommended for the general reader, business owners, entrepreneurs, job changers, and business-school students who want to understand the thinking that shaped the company’s growth and fueled its problems.–BooklistA fantastic book, for new entrepreneurs and CEOs alike, and it will inspire everyone who wants to integrate personal aspirations, family values, and best business practices.–Rev. Dr. Becca Stevens, founder and president of Thistle FarmsA fascinating glimpse into the philosophy and logistics of the dollar-store business model…–Chapter16.orgA revealing and colorful book … Cal Jr.’s openness about the trials and tribulations both within the family and the company itself, as well as his personal reflection in retirement, is something we can all learn from and is sure to help us be more honest in our own self-assessments.–Senator Bob CorkerAn inspiring story…if you are an ambitious businessman or entrepreneur, My Father’s Business will show you the future direction….should be a required read for the teachers and students of business.–The Washington Book ReviewI highly recommend this book as an insight into what is really important in business.–Michael W. Smith, singer/songwriterMr. Turner writes with touching candor about the challenges of sustaining a family business.–Wall Street JournalThe story of Dollar General is an example of what makes our country so great.–George Roberts, co-founder and co-chair, KKR This is more than the tale of Dollar General … . It is a story of family turmoil as well as wild success.–Senator Lamar Alexander

Cal Turner, Jr. grew up in a Scottsville, Kentucky, household where business and family were one. After graduating Vanderbilt University, he served for three years as an officer in the United States Navy before beginning his career at Dollar General. He served as CEO for 37 years, and during his tenure, the number of DG stores rose from 150, with sales of \(40 million, to more than 6,000, with sales in excess of \)6 billion. Turner has served on the boards of companies like Shoney’s and First American, and of educational, civic and charitable organizations including Vanderbilt and Fisk universities, and has been president of the board of governors of the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce. His many awards include the Presidential Award for Private Sector Initiatives (presented by Ronald Reagan) and the Vanderbilt Distinguished Alumnus Award. A committed lifelong Methodist, Turner was inducted in 2001 into the Fellows of the Society of John Wesley by the Tennessee Conference of the UMC. He lives in Nashville, TN.

Rob Simbeck is a writer and editor of over 20 books. He was ghostwriter of Cal Turner’s first book, co-written with Howard Olds, Led To Follow. He lives in Nashville, TN.