This surprising demographic is behind Walmart’s growth
This surprising demographic is behind Walmart’s growth  
Podcast: Most Innovative Companies
Published On: Thu Jan 15 2026
Description: On today’s episode, cohosts Elizabeth Segran and Josh Christensen discuss the latest news in business and innovation, including the investigation of Fed Chair Jarome Powell, the nurses strike in New York City, and Paramount’s escalated hostile bid to take over Warner Bros. Discovery. Next, Elizabeth and Josh talk to Fast Company senior writer Ainsley Harris about a startup, Rainmaker, that can bring rain to places that need it.  And finally, Elizabeth speaks with Walmart’s executive vice president and chief merchandising officer Latriece Watkins about how Walmart has attracted higher income families and what’s next for the retail giant. For more of the latest business and innovation news, go to fastcompany.com/news To read Ainsley’s reporting on Rainmaker, go to fastcompany.com/91448561/this-is-the-hardest-startup-in-america