The Emotional Journey of Build-A-Bear

The real product isn’t always what’s on the shelf. It’s the story—and the feeling—that comes with it.

Sharon Price John, CEO of Build‑A‑Bear, reinvented a mall staple by returning the company from a $49 million loss to sustained profits while expanding into digital, adult, and licensing channels. 

And here’s the insight that anchored her: Build‑A‑Bear isn’t selling teddy bears. It’s selling meaning. If you want to expand and grow your brand (without losing its heart), hit play on this episode!

You’ll also learn:

• A turnaround formula so simple, it fits in four letters
• An analogy to honor your company’s past—without getting stuck in it
• The math (and magic) behind a viral “Pay Your Age” campaign
• What decisive leaders understand that hesitant ones miss

Take your learning further. Get proven leadership advice from these (free!) resources:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The How Leaders Lead App⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: A vast library of 90-second leadership lessons to stay sharp on the go 

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Daily Insight Emails⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: One small (but powerful!) leadership principle to focus on each day

Whichever you choose, you can be sure you’ll get the trusted leadership advice you need to advance your career, develop your team, and grow your business.