Sharon Price John

Sharon Price John, CEO of Build-A-Bear, shares her inspiring story of revitalizing the brand through a heart-centered approach. Facing bankruptcy, she asked if the company truly mattered, leading to a transformative turnaround. Sharon reveals how emotional connections and purpose can drive a business's success, emphasizing the importance of operational excellence and strategic alignment with a mission. Her journey illustrates that starting with heart not only saves companies but also fosters resilience and growth, encouraging others to find their own organization's purpose.

Sharon Price John, the CEO who led Build-A-Bear’s turnaround, shares a purpose-driven approach that revived profitability and global growth. She explores asking whether the company matters, the emotional heart ceremony that creates customer loyalty, and how centering mission guided strategy, store and digital expansion, and new audiences like teens and adults.

Sharon Price John, CEO of Build-A-Bear Workshop, transformed the company from a $49 million loss to sustained profits by focusing on emotional connections with customers. She emphasizes that the brand is about more than just teddy bears—it's about meaning. Discover her simple turnaround formula and the secrets behind the viral 'Pay Your Age' campaign. She also shares insights on balancing legacy and innovation, applying lessons from motherhood to leadership, and how to adapt to changing consumer behaviors.

Sharon Price John, the long-serving CEO of Build-a-Bear Workshop, shares insights on the company's impressive reinvention in a challenging retail landscape. She discusses the brand's success in opening new stores and targeting international markets, despite the hurdles posed by Trump tariffs on Chinese goods. John also highlights the importance of innovative products and maintaining a strong workplace culture to foster customer loyalty. Her leadership approach offers a unique perspective on adapting to changing consumer habits and economic pressures.

Sharon Price John, the President and CEO of Build-A-Bear Workshop, shares insights from her remarkable turnaround of the beloved brand. She discusses transforming Build-A-Bear into a destination experience, expanding into e-commerce for adult customers, and partnering with venues like tourism and hospitality to drive growth. Sharon also reveals exciting plans for an animated series and highlights her foundation's literacy initiatives. Plus, the episode touches on an evolving retail landscape and the ongoing relevance of malls in consumer experiences.