In this episode of Pawsitive Impact, Jimmy and Jerry face the grizzly reality of tariff volatility and its ripple effects on The Bear Factory. With sudden changes in import costs, they’re making bold moves, from planning their inventory, fast-tracking production, and scouting new sourcing hubs outside of China. Even with zero profits on the horizon, their focus stays on trust, transparency, and keeping shelves stocked for the holidays. It’s a raw look at tough decisions, strategic pivots, and the determination it takes to keep going.

00:36 The Tariff Announcement Impact

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In this episode of Pawsitive Impact, Rob is joined by Jimmy and Keia to explore what makes The Bear Factory more than just a retail experience—it’s a memory-making adventure. They dive into the magic behind their integrated spaces, the heartwarming stuff-a-plush program, and how kids approach choosing their plush with surprising seriousness. The team highlights the educational value woven into the experience and how their approach sparks imagination, ownership, and joy. Plus, they introduce a fan favorite with big personality in a tiny package—Momo the Hedgehog!

1:09 - Experiential Retail

6:38 - Experience and Companionship

9:50 - Educational Aspect of the Experience

15:31 - MoMo the Hedgehog

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🐾 Dive into the heart of The Bear Factory as co-hosts Jerry and Jimmy reveal the inner workings of a plush business that has charmed the world for nearly a quarter of a century. Each episode, they share the secrets behind 25 years of crafting teddy bears with a mission, exploring the company’s ethos, and the meticulous artistry involved in creating each cuddly companion.

Show Notes:  

💻: https://thebearfactory.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBearFactoryllc/?wtsid=rdr_0sGHHU1RDYkTDhGWz

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebearfactory_llc/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebearfactoryllc  

General Inquiries: [email protected]

Shipping Inquiries: [email protected]

In this heartwarming episode of Pawsitive Impact, Rob is joined by Jimmy and Keia McLain—VP of The Bear Factory, Jimmy’s wife, and Jerry’s daughter. The trio dives into family, legacy, and love, sharing what it was like for Keia to grow up inside the Bear Factory and how she and Jimmy’s relationship blossomed alongside the business. They reflect on the profound influence of Keia’s mom, Renee, and the values she instilled that continue to guide them. With their daughter Araya now part of the story, the episode offers a touching look at generational passion and future hopes.

1:30 - How Jimmy and Keia Met

8:50 - Serial Entrepreneur

17:15 - Renee's Legacy

19:25 - Second Generation Owners

23:22 Balancing Business and Family

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🐾 Dive into the heart of The Bear Factory as co-hosts Jerry and Jimmy reveal the inner workings of a plush business that has charmed the world for nearly a quarter of a century. Each episode, they share the secrets behind 25 years of crafting teddy bears with a mission, exploring the company’s ethos, and the meticulous artistry involved in creating each cuddly companion.

Show Notes:  

💻: https://thebearfactory.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBearFactoryllc/?wtsid=rdr_0sGHHU1RDYkTDhGWz

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebearfactory_llc/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebearfactoryllc  

General Inquiries: [email protected]

Shipping Inquiries: [email protected]

In this episode of Pawsitive Impact, Rob and Jimmy dive into the ever-evolving world of tariffs and what they mean for The Bear Factory and its customers. While the news may seem overwhelming, Jimmy reminds us there’s no need to panic. With 25 years of experience behind them, The Bear Factory has weathered storms before—and they’re approaching this one with cautious optimism. Tune in to hear how they’re communicating with partners, staying nimble amidst change, and keeping their sights set on a future full of fluff, fun, and continued impact.

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome to the Heart of the Bear Factory

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In this Pawsitive Impact episode, Jimmy and Jerry dive into the world of bear accessories and paw-sonalizations that make The Bear Factory’s creations extra special. From adorable outfits to heartfelt audio recorders, they’ve got it all to create meaningful connections. Jimmy shares how every stuffed animal comes with a QR code, providing easy tips for cleaning and caring, ensuring a lifetime of cuddles. Their mission? To create a paw-sitive experience for every child. With every stitch and accessory, The Bear Factory spreads joy—proving that running a feel-good business is more than fluff; it’s about heart.

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🐾 Dive into the heart of The Bear Factory as co-hosts Jerry and Jimmy reveal the inner workings of a plush business that has charmed the world for nearly a quarter of a century. Each episode, they share the secrets behind 25 years of crafting teddy bears with a mission, exploring the company’s ethos, and the meticulous artistry involved in creating each cuddly companion. Show Notes:

💻: https://thebearfactory.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBearFactoryllc/?wtsid=rdr_0sGHHU1RDYkTDhGWz

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebearfactory_llc/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebearfactoryllc

General Inquiries: [email protected]

Shipping Inquires: [email protected]

In this timely episode of Pawsitive Impact, host Rob Johnson is joined by Jerry and Jimmy to discuss recent developments at The Bear Factory and exciting plans for 2025. The team reflects on the potential impact of President-Elect Trump’s agenda, particularly tariffs, and their strategy to backstock critical components to navigate challenges. They share insights into sourcing materials, supply chain disruptions, and how inflation has shaped their business. Despite hurdles, Jerry and Jimmy remain optimistic, highlighting improvements to operations and lessons from past successes. Tune in for a transparent look at overcoming obstacles and a preview of what’s to come!

In this special episode of Pawsitive Impact, host Rob Johnson and Jerry explore The Bear Factory's innovative mobile trailer. Designed to bring the magic of teddy bear stuffing to any event or location, this mobile unit offers a unique marketing tool and an engaging platform for environmental education for children. While Jimmy is absent, Jerry shares insights on how the trailer enhances brand reach and offers tips on partnering with The Bear Factory to own and operate your own trailer, backed by their expert support. Plus, meet Chauncey, the Halloween bear, as Jerry introduces this spooky, lovable addition!

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🐾 Dive into the heart of The Bear Factory as co-hosts Jerry and Jimmy reveal the inner workings of a plush business that has charmed the world for nearly a quarter of a century. Each episode, they share the secrets behind 25 years of crafting teddy bears with a mission, exploring the company’s ethos, and the meticulous artistry involved in creating each cuddly companion. Show Notes:

💻: https://thebearfactory.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBearFactoryllc/?wtsid=rdr_0sGHHU1RDYkTDhGWz

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebearfactory_llc/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebearfactoryllc

General Inquiries: [email protected]

Shipping Inquires: [email protected]