Build-A-Bear CEO Sharon John has driven the evolution of Build-A-Bear from a vertical retailer to a global toy company with legions of followers. And as she says, it was built, "One heart ceremony at a time."

But it's the savvy combination of data and heart that have make this company the iconic success it is today. In our conversation, Sharon talks about the company's growth and why it's so much more than bears (and bunnies and hedgehogs.)

And be sure to check out Sharon's book: Stories and Heart: Unlock the Power of Personal Stories to Create a Life You Love. You can get it here.