Shannon Adam
Shannon Adam is the CEO of Best Ride on Cars, a women- and minority-owned company dedicated to creating innovative, high-quality ride-on toys. With over 15 years of leadership experience, Shannon has built a reputation for driving business growth through strategic analysis, brand development, and creative marketing. Under her leadership, Best Ride on Cars has established key partnerships with major brands such as Hasbro and retailers like Walmart, successfully bringing beloved products to life for children across the nation.
Shannon’s approach combines her expertise in business analysis and advertising with a passion for fostering organizational success. She is known for her collaborative leadership style and strategic planning, which have enabled her team to develop impactful initiatives and deliver measurable results. Throughout her career, Shannon has remained committed to innovation, ensuring that each product meets the highest standards of safety, durability, and play value for young customers.
A graduate of the University of North Texas with a Bachelor’s degree in Education, Shannon began her journey in entrepreneurship over a decade ago. From serving as COO to taking the helm as CEO, she has navigated the challenges of the toy industry with resilience and vision. Beyond business, Shannon is dedicated to creating a legacy for her family and inspiring other entrepreneurs, often sharing her insights at industry events and panels, including the Walmart Summit for Equity in Entrepreneurship. Her leadership continues to shape the future of play, leaving a lasting impact on both her team and the industry.
• University of North Texas - BA
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the lessons my parents instilled in me, especially the value of hard work. I originally pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Education with the goal of becoming a volleyball and sixth-grade teacher, and I dreamed of earning Teacher of the Year. However, when my mother became ill, I needed a career with more flexibility. My husband introduced me to the field I’m in today, and I dedicated myself to learning everything I could.
I started in a small, lime-green office at a startup, and through perseverance and hard work, I helped the company grow into a $30 million business in the toy manufacturing industry. This journey has been both challenging and rewarding, and it has reinforced the importance of dedication and resilience.
Above all, my motivation has always been my family. I worked not only to build a successful career but also to create opportunities and a better life for my children.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is, “Never be just competent.” It reminded me early on that standing out requires going beyond the basics—consistently learning, innovating, and adding value in ways that set you apart. Competence is expected; excellence is remembered.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to believe in yourself and know that you can achieve anything. Don’t let a male-dominated environment define your limits—your skills, determination, and perseverance can help you rise to any challenge and advance as far as you want.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are family, curiosity, and a love of exploration. I value spending quality time with my children, supporting their sports and activities, and sharing in their growth. I’m also passionate about travel and experiencing different countries and cultures, as it broadens my perspective and inspires new ways of thinking in both life and work.
Locations
Best Ride on Cars
11937 Denton Drive, Suite 101, Dallas, TX 75234