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Adam Segal

Q&A, Forty Under 40 Winner 2021; President and CEO, Stork Craft Manufacturing Inc., Age 36
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Q&A with Adam Segal, Forty Under 40 Winner 2021; President and CEO, Stork Craft Manufacturing Inc., Age 36

Who or what is responsible for your work ethic?

My motivation to succeed. My family, most notably my father, grandfather and wife, have been incredible role models for me and lead by example.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Anything that has caffeine or protein in it. Coffee, pre-workout drinks, protein shakes, protein bars. Bad reality TV. It used to be ‘The Bachelor,’ but now that I have kids, I’m ashamed to say it’s ‘Cocomelon.’ I have every song memorized. I am also obsessed with Pomeranians.

What is the best book you would recommend?

I really enjoyed The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell.

Now that you are (or are close to) entering your forties, what goals have you set for yourself?

We are planning aggressive growth in the business and to enter into new categories and markets. Personally, I’d like to play more tennis and take more time away from work to vacation with the family as my kids are growing up so fast.

What was your childhood career dream?

Anything to do with professional sports — either becoming a player agent or something in sports management.

Name your happiest place.

Maui to relax or Paris to explore.

What was your toughest business or professional decision?

When I took over as CEO in 2017, times were tough in all aspects of the business. The most difficult decision was to stick with it and see it through. Big ships turn slowly.

What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?

Things are never quite as bad or as good as they seem. There are always highs and lows and sometimes life throws you curve balls. Success takes time, patience and belief.

What is your best habit?

Discipline. From eating to exercising, to waking up early and being productive, I have always been disciplined from an early age.

Tell us one improbable fact about yourself.

I’m quite, quite musical; I play the piano and I’ve been told I have a good singing voice, although my four-year-old daughter tends to disagree ells me quite regularly to “stop singing.”


Best piece of advice ever received?

Ask questions and actively listen. Also, when things are outside of your control, try not to beat yourself up too much.

Biggest learning (about life or business) during the pandemic?

Family, friends and health are everything.

What career highlight are you most proud of?

Outside of this honour and also being named Canada’s Top 40 Under 40, I’m most proud of the diverse, multinational and progressive team we have here at Stork Craft.