Shannon Wilburn: Keynote Speaker

Empowering Founders, Franchisors, and Purpose-Driven Entrepreneurs to Scale with Confidence

Shannon Wilburn is a Certified Franchise Executive, accomplished entrepreneur, and seasoned keynote speaker with over 25 years of experience in business growth and franchise development. As the co-founder of Just Between Friends, she expanded the brand from a single event in her living room to a nationally recognized franchise with over 150 locations across 33 states. Currently, as the founder and CEO of SHINE Executive Coaching, Shannon guides 6- and 7-figure founders through the complexities of scaling their businesses.

Shannon's presentations are rich with actionable insights, real-world experiences, and strategic frameworks. She connects deeply with audiences, offering practical tools and inspiration that drive immediate and lasting impact.

Recognition, Media & Industry Leadership

    • IFA Gold Giving Back Award – Recognizes creative charitable programs that maximize community impact.

    • IFA Bonnie LeVine Award (2021) – Honors women who are role models in business and franchising.

    • Top Woman in Franchising (2024) – Named by 1851 Franchise as one of the most influential women in franchising.

    • 50 Women of Wonder Award – Highlights women who empower others to succeed in business.

    • Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) – Signifies a high level of expertise and commitment to franchising.

    • Forbes List of Best Franchises in America – Just Between Friends featured 3 years in a row.

    • Abilene Christian University Distinguished Alumni Citation

    • FBR Franchise Satisfaction Awards (2010–2024)

    • Top Low-cost Franchise by Entrepreneur Magazine

    • Top 500 Franchises by Entrepreneur Magazine

    • Top 100 Franchises for Under $50,000 by Entrepreneur Magazine

    • Gold Award for Innovation and Impact | Franchising Gives Back

    • Top 10 Home-based Franchises for Stay-at-home Moms

  • As Seen On:

    • Today Show | Fox News | ABC News | CBS Early Show | Good Morning America

    Articles & Profiles:

    • Shannon (McKnight ’92) Wilburn: 2013 Distinguished Alumni Citation

    • Shannon Wilburn – 5 Questions

    • Shannon Wilburn – Just Between Friends

    • 2024's Top Women in Franchising: Shannon Wilburn

    • Overcoming Franchise Financial Challenges: The Advisory Board Podcast

    • Emerging Franchise Brands: Just Between Friends: Leading Franchises with Purpose

    • WFC Her Success Podcast Season 5 – Shannon Wilburn, CFE & Tracy Panase

    • E108: From Struggles To Success – The Journey of Co-Founding Just Between Friends

    • Top Women in Franchising – Shannon Wilburn

    • IFA Women's Franchise Committee Podcast – Shannon Wilburn

    • Biz Builder Spotlight Show

    • The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

    • Faith, Frontlines and Fortune Podcast

    • The Ultimate Journey of Self-Care

    • Bliss Business Podcast

    • Tulsa Chamber Small Business Connection Advisory Board Member

    • International Franchise Association Member | Feb 2005 – present

    • IFA Marketing Committee & Task Force Member | 2013 – present

    • The Barre Code Board Member | Feb 2018 – Sept 2020

    • Emergency Infant Services Board Member | Jun 2009 – Jun 2012

    • Oklahoma Christian University | Member, Board of Trustees

    • Just Between Friends | Advisory Board Member Jan 2023 – present

    • LIME Painting | Advisory Board Member 2025 – present

    • The Pearl House | Board Member Jan 2024 – present

Book

Why Choose Shannon Wilburn

  • Proven Experience: Co-founded and scaled Just Between Friends into a $40M+ franchise with 150+ locations.

  • Certified Expertise: Holds the Certified Franchise Executive designation and coaches high-performing founders.

  • Media Recognition: Featured on CNN, The Today Show, Fox News, Good Morning America, and Entrepreneur.

  • Engaging Delivery: Combines strategic insights with authentic storytelling to captivate audiences.

  • Action-Oriented: Provides practical tools and frameworks that attendees can implement immediately.

What Attendees Gain

  • Enhanced Engagement: Dynamic and tailored presentations that resonate with diverse audiences.

  • Applicable Content: Insights directly relevant to attendees' business and leadership challenges.

  • Memorable Stories: Real-life experiences that illustrate key concepts and inspire action.

  • Practical Takeaways: Clear steps and strategies for immediate application.

  • Emotional Connection: Moments that foster reflection, motivation, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Ideal Audiences

  • Franchise and Emerging Brand Conferences

  • Entrepreneur and CEO Masterminds

  • Leadership and Culture Summits

  • Women's Leadership Retreats

  • Faith-Based Business Events

  • In-House Leadership Development Programs

Speaking Formats

  • Keynote Addresses

  • Panel Discussions

  • Breakout Workshops

  • Fireside Chats

  • Executive Roundtables

  • Virtual Events and Webinars

The Investment

Local Engagements

Starting at 1,500 USD.

Non-Local Engagements

Starting at 4,000 USD plus expenses.

Local is defined as within a 30-minute drive from Tulsa, Oklahoma.

All fees listed are starting points and may vary based on scope, customization, location, and travel requirements.
We’re happy to provide a tailored estimate based on your specific event needs—just reach out to start the conversation!

”Shannon delivered a powerful and memorable Commencement address for our university. With humor, authenticity, and faith, she connected with our students in a way that was both entertaining and deeply inspiring. Her stories of perseverance and rejection, paired with the call to "walk on water" challenged our graduates to embrace discomfort as a catalyst for growth, trusting God’s hand in every step. Super grateful for her wonderful keynote and incredible message."

Will Beasley, Chief of Staff, Abilene Christian University

Ready to Elevate Your Event?

To book Shannon Wilburn for your next event and provide your audience with a transformative experience, please fill out this form:

BOOK SHANNON WILBURN

Or send an email to: 📧 victoria@shineexecutivecoaching.com 

We look forward to collaborating with you to create an impactful and memorable event.