Transforming Lives Through Mental Health

Empowering change for those affected by trauma, poor mental health and addictions.

About Stigma Shift

inspirational speaker talking about mental health stigma

The Mission

Stigma Shift is about more than just talking the talk—we’re walking the path of transformation with a fierce and resilient spirit. We know that overcoming mental health stigma, addiction, and the lasting impact of childhood trauma requires a warrior mindset—one rooted not in fighting alone, but in finding strength through vulnerability and support.

We’re here to challenge the stigma head-on, to break down walls of silence and shame, and to replace them with understanding, compassion, and connection. At Stigma Shift, we believe that true power comes from facing the darkest parts of our stories with courage and determination.

Our mission is simple but bold: to build a community where healing isn’t just a distant hope—it’s a reality shaped by the collective strength of those who refuse to be defined by their past. Join us as we shift perspectives, one story at a time, with the heart of a warrior and the grace of resilience.

About Shaun McClure

Shaun is a living testament to the power of transformation. For more than 23 years, he was trapped—both physically and mentally—in a cycle of addiction, trauma, and incarceration. From the time he turned 18, he was immersed in a brutal system that saw him not as a human being with struggles, but as a criminal beyond redemption. Shaun believed it too—believed he was a failure, a lost cause, a product of his past with no future worth fighting for.

But that wasn’t the whole story. Beneath the stigma and the labels was a person desperate to change—a person who didn’t yet understand how deeply trauma had shaped his path. It wasn’t until Shaun confronted his mental health—facing the roots of his pain and the chaos he had buried deep—that he found a way forward.

Today, Shaun is not just surviving—he’s thriving. He has built a new life through sheer determination, self-awareness, and an unbreakable commitment to personal growth. His journey from prison bars to boardrooms is a story of shifting gears—recognizing the forces that hold us back and taking control of our lives. As an inspirational speaker, he has created a framework called the Gears of Stigma Shift, a system that guides others from surviving to thriving by breaking the cycle of mental health stigma and empowering them to take charge of their own stories.

Now, as a public speaker, mental health advocate, and radio show host, Shaun uses his experiences to inspire and challenge others to believe in their potential. He also leads a free Art Class once a month, hosted by NAMI Payson, where he fosters creativity and community for those seeking healing through artistic expression. His message is simple: It doesn’t matter where you’ve been—what matters is that you’re ready to shift. Shaun is living proof that change is possible, and he’s dedicated to helping others find the strength to shift their own gears.

Our Impact

group of volunteers overcoming mental health stigma

Our Programs

Stigma Shift is a community-driven movement dedicated to breaking the stigma around mental health, addiction, and childhood trauma. Through our radio show, live stream conversations, Creative Expressions Art class, and motivational speaking, we create safe spaces for real stories and honest dialogue. Our mission is to inspire transformation, empower voices, and build resilience—one conversation, one canvas, and one story at a time. .

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Our Success Stories

Over the years, we have inspired countless individuals to overcome mental health, addiction, and trauma challenges through powerful conversations, community engagement, and creative expression. Our success stories are a testament to the transformative impact of sharing real experiences and building connections. Whether it’s through our radio show, live stream conversations, art classes, or motivational speaking, we’re proud to foster resilience and create lasting change.

Our Partnerships

We are proud to partner with a diverse range of organizations and businesses that share our vision of breaking the stigma around mental health, addiction, and trauma. Through these collaborations, we expand our reach and amplify our impact, creating more opportunities for community connection, creative expression, and powerful conversations. Together, we provide essential resources and support to those who need it most, inspiring transformation where it is needed most.

Become A Partner