Christopher Shaw, CPSS, CFPS, CPRS, grew up in NYC and migrated to Stillwater, MN as a teenager. The lingering effects of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) brought the onset of his struggle with mental illness and substance use disorders. Chris is a Navy veteran, attended UW-River Falls for a BA in English and toured as a musician for several years, before embarking on a career as a stand-up comedian. His 25+ year career included performing for tens of thousands of people, both live and on numerous TV appearances. Yet all the while he struggled with undiagnosed mental illness and worsening substance use issues. With the lows of two failed marriages, isolation from his children, an out-of-control lifestyle, and recurrent DUI arrests, it all culminated in a near-fatal suicide attempt in 2015.

As a result, Chris entered treatment at the Minneapolis VA Hospital. He was so moved by the role his Peer Support Specialist played in his recovery, he vowed to become a CPSS himself. In 2019, he was a part of the state’s pilot training program for Certified Family Peer Specialists. In 2020, Chris was also certified to provide Peer Recovery Support.

Today, Chris is the Executive Director of The Heart and Mind Connection. He works to expand a vision of the hope for recovery that can come from those who share a lived experience with mental illness and substance use challenges, both adults and children. As an advocate, speaker, trainer, and facilitator, he is combining his gift of humor, and his commitment to combat stigma and end suicide by sharing his own story and across the country.