Life Beyond the Mic » About Us » Shawna May

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Shawna May is a lifestyle influencer, disability advocate, and a seasoned voice in the entertainment industry. She began her radio career at just 15 years old while still in high school, getting her start at a local station in Upstate New York. From the very beginning, she showed a passion for media and a natural ability to connect with others through the microphone.

Throughout her career, Shawna has interviewed some of the most well-known names in the industry. Her interview list includes Counting Crows, Gavin DeGraw, Mick Foley, Foreigner, O-Town, Adam Lambert, Perez Hilton, Weird Al Yankovic, and many more. Each conversation reflects her genuine curiosity and deep respect for the craft.

But Shawna’s journey began long before she stepped into a studio. In 1989, she was born prematurely at just 5 ½ months, weighing only 1 lb 4.5 oz. Doctors warned her family she might not survive. She was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy, Scoliosis, and Hand Paralysis. Yet from her first breath, she defied expectations and embraced the fight ahead. Rather than allowing her diagnosis to define her, Shawna used her challenges as motivation to push forward.

Her life has included numerous surgeries, hospital stays, and medical hurdles. Still, she has never let any of it stop her. Instead, each experience built her resilience. With every obstacle, she gained strength, refusing to be seen as anything less than capable. As she grew, so did her drive to understand the world and her place in it. Her journey reflects not only perseverance but an unwavering belief in what’s possible.

Beyond her work in entertainment, Shawna dedicates her time to helping others. She’s an active community volunteer and works closely with the Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Hudson Valley, where she supports children facing life-threatening medical conditions. She finds purpose in giving back and making others feel seen and heard.

Today, Shawna lives in the Hudson Valley, New York, with her three beloved cats. She enjoys attending live concerts, exploring new destinations, and discovering great local eats. Her love for life is unmistakable. Whether she’s hosting a podcast, writing, or speaking to audiences, she brings passion, energy, and empathy to everything she does. 

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