On today’s episode of Curveball, host Scott Reich welcomes Maria Trusa—author, entrepreneur, human rights advocate, and survivor. At just nine years old, Maria experienced profound trauma that nearly destroyed her, both physically and emotionally. In this moving conversation, Maria shares how she endured and ultimately forgave the perpetrator of her abuse, embodying her hallmark phrase: forgive to live. Together, Scott and Maria explore the painful legacy of trauma, the power of forgiveness, and the ongoing journey toward healing. Maria’s candid reflections reveal how dark moments can both shape us and propel us toward the light, offering solace and hope to anyone carrying the weight of unimaginable hardship. Get ready for a deeply personal episode that challenges us to embrace compassion, curiosity, and above all, the possibility of renewal.

Listens Will Learn:

● Maria Trusa emphasizes the concept of "forgive to live."

● Maria talks about trauma being like a cancer that’s eating you inside.

● Scott and Maria both mention the generational transmission of trauma.

● Maria describes feeling completely disconnected from her emotions for years and refers to this as a superpower that became a barrier.

● The episode discusses the impact of silence and stigma around mental health and sexual abuse, especially in childhood.

● Maria talks about the importance of curiosity in forgiveness and healing.

● She forgave her father only after she confronted her own actions and shortcomings as a parent.

Key Moments:

(00:00) Forgive to Live

(03:19) Father's Night of Destruction

(06:53) Journey to Forgiveness

(12:18) Journey of Love

(16:16) Forgiveness and My Father's Dying Wish

(18:39) Good People, Ugly Actions

(23:58) Understanding Trauma and Humanity

(27:36) Forgiveness, Responsibility, and Healing

(31:44) Healing, Trauma, and Forgiveness

(35:07) Emphasizing Mental Wellness Support

(36:03) Transforming Trauma into Growth

Welcome back to Curveball. In this powerful episode, Scott Reich sits down with keynote speaker, lawyer, and author, Judd Shaw, whose life took a dramatic turn behind the glittering facade of professional success. Judd opens up about his battle with drug addiction, burnout, and the deep loneliness that almost destroyed him—all while he was running a thriving law firm and enjoying every outward sign of achievement.

With raw honesty, Judd shares his journey from hitting rock bottom—including an arrest when he nearly gave up—to rebuilding his life through vulnerability, connection, and self-acceptance. He talks about how childhood trauma and a relentless pursuit of external validation shaped his choices, and the difficult but inspiring work it took to chart a new path.

Drawing from his upcoming memoir, How to Live Authentically: The Surprising Cure for Loneliness and Disconnection, Judd explores the surprising cure for loneliness, the courage required to share our messy stories, and the liberating power of asking for help. This is an episode for anyone who’s ever struggled beneath the surface, or wondered how to move forward from the hardest moments life can throw.

What Listeners Will Learn:

1. Judd Shaw talks about building a life that "didn't allow for the real me."
2. Judd describes a cycle of achievement and addiction, feeling celebrated on the outside while unraveling internally.
3. Validation can be so powerful, even when it doesn’t align with our internal reality.
4. The episode discusses the concept of connection as essential for safety (as opposed to just the absence of threat).
5. Judd shares that family history and childhood trauma shaped his struggles.
6. The show highlights the importance of asking for help at rock bottom.
7. There is a theme of shame thriving in secrecy and the power of sharing your story.
8. Discussion of the idea: “clifftop”—reaching the pinnacle of external success but still feeling empty or disconnected.
9. Judd’s journey included recognizing and shedding the “mask” he wore.

Key Moments:

(00:00) Judd Shaw's Transformation Story

(04:31) Rewind the Clock Discussion

(09:23) Childhood Trauma and Belonging

(10:59) Chasing Highs and Self-Discovery

(16:59) Overcoming Trauma and Loneliness

(20:09) Unmasking Truth and Self-Awareness

(24:19) Embrace Growth and Acceptance

(25:22) Seeking Self Beyond External Validation

(31:13) Innocence, Choices, and Redemption

On this episode of Curveball, host Scott Reich sits down with Australian real estate powerhouse Mat Steinwede, whose incredible journey from addiction, homelessness, and the underworld to personal redemption is as dramatic as it is inspiring. In a deeply honest and raw conversation, Mat shares how a single act of mercy from a judge gave him a second chance—and how he rebuilt his life, step by step, after hitting absolute rock bottom.

But Mat’s story goes beyond just survival and success. He opens up about the devastating loss of his son, Logan, to suicide, and what it means to find resilience in the face of unimaginable grief. The episode explores themes of addiction, the power of second chances, vulnerability in fatherhood, and practical steps for building a life of meaning—even when life throws its most brutal curveballs.

If you’ve ever wondered whether meaningful change is possible after your darkest moments, this conversation will challenge, move, and give you hope.

Listeners Will Learn:

1. Mat Steinwede shares that addiction, when harnessed properly, can become a "superpower."
2. Early in the episode, Mat talks about wanting to be "feared" and respected in the underworld.
3. Mat mentions sliding door moments—unexpected chances that changed his path.
4. The episode touches on themes of grief and parenting after unimaginable loss, especially with the passing of Mat’s son, Logan.
5. Mat brings up the power of consistent, positive habits, like doing “11 burpees a day.”
6. The episode highlights the importance of support networks—friends, family, teachers. Mat mentions how living a healthy "peak state" lifestyle helped him move forward.
7. At the end of the episode, Matt invites listeners to pick one thing to change in their lives today.

Key Moments:

(00:00) Matt's Redemption

(05:30) Journey into the Underground Scene

(08:11) Drug Habit and Crime Spiral

(10:26) Rock Bottom and Rescue

(14:46) Redemption and a Judge's Mercy

(17:19) Power of Second Chances

(19:43) Father Reflects on Loss and Regret

(23:22) Struggles, Guidance, and Redemption

(27:01) Compassion and Showing Up

(30:55) Building Discipline and Self-Growth

(33:38) Act Now: Choose Just One Thing to Conquer

(36:39) Truth and Hope

Welcome to Curveball, a podcast that explores how we handle life’s most unimaginable challenges—and how some manage to turn adversity into hope. In this episode, host Scott Reich sits down with Liz Scott, co-founder of Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, and shares the remarkable story of her daughter, Alex Scott. Diagnosed with cancer just before her first birthday, Alex’s idea to set up a simple lemonade stand, at age four, sparked a movement that has raised over $400 million for pediatric cancer research.

Together, Scott and Liz dive deep into the emotional rollercoaster of facing a child’s life-threatening illness, the raw pain and resilience that comes with loss, and how Alex’s spirit of gratitude and selflessness continues to inspire people nationwide. This is a story of heartbreak, love, and the power of community—showing that even the smallest act of kindness can grow into something with the power to change lives.

Tune in to hear Liz share personal insights, lessons learned, and the ongoing legacy that proves hope can endure, no matter the curveballs life throws our way.

Listeners Will Learn:

1. Both Liz and Scott talk about the emotional transition from panic to action following their children’s diagnoses.
2. Liz mentioned holding in her emotions to stay in survival mode.
3. Alex’s vision for her lemonade stand evolved from helping herself to wanting to help all children with cancer.
4. The foundation has raised over $400 million for pediatric cancer research.
5. Community and human connection play a role in responding to trauma, according to both Liz and Scott.
6. Liz spoke about how trauma and loss changed her perspective on life, parenting, and relationships.
7. Alex’s quote, “I’m happy for what I have, not unhappy for what I don’t have,” resonated deeply with her parents.

Key Moments:

(00:00) Grateful Child Sparks a Cause

(05:24) Overwhelmed Caretakers' Emotional Journey

(07:32) Action vs. Emotion in Adversity

(12:00) Resilience and Selflessness in Crisis

(13:10) A Child’s Hope and Legacy

(19:21) Community Inspires Hope for Change

(21:17) Legacy, Connection, and Transformation

(23:30) Finding Gratitude Amid Grief

(28:41) The Second Mountain of Purpose

(31:22) Grateful Despite the Struggles

(33:42) Gratitude Shaping Kind Personalities

(36:27) Parenting Amid Loss and Balance

On this episode of Curveball, host Scott Reich is joined by Caryn Hirshleifer and her daughter, Jenn Goldman, who share their extraordinary story of resilience in the face of life-altering trauma. Just before turning 31, Jenn suffered a massive brain bleed that left her comatose and on the brink of death—sending her family into an unimaginable world of uncertainty. Together, Jenn and Caryn recount their experiences as chronicled in their powerful book, "In the Face of Catastrophe: How a Traumatic Brain Injury Became a Blessing," and open up about the physical and emotional struggles they endured—alongside the surprising gifts that emerged from the crisis. Listen as they explore themes of grief, loss, hope, and neuroplasticity, revealing the profound ways adversity reshapes identity and relationships, and how a family found strength, purpose, and even blessings through the toughest curveball life could throw.

Listeners will Learn:

1. Jenn described feeling as though her life was “falling apart” after her stroke.
2. Both Jenn and her mom, Caryn Hirshleifer, talk about the importance of family and support systems.
3. Scott and Jenn touched on how trauma can affect relationships, sometimes leading to unexpected changes like breakups.
4. Resilience was a recurring theme, especially in how Jenn described herself as “made of stone.”
5. Caryn spoke about the “hidden grief” of caregivers when the person they love survives, but is forever changed.
6. Neuroplasticity provided hope to Jenn in her recovery.
7. Both guests highlight the importance of being “the CEO of your own health.”
8. Scott mentioned the difference between “bouncing back” and “bouncing forward.”
9. The conversation explored how support can be most meaningful when it’s direct and concrete, rather than just well-intentioned.

(00:00) Resilience After Catastrophe

(06:34) Emergency at Family Store

(09:02) Facing Trauma with Resilience

(12:28) Coping with Trauma and Recovery

(15:04) Lessons from Adversity

(19:48) "Web Weaver of Wellness"

(23:31) Unique Physical Therapy Journey

(26:30) Navigating Patience and Support

(30:25) Caregiver's Silent Grief

(31:45) Embracing Loss and Resilience

(35:22) Unimaginable Medical Struggles Discussed

(40:05) Trauma's Liberating Perspective Shift

(41:05) Neuroplasticity: Rewiring the Brain

On this episode of Curveball, host Scott Reich sits down with Dr. Brent Fields, CEO of Morgan’s—a groundbreaking nonprofit championing inclusion for the disability community. In an incredibly candid and moving conversation, Brent opens up about his journey as a nonprofit leader and, more intimately, as the father of Chloe, his teenage daughter who lives with an ultra-rare genetic disease. Together, Scott and Brent explore the heartbreaking realities, everyday pivots, and unexpected gifts of parenting a child with severe special needs, touching on universal themes of hope, anticipatory grief, and the power of choice. Their raw, honest dialogue offers wisdom and empathy not just for families touched by rare disease, but for anyone navigating life’s toughest curveballs. Whether you’re seeking solidarity or inspiration to find purpose through adversity, this episode promises meaningful insight and authentic connection.

Listeners Will Learn:

• Both Scott Reich and Dr. Brent Fields talk about “anticipatory grief” and grieving losses that haven’t yet occurred.
• Brent refers to the “dichotomy” of hope and pain that defines his family’s journey.
• They discuss how Chloe's diagnosis changed Brent’s and his wife's career paths and family choices.
• The episode discusses the high rate of divorce among parents caring for severely disabled children.
• Brent describes the moment his family visited Morgan’s Wonderland, experiencing true inclusion for the first time.
• Both Scott and Brent mention how trauma or challenge leads to a “simplification” of life and priorities.
• Brent talks about the “power of choice” even in the face of overwhelming challenges.
• The episode touches on how well-meaning words from others can sometimes miss the mark.

Key Moments:

(00:00) A Father's Story: Rare Diagnosis

(05:58) Journey Through Diagnosis Challenges

(09:12) Living Through Uncertainty Together

(10:48) Living Between Grief and Hope

(14:08) Redefining Parenthood Through Grief

(20:47) Choreography of Hope and Access

(22:12) Initially Declining a Job Opportunity

(26:58) Never Bored, Always Grateful

(30:42) Managing Challenges with Simplicity

(34:14) Empathy Gained Through Family Experience

(35:48) Discussing Mortality with Our Son

(38:57) Understanding Others Through Communication

(43:59) Choosing Hope Amid Grief

(45:37) The Power of Small Choices

On this episode of Curveball, host Scott Reich welcomes Linda Beigel Schulman, a mother who has transformed personal tragedy into lifelong purpose and advocacy. Linda’s son, Scott Beigel, was a beloved teacher and cross country coach who gave his life to save 31 students during the Parkland school shooting on February 14, 2018. Through powerful storytelling, Linda shares Scott’s journey—from his formative years at summer camp and his unique approach to teaching, to the heroism that defined his final moments. She opens up about the suddenness of loss, the ongoing struggle for reasonable gun safety measures, and her relentless drive to honor Scott’s legacy through the Scott J. Beigel Memorial Fund, which sends underserved children impacted by gun violence to summer sleepaway camp. This moving conversation challenges us all to live with intention and reminds us of the impact one life, lived with heart, can have on countless others.

Listeners Will Learn:

• How Scott Beigel’s experiences at summer camp shaped his approach to teaching and building connections with students.
• Scott Beigel’s teaching style challenged traditional education methods, and how his students responded to his unique approach.
• Linda Beigel Schulman shares the moment she learned of her son’s death.
• The episode touches on the difference between “gun control” and “gun safety.”
• Linda Beigel Schulman channels her grief into advocacy.
• The impact of the Scott J. Beigel Memorial Fund: children affected by gun violence attending summer camp through the program.
• The episode highlights the importance of listening beyond your own perspective.
• Linda Beigel Schulman tells a powerful story about Scott’s assignment connecting students with relatives abroad.
• She shares lessons about living for today.
• Linda Beigel Schulman’s reasonable gun safety advocacy.

Key Moments:

(00:00) Rejected Position Over Teaching Restrictions

(04:08) Embracing the Unexpected Role

(07:47) Valentine's Day Unexpected Turn: Parkland Mass Shooting

(12:00) Autopsy Notification on Son

(14:09) “Show and Tell” is Key to Changing Hearts and Minds

(16:32) Gun Safety Amid Tragedy

(19:52) Scott's Sacrifice: Saved the Lives of 31 Students

(24:28) The Power of Open Dialogue

(28:57) Sending Kids to Summer Camp in Scott’s memory

(34:03) Live for Today

(36:17) Scott Beigel’s Enduring Legacy

Welcome to another episode of Curveball, where host Scott Reich explores how we handle life’s unexpected challenges through the real stories of people who have overcome unimaginable obstacles. In today’s episode, Steph Wagner joins Scott Reich to share her remarkable journey.

A former Wall Street investment banker and private equity professional, Steph Wagner stepped away from a high-powered career to raise her children, never expecting her planned “short break” to turn into 13 years away from the workforce. Life took an unexpected turn when she went through a painful divorce, forcing her to rebuild both her personal and financial world from the ground up. Through honest conversation, Steph Wagner reflects on resilience, the intersection of money and freedom, and the importance of self-love and independence—especially for women facing major life curveballs.

This episode dives deep into the emotional and practical realities of starting over, the lessons learned from adversity, and how Steph Wagner turned her own struggles into a mission to help other women achieve financial empowerment. Tune in for an inspiring discussion about finding strength in vulnerability, reclaiming your purpose, and learning to soar after life’s biggest setbacks.

Listeners Will Learn:

• Steph Wagner’s journey from a high-achieving Wall Street career to rebuilding her life after a painful divorce.
• The role of financial independence in personal empowerment, especially for women facing major life changes.
• Listeners will gain insights into how resilience, self-reflection, and confronting past trauma can lead to personal growth and healing.
• Listeners will also discover actionable advice for overcoming imposter syndrome and finding the confidence to start anew.
• The importance of self-care and loving oneself first in order to support others, particularly children, through adversity.
• The unique challenges women face around financial literacy, the cultural taboos surrounding money, and practical steps for building financial freedom.
• The inspiration behind Steph Wagner’s book, “Fly! A Woman's Guide to Financial Freedom and Building a Life You Love,” and why she believes every woman deserves the tools, not just the rules, to reclaim their financial future.

Key Moments:

(00:00) Driven Through Challenges and Grit

(03:24) Building Resilience Through Experience

(08:31) Imposter Syndrome and Fulfillment

(12:04) Flipping the Script

(14:16) Defining Moment of Self-Motivation

(18:14) Navigating Divorce and Personal Growth

(21:26) Parenting Through Childhood Trauma

(25:17) Healing Starts With Self-Care

(26:53) Sit, Feel, Grow, Look Forward

(32:24) Fly: Financial Freedom and Liberation

(34:3) Reclaiming Financial Freedom

(38:33) Financial Freedom and Overcoming Challenges

(40:16) Battling Doubt, Embracing Dreams