On this episode of Curveball, Scott Reich sits down with Julia Krispeal, a powerhouse in Long Island, New York, real estate and mother of two whose life was turned upside down when her husband was diagnosed with ALS. Julia shares her raw, honest journey through heartbreak, uncertainty, and resilience—from searching the country for answers, to raising her young sons while caring for her ailing husband, to ultimately finding strength and clarity in the face of unimaginable loss. Get ready for an inspiring story about navigating the unknown, redefining what matters, and the enduring impact of empathy and hope.

What Listeners Will Learn:

1. Julia Krispeal describes the lengthy and stressful process of getting an ALS diagnosis for her husband.
2. Julia’s young children adapted to their father's illness with grace.
3. The episode explores anticipatory grief—the process of grieving before an actual loss.
4. Julia mentions the importance of self-care for caregivers.
5. The conversation touches on friends and family who show up during times of crisis—and those who don’t.
6. Julia became involved in every aspect of her husband's care, but also involved her children in practical caregiving tasks.
7. Both Scott and Julia reflect on what kinds of support are truly helpful during a family crisis.
8. Throughout the episode, Julia discusses resilience.
9. She hints at writing a book about her journey.

Key Moments:

(00:00) ALS Journey and Family Struggles

(05:19) Challenges of Medical Diagnoses

(09:33) ALS Diagnosis: Unforgettable Moment

(12:23) Empathy Through Adversity

(13:39) Resilience Through Life's Challenges

(18:06) Living as an ALS Caregiver

(21:43) Navigating Parenthood's Complex Choices

(25:08) Acceptance of Others' Limitations

(27:26) Helping Without Asking

(29:51) Control Reactions, Not Distractions

On this powerful episode of Curveball, host Scott Reich sits down with Fawzia and Mustafa Husaini, a couple whose lives were forever changed after the devastating loss of their daughter, Aliza. Through raw and emotional storytelling, they open up about the unimaginable challenges they faced—from the confusion and helplessness of seeking answers to their daughter’s mysterious symptoms, to the heartbreak of finally receiving a life-altering diagnosis.

Yet, this conversation goes beyond tragedy. Fawzia and Mustafa share how their journey reshaped their understanding of purpose, gratitude, and connection. Their eloquent reflections reveal how adversity can bring clarity, deepen appreciation for life’s blessings, and inspire a more meaningful existence—even in the face of profound grief.

Join Scott as he guides this honest, touching, and ultimately uplifting conversation about resilience, love, and the ways we find strength through life's most difficult curveballs.

Listeners Will Learn:

1. Fawzia’s motherly instinct persisted even when professionals dismissed her concerns. Never underestimate the power of intuition.
2. Sometimes, you have to push through resistance and continue seeking answers for what you know is right.
3. Fawzia and Mustafa turned heartbreak into a mission—demonstrating that out of hardship can come newfound purpose.
4. They made a conscious choice to release anger and focus on positive experiences with their daughter, showing that perspective is everything.
5. Building community, sharing stories, and leaning on others remained central to their healing journey.
6. As Scott reflects, everyone faces adversity in life—it’s how we respond that shapes our journey.
7. The couple’s gratitude for their palliative care team and community highlights how vital it is to let others in.
8. Their commitment to creating joyful memories—even in the face of loss—is a reminder to appreciate small moments with those we love.
9. By openly sharing their journey, Fawzia and Mustafa inspire others to find hope, strength, and meaning—even amidst the unimaginable.

Key Moments:

(00:00) Unexpected Encounter Changes Everything

(03:32) Finding Common Ground Instantly

(07:20) Balancing MBA, Baby, and Challenges

(10:59) Struggling with Infant Colic Challenges

(14:49) Curveballs of Parenthood and Life

(18:34) Intuition, Connection, and Rare Diseases

(21:48) Life-Changing News Delivered Suddenly

(26:21) Strength and Purpose Amid Tragedy

(29:06) Life-Changing Diagnosis Realization

(31:15) Love and Create Lasting Memories

(35:05) Finding Strength and Gratitude

(38:00) Get Busy Living or Get Busy Dying

On this episode of Curveball, host Scott Reich welcomes Dr. Nadine Macaluso—known as Dr. Nae—a renowned trauma therapist and survivor of a high-profile, toxic relationship with the real-life “Wolf of Wall Street,” Jordan Belfort, portrayed by Leonardo DiCaprio in the Oscar-nominated film. Dr. Nae opens up about her journey from being swept off her feet by a charming, powerful partner to recognizing the harrowing patterns of coercion, manipulation, and trauma bonding. Drawing from her personal story and her professional expertise, Dr. Nae breaks down what trauma bonds really are, how to spot the red flags, and why so many people struggle to leave unhealthy relationships.

You’ll hear insights about the psychological roots of toxic relationship patterns, the challenges of escaping them—especially when family and societal expectations get in the way—and the steps people can take to build resilience and heal. Plus, Dr. Nae shares valuable parenting advice for raising emotionally healthy children and offers hope for anyone feeling trapped in a difficult relationship.

Whether you’re curious about the realities behind the “Wolf of Wall Street” story, want to understand trauma bonds, or are looking for practical guidance on cultivating healthier relationships, this episode is packed with wisdom, warmth, and encouragement.

Listeners Will Learn:

1. Trauma bonds are toxic, dysfunctional relationships built on emotional attachment, power imbalance, and cycles of extreme kindness and then cruelty.
2. The pattern of alternating between "love bombing" and abusive behavior creates strong psychological ties, making it hard to leave.
3. Watch for dynamics where one person holds—and abuses—control, whether through resources, intimidation, or emotional leverage.
4. It’s not about one-off incidents; persistent patterns of disrespect, betrayal, and coercion signal a trauma bond.
5. If you consistently feel something is “off” in your body or gut, don’t dismiss those signals. They’re often your best guide.
6. It often takes multiple attempts for someone to exit a trauma bond; preparation, support, and safety planning are essential.
7. Most individuals who create these toxic dynamics do not change unless they truly want to—a rare occurrence.
8. Personality patterns and relationship dynamics often stem from early childhood experiences, including abuse or entitlement, coupled with biological predispositions.
9. Validate your children’s feelings, balance boundary-setting, and model healthy relationships—children learn from what you do, not just what you say.
10. Surround yourself with helpers—therapists, educational resources, supportive communities—and know you’re not alone. Healing and growth are possible.

Key Moments:

(00:00) Understanding Trauma Bonds

(04:40) Trust Intuition, Recognize Patterns

(09:49) Coercive Relationship Pressures Unfold

(12:11) Navigating Toxic Relationships while Trapped

(16:26) Can Insight Be Developed?

(20:13) Patriarchy and Societal Challenges

(22:21) Parenting Advice on Values

(26:22) Parenting: Balancing Complexity and Individuality

(28:36) Breaking Habits, Rewiring Behavior

(32:27)...

Welcome to this episode of Curveball, where host Scott Reich sits down with renowned performance coach, keynote speaker, and author Alan Stein Jr. for an honest and deeply personal conversation about resilience, growth, and the art of responding to life's biggest challenges.

In this episode, Alan opens up about the adversity he's faced—from career pivots and burnout to navigating divorce and confronting old patterns shaped by childhood experiences. You'll hear how Alan has transformed setbacks into powerful life lessons, sharing how a "Next Play Mentality" helps him—and can help all of us—move forward thoughtfully instead of reacting impulsively.

Together, Alan and Scott break down practical strategies for dealing with disappointment, fear, and shame, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, slowing down, and giving ourselves grace. If you’re looking for inspiration and actionable insights to help you handle life's curveballs and become a better version of yourself, this episode delivers a candid roadmap for doing just that.

Tune in for a meaningful conversation about how to turn adversity into advantage, why growth is an ongoing journey, and how we can all prepare for our next play.

Listeners Will Learn:

1. Alan Stein Jr. talks about viewing his upcoming 50th birthday as "halftime" and preparing for the next 50 years.
2. The concept of a “Next Play Mentality” is central to Alan’s philosophy.
3. Alan candidly discusses his experience with divorce and how, with time, he now sees it as one of the best things that happened to him.
4. Shame was a recurring theme, especially connected to failed relationships and perceived expectations.
5. Both Scott and Alan mentioned the importance of slowing down before responding to emotional triggers.
6. Alan openly shares his ongoing struggle with people-pleasing and the baggage carried from childhood.
7. The analogy of skiing down a new hill versus the well-grooved paths we’re accustomed to is used to describe forming new habits.
8. Scott and Alan discuss the value of practicing grace with yourself and others.
9. Regulating emotions, rather than letting them dictate actions, is described as a foundational skill.
10. Alan says, “None of this is easy. If it was, I’d have figured it out by now.”

Key Moments:

(00:00) Halftime Optimism at age 50

(04:12) Next Play Mentality

(09:44) Internal Struggles and Inherited Trauma

(12:51) Awakening Through Divorce and Healing

(15:25) Burnout from a Dream Job

(19:52) Embracing Emotions with Intentionality

(22:01) Practicing the Art of Slowing Down

(26:50) Embracing Discomfort Builds Strength

(30:19) Lincoln's Letter-Burning Practice

(33:21) Emotional Awareness and Regulation

(36:29) None of This Is Easy

(37:37) Growth and Resilience Insights

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