Curveball with Scott Reich

Scott Reich
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Life confronts us with the unexpected. Curveball is about facing an unimaginable life event and the human experience of responding to it—and how we can all hit life’s curveballs. Host Scott Reich was dealt a huge curveball when his infant son, Eli, was diagnosed in 2019 with a rare brain disorder called FOXG1 syndrome. Eli cannot walk, talk, or do anything independently while suffering seizures and other medical challenges. In response to Eli's diagnosis, Scott immediately launched a global nonprofit, Believe in a Cure, which is changing the future landscape of this disease while supporting the broader rare disease community. Scott's journey with Eli inspired this journey as the host of Curveball where Scott speaks to people whose lives were upended by unexpected challenges. New episodes drop every Tuesday.

  1. vor 3 Tagen

    #63 Publication Day Special Edition: David Eisenhower Interviews Author Scott Reich about his new book “One Day in September”

    In this special edition, David Eisenhower—historian, bestselling author, and grandson of President Dwight D. Eisenhower—steps in as guest host to interview Scott Reich about his new book, One Day in September: Baseball, Brotherhood, and the Birth of the All-Star Game. Their conversation explores the remarkable but largely forgotten story of a charity baseball game played at Fenway Park on September 27, 1917. Featuring legends including Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb, Walter Johnson, Tris Speaker, and "Shoeless" Joe Jackson, the game honored beloved sportswriter Tim Murnane and would ultimately become the precursor to Major League Baseball's modern All-Star Game. But this episode is about much more than baseball. Together, Scott and David examine how a single day in American history reveals larger truths about citizenship, community, generosity, and the power of shared civic experiences. They discuss the role sports once played in bringing Americans together, the influence of early sportswriters in shaping the nation's values, and why recovering forgotten history can help us better understand ourselves today. Blending history, storytelling, and personal reflection, this special Curveball episode is a conversation between two historians about memory, identity, and the enduring lessons hidden in the stories we almost lost. Listeners Will Learn: The conversation focused on the forgotten 1917 baseball exhibition game honoring Tim Murnane. One concept discussed was how storytelling and narrative shape our collective memory. A key theme that emerged was the civic role of baseball in early 20th-century America. The discussion explored how players, owners, and even sportswriters like Murnane wore many hats in the development of baseball. Several points were raised, including the unique democratic experience of early ballparks. The use of sports as a metaphor for American values, such as perseverance, character, and unity, was highlighted. The episode touched on the instinct to gather at scale for community and charity events, something seen as less common today. Scott Reich and David Eisenhower delve into the darkness threading through the "golden age" of baseball: issues of scandal, division, and underlying social tensions.Another topic they discussed was the influence of sports journalism in mythologizing athletes and shaping how we remember their achievements. The notion of exporting American sports like baseball as a tool for peace and understanding between nations was considered. Key Moments: (00:00) One Day in September, by Scott Reich, book launch today (06:39) Guest host David Eisenhower asks Scott Reich about his writing process (10:20) Discussion of Tim Murnane’s love for baseball (11:51) President Dwight Eisenhower on sports and character (17:18) Tim Murnane's list of life advice (19:44) Sports bringing people together (21:07) Building civic connections through sports (26:45) Pre-1919 baseball stories shared between Scott and David (29:19) Tim Murnane’s unique player connections (36:17) Competing styles of baseball (37:42) Discussing America and baseball history

    39 Min.

  2. 30. Juni

    #62 Therapist and Coach Will Middleton on Creating a Life You Don’t Need to Escape

    On this episode of Curveball, host Scott Reich welcomes Will Middleton, a therapist, relationship coach, and resilience practitioner whose unconventional path led him from corporate life to supporting individuals facing grief, trauma, and personal challenges. Will shares his journey of searching for purpose beyond societal expectations and explores the core of his philosophy: uncovering one’s authentic self beneath layers of conditioning and pain. In this conversation, we delve into the true meaning of resilience, the complexities of grief, the difference between healing and fixing, and everyday practices anyone can use to build a life they no longer want to escape. Tune in for practical wisdom, moving stories, and new perspectives on what it takes to thrive in the face of adversity. Listeners Will Learn: Will Middleton describes his journey from a conventional career in the city to becoming a therapist and coach. The episode distinguishes between "applied" resilience (chosen challenges) and resilience developed through unchosen hardship. Will argues that grief is experienced uniquely by each individual, even within a family. In discussing how to support someone in grief, Will suggests directly asking if they want to talk about their loss. The idea of living "a life you do not need to escape from" is central to Will’s philosophy. Will and Scott Reich discuss how layers of conditioning and external expectations obscure our authentic selves. The concept of "what you resist, persists" is highlighted as a key idea for facing personal darkness or uncomfortable emotions. The episode draws a distinction between "fixing" oneself (operating from a sense of lack) and "healing" (accepting wounds as part of your story). Will notes that some of the most "successful" people he works with feel deeply disconnected internally. For building resilience, Will suggests doing one thing each day that is slightly uncomfortable and also focusing on helping others. Key Moments: (00:00) Understanding and building resilience (04:34) Balancing therapy and coaching (06:33) Navigating conversations about grief (11:00) Uncovering layers for true self (15:43) Understanding self-healing vs. fixing (18:32) High achievers facing hidden struggles (21:08) Exploring self-understanding and its challenges (24:43) Building resilience and personal growth (27:10) Facing daily challenges head-on

    30 Min.

  3. 23. Juni

    #61 Less Over More: Escaping Life’s Hamster Wheel with Executive Coach Tony Caliendo

    What if the secret to real success isn’t about achieving more, but doing less of the wrong things? In this episode of Curveball, host Scott Reich sits down with Tony Caliendo—entrepreneur, executive coach, speaker, and author of Less Over More: How to Rethink Your Path, Reset Your Future, and Rebuild the Life You Love. Tony draws from his own journey, leaving the corporate hamster wheel behind to discover that fulfillment often comes from subtraction, not addition. He shares how redefining our inherited notions of success—shaped by family, culture, and career—can help us break free from burnout and reconnect with what truly matters. Whether you’re an executive, an entrepreneur, or simply someone searching for meaning beyond the grind, this conversation offers practical insights and tough questions to help you align your life and work with your real values. Get ready to challenge what you think you want—and discover what you actually need to live a life you love. Listeners Will Learn: Tony Caliendo describes being on a "hamster wheel" of doing more as a perceived path to success. The concept of "success through subtraction" is central to Tony’s philosophy. In the episode, it's suggested that society conditions us to equate achievement with accumulation.Tony recommends starting with the question “What do you want?” and, if that's difficult, flipping it to “What don’t you want?” The metaphor of the saturated sponge helps illustrate the idea of making room for new opportunities by letting go of "the wrong more.”Scott Reich and Tony discuss the struggle between financial necessity and pursuing greater fulfillment.Tony asserts that saying "no" is a complete sentence when an opportunity doesn't align with your values. Key Moments: (00:00) Realizing success through minimalism (05:53) Defining personal success (08:15) Defining success at different stages (12:53) Fear of unfulfilled potential (14:21) Childhood motivations and family dynamics (17:04) Analogy of opportunity and growth (20:12) Wearing new shirts and life philosophy (24:18) Redefining Success and Prioritization (28:59) Reflecting on personal goals (30:46) Finding alignment in daily life (33:02) Balancing opportunities and abundance

    36 Min.

  4. 16. Juni

    #60 Navigating Hollywood: Comedian Zane Lamprey on Hard Work, Fulfillment, and Starting Over

    In this episode of Curveball, host Scott Reich sits down with Zane Lamprey, the comedian, TV host, author, and creator known for traveling the world and turning drinking with strangers into hit television. But behind the scenes, Zane’s story is anything but easy. From his early days in Syracuse, New York, to navigating the brutal realities of Hollywood—and the constant need for reinvention—Zane opens up about what it really takes to succeed. He shares insights on work ethic versus talent, the importance of just starting, and why fulfillment comes from doing what you actually love, not just chasing someone else’s idea of passion. Whether you’re pursuing a creative dream, considering a career shift, or just looking to find meaning in unexpected places, Zane’s journey is a candid, inspiring reminder that the best paths are often the ones you forge yourself—one small step at a time. Listeners Will Learn: Zane Lamprey talks about the importance of outworking everyone and how hard work can surpass talent in many situations.Scott Reich and Zane emphasize how people often only see the “finished product” of success, without seeing the setbacks and struggles behind the scenes.Zane describes Hollywood as a challenging and competitive environment, likening it to an elite sports league.Rejection and failure come up repeatedly in the conversation.The episode explores the idea of luck versus hard work.Their discussion addresses how many people are recognized as stars or standouts early in life but may struggle to adjust when they reach new, more competitive environments.There’s debate around whether children and young adults are being taught the right lessons about dreams, achievement, and grit.Zane references Mark Cuban's advice, “Don’t do what you’re passionate about. Do what you do.”The episode encourages listeners to simply start, rather than waiting for the perfect plan or full confidence.Zane suggests asking yourself what you’d still do if you had $50 million and didn’t need to work. Key Moments: (03:50) Moving to LA for acting career (07:02) Facing rejection in entertainment industry (12:04) Recognizing societal progress and challenges (15:30) Importance of hard work and perseverance (18:35) Balancing career passion and interests (22:22) Pivoting to rare disease advocacy (25:15) Reflecting on past TV success (28:26) Traveling for drinking shows (32:04) Finding fulfillment in work (33:28) Taking the first steps

    35 Min.

  5. 9. Juni

    #59 Surviving Stage 4 Colon Cancer: Tim McDonald on Patient Advocacy and Taking Control of Your Health Journey

    On this episode of Curveball, host Scott Reich sits down with Tim McDonald, a stage 4 colorectal cancer survivor who transformed a terrifying diagnosis into a mission of advocacy and hope. Diagnosed in 2020 with no prior family history and little knowledge about cancer, Tim was thrust into a world of uncertainty in the midst of the COVID pandemic. Through perseverance and self-education, he challenged initial medical advice and discovered life-saving treatment options that ultimately changed his path. Together, Scott and Tim explore what it means to become the “CEO” of your own health journey, the power of seeking second opinions, and the crucial role of mental resilience and authenticity in the face of adversity. Tim’s extraordinary story offers inspiration not only to those facing health challenges, but to anyone seeking meaning and courage during life’s toughest curveballs. Listeners Will Learn: Tim McDonald’s initial reaction to his stage 4 colon cancer diagnosis included significant knowledge gaps, prompting him to quickly educate himself about his condition and treatment options.The episode presents contrasting perspectives on the idea of adversity "happening for a reason," with Tim finding purpose through his experience and Scott Reich focusing instead on personal meaning and acceptance without assigning a higher justification.Tim's journey demonstrates the importance of patients taking charge of their healthcare, seeking information, and advocating for themselves rather than relying solely on medical professionals.Seeking multiple medical opinions was crucial in Tim’s story, highlighted by one oncologist’s advice to pursue second, third, or even tenth opinions until he believed what he heard, not just what he wanted to hear.Scott emphasizes the significant role that mindset and psychological outlook can play in shaping medical outcomes, suggesting that positivity and willpower may affect treatment receptivity and overall health.Reflection on lifestyle factors like drinking and processed foods forms part of Tim’s narrative, as he acknowledges these habits while rejecting counterproductive “what if” thinking about the past.The episode introduces the concept of “lived experience experts,” advocating for patients, caregivers, and survivors to recognize the value of their experiences in influencing healthcare practices and policies. Key Moments: (00:00) Hearing a cancer diagnosis (06:41) Finding meaning in challenges (08:32) Encouraging medical testing and awareness (12:35) Discussing health and food awareness (16:33) Joining cancer support groups (20:55) War survival and mindset anecdotes (23:05) Sharing experiences with healthcare companies (25:18) Teaching courage to children (29:22) Tim's view on storytelling and advocacy (31:48) Embracing personal challenges

    35 Min.

  6. 2. Juni

    #58 From Volunteer to CEO: Lindsay Farrell on Building Better Healthcare in America

    On this episode of Curveball, host Scott Reich sits down with Lindsay Farrell, the CEO of Open Door Family Medical Center—one of New York’s leading community-based healthcare organizations. Starting her career as a French major and new suburban mom volunteering with Open Door, Lindsay has now spent four decades championing healthcare access for underserved communities. Together, they unpack the frustrations and realities of America’s fragmented healthcare system, explore why basic care is so difficult to access, and examine the power of prevention and lifestyle medicine. From primary care shortages to the daily struggles of patients navigating the system, this candid conversation blends personal stories with big-picture thinking, showing how real change often starts on the ground, one patient and one community at a time. Listeners Will Learn: Lindsay Farrell’s background as a French major led to her unconventional path to healthcare leadership.Community-based healthcare organizations like Open Door face significant challenges in providing access and equity. Prevention and wellness are crucial elements in healthcare, and practical steps—such as education and lifestyle support—are needed to encourage these practices, especially among under-resourced populations.Care navigation and team-based care models can offer valuable support for patients with complex or chronic health needs, making healthcare more accessible and manageable.Scott Reich and Lindsay discuss the current American healthcare system—and how it was not intentionally designed as it exists today, leading to inherent issues that complicate efforts for meaningful reform.The growing reliance on nurse practitioners and physician assistants in primary care introduces both opportunities and challenges for the quality and accessibility of patient care.Culturally relevant nutrition and wellness education are essential in public health, as demonstrated by Open Door’s initiatives to meet diverse community needs.The fee-for-service payment model in healthcare contributes to system inefficiencies and fragmentation, impacting care delivery and patient outcomes.Insurance companies have the potential to play a more supportive role in preventative care and patient navigation, but often fall short, necessitating changes in incentives and policies.Lindsay’s personal commitment to wellness through endurance sports exemplifies how leaders can influence organizational culture by prioritizing their own health and setting positive examples. Key Moments: (05:26) Addressing primary care shortages (09:21) Challenges in accessing specialized care (12:37) Value in Medicaid system (18:47) Discussing patient challenges and solutions (22:07) Preventative healthcare solutions (24:29) Challenges of healthy eating in America (27:36) Community programs for wellness (31:46) Finding joy in triathlon training

    34 Min.

  7. 26. Mai

    #57 From White House Speechwriter to Jewish Thought Leader: Sarah Hurwitz’s Journey of Rediscovery

    On this episode of Curveball, New York Times bestselling author and former White House speechwriter Sarah Hurwitz joins host Scott Reich to share her unexpected journey from crafting iconic and historic speeches for the Obamas to becoming a leading voice on Jewish thought. What began as a spontaneous decision to attend an “Intro to Judaism” class ignited a deep intellectual and spiritual transformation for Sarah. Together, they explore themes of faith, identity, and the search for meaning, the difference between secular and moral law, and how ancient wisdom can guide us through modern challenges—including the complexities of practicing Judaism today, the rise of antisemitism, and the importance of community. Get ready to dive into a conversation about reclaiming tradition, cultivating character, and finding purpose in the unlikeliest of places. Listeners Will Learn: Sarah Hurwitz’s upbringing shaped her initial perception of Judaism as a set of generic values and uninteresting holidays, which she found unfulfilling and uninspiring.When Sarah began seriously studying Judaism in her 30s, she encountered profound, radical wisdom in Jewish tradition and texts that significantly differed from what she’d previously known.Sarah contrasts the secular ethic of "you do you" with the higher moral demands of Judaism, emphasizing self-transcendence, self-restraint, and self-sacrifice over individualistic self-interest.The episode highlights how Jewish law addresses gossip and the ethical use of speech, illustrated by the story of the feather pillow and the concept of Lashon Hara (evil tongue), demonstrating the far-reaching consequences of careless words.The conversation explores the distinct roles and limitations of secular law—focused on maintaining basic safety and rights—and moral or religious law, which aspires to a much higher standard of personal and communal excellence.Sarah argues that modern American Judaism has been shaped by Protestant influences, leading to a loss of the depth and breadth of traditional Jewish practice and a narrowing of Jewish identity.She suggests that Jewish communities can respond to rising antisemitism by reclaiming their narrative and reconnecting with their historical traditions and sources of wisdom, rather than solely focusing on persecution.The episode advocates for welcoming interfaith families and disconnected individuals, emphasizing education, inclusion, and support as critical for sustaining vibrant Jewish life.A key tension raised in the episode is the challenge of living up to high ideals in the emotional and practical realities of daily life, and the importance of incremental moral improvement rather than rigid perfectionism.Sarah emphasizes making Jewish wisdom more accessible and relevant to modern seekers by encouraging learning through contemporary means, adapting programming, and highlighting the enduring relevance of ancient texts. Key Moments: (00:00) Working in the White House (05:11) Finding meaning in Jewish tradition (11:46) Discussing character versus achievements (15:32) Balancing logic with daily stresses (19:01) Building habits with small steps (19:59) Discussing post-October 7th Judaism (25:19) Reclaiming Jewish traditions and wisdom (29:16) Discussing intermarriage in Judaism (30:34) Welcoming non-Jewish partners (35:23) Exploring the theme of return (37:12) Choosing resilience and pride

    39 Min.

  8. 19. Mai

    #56 Travis Snider on Redefining Identity After Professional Baseball and the Cost of Early Sports Success

    On this episode of Curveball, host Scott Reich sits down with former MLB first-round pick and CEO of 3A Athletics, Travis Snider, to explore the hidden costs of early success and the profound challenges of identity beyond sports. For 35 years, Travis was known as an elite athlete, his self-worth fueled by achievement and external validation—until professional baseball came to an end and he was left to answer a daunting question: Who am I without the game? Join Scott and Travis as they unpack the psychological journey of redefining oneself after a life in the spotlight, the impact of childhood labels, and how parents and coaches can better support young athletes in developing healthy identities. From the pressures of youth sports to the hard-won lessons of therapy and transition, this conversation is a candid look at resilience, purpose, and finding meaning beyond the field. Listeners Will Learn: Travis Snider describes the evolution of his identity as an athlete from childhood through his professional career, highlighting how his sense of self became deeply tied to external validation.Travis explores the psychological costs of early athletic success and examines how those costs manifested later in his life.Scott Reich raises the distinction between “who I am” and “what I am,” which Travis addresses with reflections on self-worth and performance.Travis uses the metaphor of his “foundation” being built on “stilts” to illustrate the instability in his sense of self following the end of his major league career.Travis’ childhood and family life, including adversity at home, played a significant role in shaping his drive and complex relationship with sports.Travis emphasizes ways parents and coaches can mitigate the risks of achievement-based identity in youth athletes, focusing on awareness, support, and understanding child development.Scott connects Travis’ experience to New York Times best-selling author David Brooks’ idea of climbing a “second mountain,” presenting the concept of finding new purpose and growth after a major life transition.Travis shares the coping mechanisms and therapeutic approaches, including ongoing counseling, that he uses to rebuild his sense of self.In today’s youth sports culture, parents and coaches face challenges balancing encouragement, competition, and healthy identity development for children. Travis offers practical advice for parents on supporting kids’ emotional well-being in athletics, including recommendations for sideline behavior and fostering intentional, open conversations at home. Key Moments: (00:12) Travis Snider spent 35 years as an athlete—a first-round MLB pick, living the dream. But beneath the surface, his identity was built on shaky stilts. (00:54) Early achievements sound like a fairy tale. But as Scott Reich highlights, this is not a story of failure. It's about the psychological toll when identity gets tied to external validation and results. (02:13) For Travis, the journey started young: constant sports, wins, and a growing label as “the baseball player” from age 9. (05:33) It’s not just about athletes. Travis points out we all risk tying our identities to what we do—not who we are. (07:12) Performance-based self-worth? It creates immense pressure. (10:40) Even after reaching the majors at 20—Travis felt “hollow.” (14:03) The real secret? Fulfillment isn’t at the top of the mountain. It's in the journey. (27:15) For parents, the message is clear: focus on child development, not just player development. Don’t let your kid’s self-worth hinge solely on scores.

    39 Min.
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Info

Life confronts us with the unexpected. Curveball is about facing an unimaginable life event and the human experience of responding to it—and how we can all hit life’s curveballs. Host Scott Reich was dealt a huge curveball when his infant son, Eli, was diagnosed in 2019 with a rare brain disorder called FOXG1 syndrome. Eli cannot walk, talk, or do anything independently while suffering seizures and other medical challenges. In response to Eli's diagnosis, Scott immediately launched a global nonprofit, Believe in a Cure, which is changing the future landscape of this disease while supporting the broader rare disease community. Scott's journey with Eli inspired this journey as the host of Curveball where Scott speaks to people whose lives were upended by unexpected challenges. New episodes drop every Tuesday.

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  • Erstellt von
    Scott Reich
  • Jahre aktiv
    2025 - 2026
  • Folgen
    64
  • Bewertung
    Unbedenklich
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    ©Curveball and Curveball with Scott Reich
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    Curveball with Scott Reich

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