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

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

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

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

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

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.

This week on Curveball, host Scott Reich sits down with Sarah Rhodes, a woman whose life is a testament to resilience, courage, and trusting in fate. From battling infertility with her husband, Joel, to navigating his cancer diagnosis and devastating death, Sarah found herself as a widowed single mom—only to then face the fight for her newborn daughter’s life and the challenges of raising a child with disabilities. Through heartbreak, hope, and the unpredictability of life, Sarah opens up about rebuilding dreams, finding gratitude in the ashes, and the everyday choices that keep her moving forward. Join us for a masterclass in perseverance, as Sarah shares her extraordinary journey and the lessons learned on the other side of life’s most daunting moments.

What Listeners Will Learn:

• Sarah Rhodes describes her journey through multiple, compounding life challenges.
• After losing her spouse, she chose to move forward with implanting preserved embryos.
• Sarah describes the struggle with loneliness and isolation during infertility and widowhood.
• In recounting her daughter Ellis’s near-death experience and miraculous survival, Sarah points to the limits of medical prediction.
• Sarah speaks about the transition from loss and grief to rebuilding and finding gratitude.
• Scott Reich comments on the importance of living in the present and avoiding regrets.
• Blended families and disability advocacy have become central to Sarah’s life.
• She says, “Life doesn’t let you decide your pain, but it does give you the choice of how you respond.”

Key Moments:

(00:00) Preparing for cancer treatment

(06:09) Facing infertility and loss

(09:22) Struggles with infertility and shame

(11:20) A meaningful dream and baby name

(15:34) Miracle recovery in butterfly room

(18:56) Finding the right rehabilitation therapy

(22:16) Choosing resilience over hardship

(26:28) Balancing present and future mindset

(28:08) Embracing life's unpredictability

(30:54) Moving forward through grief

On this episode of Curveball, host Scott Reich welcomes NFL legend, entrepreneur, and author, Raymont Harris. For over 50 years, Raymont believed a powerful story about his past: that his mother died giving birth to him. But a recent conversation with his sister revealed a life-changing truth—his mother actually passed away four days after he was born. This revelation sparked a dramatic mindset shift, challenging everything he thought he knew about his life and fueling his passion for personal growth.

Known for his stellar college football career at Ohio State and his time with the Chicago Bears, Raymont has now transformed his journey into inspiration for others as founder of Elite Mindset & Performance and author of "Control the Controllables: Mindset, Pressure and the Power of Control." In this episode, Raymont shares his deeply personal journey, the power of rewriting your own story, and how facing hard truths can empower us to take control of our lives. Get ready for a conversation about resilience, transformation, and the mindset needed to thrive—no matter the curveballs life throws your way.

Listeners Will Learn:

• The revelation about the timing of Raymont Harris's mother’s passing powerfully transformed his life perspective and highlights the significance of personal narratives.
• Growing up in a family that avoided discussing emotions or loss significantly shaped Raymont’s personal development and overall outlook on life.
• Raymont’s transition from seeking external validation from his father to finding intrinsic motivation is a meaningful shift that connects to broader experiences of self-discovery.
• The concept of "controllables," as presented by Raymont, serves as an effective strategy for managing challenges by focusing energy on aspects within one's control.
• The perspective reflected in Raymont’s quote—“Do you hate losing so much that you're willing to change, or do you hate changing so much that you're willing to lose?”—serves as a powerful guiding principle for personal and professional growth.
• Raymont’s journey through college, professional sports, and multiple career changes exemplifies the essential theme of adaptability.
• Learning the true circumstances of his mother’s death gave Raymont a new sense of agency over his story, allowing him to rewrite his narrative in a more positive light.
• Raymont emphasizes the importance of starting something new, even at the risk of initial failure, as a pathway to growth and resilience.
• Focusing on helping others and improving the environment around oneself is described by Raymont as a way to achieve personal replenishment and fulfillment.
• The grace and understanding Raymont extends to his father deeply influences how he interprets his family relationships and offers insight into reflecting on our own connections.

Key Moments:

(00:00) Growing up with a single dad

(06:25) Reflecting on personal loss and growth

(08:40) Realizing personal responsibility

(11:35) Choosing a positive perspective

(15:41) Impact of family words

(18:51) Controlling the controllable

(21:33) Embracing adaptability and change

(25:36) Overcoming challenges and personal growth

(26:43) Embracing life's twists and turns

(32:53) Raymond's perspective on failure

On this episode of Curveball, host Scott Reich sits down with Justin Gurland, a creative entrepreneur and founder of The Maze—New York City's first members-only, alcohol-free social club. Justin is someone who has navigated the difficult road from addiction to nearly two decades of sobriety. In a candid and inspiring conversation, he shares the pivotal moments that shaped his journey, from confronting his heroin addiction on his 25th birthday to rebuilding his life and identity, and ultimately dedicating himself to helping others find community and purpose in recovery. Together, they tackle the challenges of overcoming addiction, the importance of genuine connection, and the rise of the "sober curious" movement. Whether you're seeking insight into resilience, interested in supporting a loved one, or simply curious about the new and changing landscape of social life without alcohol, this episode offers powerful lessons on growth, honesty, and the essential human need for community.

• Justin Gurland’s experience with addiction and recovery directly influenced the creation of The Maze, aiming to fill a gap for a supportive, alcohol-free community space.
• Family intervention—especially from Justin’s sister—was a pivotal moment that pushed him to confront the reality of his addiction.
• Addiction is described by Justin as an "isolated disease," with isolation and loneliness becoming central features in his own struggle.
• Recovery, as framed by Justin, requires full commitment; easing up on efforts can lead to setbacks or a return to old habits.
• Justin’s story challenges common assumptions about addiction by showing that it can affect individuals with supportive families and healthy backgrounds.
• Through his roles in both personal recovery and professional behavioral health, Justin observed patterns that either help individuals maintain sobriety or contribute to relapse, with ongoing community support being crucial.
• Justin suggests that parents should create safe, nonjudgmental spaces for open communication, enabling children to be honest about difficult topics without fear of harsh consequences.
• Justin says the rise of "alcohol-free culture" and the "sober curious" movement is motivated by diverse personal and health reasons, not limited to those in recovery from addiction.
• Sustaining sobriety and overall well-being is, according to Justin, deeply tied to community and human connection; isolation often hinders progress.
• The Maze is designed to serve not only people in recovery but also those who are interested in alcohol-free social experiences, thereby broadening its appeal and impact.

Key Moments:

(00:00) Founding The Maze—an alcohol-free members-only social club

(04:51) Journey to self-recognition and change

(08:21) Discussing motivations and identity

(11:41) Reflecting on early life influences

(14:30) Getting pulled out of class

(18:32) Parenting and open communication

(21:16) Managing parental reactions to children

(24:47) Inspiring story of resilience

(28:02) Building a sober community

(30:17) Evolving views on alcohol health

(33:24) Importance of building community

Life is full of the unexpected, and few things feel as elusive as time. On today’s episode of Curveball, we dive deep into the challenge of managing our hours with Laura Vanderkam, a leading expert on how we actually use our days and how we can make our lives feel more abundant. Drawing from her latest book, "Big Time: A Simple Path to Time Abundance," Laura shares why the idea of "not enough hours in the day" might be a myth—and how we can reshape our schedules to make room for what matters most.

Laura and host Scott Reich explore the practical strategies, surprising data, and real-life stories that reveal how we’re spending our 168 hours each week. Whether you’re overwhelmed by work, juggling family, or just searching for a little more joy in your day-to-day routine, this episode offers tangible advice that can help you reclaim your time—and your happiness.

If you’ve ever felt worn out or convinced that time is slipping away, tune in for insights that will help you approach your schedule—and your life—in a whole new way.

Listeners Will Learn:

• Laura Vanderkam talks about the concept of "time abundance."
• She emphasizes resilience in time management.
• Many people are unintentional with their non-work time.
• How "thoughtful accessibility," balances openness to opportunities with personal boundaries.
• Laura uses a circus metaphor about juggling multiple priorities in life, like parenting her five children.
• She found in her research that tracking time not only changes behavior but also improves feelings about time.
• Inserting little adventures—like salsa dancing on a Monday—correlates with a greater sense of time abundance and happiness.
• Laura’s research on habits or strategies shared by professionally successful people can help listeners feel more in control of their own schedules.

Key Moments:

(00:00) Creating a mindful schedule

(04:00) Creating a resilient schedule

(07:09) Weekly planning for a better week

(10:14) Tracking and evaluating personal time

(15:20) Setting boundaries with accessibility

(18:33) Balancing schedules and energy

(21:23) Life as a three ring circus

(24:02) Managing sleep as a new parent

(27:38) Finding joy through scheduled downtime

(29:24) Making time for fun moments

(32:10) Using free time wisely