Welcome back to Curveball, the podcast where life’s toughest challenges meet profound stories of resilience. In this episode, host Scott Reich sits down with motivational speaker Corey Warren, whose remarkable journey through addiction, loss, and ultimately recovery offers a powerful lens into the human spirit’s capacity to reinvent itself. From a childhood shaped by family turbulence and a quest for acceptance, to hitting rock bottom and transforming pain into purpose, Corey’s story isn’t just about battling substance abuse—it’s about discovering who you truly are when all the layers are peeled away.

Listen in as Corey opens up about his lowest moments, his path to self-love, and how he’s inspiring the next generation by speaking openly in schools, sharing honest lessons about belonging, finding fulfillment, and building real confidence. Whether you or someone you love is fighting their own battles, this conversation is packed with wisdom, vulnerability, and hope for anyone seeking their own comeback.

• Corey talks about waking up one day deciding not to be an addict, but instead seeking a place to belong.
• The episode touches on how external validation shaped Corey’s self-perception.
• Corey describes how his father’s alcoholism and tumultuous lifestyle impacted his upbringing.
• Corey’s story includes moments where he tried to change his life by removing drugs, but then substituted them with alcohol.
• Corey’s “rock bottom” wasn’t one specific event, but realizing he needed to change for himself.
• Scott and Corey discuss the difference between “who” you are and “what” you are.
• Corey shares that he still struggles with people-pleasing and seeking certain family members’ approval.
• The episode references how Corey tries to parent in a way that encourages self-validation rather than constant praise.
• Corey’s journey includes sharing his story openly, both with students and his own children.
• Scott mentions the theme of “reinvention” and how Corey was able to reclaim his narrative.

(00:00) Seeking Approval Through Addiction

(04:19) Adolescence, Belonging, and Loneliness

(07:47) Father’s Escape from a Nursing Home

(12:50) Alcohol, Addiction, and Redemption

(15:45) Facing the Root Problem

(18:54) Turning Trauma into Growth

(22:37) Seeking Approval as an Adult

(23:27) Validation and Perspective

(26:53) Seeking Validation for Decisions

(31:59) Validation Builds Confidence

(34:27) Reinvention and Redemption Journey

(38:54) Supportive Guidance and Unconditional Love

(41:17) Parenting for Resilience and Joy

(42:43) Tech Access for Children: Balance Over Restriction

(45:52) Growth Through Human Connection