#16 From Foster Care to Fastest Man in Rugby: The Carlin Isles Story

On this episode of Curveball, host Scott Reich sits down with Carlin Isles, the man widely regarded as the fastest player in the history of rugby. But Carlin’s journey to the world stage is about so much more than speed. Growing up in Ohio, Carlin was confronted with unthinkable hardships: torn from his family at only six years old by law enforcement, he and his twin sister endured years in the foster care system, facing abuse, adversity, and a lack of basic education. Yet, against all odds, Carlin’s resilience transformed heartbreak into hope.

With faith, relentless discipline, and a burning desire to outrun his past, Carlin forged a new future. He became a collegiate athlete, a professional track star, signed with the Detroit Lions, and ultimately became a two-time Olympian and a viral rugby sensation. His story is one of breathtaking tenacity—of never giving up, of using every setback as fuel, and of the life-changing power of belief and mentorship.

Tune in as Carlin shares how he turned unimaginable pain into purpose, why he once walked away from a lifelong Olympic dream to pursue the unknown in rugby, and the personal philosophies that keep him pushing forward. This episode isn’t just about athletic greatness—it’s about what it truly takes to break through life’s biggest barriers and inspire others to do the same.

What Listeners Will Learn:

• How Carlin’s experiences in foster care shaped his approach to life
• Carlin describes refusing to let his turbulent childhood define his future. 
• Carlin talked about developing a strong “man in the mirror” mentality. 
• The support of mentors played a pivotal role in Carlin’s story. 
• Carlin made a bold decision to leave behind Olympic track trials and pursue rugby, a sport he’d never played before. 
• Throughout his life, Carlin set incredibly high goals for himself and worked relentlessly toward them. 
• Carlin emphasizes “seeing past what the eye can see” and having a vision beyond current circumstances. 
• After achieving so much, Carlin now focuses on giving back and inspiring others. 

Key Moments:

(00:00) Carlin Isles: Against All Odds

(03:27) Emotion-Filled Story of Empathy

(08:40) Remarkable Determination at Age Eight 

(09:55) Transformative Mindset and Pursuing Goals"

(14:20) Pursuing Dream to Train with the Best 

(16:44) Chasing Rugby Dreams

(22:19) Vision Beyond Hardships

(24:04) Resilience and Overcoming Adversity

(28:51) Visionary Pursuit

(31:13) Embracing Discomfort and Finding Faith

(36:21) Keep Moving, Breakthrough Awaits

(37:35) Carlin Isles: Grit and Success