#5 Finding Light in Trauma: Roni Habib on Resilience, Loss, and Joyful Teaching

On this episode of Curveball, host Scott Reich welcomes Roni Habib—educator, founder of EQ Schools, and author of "Happy and Resilient: the Complete Guide to Joyful Teaching, Learning and Living." Roni opens up about the curveballs that have shaped his life: from a life-threatening brain tumor and the harrowing loss of a beloved student to suicide, to the recent passing of his brother to cancer. Through candid storytelling, Roni shares not only how these challenges impacted him, but the powerful lessons he drew from each experience—about resilience, meaning, and the importance of self-compassion. He reveals how embracing vulnerability and prioritizing well-being transformed his approach to teaching, connection, and living joyfully, even in the face of the unimaginable. Whether you’re navigating your own personal curveball or searching for inspiration on how to find light after loss, Roni’s journey offers hope, practical tools, and a reminder that even in our darkest times, growth and gratitude are possible.

Our guest:

Roni Habib

Listeners will learn:

• Roni describes his experience with a brain tumor at a young age as a "curveball."
• The episode discusses how perception can become reality, especially in the context of interpreting traumatic experiences.
• Roni shares the heartbreak of a student’s suicide and its impact on him as an educator.
• He mentions the concept of "putting your own oxygen mask on first" when dealing with personal struggles as a caretaker or educator.
• The Positive Psychology course Roni created became unexpectedly popular among students.
• Roni emphasizes creating spaces where students—and adults—can be vulnerable and authentic.
• Reflecting on loss and grief, Roni says that everyone experiences grief differently and that it’s vital not to suppress difficult emotions.
• Roni found meaning in his losses by transforming them into purpose-driven work and creating EQ Schools.
• The discussion includes the power of connection and practices like gratitude, play, and mindfulness.
• Finally, Roni shared that love can triumph over fear, particularly when supporting someone in need.

Key Moments:

(00:00) Adjusting to American Life

(05:35) Facing Mortality: A Sudden Diagnosis

(08:39) Exploring Trauma: Growth and Introspection

(11:31) Educator's Emotional Challenge: A Student’s Suicide

(16:16) Addressing Mental Health Stigma

(19:23) Understanding Control and Positive Psychology

(22:32) Vulnerable Circles Empower Kids

(25:13) EQ Schools: Educator Well-being Workshops

(31:47) Love Overcomes Fear

(35:41) Unseen Presence Recognized

(38:03) Power of Self-Compassion