Team

Justin Gurland’s sobriety journey began at 25, a time when he feared life without substances would be empty and unfulfilling. He soon discovered how wrong he was – the transformation that followed was nothing short of life-changing.

Early in recovery, Gurland believed sobriety simply meant abstaining from drugs and alcohol, a concept he embraced quickly. Yet, after several years, he found himself feeling lost, disconnected, and hopeless. Then came a turning point: he realized that the opposite of addiction isn’t just recovery – it’s connection. That shift in perspective changed everything. He came to understand that abstinence was only the beginning; true fulfillment came from building meaningful relationships and serving others.

This realization became the foundation of his life’s work. Gurland dedicated himself to recovery, earning his Licensed Master of Social Work (LMSW) degree and specializing in substance abuse. With over 15 years of experience, he has helped countless individuals and families overcome addiction, rebuild their lives, and form lasting connections. Now, with 16 years of sobriety, he combines professional expertise with personal insight to guide others on their journey. Driven by the belief that everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and valued, Gurland continues to empower individuals and strengthen community bonds – proving that sobriety is not an end, but a powerful beginning.

As a social entrepreneur, Gurland is dedicated to fostering inclusive, supportive communities. With The Maze, his mission is to create a vibrant, welcoming space for those seeking a meaningful alternative to traditional social settings. By blending creativity, connection, and purpose, he aims to redefine social engagement with a strong focus on community.

Dan Brody’s journey to sobriety was anything but linear. Despite the unwavering support of his family and friends, it took multiple attempts – and the realization that he needed to get sober for himself – to fully embrace recovery.

Raised in North Jersey, Brody grew up with a strong family foundation, including loving parents and two supportive siblings. He found confidence and a sense of belonging in athletics, particularly football and basketball, as well as in an active social life. However, when he went to college, the structure and purpose that sports had provided disappeared, leaving a void he unknowingly filled with drugs and alcohol. At the time, he believed they made him more confident and adaptable—the “best version” of himself.

As his professional career flourished after college, so did his addiction. Living a double life became unsustainable, and it soon became clear that his situation was spiraling out of control. At 33, he reached a breaking point, realizing that his life had become unmanageable. It was this moment of desperation that led him to finally commit to recovery.

A critical pillar of Brody’s sobriety has been the power of community. Surrounding himself with like-minded individuals gave him the strength to show up authentically and grow into the best version of himself – no substances required. This transformation led him to discover his true passion: helping others who are struggling as he once did. Motivated by this newfound purpose, Brody made a major career shift into the behavioral health industry.

Today, through The Maze, he has the privilege of guiding individuals on their journey to sobriety, helping them realize the incredible potential and fulfillment that a sober life can offer. Seeing others rebuild their lives with courage and hope is deeply rewarding, fueling his dedication to making a difference every day. Sobriety has not only given him a new lease on life but also a purpose that continues to drive him forward.