From Navy SEAL to CEO: Lessons on Leadership & Trusting Your Team to Win
In this episode, Rob Levin sits down with Alex Kunz, CEO of OP2 Labs, a company providing innovative collagen-based nutrition and a five-time Inc. 5000 fastest-growing business. A former U.S. Navy SEAL turned multi-industry leader, Alex shares what he's learned about building high-performing, self-sustaining teams—and why the best companies can function without their founders.
He opens up about the importance of adaptability, how to hire for culture before skill, and how to make offshore team members truly feel part of the mission. From SEAL team leadership to scaling through recessions and a pandemic, Alex's story is a masterclass in resilience, trust, and deliberate leadership.
About the Guest
Alex Kunz is a seasoned executive with more than 20 years of leadership experience spanning energy, renewables, consumer products, defense, and health & wellness. He's the CEO of OP2 Labs, a company providing innovative collagen-based nutrition and home to brands like Frog Fuel and ProT GOLD. Alex is also Managing Partner at Terraform Holdings, which focuses on investments, M&A, and business turnarounds, and Principal at Nicholas K, a luxury fashion label. A former U.S. Navy SEAL, Alex brings a unique perspective on building resilient, high-performance teams that thrive under pressure.
Episode Highlight
"If your company can't function without you, then you don't have a scalable company." — Alex Kunz
Actionable Insights
- Run your company as if you're not there: The best leaders build systems and teams that can operate independently. Empower your people to lead and make decisions.[03:45]
- Hire for culture first, skill second: Alex's hiring process starts with cultural alignment, skills and experience come later. The wrong cultural fit always costs more down the line. [06:11]
- Adaptability drives survival and growth: When COVID hit, OP2 Labs quickly pivoted focus from its medical division to human performance products, resulting in 85% growth that year. [12:51]
- Foster innovation from within: Alex's team-building exercises and AI "show and tell" meetings give every employee a role in innovation and problem-solving. [17:23]
Download This Episode's Workbook
Ready to apply these insights to your own business? Download the free workbook to get started.
More About Alex Kunz
Check out OP2 labs
Connect with Alex on LinkedIn.
More About Rob Levin & WorkBetterNow
Like this show? Click on over and subscribe to our YouTube channel!
Follow Rob Levin on Substack.
Out now! The New Talent Playbook: The Ultimate Guide to Building Your Dream Team 📕 Available on Amazon or visit thenewtalentplaybook.com and get the free scorecard.