What if the biggest performance advantage in business had nothing to do with strategy — and everything to do with your health? In this episode of Cleared for Takeoff, Charles Eide sits down with Jason Kunz, keynote speaker, safety expert, and performance practitioner, to explore how physical, mental, and emotional health directly influence leadership performance. Jason shares the moment he realized health was non-negotiable while working inside 3M during the pandemic, where he witnessed how the nervous system of a leader becomes the nervous system of the entire organization. That insight reshaped how he thinks about discipline, habits, and the responsibility leaders have to care for themselves. The conversation dives into practical strategies leaders can implement immediately — from tracking health data and stabilizing blood sugar to managing stress through breathwork and building environments that support better habits. Jason also shares his personal routines for staying healthy while traveling, the change equation that drives real transformation, and why many business leaders struggle to sustain energy despite professional success. At its core, this episode is about understanding that leadership performance begins with personal health. When you manage your energy, habits, and environment intentionally, you become more stable, focused, and effective — not just at work, but at home as well. If you want to perform at a higher level in business and life, this episode offers a practical roadmap. MEDICAL DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this video is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The hosts are not licensed medical professionals. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice based on content you've seen here. What to expect in this episode: The Nervous System of the Leader Becomes the Organization Awareness of Self Isn’t Enough Health Data Drives Better Decisions Environment Shapes Behavior The Change Equation Explains Why Transformation Happens Travel Doesn’t Have to Destroy Your Health Breathwork Can Instantly Regulate Stress Food Is Fuel Leaders Must Model the Behaviors They Expect Success Means Showing Up for the People Who Matter Most Meet Jason Kunz: Jason Kunz is a keynote speaker, coach, and trusted advisor who works with organizations to reduce serious injury and fatality (SIF) risk, strengthen leadership capability, and improve operational performance. He is the founder of The Kunz Company, where he helps leaders move beyond traditional safety and health practices toward modern, high-trust, learning-focused approaches that support safer, more engaged, and more effective workplaces. Jason was recently recognized by the National Safety Council as a 2025 Rising Star of Safety, honoring his work advancing serious injury and fatality prevention, modernizing safety leadership, and improving worker engagement across industries. Before launching his speaking and advisory business, Jason spent 15 years at 3M, serving in technical, sales, and leadership roles while partnering with teams across global manufacturing, industrial, and commercial environments. Throughout his career, he has delivered keynotes, workshops, and leadership sessions for more than 25,000 people across 36 countries. Jason is also a co-author and contributing architect of new ASTM standards focused on employee engagement and serious injury and fatality prevention. His work blends Human & Organizational Performance (H&OP), operational leadership, and over a decade of qualitative research and practitioner insights. He holds both CIH (Certified Industrial Hygienist) and CSP (Certified Safety Professional) designations. Jason lives in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul area with his wife, Malia, and their young son, and spends much of his time helping leaders operate at their highest level — both professionally and personally.
