Phillip Koontz

Biography

Phillip Koontz, former Navy SEAL of over six years, takes his life lessons forged through the trials of SEAL training and currently helps others practically apply them to their personal, professional and family lives.

Over the last seven years Phillip has enjoyed success as a motivational speaker in business, academic, athletic and religious environments. He has spoken in hundreds of events both in-person and virtually where he tailors his inspiring stories and lessons in the SEAL Teams to fit the occasion and audience.

Phillip’s acclaimed book, The Truth Behind My Trident, gives a snapshot of a day in the life of a Navy SEAL as he pulls back the curtain, revealing the behind the scenes culture of this elite group. Given our cultural esteem for SEALs, it would be a rare chance to meet Phillip and hear about his powerful experiences. His use of live videos, personal operational gear and powerful stories will instantly capture your interest and will surely be remembered for years to come.

Phillip has his Master’s Degree in Leadership and is a Life and Business Coach. He also holds leadership webinars, mentors Special Forces candidates and volunteers with the Anti-Trafficking Bureau, a nonprofit organization which rescues, restores and protects children trapped in the sexual exploitation industry.

Videos

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THREE-DIMENSIONAL LEADERSHIP

Learning to Lead in All Environments and Circumstances

This dynamic presentation offers a guide to leading yourself well, leading your peers, and influencing those above you and those who report to you.

OVERCOMING ADVERSITY

A Navy SEAL's Advice on Facing Life's Many Challenges.

Overcoming Adversity offers participants a Navy SEAL's advice on facing Life's many challenges. In this presentation, Phillip discusses aspects of preparation, positivism, perseverance, pack (teamwork) and progress. Watch Phillip's Fall 2020 presentation on Overcoming Adversity.

LIVING FREE AND FEARLESS

Self-defense training for everyday scenarios

In this engaging presentation using practical tactics for today's age. Phillip teaches situational awareness and how to protect yourself in every day scenarios including hand-to-hand striking, using cell phones as weapons, escaping front and rear chokeholds and using tasers.

PREPARED FOR THE UNKNOWN

3 Practical Lessons From A Navy SEAL That Will Give You Peace Of Mind

In this presentation, Phillip offers his audience three practical lessons for peace of mind while preparing for the unknown. In this interactive session, Phillip uses his tools, training and targets as metaphors for tackling different obstacles in life.

Testimonials

Phil's story is a true "experience" for our financial advisor partners.

– Pat Campbell - Lincoln Financial Distributors

Phillip kept the audience captivated with his SEAL team stories and explained how their training, tools, and preparation led them to success.

– Matthew J. Zeller, P.E., Executive Director - Concrete Paving Association of Minnesota

It was an incredible experience working with Phil. Not only is Phil the utmost professional.

– Will Brady, CIMA , Business Development Officer - Milliman Financial Risk Management LLC

I would highly recommend Phillip and encourage anyone looking for a great presentation.

– Tony Strittholt, CRPC, Vice President, Business Development - American Century Investments

Phil Koontz is a very personable and passionate gentleman. I highly recommend Phil.

– Dan Glacken, Director of Franchise Operations & Training - Tuffy Tire & Auto Service

Phillip is the real deal and I highly encourage anyone who is looking for a dynamic speaker.

– Howard A. Pratt - Regional Vice President - Ohio National Financial Services

Booksby Phillip Koontz

The Truth Behind My Trident

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Photos

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Blog Posts

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Think event planning is all about checklists and timetables? Think again. Emmy‑winning strategist Gabriella Robuccio shares more on The Keynote Curators Podcast.

Celebrating Juneteenth with These Transformative Keynotes

Learn how intentional Juneteenth programming paired with transformative keynote speakers can turn commemoration into sustained equity and inclusion.

AI, GEO, & SEO Marketing for Speakers: The 2025 Authority-Building Playbook

How Professional Speakers and Speaker Bureaus Can Leverage AI to Build Unshakeable Authority and Increase Visibility in the New Search Landscape

Rethinking Events: Bite-Sized Surprises and Live Interaction with Seth Godin

Seth Godin shares his strategies and suggestions for unforgettable events—from riff-based teaching to co-creation through communication and creativity.

Aligning Prosperity with Purpose: Money Lessons from Doug Lynam

Marine. Monk. Manager. Behavioral finance expert Doug Lynam helps you heal your relationship with finances, aligning prosperity with a deeper, personal purpose.

Expert Mental Health Keynote Speakers That Can Elevate Your Attendees’ Experiences

Learn how the right mental health keynote speaker can help transform your events by fostering connection, resilience, and lasting impact that last a lifetime.