Full Breakdown
Internal Strife at Unwell Network: Alex Cooper and Matt Kaplan's Absence Raises Concerns
4/23/2026, 11:23:45 PM
Core Event: Missing Leadership Amid Employee Complaints
Alex Cooper and her husband, Matt Kaplan, were notably absent from an all-hands meeting at their startup, Unwell Network, held on April 21, 2023. The meeting, hosted by Chief Marketing Officer T.J. Marchetti, aimed to address ongoing concerns regarding the company, including employee retention and complaints about Kaplan's behavior. This gathering followed a Bloomberg report highlighting significant staff turnover at Unwell over the past two years, with Kaplan reportedly at the center of various issues related to his management style.
Background & Context: The Rise of Unwell Network
Cooper launched Unwell Network in August 2023, bringing in influencer Alix Earle as her first hire. The partnership initially appeared promising, but tensions have reportedly escalated since their collaboration began. Earle's podcast, "Hot Mess," debuted in September 2023, but by February 2025, it was dropped amid rumors of a rift between the two women.
Key Figures: Alex Cooper and Matt Kaplan
Alex Cooper, 31, is a prominent podcast host and entrepreneur, while Matt Kaplan, 42, is involved in the day-to-day operations of Unwell Network. Kaplan has faced criticism for his management style, with reports indicating that he has a reputation for yelling at staff, leading to threats of walkouts from employees. This behavior has raised concerns about the work environment at Unwell.
Criticism & Opposition: Employee Discontent
Reports suggest that Kaplan's management style has contributed to a toxic work environment. Staff members have expressed discomfort, with one incident during the filming of "Unwell Winter Games" leading to a crew member breaking down in tears due to Kaplan's berating. Employees have threatened to withdraw from projects if Kaplan does not alter his behavior, indicating significant discontent within the team.
Official Statements & Responses
While Cooper and Kaplan have not publicly addressed the complaints, T.J. Marchetti acknowledged the employee turnover during the meeting, stating that Unwell's turnover rate is below that of other startups. The couple's representatives have not commented on the ongoing issues, leaving many questions unanswered regarding the internal dynamics of the company.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps: Discrepancies in Employee Experiences
There is a discrepancy in the reports regarding the severity of the issues at Unwell. While some sources highlight significant employee dissatisfaction and turnover, others suggest that the situation may not be as dire as portrayed. The lack of direct statements from Cooper and Kaplan further complicates the narrative, leaving room for speculation about the true state of affairs within the company.
Verbatim Quotes
- “has earned a reputation for frequently yelling at staff members,” — Bloomberg Report
- “There’s a lot of tension,” — Insider Source on Cooper and Earle
- “Just say what you gotta say about me.” — Alex Cooper addressing Alix Earle
As Unwell Network navigates these challenges, the future of its leadership and employee relations remains uncertain, with ongoing scrutiny from both insiders and the public.
