Gain Clarity and Connection Through the ZigZag Project

When David Gross ’08 (math) and Kai Mayeda ’08 (engineering) co-facilitated the first Harvey Mudd Alumni Association ZigZag Project cohort in summer 2025, they weren’t sure what to expect. What they discovered was a remarkable space for reflection, community and courage, a place where alumni could pause and ask big questions like, “Why am I doing any of this?”

Adapted from a TED podcast series by journalist Manoush Zomorodi, the ZigZag Project helps participants navigate life’s twists and turns—its “zigs” and “zags”— through guided reflection, journaling and discussion. During the pandemic, Zomorodi used the project to help people redefine purpose amid uncertainty. Kai, who first explored it on his own, realized its impact grew exponentially when shared. “The ZigZag with others makes it so enlightening,” he says. “It dissipates that feeling of loneliness we all inevitably have.”

Each six-week cohort meets virtually, listening to one podcast episode per week, completing short reflection exercises and joining open, honest conversations. Though David and Kai initially planned to “teach” lessons from the project, they soon found that the most meaningful insights came from peer-to-peer sharing. “The value,” Kai says, “was really at the group chat level— less a one-way dialogue and more like a group therapy session.”

The first cohort originated from Kai’s discontent with his career trajectory. He also had peers that were experiencing layoffs, disenchantment and workplace harassment. An avid podcast listener, Kai felt that a pair of facilitators could more quickly create a welcoming environment. So, he asked David to tag team the series. Together they created synergistic energy that helped to connect Mudders in ways that were reminiscent of the times on campus.

A second ZigZag cohort attracted alumni from across generations and career stages, many of whom arrived in moments of transition—recovering from layoffs, facing burnout or simply seeking renewed direction. Others joined from a place of strength, hoping to keep growing. No matter their starting point, participants found comfort in shared experience.

With the second iteration also came the opportunity to bring new perspectives to ZigZag’s facilitation. Katie Shepherd ’14, an eager participant in the first cohort, found that repeating these discussions with a new group of individuals was an opportunity to stay in a reflective, community-oriented mindset and to develop their own skills by completing ZigZag exercises. “It’s so mutually beneficial to be in community while navigating challenges,” Katie says. “Someone else’s a-ha moment can feel like it gets you closer to your own.”

Facilitators brought personal “zig zag” stories to the project. David shared how shifting between startup roles, parenting and a sabbatical led him to rediscover his values and recommit to his own business. Kai described his unconventional career path—from chemical engineering PhD to startup to high school tutor to entrepreneur—and how letting go of rigid expectations opened new possibilities, including co-founding a medical practice in Hawaii with his wife, Donna Mayeda ’09. Katie shared how working in higher education and as a customer experience leader have provided opportunities to coach and hone what it means to effectively lead, and they’re now looking to pivot to more meaningful work that engages this skillset.

For many, ZigZag offers more than reflection—it can create belonging. Alumni bond over vulnerability and encouragement, forming connections that last well beyond the program. “It doesn’t matter where you’re coming from,” Kai says, “you’ll find value in connecting with fellow Mudders across generations and graduating years. It’s really special to do this in our community.”

A new ZigZag Project cohort is planned for summer 2026. The experience is free and open to all alumni seeking clarity, courage and/or community. Kai says, “Having this experience can be part of your life toolkit.”

Contact David, david@1728.solutions, about joining the next ZigZag cohort.