From the high-tech Silicon Valley of California to the wild Diamante Valley of Costa Rica, Zander works to co-create a thriving world by learning from nature, caring for all beings, and sharing regenerative solutions. 

After developing numerous health challenges during his youth, notably arthritis diagnosed at age 19, Zander began learning about natural health from books, articles, documentaries, therapists, friends, and most importantly from his personal experiences. While completing his degree in business administration, he discovered the power of raw plant-based foods for human health and the power of permaculture for healing our planet. He realized that many natural health solutions (such as eating mostly raw fruits and leafy greens, cyclic fasting, walking barefoot, crawling, climbing, mindfulness, moderate sun exposure, sleeping when it’s dark, non-verbal communication, and low-tech communal living), are being demonstrated by our closest cousins in the wild. 

As a result, Ape Living was born as an approach to healthy living that is inspired by our fellow great apes in the wild and our ancient (pre-Ice Age) ancestors. Zander has since facilitated three week-long retreats and numerous workshops. His “radical” approach addresses the “root” causes of health challenges and turns them into opportunities for healing, learning, and growth. In addition to remote consultations and coaching, he offers in-person services like guided breathwork, primal movement training, “rewilding” massage (integrating Thai Yoga and deep tissue techniques), and nature immersion adventures. In 2020, he co-founded Perma Vida Foundation to support other projects involved in ecosystem regeneration, fruit forestry, and nature-based education.

Outside of work and improving his Spanish, Zander loves to play drums, chess, frisbee, basketball, trivia, and other fun activities. Perma vida!