Zach figures himself something of a Zen Presbyterian - pursuing the contemplative and intellectual aspects of life in God. He grew up in Colorado and has a great love of the outdoors, indulging this love actively by climbing mountains, paddling rivers, fly-fishing, skiing, and just being outdoors. He is an alumnus of the University of Colorado at Boulder (B.A. History and Education), and Regent College at the University of British Columbia (Master of Divinity). Before going to graduate school, Zach taught high school history and English. Most recently Zach served as the organizing pastor of Common Table, a PC (USA) church plant in Bend, Oregon. In June Zach married the love of his life Lydia Holzman.