From Musician to Product Development at Apple, Nest, 23andMe, and Disney: Zachery Kennedy on Shaping the Future of UX
Zachery Kennedy – 2024
A buzz of excitement fills the air inside the Silicon Valley UX Awards's grand hall. Designers, technologists, and thought leaders from around the globe have gathered to celebrate the cutting edge of user experience innovation. Amidst this crowd of brilliance, I sit down with Zachery Kennedy, a designer whose journey has spanned disciplines—from touring musician to product development at Apple, Nest, 23andMe, and Disney. Today, he's here to discuss his path, process, and vision for the evolving world of UX.
Kendall Klein: Zachery, let's start at the beginning. Can you tell us about your background? Where are you from, and how did you become interested in design?
Zachery Kennedy: I grew up in Southern California, enveloped by the creative pulse of the music and entertainment industries. From a young age, I was transfixed by classic Disney films and the immersive worlds of Disneyland. These experiences made me wonder how they were crafted and why they resonated so deeply. As I hit my teens, I discovered the raw energy of punk rock, embraced its DIY spirit, and learned that meaningful art can emerge from anyone who dares to create. Music, animation, theme parks—all these human-crafted experiences showed me the power of creativity to connect people. They instilled in me a desire to design and make things that emotionally connect.
KK: You've worked in the music industry, themed entertainment, retail, and technology. What led you specifically to pursue a career in UX design?
ZK: Honestly, it happened at a whirlwind moment in my life. I was studying character animation, interning at DreamWorks, touring in bands, and working at an Apple Store—all at once. Sleep was optional. But it was the Apple Store that shifted my perspective. Standing on the retail floor, I watched how people of all backgrounds interacted with technology long before touchscreens became the norm. I learned what delights and frustrates them and what they genuinely expect from their devices. Teaching customers how technology could improve their lives was rewarding, but I craved a deeper involvement. I didn't just want to explain products; I wanted to create them. Over time, I realized that the human-centered principles I observed weren't confined to software—they could enhance physical products, spaces, and ecosystems. It became clear that UX design could bridge art, empathy, and technology, opening a path to shape experiences that truly make a difference.
Zach takes the stage with his former band, Saosin, to celebrate the 20th anniversary of their iconic first EP, Translating the Name – June 2023
KK: Among your portfolio of work, what stands out as the most challenging product experience you've designed, and why?
ZK: My answer often changes because I tend to pick the most recent challenge, but the Royal Railway experience for Royal Caribbean has taken the cake so far. Imagine a fully immersive train car setting aboard a cruise ship, blending elements of a restaurant, theater, and ride into one grand spectacle. We had just six months to turn this vision into reality. At the same time, I was launching my creative studio after two decades in the industry. That meant I had to balance several roles—designer, leader, strategist, entertainer, business owner. Unlike projects tied to well-known intellectual property, this was a blank slate. Our small team had to conjure an entirely new world packed with intricate details, memorable characters, and a story that would captivate guests of all ages for 90 minutes. It also had to honor Royal Caribbean's brand and deliver a world-class entertainment experience. The pressure was immense, but so were the rewards. We built a storytelling platform from scratch that delivered surprises and joy. It proved that with the right mix of talent, trust, and a shared vision, even the most ambitious ideas can become real—and extraordinary.
KK: How did those formative experiences in Southern California and beyond shape your approach to design today?
ZK: They taught me the value of empathy, creativity, and curiosity. Growing up, I saw how people connect deeply with objects, stories, and shared experiences. Whether it's a beloved film, a favorite song, a theme park memory, or a device that simplifies your life, these moments are about human connection. I learned that great design isn't just about aesthetics or functionality; it's about understanding people's needs and solving their problems in intuitive and magical ways. Those early lessons continue to guide me. They keep me focused on storytelling, user-first thinking, and designing beyond the expected. Whether working on a product, a physical environment, or an immersive experience, I always seek that human resonance.
Zach and his wife, Mandy, recently welcomed their "third child"—if you count their beloved family dog, Odie! – Nov 2024
KK: You've contributed to products at iconic companies. Is there a project you're particularly proud of, and what makes it stand out?
ZK: Undoubtedly, the first-generation Apple Watch—especially the health initiative behind it. It's surreal to think back: I went from teaching "Getting Started with Mac" classes in an Apple Store to helping shape a product that has genuinely impacted millions of lives. From day one, a crystal-clear purpose was to create something that could save lives. That mission guided every decision. It's gratifying to watch people use their Apple Watch to take control of their health—often in life-changing ways. When I see someone wearing one, closing their rings, or getting notifications encouraging healthier behavior, I'm reminded that thoughtful design can transcend the screen, becoming a platform for positive change. I'll always be proud to have been a part of the incredible team that created it.
KK: As someone who has experienced various leadership styles, what essential qualities make a successful UX design leader?
ZK: I've worked under some remarkable and, at times, polarizing leaders in companies like Apple, Nest, 23andMe, and Disney. Observing them helped me define my leadership style. For me, three qualities stand out: empathy, team-building, and a relentless focus on holistic experiences.
Empathy is foundational—both for your users and your team. It's about active listening, removing roadblocks, and fostering an environment where people feel valued. Team-building matters, too. UX thrives on diverse perspectives, and a great leader unites these voices, building a culture of trust, creativity, and shared purpose. Lastly, holistic thinking is crucial. UX doesn't end at the product. It extends across every interaction, every touchpoint, and every brand promise. A great leader connects all these dots, ensuring that users experience something cohesive and meaningful from start to finish.
An avid LA Kings fan and lifelong hockey player, Zach joins his teammates at an annual pond hockey tournament in the legendary Lake Placid, NY. – Feb 2024
KK: What future challenges do you see for UX designers, and how can they prepare?
ZK: The field is evolving rapidly—it always has and always will. Once upon a time, a designer had a hand in almost every aspect of the product's journey, from research to QA. Now, roles can become siloed. The challenge is to resist the urge to box yourself in. Empathy isn't just for your users; it's for your colleagues and collaborators. Understand the entire ecosystem and learn to communicate with people across disciplines.
Technology is constantly advancing our craft and capabilities, as seen with the emergence of AI. No matter how advanced our tools become, it will become increasingly vital that we don't lose sight of what it means to be human. My advice: Find your unique voice as a designer. Embrace tools that help you communicate your vision, explore new ideas, and expand your horizons. Stay curious, adaptive, and in tune with the big picture.
KK: What keeps you passionate about UX design after all these years?
ZK: It's simple: people, stories, and the possibility of what comes next. Design is an ever-evolving world of new tools, technologies, and ways of thinking. But at its core, it's about understanding real human needs—solving problems, creating moments of delight, and forging connections that matter. Every new experience brings a fresh narrative and a chance to make a difference. The thrill of seeing an idea come to life and resonate with others never gets old. I meet new collaborators at every turn, learn from fresh perspectives, and tackle challenges I never saw coming. That keeps me passionate—knowing the best projects and people are always just around the corner, ready to say hello.
As the Silicon Valley UX Awards unfold around us, Zachery Kennedy's insights remind us that great design is as much about heart as it is about skill. From Southern California's cultural tapestry to the cutting-edge stage of global brands, his journey encapsulates the magic of human-centered creation. In a rapidly changing world, the best designers remain students at heart, forever curious, empathetic, and committed to shaping experiences that genuinely enhance our lives.
