“Behind every woman is an inspiring story,” says Cathy Zion, owner and publisher of Louisville’s monthly Today’s Woman magazine. One of the most inspiring stories we’ve heard is Cathy’s, who left a career in banking after 21 years to purchase Today’s Woman. She finds that after over two decades, and the countless local women she’s met, that the work is still so invigorating and has become a huge part of who she is. But this woman isn’t all business; she has a soft spot for watches and for her new puppy that shares her office. Meet today’s FACES of Louisville profile, Cathy Zion.
Cathy Zion, publisher of “Today’s Woman” magazine
In your past life you were a banker. What prompted the career change?
After 21 years in banking, I had reached a point in my career and life where I no longer felt that I was making a difference. I believed that Today’s Woman could become a needed resource for women in Kentuckiana. I’ve never looked back.
What part of working at Today’s Woman do you enjoy the most? Writing? Selling? Layout?
I love watching each magazine come together from concept to layout to print and then lighting up the faces of the women who pick it up to read.
Who is “Today’s Woman” in Louisville?
She is your neighbor, sister, mother, daughter, person at church, co-worker, boss, doctor. I have always said behind every woman is an inspiring story. That’s why we never run out of women to feature each month.
What’s the funniest interview you have ever done? Or the most provocative or surprising?
Kirby Adams would have to be one of the funniest. Many years ago, we asked her to portray a woman in stress. We teased her hair and put a vice around her head! The most provocative interview? Tori Murden McClure is one of the most amazing women we’ve interviewed. What hasn’t she accomplished? Most surprising? Every woman we interview surprises me with her accomplishments, her achievements and what she’s overcome.
The funniest story “Today’s Woman” has run: “Kirby Adams Stresses Out!” Photo credit: Today’s Woman
Who are your mentors, and what advice do you treasure?
My dad told me on my first babysitting job, “If a task is once begun, never leave it ’til it’s done. Be the wages great or small, do it well or not at all.”
What is a typical day or week like for you?
There’s nothing typical about any day, and that’s what I love. I find myself outside my office quite a bit, involved with a number of nonprofits.
A peek at Cathy’s many awards and keepsakes
If you were not in your current job, what would you secretly love to do?
I’ve got the best job.
What is something people would be surprised to know about you?
I love clogging. Several years ago, I found a class, enrolled and had a ball. Then the instructor moved out of town, and I severed my Achilles tendon, so no more clogging.
Fill in the blank. You’ll never see me without my: ______. (And you can’t say phone.)
My watch. I love watches and have about 25. My mom’s Mickey Mouse watch is my favorite. She passed away 11 years ago, so wearing it reminds me of her.
What’s your bucket list travel destination?
Any place on the ocean! I’m headed to Hawaii this summer.
What’s your favorite thing to do in Louisville?
The Derby Festival hot air balloon race.
Night owl or early bird? What do you do during that “quiet time?”
I’m an early bird. I’m in bed by 10 p.m. and up at 6:30 a.m. Since we got a puppy in August from the Humane Society, there’s not been much quiet time. When there is, I like to read.
Cathy proudly holds up an issue of “Today’s Woman.”
Tell us some of your favorite local restaurants.
I love Brix Wine Bar & Bistro, Volare, Varanese and Seviche.
What’s on your personal reading list right now?
Cesar’s Way by Cesar Millan, the dog whisperer. (Did I mention we have a new puppy????)
Lightning Round! Give us your favorite:
- Candy or junk food splurge: Peanut butter pie
- Guilty pleasure song: Zac Brown Band’s “Toes in the Water”
- Tearjerker movie pick: Marley and Me. I took my grandchildren, and I cried through the entire movie.
- Standby nail polish color: Strawberry Margarita
- Favorite cocktail: Pinot Grigio wine or a Mint Julep at the Derby
- Cartoon alter-ego: “Cathy” of course!!
Meeting fascinating women is the best part of our job here at StyleBlueprint, and Cathy Zion has the pleasure of that experience, as well. Pick up the latest copy of Today’s Woman, distributed free all around Louisville, or check out their website at todayswomannow.com.
As always, much gratitude to our FACES photographer, Adele Reding, for her fantastic work. Visit her website at adeleredingphotography.com.
Want to read about more inspiring women in the community? Click here to check out more FACES.
