By Womaness Editors 4-Minute Read
Meet Dr. Cynthia Bentzen-Mercer and Kimberly K. Rath, MBA, the powerhouse duo behind The Zeal of the Heel as well as the must-read book for mid-career women, Now, Near, Next.
Kimberly, a bestselling author and co-founder of TalentPlus®, an internationally-recognized global human resources consulting firm, has revolutionized how we think about talent, turning her insights into success stories for the world's top brands. Cynthia, with her deep expertise in talent and organizational development, has spent over three decades leading change internationally across multiple industries. Their book cuts through the noise, offering practical advice for women looking to take control of their careers with intention.
First thing I do each morning
Cynthia: “Make a cup of coffee, turn on instrumental jazz, and snuggle my fur baby, Lillie.”
Kimberly: “A mindful routine that encompasses listening to my heartbeat, paying attention to the sound of my breath, and fostering a sense of mindfulness. Reflection of yesterday, taking a moment for gratitude and building a new day excitement. Getting my bookends right—starting my day with positive intention and ending my day with positive reflection.”
Three things I always keep on my nightstand
Cynthia: “Glasses, water, and my iPhone (and a candle, if I can share four)!”
Kimberly: “Books, nighttime linen spray, and magnesium oil.”
My go-to beauty hack or wellness ritual
Cynthia: “Water! Hydration is critical!! You will seldom see me without a Zeal water tumbler!”
Kimberly: “Fridays are my self-care and rejuvenation exclusive day. This is a day that I intentionally invest in myself. From skincare, to mediation, to working on a passion project or venturing on a new learning journey.”
“I love the awakening and agency that has come with age.” - Cynthia
My inner age (the age I really feel) and why
Cynthia: “Early 50s, not that distant from my real age, but in the best way! I am more liberated, empowered, self-assured, and comfortable in my skin that ever before. I love the awakening and agency that has come with age.”
Kimberly: “I started counting backwards when I turned 50 :) so my inner age is 38 and holding. It is a youthful and energetic mindset, influencing my outlook on life and new experiences.”
Advice I would give to my younger self
Cynthia: “Organizational loyalty is not a thing, no matter how hard you work, how much you sacrifice, or how stellar you perform. Profits and people can determine your future if you allow it. Don't put your agency into the hands of a company or a leader. Make time to unapologetically, guilt-free invest intentionally in yourself today!”
Kimberly: “The importance of slowing down and being more present. Life is a series of fleeting moments, especially in mid-career, and in the rush to grow, achieve, and build a family, it's easy to overlook the beauty and significance of the present.”
We don’t believe in “The Pause.” Tell us, what are you not pausing on?
Cynthia: “I'm not pausing on serving the woman I once was and the woman I will eventually become. Until we make meaningful progress in closing the gender wage gap, creating work environments where women thrive, and disrupting the microaggressions of agism, there is no time to pause!”
Kimberly: “I am not pressing pause on my learning journey. At age 57, I went back to school to earn my MBA and recently completed my executive coaching certificate.”
“I am not pressing pause on my learning journey. At age 57, I went back to school to earn my MBA...” - Kimberly
What's your favorite Womaness product?
Cynthia: “I'm obsessed with the Womaness Complete Skill Renewal Regimen. Life changing! My skin is softer, more hydrated, and supple than ever.”
Kimberly: “The Works, Eye Opener, and Daily V Soothe—rejuvenates every day.”
Word that best describes your Womaness
Cynthia: “Tenaciousness, Gratefulness, Fierceness.”
Kimberly: “Energiness, Amplifyness, Intentionalityness.”
More Interviews & Essays
Womaness Woman: Chris Freytag
Womaness Woman: Judy Schoenberg & Linda Lautenberg
Womaness Woman: Ayse Birsel
