For years, Coach Nikki has been the face of Kaia for us all. She has been an inspiration for countless women (& men!) and we thought it was time to sit her down and ask her a few burning questions.
Give us a little background on yourself and your current situation:
I am the founder and CEO of Kaia FIT, a women-focused franchise that currently has over 25 locations. We specialize in simplifying fitness, nutrition, unity, and results tailored to a woman’s body.
I had an unconventional upbringing. I am the eldest of five incredibly beautiful and different sisters. We were raised by a single mother and a father who is burdened by severe mental health problems.
My father’s constant battle with suicide in contrast to my mother’s strength taught me at a very young age the importance of wellness.
I didn’t know it at the time, but this difficult time in my life led me to my life’s passion; the rad, exciting, and never-ending journey to balance the mind, body, and soul.
Do you follow a certain morning routine or daily schedule to maximize productivity and well-being?
Yes, I have a very regimented morning routine, as that helps me set the tone for my day:
I wake up at 5:30 am & I drink 1 cup of lemon ginger water
Meditate for 5-10 min while my yerba mate is steeping
I drink my tea while I work on creative tasks.
At 7 am, I get Kai ready for school.
8:30 my Kaia workout,
10 am coffee and probiotics and off to work!
What did you have for breakfast today?
Oatmeal with hemp seed, walnuts, blueberries, and cinnamon
How did you come up with the idea of Kaia FIT and how did you start the business?
My Aha! moment came from sitting on the bench. I was watching my daughter and her friends exude joy as they played soccer while the parents were sitting, stagnant, on the sidelines. I thought to myself, “When do we stop playing? Why?! Why do we stop playing?”
The joy that is created by the unity of women, coupled with some sweat was palpable! I knew then that I needed to create a platform where women of all demographics could come together and play alongside my sisters, my daughter, and my mother.
What is your favorite hobby?
Kaia and Running
What’s one surprising fact about you that most people don’t know?
I’m dyslexic and didn’t start reading until the 6th grade. After years of hard work, I can now say with pride that I read one book a month and truly love reading.
What tips do you have for other women who would like to start their own business?
Oh my gosh…do it! Jump in and find your passion, focus on serving others and make a profitable business that you can sell or pass down to your family.
What mantra do you live by?
Find joy in ordinary moments. Find joy in learning.