Boss Mama CEO Story: Built Through Healing

I relate to Paloma’s story in so many ways, especially her love for Zumba. I still remember being introduced to it in college and instantly becoming obsessed. It was the highlight of my week every single time. And WOW…what a workout!

Like Paloma, I also had to give up a dream because of an injury. As you’ll read in her story, she had to stop teaching Zumba due to chronic back pain, something I deeply relate to. During college, I started experiencing severe low back pain that eventually caused pain and tingling down my legs as well. It completely shifted the direction I thought my life was going to take.

At the time, my dream was to one day own and run my own dance studio. Dance had always been such a huge part of who I was, so letting go of that dream was incredibly hard. But looking back now, that painful season also led me somewhere beautiful: yoga.

During my rehabilitation journey, I was introduced to Pilates and hot yoga, and I never looked back. I LOVE hot yoga. As a former dancer, there’s just something magical about getting into those deep stretches when your muscles are warm and flexible. There’s honestly nothing quite like contorting yourself into the wildest positions in the middle of a hot yoga class and thinking, “Yep…this feels amazing.” 😂

Yoga has helped me in more ways than I can count — physically, of course, but even more so emotionally and mentally. It became such a grounding and healing practice for me during a really difficult time in my life.

That’s one of the reasons Paloma’s story resonates with me so deeply. She took her own struggles and turned them into something meaningful for other women. She’s creating spaces where women can feel stronger, calmer, healthier, and more connected, not just physically, but emotionally too. And honestly, there’s something really beautiful about women using their own healing journeys to help others heal too. 💛

I can’t wait for you to read her story. And don’t forget to give her a follow on socials!

YOUR STORY

Tell us who you are!

My name is Paloma Jimenez-Raika and I’m the owner of Mind Body Paloma.

We love a good origin story, but first, give us your short + sweet intro!

I help women 40+ find calm, strength, and ease through fitness and wellness offerings including group yoga classes, personal training, and sound bath meditation.

Every boss mama has a ‘day one.’ What was yours?

My fitness and wellness journey started nearly 20 years ago with Zumba. ✨

I instantly fell in love with the energy of dance and group fitness classes. There’s something so uplifting and electric about moving together and supporting one another.

That passion eventually led me to PTA school (Physical Therapist Assistant), then to becoming a yoga teacher, and later a personal trainer. About four years ago, I also discovered the magic of sound baths, which opened an entirely new path for me. 🌙

At the beginning of 2020, I opened my home-based studio, and it has been such a beautiful experience connecting with so many incredible people — mostly women in their mid-40s and beyond — who are simply looking to become healthier, happier, and more connected versions of themselves.

I feel incredibly grateful to do this work and create these experiences for my community. 💛

Which came first—the business or the babies? Tell us how your family + business journeys intersected.

Before I had my daughter, who’s 12 now.

We know it’s a wild ride—tell us how you’ve balanced building your dream biz while raising your crew. The good, the tough, the real.

I’m so lucky to have the most amazing husband who supports me in everything I do. It can be challenging sometimes to hustle between business owner and keeping the dishes clean, haha!

What’s one obstacle you’ve overcome?

About 11 years ago, I began struggling with chronic back pain that lasted for nearly 7 years. Because of it, I had to stop teaching Zumba, but I’m so grateful for the other programs I’ve still been able to offer and enjoy.

That experience taught me so much about the connection between the mind and body, and how stress can play such a HUGE role in our physical health.

YOUR BUSINESS

Tell us your superpower—what’s your product, service, or special offering?

Private personal training sessions, group exercise classes for yoga and strength training, group and private soundscape sessions, and other unique experiences including Aerial Soundscapes, Kitten Yoga, Sound Baths with Cats, Floating Sound Baths, and more. ✨

What’s the magic that sets you apart?

I’m all about positive energy, joy and providing unique wellness experiences for mindfulness and relaxation.

Spill the tea — any big milestones, press shoutouts, or launches on the horizon? 

Oh, I have been manifesting something BIG!!! But still can’t say exactly what it will be…

Give us a Day in the Life of being both Mom and CEO!

Mondays are my “off” days from seeing clients, but they’re still full of behind-the-scenes prep for the week booking private sessions, planning weekend events, sending emails, and handling all the business details. ✨

Tuesday through Saturday, I host my group classes, and from Tuesday through Friday mornings, I also work with private clients. About twice a month, I offer special sound bath events on Sunday afternoons or weekday evenings.

Sundays are usually my main day off unless I’m hosting a special event. Lately, I’ve also started organizing Sunday hikes with a wonderful group of ladies. It’s still technically work, but it’s the fun kind!

One thing I’ve learned is the importance of protecting my own energy and well-being. I intentionally limit myself to a maximum of three private clients per day, and on days when I’m hosting larger events, I’ll often only see one client (or none at all) to make sure I can show up fully present for everyone, including myself. 💛

ADVICE FOR MOMPRENEURS

What’s the single best piece of advice or favorite tool you’d share with other mamas building their businesses?

Be patient and consistent. If you’re truly passionate about your craft and keep showing up, your people will come! Be vulnerable, share about your story and don’t be afraid of showing your true self. Even if there are 100 others offering a similar service to you there’s only ONE of you and your energy!

What’s been your biggest challenge juggling motherhood and running a business?

Trying to find balance and not burnout. Knowing that I must take care of my needs first so I can help others. If I don’t do that, I won’t show up for anyone at my best.

What’s your approach to balancing business and family? We love the real, unfiltered stories!

So, for me it’s kind of easy. My husband and my daughter are very low maintenance and love just being at home chilling. I’m the one who’s always on the go and finding events to host so that honestly makes things flow great for me.

Looking back, what’s something you wish you had known before starting your business?

It can take years to see real progress and a lot of patience.

What tool, resource, or habit has completely changed the game for you?

A gratitude practice!

What mindset shifts have helped you keep going during hard seasons?

That I should not chase, I just need to attract and trust.

What words of encouragement would you give a Mom tempted to give up on her business dream?

Go for it!!!!!!!!!! It could be the best ride of your life!!!

Paloma’s story is proof that there’s no such thing as an overnight success. She’s been building this dream for over 12 years! If that’s not motivation to keep going, I don’t know what is.

She’s the definition of an entrepreneur — a fighter who keeps showing up, even when things get hard. She’s had to pivot (probably more times than she’d like to count), but she never let that stop her.

Instead, she’s turned her passion into a business that uplifts and supports others. And honestly, that’s something so many of us only ever dream about… and she’s out here actually doing it. ✨

I’d love to feature more Boss Mamas like Paloma. If you know someone who deserves the spotlight, please reach out and send me their info at ashley@bossmamaceo.com or via my contact page here. And hey, if that’s you, I love a little self-brag too! Send me your details so we can shine the spotlight on you as well.

Here’s to all the incredible Moms juggling a million things—keep shining bright, cheering each other on, and building the life you love!

Ashley

Friendly Note: I’m simply sharing my journey, experiences, and lessons learned as a Mom in business. This isn’t legal, financial, or professional advice. Always check with a qualified pro for guidance tailored to you.