One of the reasons I love hosting Penny for Your Shots is the chance to connect with women who are reimagining what success looks like. And this week’s conversation with Kristi Chaves was such a powerful reminder that business doesn’t have to mean hustle—it can (and should) mean presence, alignment, and peace.

Kristi grew up in a coaching household, surrounded by meditation and embodied leadership practices long before they were mainstream. Today, she carries that forward in her work, helping women build businesses that feel like an extension of who they are—not a never-ending grind.

Why Presence Beats Hustle Every Time

We talked about the trap so many women fall into: chasing the next strategy, the next shiny offer, or the next “must-do” in business. Kristi reminded us that what we’re really craving isn’t more to do—it’s more alignment. When you’re living and working in alignment, presence flows naturally. You’re not bogged down by guilt or “shoulds.” You’re grounded, effective, and free.

Mom Guilt, Somatics, and Living Aligned

As a new mom, Kristi also spoke candidly about navigating motherhood without guilt. Her approach—mothering from alignment, not comparison—is so refreshing. She also shared how somatic practices like breath and movement help her clients embody their truth, not just think about it. Strategies are important, but they only stick when we’ve done the inner work to become the woman who can carry them out.

Where Kristi and I Align

What I loved most about this conversation is how much Kristi and I are in sync. We both believe:

• Business should support your life, not consume it.

• Women thrive in community and don’t have to do it all alone.

• True success comes from presence, clarity, and alignment—not hustle.

Our approaches may look different, but our heart for this work is the same: helping women rise into their next chapter with confidence and joy.

Finding the Right Coach for You

Here’s the truth: there isn’t one “perfect” way to grow a business. What matters most is finding the coach, mentor, or guide who helps you hear your own knowing. Sometimes that’s Kristi. Sometimes that’s me. And sometimes it’s another brilliant woman altogether.

If you’re feeling that tug toward your older, wiser self—the one who knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to claim it—I’d be honored to walk with you. Whether you’re ready to step into visibility, simplify your business strategy, or just want someone to remind you you’re not crazy for wanting more—I’ve got you.

Your Takeaway

If hustle has you stretched thin or “shoulds” have you second-guessing yourself, take Kristi’s wisdom (and mine!) to heart: slow down, get present, and move from a place of alignment. That’s where peace lives—and where the best business decisions come from.

To connect with Kristi, follow her on Instagram: @KristiChaves