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Tuesday Mar 31, 2026
Dating Dealbreakers
Reclaiming Destiny
Reclaiming Destiny is a show for all those that know they are destined for more! Hosted by author, entrepreneur, life coach, and motivational speaker, Cici Stephen, each episode will dive deeper into the issues and topics that can impact most of our daily lives and have a lingering effect on our purpose. Come join us on the path to reclaiming our destiny, as we begin to challenge the people, places, and things that dare to stand in our way.
Listen on:
It's Time To Reclaim...
We are at a tipping point. We can no longer sit on the sidelines of our lives. We must rise...we must heal...and we must reclaim our destiny.
After being diagnosed with Complex PTSD in 2018, after years of traumatic experiences, I was hit with the realization of how much I had given my power away to people, places and things that did not honor who I was or more importantly, were hinderances to where God wanted to take me.
The next several years after my diagnosis was spent relearning how to take back or shall I say...reclaim that power.
Many positive things were born from this newly reclaimed power including my dignity, self-esteem, and authority.
I created this podcast to help show you that if I can do it...so can you!
Join me each week on Reclaiming Destiny and we can start this journey together.
I hope you can make it but more importantly...I hope this is the start of you...reclaiming your destiny.
May Is Mental Health Awareness Month
Here at Reclaiming Destiny we believe in reclaiming our health- this is why all month long we will be advocating for our Mental Health.
Cici's Spotlight
“I'm happy to shine a spotlight on love and relationships for season two, as these are very important dynamics- that will aid us on our path to reclaiming our destiny.”
-Cici
Are You Truly Ready For Love?
Think you’re ready for love? Take our quiz, “Are You Ready for Love”, and find out! It’s a fun and thoughtful way to explore where you are in your relationship journey, what you truly want, and whether your heart is open to the possibilities ahead. Tune in, take the quiz, and discover what love might have in store for you.
Let's Talk About Sex
Sex is an important aspect of our overall well-being, and understanding the many factors that impact our sexual health can help us make informed choices. In the following sections, we will share a variety of articles that explore different topics related to sexual health, offering insights and information to support a healthy and fulfilling life.
How Many Dates Should You Have Before Sex?
Don't Waste Your Sexual Energy
Are You A Pick Me?
"Pick Me Syndrome" describes a pattern where individuals seek validation by constantly striving to be chosen or approved by others, often at the expense of their own needs or self-worth. This behavior can stem from deeper self-esteem issues and may lead to feelings of inadequacy or resentment. To support those who may be experiencing these challenges, we'll share a quick affirmation to help boost self-confidence and promote a healthier sense of self.
Feel free to repeat the following affirmation as many times as you need to: I AM ENOUGH
Need Help Leaving An Abusive Relationship?
As referenced in season 2, episode #7 "Leaving Abusive Relationships".
Call the National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233 or text BEGIN to 88788 or go to their website at the link below...
Episodes
Episodes
Tuesday Mar 24, 2026
Tuesday Mar 24, 2026
There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs. - (Luke 12:2-3)
Today's episode dives into the reality of "loving in the dark," exploring secret (DL) relationships, why people hide, the emotional toll of secrecy, and how those dynamics affect trust and personal growth. Drawing on personal stories and practical insight, Cici urges listeners to seek openness, self-worth, and healthier expressions of love.
Lyrics to Love In The Dark: By Adele
https://genius.com/Adele-love-in-the-dark-lyrics
Resources Mentioned
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/in-the-name-of-love/202603/why-do-single-women-prefer-affairs-with-married-men
https://www.bbc.com/bbcthree/article/689c930b-f8c6-4bfe-afab-bc0488125f55
https://relationship2021.medium.com/what-single-men-get-when-they-date-married-women-59ec91eb0bbd
Podcasts Referenced In This Episode
https://www.reclaimingdestinypodcast.com/e/the-truth-about-soulmates/
Download or read my new free eBook- Firefly: Shining Your Light In Challenging Times
https://linktr.ee/cicistephen
Connect With Us
Website: www.reclaimingdestinypodcast.com
Email: feedback@reclaimingdestinypodcast.com
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/reclamingdestiny.bsky.social
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@reclaimingdestiny
Tuesday Mar 17, 2026
Tuesday Mar 17, 2026
In this episode, we delve into the essential elements of building and maintaining healthy relationships, whether with family, friends, romantic partners, or colleagues. Our discussion highlights the importance of focusing on ourselves as the foundation for strong connections. We explore how healing from past experiences, setting and respecting boundaries, taking accountability for our actions, practicing honesty, and setting reasonable expectations all play a crucial role in nurturing relationships that are supportive and fulfilling.
Self-Focus as the Starting Point: Learn why prioritizing your own growth and well-being positively impacts every relationship in your life.
Healing: Discover strategies for acknowledging and addressing past wounds to prevent them from negatively influencing your current connections.
Boundaries: Understand how to set healthy limits, communicate them clearly, and respect those of others to create safe and balanced interactions.
Accountability: Find out why taking responsibility for your actions and reactions is essential for trust and mutual respect.
Honesty: Uncover the power of open and sincere communication in deepening bonds and resolving conflicts.
Reasonable Expectations: Learn how to set and communicate realistic expectations to foster understanding and reduce disappointment.
Tune in for practical tips and heartfelt insights that will empower you to cultivate relationships that bring joy, support, and growth to your life.
Resources Mentioned
3 Ways to Cultivate Healthy Relationships Guide
Podcasts Referenced In This Episode
https://www.reclaimingdestinypodcast.com/e/setting-healthy-boundaries/
https://www.reclaimingdestinypodcast.com/e/toxic-friendships/
https://www.reclaimingdestinypodcast.com/e/the-truth-about-soulmates/
https://www.reclaimingdestinypodcast.com/e/surviving-traumatic-childhoods/
Download or read my new free eBook- Firefly: Shining Your Light In Challenging Times
https://linktr.ee/cicistephen
Connect With Us
Website: www.reclaimingdestinypodcast.com
Email: feedback@reclaimingdestinypodcast.com
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/reclamingdestiny.bsky.social
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@reclaimingdestiny
Tuesday Mar 10, 2026
Tuesday Mar 10, 2026
Welcome to today’s episode, where we dive deep into the topic of setting healthy boundaries, one of the most essential yet misunderstood self-care skills. If you’ve ever struggled to say “no” or felt overwhelmed trying to protect your time and energy, this episode is for you.
Episode Highlights
Understanding Boundaries vs. Rules: We recap a thought-provoking episode of Checking In with Michelle Williams, featuring Dr. Raquel Martin. Dr. Martin explains the crucial differences between “rules”—which often feel rigid and controlling—and “boundaries,” which are about personal clarity and self-respect. She shares how boundaries can foster genuine connections without leading to resentment or burnout.
Common Misconceptions: We discuss why the word “boundary” can bring up feelings of guilt or fear of conflict, and how reframing boundaries as tools for connection (not separation) can empower us in all our relationships.
5 Ways to Set Healthy Boundaries: Drawing from PositivePsychology.com, we also break down five practical steps anyone can do to set clear boundaries.
Takeaways
Boundaries aren’t about shutting others out, they’re about showing up authentically and protecting what matters most to you.
Learning the difference between rules and boundaries can transform your relationships with others and yourself.
Implementing clear, healthy boundaries is a form of self-care that allows you to be more present, kind, and fulfilled.
Resources Mentioned
Checking In with Michelle Williams featuring Dr. Raquel Martin
PositivePsychology.com: How to Set Healthy Boundaries
Tune in now to learn how you can start setting boundaries that honor your needs, nurture your relationships, and support your well-being!
Podcasts Referenced In This Episode
https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/where-healing-meets-liberation/id1539709262?i=1000746047648
https://www.reclaimingdestinypodcast.com/e/leaving-abusive-relationships/
https://www.reclaimingdestinypodcast.com/e/radiating-self-love/
https://www.reclaimingdestinypodcast.com/e/toxic-friendships/
https://www.reclaimingdestinypodcast.com/e/what-are-karmic-relationships/
https://www.reclaimingdestinypodcast.com/e/in-sickness-and-in-health/
https://www.reclaimingdestinypodcast.com/e/loving-ourselves-through-adversity/
Additional Resources
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/boundaries
Download or read my new free eBook- Firefly: Shining Your Light In Challenging Times
https://linktr.ee/cicistephen
Connect With Us
Website: www.reclaimingdestinypodcast.com
Email: feedback@reclaimingdestinypodcast.com
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/reclamingdestiny.bsky.social
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@reclaimingdestiny
Sunday Mar 08, 2026
Sunday Mar 08, 2026
Content warning: This episode includes discussion of emotional, verbal, psychological, and physical abuse, coercive control, trauma responses, and family estrangement.
Important note: This episode is educational and not a substitute for professional medical, mental health, or legal advice. If you are in immediate danger, call local emergency services. If it’s safe to do so, consider contacting a local domestic violence hotline/shelter for confidential safety planning.
In this episode, we talk about what it can look like to leave abusive relationships —moments, cycles, or patterns that keep repeating in a relationship—and how to create safer distance when a relationship shows abusive or toxic tendencies. We focus on practical tools (planning, documentation, boundaries, support networks, and nervous-system regulation) while acknowledging that leaving can be complex, non-linear, and different for every person. We also discuss The Oprah Podcast episode “Oprah Explores the Rising Trend of Going No Contact with Your Family,” and we break down the five trauma responses: Fight, Flight, Freeze, Fawn, and Flop.
Cici also discusses the concept of “spiritually vetting” our most important relationships.
National Domestic Violence Hotline
800-799-7233 or text BEGIN to 88788
Resources/Articles Referenced In This Episode:
https://www.thehotline.org/
https://www.apa.org/topics/stress/body
https://www.virtualpsychiatriccare.com/understanding-the-five-fs-of-trauma-fight-flight-freeze-fawn-and-flop
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abuse
Podcasts Referenced In This Episode:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/oprah-explores-the-rising-trend-of-going-no-contact/id1782960381?i=1000738306637
https://www.reclaimingdestinypodcast.com/e/the-truth-about-soulmates/
https://www.reclaimingdestinypodcast.com/e/toxic-friendships/
Download or read my new free eBook- Firefly: Shining Your Light In Challenging Times
https://linktr.ee/cicistephen
Connect With Us
Website: www.reclaimingdestinypodcast.com
Email: feedback@reclaimingdestinypodcast.com
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/reclamingdestiny.bsky.social
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@reclaimingdestiny
Events
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