CeniaSpeaks

About CeniaSpeaks

CeniaSpeaks is a soulful storytelling podcast and personal journal of the inner experiences we rarely name. It explores shame, longing, attachment, fear, and growth with honesty and depth. Each episode puts language to what many people feel but struggle to express. This is a space where you are reminded that you are not alone.

Publisher

Cenia Santana Polanco

Category

religion & spirituality

Language

en

Explicit

Yes

First episode

26 Aug 2023

Latest episode

4 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

16 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   4 Sept 2026

   Ep 17: What does it take to heal the body?

   Healing is often talked about as if there is a formula: change your diet, reduce stress, fix your environment, work through your trauma, and your body will heal. But what does that actually look like in real life? Cenia opens this episode with the story of a close friend whose son survived leukemia and who later faced breast cancer herself. Her approach to healing involved dramatic changes to nearly every part of her life, from food and environmental exposure to herbal medicine, ozone therapy, spirituality, and emotional work. That story leads Cenia into a deeper reflection on her own experience with Graves’ disease and the questions she has wrestled with as both a patient and a science educator. How much power do we really have over our health? Where do conventional medicine and holistic healing meet? And when does the idea of “healing yourself” become another way of placing responsibility on someone who is already sick? Cenia explores the roles of stress, trauma, nutrition, environment, spirituality, money, and access, while also questioning the oversimplified wellness narratives that make healing sound easy. Because the body’s ability to survive something extraordinary does not necessarily mean that healing is simple, predictable, or available to everyone.

2. 

   27 Feb 2026

   Ep 16: Healing Shame Through Intimacy

   This episode is a deeply personal and reflective exploration of shame, timing, and intimacy. Cenia shares honestly about feeling “behind” in life, navigating chronic illness, stepping away from dating, and questioning the pressure to follow a prescribed path around career, partnership, and success. Rather than framing intimacy as just romance or sex, Cenia frames intimacy as a way of relating to yourself, your body, your community, your ancestors, and the world around you. Through storytelling and cultural reflection, this episode is about reclaiming your own timeline, honoring your natural wiring, and choosing a relational life rooted in community and intention rather than societal pressure.

3. 

   18 Nov 2025

   Ep 15: What Does Authentic Community Look Like?

   In this episode, Cenia tells the story of leaving Haverstraw—a place that was deeply community oriented—because she felt stuck and needed to grow. She shares what happened when she moved to the Dominican Republic looking for community, only to realize it takes decades to build, and reflects on both extremes she's experienced: the beautiful suffocation of everyone knowing your business in tight-knit communities, and the deep isolation of achieving the American dream alone. Through her story, she reveals what true community is NOT—it's not your pickleball club or shared interest group. Real community means your lives are intertwined across multiple contexts. Now she's trying to be intentional about creating this with the wisdom she's learned, asking: can you build that depth when everyone has choices and nothing forces anyone to stay?

4. 

   15 Sept 2025

   Ep 14: God Works in Unconventional Ways

   In this episode, Cenia shares how illness, financial struggle, and loneliness became the very tools that reshaped her self-worth. Growing up, she learned to equate achievement and sacrifice with love, building relationships on being “needed” instead of truly chosen. That pattern led to disappointment and chronic loneliness, until life forced her to pause and care for herself in the simplest daily ways. Through raw storytelling, she reveals how those small acts became the foundation of transformation. This episode explores how God, the universe, or spirit can use hardship to redirect us toward balance, authenticity, and real community. It’s an invitation to see your own struggles as unconventional pathways to the love and life you deserve.

5. 

   23 May 2025

   Ep 13:Having Self Worth Through Devastation

   Our longest episode ever - because the story warrants it. In this 1 hour episode, Cenia shares the raw story of what happened when upon returning to New York after living in the Dominican Republic. Coming back sick, without stable housing, without a job, and feeling completely spiritually abandoned. Cenia talks about being in deep pain, feeling like life had collapsed after doing everything “right,” and the small, unexpected ways support began to show up—from her goddaughter, parents, a spiritual practitioner, and even strangers. This story is about what it means to not give up on yourself—even when life has. It’s about picking yourself up in the middle of devastation, choosing to care for your body when you’d rather not exist, and learning how to be your own sanctuary. If you’ve ever been in a season where nothing made sense—but something inside you still kept going—this episode is for you.

6. 

   6 Oct 2024

   Ep 12: I'm only human

   How can we accept being imperfect? In this episode, Cenia discusses the theme of imperfection and how her childhood experiences with abuse drove her to strive for perfection as an adult. She reflects on the deep connection between her trauma and the need to be flawless, a mindset that many can relate to. Over time, however, Cenia learned that nobody is perfect, and this realization became a cornerstone of her healing process. She highlights the importance of embracing our humanity—imperfections and all—as the most valuable part of ourselves. Cenia shares how this shift toward self-compassion and acceptance has transformed her life.

7. 

   17 Mar 2024

   Ep 11: Pleasure is Medicine

   (00:21)- Introduction to Cenia Speaks Podcast Welcome to another episode of Cenia Speaks, where you can explore authenticity, intuition, and deep desires alongside me, your host, Cenia. Keywords: Authenticity, intuition, deep desires, podcast introduction. (02:42)- Conflicting Beliefs from Religious Upbringing You might relate to the conflicts you faced in your own religious upbringing as Cenia shares her journey of grappling with conflicting beliefs about sexuality and sin. Keywords: Catholic faith, confession, religious upbringing, conflicting beliefs. (05:35) - Revelation about Sex as Sacred Discover with Cenia a new perspective on sex as sacred and powerful, contrary to what you might have been taught, as you reflect on your own beliefs and experiences. Keywords: Sexuality, sacredness of sex, theological revelation. (08:52) - Personal Approach to Sexuality Join Cenia in discussing your personal approach to sexuality and relationships, as you contemplate waiting for romantic love before engaging in sex, and explore your own values of intimacy and vulnerability. Keywords: Romantic love, intimacy, personal values. (16:22) - Medicinal Benefits of Orgasms Learn from Cenia about the medicinal benefits of orgasms, especially for relieving menstrual cramps, and consider how you can incorporate this natural remedy into your own self-care routine. Keywords: Orgasms, menstrual cramps relief, medicinal benefits. (21:29) - Embracing Physical Pleasure and Exploration Discover the importance of self-exploration and embracing physical pleasure with Cenia, as you are encouraged to understand your own body and desires for fulfilling sexual experiences. Keywords: Self-exploration, physical pleasure, sexual empowerment. (23:54) - Importance of Physical Attraction in Relationships Consider the significance of physical attraction in relationships with Cenia, as you challenge societal norms and advocate for honesty and fulfillment in your romantic connections. Keywords: Physical attraction, relationship dynamics, fulfillment. These highlighted segments offer insights into your exploration of sexuality, personal growth, and the integration of pleasure into holistic well-being. For more in-depth discussions and personalized support, you can connect with Cenia via Instagram or tiktok @ceniaspeaks or email: csantanapolanco89@gmail.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ceniaspeaks/message

8. 

   26 Feb 2024

   EP 10: Creating Inner Peace Through Nervous System Regulation

   1. **Introduction and Purpose** - Host: Cenia Santana Polanco - Podcast focus: Connecting to intuition, magic, and desires for a passionately human life. 2. **Regulating the Nervous System** - Cenia's journey from a biology teacher to developing a program on nervous system regulation. - Emphasizing the need for emotional regulation in a society not designed for our bodies. 3. **Personal Transformation** - Cenia's candid sharing of her struggle with panic attacks and unhealthy coping mechanisms. - The transformative impact of facing emotions, leading to a regulated nervous system. 4. **Benefits of Regulation** - Improved ability to handle triggers, maintain balance in relationships, and gain clarity. - Connecting personal healing to global issues and the importance of daily emotional regulation practices. 5. **Teaching and Supporting Others** - Introduction to Cenia's program, "Almalogia," focused on foundational practices and incorporation of holistic knowledge - Teaching individuals to sit with themselves and emphasizing the continuous practice of emotional regulation. 6. **Expressing Gratitude and Call to Action** - Cenia expresses gratitude for support, feedback, and engagement. - Encourages listeners to reach out on Instagram, thanking everyone for joining the journey. You can reach cenia on instagram.com/ceniaspeaks --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ceniaspeaks/message

9. 

   9 Feb 2024

   Ep. 9: How did I make money without a job? Divine Trust

   In this episode, Cenia speaks on finances and chronic disease. Cenia was forced to learn a new way of living life, and to be rooted and grounded within herself. Below are the chapters to each segment of this episode: Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast 1. Addressing the question of money in DR 2:04 2. Creating a different life in Dominican Republic 2:39 3. Facing Challenges and Dealing with Adrenal Fatigue 15:21 4. Building Trust and a Different Relationship with the Earth 17:27 5. Rebirthing Relationships and Facing Oppressors 19:00 6. Accessing More Resources and Support 20:35 7. Embracing the Present and Focusing on Health and Creativity 24:53 You can reach cenia best via email: csantanapolanco89@gmail.com or via ⁠instagram.com/ceniaspeaks⁠ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ceniaspeaks/message

10. 

    25 Dec 2023

    Ep 8: How I Ended Up Moving to DR

    How, and most importantly- why? In this episode Cenia explains the major life events and factors that led her to return back to her homeland. Literally, giving up everything she had, with no clear plan or preparation. It sounds a bit crazy, but in reality, it was years in the making before it finally happened. We all want, need, and desire different things in life, and in this episode we will go over a true story of intuition and deep faith/ self trust. For more information, you can find Cenia on Instagram @ceniaspeaks. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ceniaspeaks/message

11. 

    21 Nov 2023

    Ep 7: Why You Should Believe in Romance❤️

    Love is in the air! For this episode, Cenia shares part of her deepest truth and talks about the beauty of love, passion, and romance. Although romance is often associated with pain, Cenia feels that romantic love is one of the most powerful forces in the universe. Romance is something most, if not all humans connect to. We are willing to go through tremendous lengths for the person we devote our romantic love to. Join us for an episode that makes the case for romantic love, and cheers on passion! For more information, inquiries, and networking visit: instagram.com/ceniaspeaks or email csantanapolanco89@gmail.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ceniaspeaks/message

12. 

    13 Nov 2023

    Ep 6: How Can I Heal Myself From Self-Sabotage?

    In this episode, our host Cenia shares how she consistently self-sabotaged and accepted the bare minimum in her career. What did it take to finally change this pattern? Listen for more! The intention with sharing is to help you discover and live your authentic truth. Make sure to RATE, REVIEW, and SUBSCRIBE to the podcast to stay up to date and never miss an episode. Are you looking for deeper and more personalized support? Would you like to learn more about energy, spirituality, and most importantly- listening to your intuition? Reach out to me on IG @ceniaspeaks --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ceniaspeaks/message

13. 

    22 Oct 2023

    Ep 5: Feeling Safe and Secure in Our Body

    In this episode of #CeniaSpeaks we explore the significance of the safety and support with the root chakra. This energy center forms our fundamental needs. Cenia discusses ways to cultivate self-support and find balance in life's ever-changing circumstances. Tune in for this profound discussion on strengthening your foundation. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ceniaspeaks/message

14. 

    9 Oct 2023

    Ep 4: How Do I Connect With My Body?

    CeniaSpeaks is a podcast hosted by Cenia, focusing on helping individuals develop their intuition through a connection with the natural world. Cenia offers guidance on deepening one's relationship with themselves, navigating grief and trauma, and connecting with their bodies. In this particular episode, the discussion centers on the importance of recognizing the divinity within oneself and honoring the body as the home for the soul. Cenia emphasizes the need for a balanced and individualized approach to body appreciation, highlighting concepts like slowness, intention, and ritual as tools to achieve this connection. Rituals, in particular, are recommended to be culturally or family-based, carrying a sense of magic and sacredness. For more information, listeners can visit Cenia's Instagram @ceniaspeaks, which provides access to her website, free resources, and more. https://linktr.ee/ceniasantanapolanco #somaticwellness #somaticpractice #selfdevelopment #innertruths #authenticitywins --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ceniaspeaks/message

15. 

    10 Sept 2023

    Ep 3: Why are we addicted to Struggle Stories?

    Do you have a struggle story? A story of overcoming obstacles, working hard, and fighting for what you want? In this episode Cenia will speak about her experiences as a teacher, and why she has decided to end her addiction to the struggle story. Learning to heal is also learning to change the narrative and change our stories. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ceniaspeaks/message

16. 

    26 Aug 2023

    Ep 1: Perfectionism, Relationships and Love

    Overachievers have always succeeded because of their attention to detail. However, what does it look like when we place those heavy expectations on others? In this episode, I talk about how I learned to let perfectionism die in order to receive more compassion and love. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ceniaspeaks/message

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

5 ratings