#15: Aligning Work with Biology: Maggie McDaris on Cycle-Syncing for Optimal Productivity

Send us Fan MailHarnessing the Power of Cycle-Syncing for Female Productivity with Maggie McDarisIn this episode of Biohacking Eve, Judith speaks with Maggie McDaris, founder of Phase, about the untapped potential of aligning work with female biology. Contrary to popular belief, every phase of the menstrual cycle—menstrual, follicular, ovulatory, and luteal—comes with its own surprising cognitive superpowers. We explore how understanding and leveraging these shifts can help women optimise focus, creativity, communication, and decision-making at work, while reducing burnout. Maggie shares insights from neuroscience and endocrinology on why the traditional 9–5 model often clashes with women’s natural rhythms, and how cycle-synching can transform workplace productivity. This conversation is a practical roadmap for women—and the organisations that support them—to harness biology as a strategic advantage.Timestamps00:00 Introduction and guest introduction 00:59 The problem with traditional work schedules 02:21 Maggie’s personal burnout story 03:59 Introduction to cycle-synching 05:00 How Phase works 07:27 The four cycle phases and their superpowers 12:38 Phase integration in the workplace 22:19 User feedback and future plans 33:50 Embracing strengths during the luteal phase 35:03 Challenges in building Phase 35:56 Integration and user experience 39:08 Addressing irregular cycles and contraception 41:04 Future of hormone tracking and integration 48:10 Cycle-based vertical opportunities 01:02:33 Cultural and organisational challenges 01:12:30 Medium-budget wellness solutions 01:13:29 High-budget organisational wellness 01:15:59 Cultural shifts for wellness 01:18:24 Phase app: current features and plans 01:20:00 Personal insights and feedback mechanisms 01:23:15 Engaging with Phase: user participation 01:25:41 Lightning round: myths, metrics, and personal hacks 01:37:21 Investments in personal well-being 01:40:56 Future breakthroughs and sentimental reflectionsSocial Media LinksLinkedIn (Maggie McDaris): Maggie McDarisInstagram: @maggiemcdaris📚 Resources Mentioned in This EpisodePhase.io – Cycle-Aware Productivity AppA neuroscience- and endocrinology-informed app that helps women align work and wellbeing with their hormonal cycles.Features: personalized daily insights, “cognitive radar,” workplace integrations (Google Workspace, Office 365), and mobile app.🌐 Website: Phase.io – Meet the team and learn more about the missionRelated Research & ConceptsCycle Syncing – Adapting lifestyle, work, and wellbeing to the four phases of the menstrual cycle.Feasibility Study (University of Greenwich) – Early research validating demand for cycle-aware productivity tools.Cognitive Radar – Mapping six key strengths: energy, focus, motivation, creativity, communication, reflection.Future Integrations – Google Calendar, Office 365, Slack, Asana, Todoist, Reclaim.ai.Referenced Tools & ComparisonsOura Ring – For sleep, stress, HRV, and cycle insights.Headspace & Calm – Examples of integrated wellness resources.Peloton & Zoey – Models for combining fitness and health.Wild.AI & Flo Living – Other cycle-based health apps mentioned.Insta/TikTok: @BiohackingEveWebsite: www.BiohackingEve.com