Phases of Embodiment

Laura Potter
  • 5.0 (12)
  • Mental Health

Phases of Embodiment is a podcast for women who want to reconnect with their bodies, understand their menstrual cycles, and embrace each season of life. Hosted by Laura Potter, Menstrual Cycle Coach and Restorative Yoga Teacher, each episode offers reflections and practical insights to inspire new perspectives and help you feel more at home in your body. Through solo episodes and interviews with experts, we explore menstrual cycle awareness, hormones, mindfulness, creativity, yoga, and the transformative power of rest. We also look at the social, cultural, and policy frameworks that impact our lives. Whether you are navigating menstruation, fertility, motherhood, perimenopause, or simply seeking a deeper connection with your body, this podcast invites you to embrace cyclical living through every phase of life. Here, we practice self-compassion, soften the inner critic, challenge the status quo, and honor the wisdom and power of our bodies. Listen and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app to catch every episode. For coaching, resources, and more, visit: phasesofembodiment.com

  1. 2h ago

    Beyond the Stigma of Postpartum and Maternal Mental Health with Charlene Cross, LCSW

    In this episode of Phases of Embodiment, Laura talks with Charlene Cross, LCSW, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and founder of Cross Connects, about perinatal and postpartum mental health and what it means to truly support mothers. Charlene shares what led her to this work and her perspective on the mental health challenges that can arise during pregnancy and well after birth. Laura and Charlene also talk about recent high-profile cases that have brought maternal mental health into the news and the conversations that have followed. They discuss postpartum mental health, stigma, trauma, and the ways we can better support mothers through greater awareness, community, and access to care. *** Content warning: This episode includes discussion of postpartum mental health, maternal mental health crises, trauma, and recent high-profile cases involving maternal mental health. Please take care while listening and skip or pause the episode if these topics feel difficult or activating for you. HOTLINE: 1-833-852-6262 (1-833-TLC-MAMA) ABOUT Charlene Cross, LCSW, is the founder and owner of Cross Connects, a mental health practice based in the Catskill Mountains that oversees nine licensed providers across New York State and serves over 315 clients. With over a decade of experience managing medical and psychiatric care in hospital systems, community family and children's services, geriatric care, and private practice management, Charlene transitioned to establishing her own practice. Following the birth of her second child, her personal experiences with the gaps and stigmas surrounding postpartum care inspired her to specialize in women's health and perinatal services. She is currently pursuing advanced certifications in sex therapy, hormonal shifts, and eating disorders to further expand her practice's specialized care. Charlene's Mental Health Practice Site: CrossConnects.Org Charlene's Psychology Today link: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/charlene-cross-windham-ny/1595484 Charlene's PSI (Postpartum support international directory link) https://psidirectory.com/listing/perinatal-mental-health-provider.html MENTIONED ON THE SHOW Postpartum Support Institute https://postpartum.net/  Postpartum Support institute Directory https://psidirectory.com/ Maternity Mental Health Hotline https://mchb.hrsa.gov/programs-impact/national-maternal-mental-health-hotline In Exploring Mental Health Providers:  Psychologytoday.com Erin's Law Webpage:  https://www.erinslaw.org/ YOUR HOST: Laura Potter My Website Instagram

    Beyond the Stigma of Postpartum and Maternal Mental Health with Charlene Cross, LCSW

  2. Aug 14

    Discovering the Benefits of Restorative Yoga and the Art of Deep Relaxation

    In this solo episode of Phases of Embodiment, Laura Potter explores restorative yoga as a practice of conscious rest, deep relaxation, and healing. She shares what sets restorative yoga apart from movement-based yoga, why props and comfort are at the heart of the practice, and how creating space to truly rest can support the nervous system and overall well-being. Laura also shares her personal journey with restorative yoga and offers simple, practical guidance for creating a supportive practice at home using everyday items. Whether you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, or simply craving more space to slow down and rest, this episode is an invitation to soften, turn inward, and reconnect with your body. In this episode, Laura explores: What restorative yoga is and how it differs from movement-based yogaWhy props, comfort, and support are central to the practiceThe difference between sleep and conscious restHow restorative yoga supports the nervous system and overall wellbeingThe physical, mental, and emotional benefits of deep relaxationLaura’s personal journey with restorative yoga and the four conditions for calmHow to create a restorative practice at home using simple household items MENTIONED ON THE SHOW Judith Hanson Lasater www.judithhansonlasater.com www.restorativeyogateachers.com My ListingBook a Private 1:1 or Group Restorative Yoga Class with Me!B. K. S. Iyengar Parvati Magazine Article Dr. Alicia Newsome Episode Cello Music: The Wong Janice Garth Stevenson Horizon Reverie Cellomano Timer/Meditation App: Insight Timer YOUR HOST: Laura Potter, Certified Menstrual Cycle Coach and Restorative Yoga Teacher My Website Instagram Work with Me: Book a Discovery Call Yoga People Oneonta Schedule

  3. Aug 7

    Midlife Awakening: Choosing a Life of Pleasure, Creativity, and Authenticity with Áine Rock

    In this episode of Phases of Embodiment, Áine Rock shares her journey of motherhood and midlife transformation, including the inspiration behind her book Blow Up Your Life: The Wild Art of Wanting More. She reflects on the process of birthing creative projects, shedding old identities, and embracing the desires and wisdom that emerge through different seasons of life. Together, Áine and Laura explore how midlife and perimenopause can become powerful invitations to reconnect with ourselves, reclaim desire and pleasure, and step into deeper self-trust. They discuss healing the mother wound, shifting generational patterns, and using embodiment practices to reconnect with the body, creativity, and inner wisdom. ABOUT Áine Rock is a writer, speaker, and somatic guide who helps women reclaim their pleasure, truth, and personal power after leaving behind lives that looked successful but felt misaligned. Her debut memoir, Blow Up Your Life: The Wild Art of Wanting More (Rise Books / Simon & Schuster), is out now. www.ainerock.com/blowupyourlife www.sofanyawellness.com  MENTIONED ON THE SHOW Untamed by Glennon Doyle YOUR HOST: Laura Potter, Certified Menstrual Cycle Coach and Restorative Yoga Teacher My Website Instagram Work with Me: Book a Discovery Call

    Midlife Awakening: Choosing a Life of Pleasure, Creativity, and Authenticity with Áine Rock

  4. Jul 31

    Healing the Root Cause of Hormone Imbalance and Why We Need More Rest with Dr. Alicia Newsome

    In this episode of Phases of Embodiment, Dr. Alicia Newsome, #1 Best Selling Author and Functional Medicine Physician, shares how taking a root-cause approach can help women better understand and support their health. Drawing from her own personal health journey, she explains why addressing the underlying causes of symptoms (not simply managing them) is essential for lasting healing. The conversation explores the powerful connection between stress, hormones, nutrition, toxins, and rest, while offering practical strategies to build resilience and work with the body's natural rhythms.  Dr. Newsome also discusses why honoring the menstrual cycle, prioritizing restorative practices, and expanding the body's capacity to handle stress can have a profound impact on overall well-being. ABOUT Dr. Alicia Newsome is an international speaker, executive advisor, functional medicine doctor, hormone expert, and 3x bestselling author who helps high-performing founders and senior leaders build profitable companies without sacrificing their wellbeing, marriage, or values. Her work sits at the intersection of leadership, health, and faith. As the founder of Body Wellness Institute and AM Clinical Research Consulting, she brings over 15 years of clinical and research experience — including clinical operations consulting for pharmaceutical and biotech companies and work on numerous clinical trials, five of which resulted in FDA drug approval — to her work with ambitious leaders. Through her proprietary Integrative Leadership Framework™, she works across three domains — Business, Body, and Belief — strengthening organizational structure, executive capacity, and strategic alignment so growth does not come at a personal cost. Her forthcoming book, Worthy of Rest, releasing Fall 2026, reflects her central belief that high-achieving women were never meant to sacrifice their health to fulfill their calling. Website: www.dralicianewsome.com Instagram @dr.alicianewsome  Facebook: dralicianewsome Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-alicia-newsome/ Email: dralicia@dralicianewsome.com Supplements: www.rootcaresupplements.com YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.alicianewsome MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by Jame Clear The Whole and Complete Woman Podcast YOUR HOST: Laura Potter, Certified Menstrual Cycle Coach and Restorative Yoga Teacher My Website Instagram Work with Me: Book a Discovery Call

    Healing the Root Cause of Hormone Imbalance and Why We Need More Rest with Dr. Alicia Newsome

  5. Jul 24

    Honor the Seasons of Your Creativity (Without Getting Stuck Waiting for Perfect Timing)

    Welcome to Season 2 of Phases of Embodiment! In this season opener, Laura explores the cyclical nature of creativity and what our menstrual cycles and the natural world can teach us about sustainable growth. She shares why we don't need to have everything figured out before we begin, how confidence is built through action, and why discomfort is often a natural part of stepping into a new season of life. In this episode, you'll learn: How creativity moves in cyclesWhat nature and the menstrual cycle teach us about sustainable growthThe difference between honoring rest and hiding behind perfectionismWhy confidence is built through actionHow to navigate the discomfort that comes with growth and visibilityReflective journal prompts to help you identify your current season Whether you're building a business, creating art, navigating a life transition, or simply feeling called toward something new, this episode is a reminder that you don't need everything figured out before you begin. YOUR HOST: Laura Potter, Certified Menstrual Cycle Coach and Restorative Yoga Teacher My Website Instagram Work with Me: Book a Discovery Call

  6. May 22

    Navigating PMS: Supporting Your Body During the Luteal Phase

    In this episode, Menstrual Cycle Coach, Laura Potter, shares a more holistic approach to navigating PMS and supporting your body during the luteal phase. The episode explains how stress, sleep, movement, emotional support, and even what we consume online can impact our hormonal health- and how small shifts in the way we care for ourselves can help us feel more grounded, supported, and connected to our bodies during this phase of the cycle. This is the final episode of Season 1 of Phases of Embodiment! Thanks for joining along the journey and be sure to follow the show to get the announcement for the release of Season 2!  REFERENCES: Cycle Coach School WomanCode: Perfect Your Cycle, Amplify Your Fertility, Supercharge Your Sex Drive, and Become a Power Source by Alisa VittiIn the FLO: Unlock Your Hormonal Advantage and Revolutionize Your Life by Alisa VittiThe Female Body Bible: A Revolution in Women’s Health and Fitness by Emma Ross, Baz Moffat, Dr. Bella SmithWild Power: Discover the Magic of Your Menstrual Cycle and Awaken the Feminine Path to Power by Sjanie Hugo Wurlitzer and Alexandra Popehttps://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/p/premenstrual-syndrome-pms.html,  https://www.iapmd.org/steps-to-diagnosis,  https://www.pms.org.uk,  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8463989/,  https://www.health.harvard.edu/a_to_z/premenstrual-syndrome-pms-a-to-z,  https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pre-menstrual-syndrome/ YOUR HOST: Laura Potter, Certified Menstrual Cycle Coach and Restorative Yoga Teacher My Website Instagram Work with Me: Book a Discovery Call Keywords: PMS, luteal phase, hormonal health, mindful consumption, nutrition, exercise, stress reduction, sleep hygiene, emotional support

  7. May 15

    Holistic Nutrition, Cyclical Living and Women's Circles with Diana S. Alberti, RDN, CDN, RYT

    In this episode, Laura sits down with Diana S. Alberti, RDN, CDN, RYT, for a thoughtful conversation on holistic women’s health, nourishment, and reconnecting to the body. Diana shares how her passion for preventative health led her to become a dietitian, while the conversation explores cyclical living, yoga as a pathway back to the body, and the healing power of women’s circles and being truly witnessed. Laura and Diana also reflect on grief, fertility, motherhood, and the wisdom of the menstrual cycle, while exploring what it means to let go of the “shoulds” and reconnect more deeply with ourselves and our intuition. ***CW: This episode mentions miscarriage, if you would like to skip those sections, here are the timestamps: 11:00-15:51 and 33:00-40:00*** ABOUT: Diana S. Alberti, RDN, CDN, RYT is a Registered Dietitian, Mind-Body Nutrition Coach, Yoga Instructor, Women’s Circle Facilitator, and Postpartum Health Practitioner. After more than a decade of counseling experience, she founded Wholeheartedly Well, a holistic wellness center dedicated to empowering women through a mind-body approach to nutrition, movement, and well-being. Through her work, Diana helps women cultivate a healthy relationship with food, their bodies, and their minds. Her mission is to support women in stepping confidently into their own skin, feeling empowered to care for their whole selves from a place of sovereignty, and living more fully and authentically. Diana's Website Diana's Instagram MENTIONED ON THE SHOW: Do Less: A Revolutionary Approach to Time and Energy Management for Ambitious Women by Kate Northrup WomanCode: Unlocking Women's Health - A Holistic Approach to Hormone Balance, Fertility, and Wellness Through Nutrition and Lifestyle Changes by Alisa Vitti, HHC The Fourth Trimester: A Postpartum Guide to Healing Your Body, Balancing Your Emotions, and Restoring Your Vitality by Kimberly Ann Johnson Maternity, coming face to face with our own shadow by Laura Gutman YOUR HOST: Laura Potter, Certified Menstrual Cycle Coach and Restorative Yoga Teacher My Website Instagram Work with Me: Book a Discovery Call

    Holistic Nutrition, Cyclical Living and Women's Circles with Diana S. Alberti, RDN, CDN, RYT

  8. May 8

    The Inner Seasons (Phases) of Your Menstrual Cycle

    In this solo episode of Phases of Embodiment, Laura shares the seasonal framework of Menstrual Cycle Awareness- connecting menstruation, pre-ovulation, ovulation, and the pre-menstrual phase to the outer seasons of winter, spring, summer, and autumn. Through both physiological education and embodied reflection, this episode offers a gentle introduction to cyclical living and the emotional, energetic, and hormonal shifts that can arise throughout the menstrual cycle. Laura shares the “joys and shadows” of each phase, along with supportive self-care practices to help listeners cultivate greater body literacy, self-awareness, and compassion. This conversation touches on: The seasonal archetypes of the menstrual cycleHormonal shifts throughout each phaseWhy cyclical awareness can deepen self-understandingCommon emotional and physical experiences across the cyclePMS, rest, productivity culture, and nervous system supportJournaling, Restorative Yoga, and embodied self-care practicesThe concept of “bleeding on it” and cyclical decision making Whether you are new to menstrual cycle awareness or deepening an existing practice, this episode is an invitation to reconnect with your body’s natural rhythms and honor the changing seasons within. If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with a friend or leaving a rating and review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts- it truly helps support the growth of the show and this work. Laura Potter is a Menstrual Cycle Coach and Restorative Yoga teacher who supports women in reconnecting with their bodies through Menstrual Cycle Awareness, embodiment practices, nervous system support, and restorative rest. Through 1:1 coaching, workshops, speaking, and this podcast, she helps women cultivate body literacy, reduce burnout, and move through life with more alignment, compassion, and ease. Learn more about coaching and offerings: https://www.phasesofembodiment.com/cyclecoaching Follow me on: Instagram Join my: Newsletter

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

Phases of Embodiment is a podcast for women who want to reconnect with their bodies, understand their menstrual cycles, and embrace each season of life. Hosted by Laura Potter, Menstrual Cycle Coach and Restorative Yoga Teacher, each episode offers reflections and practical insights to inspire new perspectives and help you feel more at home in your body. Through solo episodes and interviews with experts, we explore menstrual cycle awareness, hormones, mindfulness, creativity, yoga, and the transformative power of rest. We also look at the social, cultural, and policy frameworks that impact our lives. Whether you are navigating menstruation, fertility, motherhood, perimenopause, or simply seeking a deeper connection with your body, this podcast invites you to embrace cyclical living through every phase of life. Here, we practice self-compassion, soften the inner critic, challenge the status quo, and honor the wisdom and power of our bodies. Listen and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app to catch every episode. For coaching, resources, and more, visit: phasesofembodiment.com

Information

  • Creator
    Laura Potter
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    16
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Laura Potter