This episode continues DNA Today’s series about infertility. Over the last few episodes of DNA Today, we talked with experts in fertility. On the first episode we heard from Lauren Isley, a genetic counselor about artificial reproductive technologies and the genetic counseling side. We also had the Baileys on the show to share their reciprocal IVF journey in part 1 and part 2.

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It’s been so interesting to hear different perspectives about fertility as it impacts so many people’s lives. Currently 7.3 million Americans are facing infertility! I hope you all have learned a lot alongside us. Be sure to go back and listen to all the fertility episodes if you are interested!

On this next installment of the fertility series two guests join the show, documentarian Jacob Okada and anthropologist Carylanna Taylor, PhD who wrote and produced ANYA, a fictional film about fertility. Through their company, First Encounter Productions, Carylanna and Jacob are committed to creating complex characters and compelling stories informed by anthropology, science, and current events. ANYA has had international screenings and was featured as a "Science and Diversity in Film" on Forbes.

On This Episode We Discuss:

ANYA Film Synopsis

Inspiration for ANYA

Keeping up with Genetic Technology and News

Scientifically Accurate Script Writing

Proper Lab Equipment Features

Featured Genetic Technology

PCR, Sequencing, UCSC Genome Browser, CRISPR

Inclusivity in Science Fiction Films

Forbes had a fantastic feature of ANYA exploring the diversity in the film. Dr. Ruth McCole, who was a scientist on the set, wrote up her experience here. Rotten Tomatoes gives ANYA a 93%. To explore more about First Encounter Productions you can visit their website. For more information about ANYA and to watch it go to anyamovie.com.

Stay tuned for the next new episode of DNA Today. New episodes are released on the first and third Friday of the month. See what else we are up to on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Spotify and Apple/iTunes. Questions/inquiries can be sent to [email protected].