Don't Worry About the Vase Podcast Fertility Roundup #6: The Art of More Dakka
Jan 6, 2026
Dive into the intriguing world of fertility solutions! Discover how surrogacy can create win-win scenarios and explore the latest in IVF technology. The conversation highlights the balance between tech advancements and social approaches, addressing the effectiveness of financial incentives for parents. Unveil the impact of housing costs on fertility rates and consider unconventional policies that might boost family growth. With insights on happiness and community, this discussion offers a refreshing take on parenthood in today’s world.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Fertility Responds To Incentives
- People respond strongly to incentives like money, time, lifestyle, and respect when deciding to have children.
- Well-designed transfers can be net-positive investments for the state and children's welfare.
Early Genomic Selection Is Potent
- Polygenic embryo testing (PGTA) and predictors like COG-PGT can boost average offspring IQ substantially.
- Zvi believes selection could raise mean IQ by roughly 9–10 points with current tech.
Personal Motive Behind Embryo Screening
- Amanda Askell and Noor Siddiqui share personal and public stories about embryo screening preventing genetic diseases.
- Siddiqui built tech motivated by her mother's retinitis pigmentosa to prevent blindness in future children.