In this episode, Erik sits down with Noor Siddiqui, founder and CEO of Orchid. They discuss Orchid's recent breakthrough in embryo whole genome sequencing, the fertility crisis, parenting, dating, and more.

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RECOMMENDED PODCAST: History 102 with WhatifAltHist

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We're hiring across the board at Turpentine and for Erik's personal team on other projects he's incubating. He's hiring a Chief of Staff, EA, Head of Special Projects, Investment Associate, and more. For a list of JDs, check out: eriktorenberg.com.

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LINKS

Orchid: https://www.orchidhealth.com/

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X / TWITTER:

@noor_siddiqui_ (Noor)

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@upstream__pod

@turpentinemedia

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TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Preview

(01:06) Intro

(01:26) What is Orchid?

(04:13) Genome sequencing for embryos: What Orchid has accomplished

(07:00) The breakthrough that enabled Orchid's genome sequencing

(08:32) The impact and significance of the polygenic risk score

(11:59) What is IVF

(15:19) Sponsors: Shopify

(20:04) Concerns and stigmas around reproductive technology

(26:10) On the Gattaca future where parents create perfect children

(27:54) Moral panic around longevity

(30:32) Anything that can improve things can be used in very hostile ways

(33:30) What are the norms around having kids going to be 30-40 years from now

(36:55) Noor's thoughts on declining fertility rates

(42:13) Matchmaking and dating

(48:21) Is the decline of men a real thing?

(50:20) Increasing fertility rates, moving the culture, and the negative effects of fertility collapse

(1:07:37) Trying out Orchid and how the test works

(1:09:16) Wrap

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This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at erik@turpentine.co.

Producer: Sam Kaufman

Editor: Graham Bessellieu

For guest or sponsorship inquiries please contact Sam@turpentine.co

E37: Noor Siddiqui on embryo screening, the fertility crisis, and parenting 01:07:29 Share

"Upstream" with Erik Torenberg

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E37: Noor Siddiqui on embryo screening, the fertility crisis, and parenting