FamilyFoundry

What if the design of a building could teach us something profound about fertility innovation? It sounds far-fetched at first, but the recent revelation about the Severance showrunner Dan Erickson’s original vision for the Lumon building opens a fascinating window into how adaptation and innovation drive success—not just in TV production but in the very real-world journeys of those trying to start a family.

If you haven’t caught the article on SlashFilm titled “Severance's Lumon Building Originally Had A Completely Different Look”, here’s the quick scoop: Dan Erickson had a different architectural design in mind for the Lumon building, but the final version seen in the series took a new, minimalist form. This change wasn’t just aesthetic—it reflected a shift in how the story needed to be told, embracing simplicity and subtle complexity simultaneously.

But what does a TV set have to do with fertility? It’s about adaptation and meeting needs with smart, scalable solutions. Just as the Lumon building’s design evolved to better fit the narrative’s demands, the realm of fertility support, especially at-home options, is evolving rapidly to meet people where they are—comfortably, effectively, and discreetly.

The Evolution of At-Home Fertility Solutions

The fertility journey is often a rollercoaster of emotions, medical jargon, and sometimes, invasive clinical visits. For many, the idea of starting family-building efforts from the comfort of home is a game-changer. Enter MakeAMom, a pioneer in at-home insemination kits.

MakeAMom has developed a range of kits designed to address specific challenges faced by individuals and couples. For example:

• CryoBaby: Targets users working with low-volume or frozen sperm.
• Impregnator: Tailored for low motility sperm.
• BabyMaker: Specially designed for users with sensitivities or conditions like vaginismus.

These kits are reusable, cost-effective alternatives to disposable products, and each order arrives in discreet packaging—no identifying information—ensuring privacy.

The reported 67% success rate among users speaks volumes about the thoughtful engineering and scientific rigor behind these kits.

Drawing Parallels: From Lumon to MakeAMom

Just like Severance’s Lumon building shifted from a complicated initial concept to a streamlined, impactful design, MakeAMom’s approach reflects a fundamental understanding: sometimes, less is more.

• The Lumon building sheds unnecessary complexity to embody clarity and purpose.
• MakeAMom’s kits focus on targeted needs with specialized tools instead of one-size-fits-all solutions.

This synergy highlights a broader trend toward personalization and accessibility in fertility care. The technology and design choices here aren’t just about aesthetics or gimmicks—they’re about creating space where users feel empowered and confident.

Why This Matters Now More Than Ever

More individuals and couples are seeking autonomy in how they approach conception. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated comfort with at-home medical technologies across sectors, fertility included. Privacy, cost control, and emotional comfort are no longer luxuries but expectations.

In this context, MakeAMom’s kits offer statistically significant success rates that rival more invasive or clinical methods, all while honoring the deeply personal nature of conception.

What Can You Take Away?

• Innovation thrives on adaptation: Just like the Lumon building’s design changed to better serve its story, fertility tools must evolve to meet modern needs.
• Personalization drives success: Targeted at-home kits can dramatically improve outcomes and user experience.
• Privacy matters: Discreet packaging and usage options build trust and reduce stigma.

Are you or someone you know considering at-home options to support fertility? Exploring products like those from MakeAMom’s thoughtfully engineered insemination kits could be a smart next step.

The journey to parenthood isn’t linear, and sometimes, the right environment—whether a building or a product—can make all the difference. Just like the Lumon building’s final design told a clearer, sharper story, tailored fertility solutions are helping build families more confidently and quietly than ever before.

Ready to embrace a new chapter?

How might you reimagine your approach to fertility? What small changes in design or mindset could unlock big opportunities? Share your thoughts below or reach out to join conversations with others on this shared journey.

Because, sometimes, the most surprising inspirations come from the unlikeliest places—even a fictional building reshaped for storytelling.

References: - Severance’s Lumon Building Originally Had A Completely Different Look, SlashFilm: https://www.slashfilm.com/1872862/severance-lumon-building-original-look/ - MakeAMom official website: https://www.makeamom.com/

Picture this: You’re home alone. The lights are dim. There’s a knock at the door—and instead of Girl Scouts or Amazon, it’s... your overbearing relatives, wondering again when you’ll be having a baby. Welcome to real-life horror: fertility anxiety, as seen through the warped lens of pop culture.

But what if I told you that 1968’s psychological thriller, Rosemary’s Baby, has some surprising lessons for the 2020s fertility journey—minus the Satanic cult, of course? Believe it or not, this horror classic and its forgotten Ron Perlman TV reimagining (see here for the wild recap) might just have predicted your annoying uncle’s next question at Thanksgiving.*

The Secret History of Fertility Fear

Let’s rewind for a second: In Rosemary’s Baby, a young woman’s dreams of motherhood spiral into a nightmare, thanks to a meddling husband, some very nosy neighbors, and—oh yeah—the world’s worst OB-GYN. While most of us won’t face literal demons, the emotional horror of fertility struggles is all too real. The fear of the unknown, the pressure to “do it right,” the unsolicited advice from people who think they know your uterus better than you do—it’s all part of the modern saga.

But here’s the open loop: If old-school Hollywood taught us to expect the worst, why is the reality of building a family in 2025 so much brighter (and less ghoulish)?

From Superstition to Science: How Modern Tech Banishes Old Fears

Fast-forward 50 years. Sure, we still get the occasional weird baby dream, but technology has given us something Rosemary never had: choice. Enter the age of at-home insemination kits—no midnight deals with the devil required. No sterile, fluorescent-lit clinics. Just privacy, empowerment, and a totally new narrative.

Think about it: Today, instead of crossing our fingers and consulting dubious internet forums, we can use kits tailored to our needs (I see you, low motility sperm). Brands like MakeAMom’s at-home insemination kits are putting the power back in your hands—literally. Their CryoBaby, Impregnator, and BabyMaker kits (side note: those names sound like rejected superhero sidekicks, in the best way) are designed for real-world situations, not Hollywood fear-mongering.

Why does this matter? Because the old horror tropes have nothing on the confidence boost you get when you’re in control of your own story. And let’s be honest: Plain packaging and reusable kits are a lot less suspicious than a coven of neighbors in matching amulets.

The Lurking Villains: Modern Fertility Myths

Still, every generation has its monsters. These days, our villains lurk in clickbait headlines and #fertilityfail memes:

• “You’re too old!”
• “It’s all in your head!”
• “Just relax and it’ll happen!”

Sound familiar? These ideas have haunted family-building for decades, but now we can bust them with science—and community. The average success rate for at-home insemination kits like MakeAMom is 67%. That’s almost double the chance of successfully texting your crush and getting a response.

And if you’re navigating specific challenges (PCOS, vaginismus, low sperm motility), there’s a kit—nay, a hero’s side quest—for you. No more one-size-fits-all. No more spooky secrets.

A New Kind of Ritual

People used to gather in candlelit circles, chanting for fertility blessings. Today? We join supportive online communities, swap tips, and share success stories that would make even Rosemary crack a smile. Seriously, have you read some of the testimonials on MakeAMom’s website? They’re way more uplifting than any horror movie ending.

Let’s face it: The scariest part of fertility used to be the isolation. But with innovations in at-home kits, resources, and support, the only thing left to fear is... running out of snacks while you wait for your results.

So, What’s the Real Takeaway?

If Rosemary’s Baby and its Ron Perlman-starring reboot taught us anything, it’s that the unknown will always seem scarier than it actually is. But here in 2025, fertility journeys are out in the open, powered by science, and—dare I say—kind of empowering?

No cults, no curses, just cool science and the comfort of knowing you’re not alone. Whether you’re starting out, trying again, or just curious, there are more ways than ever to build a family—on your terms.

Bottom line: Put down the horror flicks and pick up the resources that actually help. Your family story is yours to tell, and you get to choose the plot twists. Who knows? Maybe the next great fertility tale will be your own.

What’s your modern fertility horror story—or triumph? Share below! And if you want to see how real innovation beats old superstition, check out the most empowering at-home insemination kits of 2025. You’ll never watch horror movies the same way again.

Hold up—did you really think your smartwatch was your secret ticket to parenthood?

Don’t get us wrong: we love wearable tech as much as the next wannabe cyborg. When Garmin recently threw the fashionably upgraded Lily 2 smartwatch onto the bargain bin pile again (yes, this one), the world let out a collective squeal. Heart rate monitors! Sleep trackers! Step counts that make you feel like a champion for walking to the fridge!

But here’s the inconvenient truth: While your wrist bling knows when you’re not sleeping and can congratulate you for drinking enough water, it’s not going to magically deliver a baby to your doorstep. And if you’re on the family-building train (and let’s face it—if you’re reading FamilyFoundry, you probably are), you’ve heard some wild promises from tech lately. But what’s actually worth your money?

Smartwatches Are the New Snake Oil (Kinda)

Let’s dissect the hype. Sure, the Lily 2 looks chic—and yes, it’ll vibrate when it thinks you’re stressed (spoiler: it’s always when you’re in the bathroom). Some apps brag about “cycle tracking”, “ovulation window reminders”, and “fertility forecasting.” It’s easy to believe you’re just one sync away from a positive pregnancy test.

But here’s the not-so-glamorous reality:

• Period apps are only as reliable as your last accurate input (did you really remember Day 1?)
• Ovulation predictions can be days off, especially if your cycles are irregular
• No smartwatch will deliver healthy sperm or help navigate endometriosis, PCOS, or intimate health conditions

So, if tech isn’t THE answer, what is?

The Real MVPs: At-Home Fertility Products

Let’s shift from wrist-based wishful thinking to something a little more… hands-on. Enter: the world of at-home insemination kits.

Remember how everyone used to quietly obsess over whether a $300 air fryer could change their life? Well, 2025’s equivalent flex is a fertility kit that actually addresses the real logistical hurdles of getting pregnant when you can’t—or don’t want to—do it the old-fashioned way.

Companies like MakeAMom are quietly revolutionizing conception with products designed for real-life challenges:

• CryoBaby: For those using donor sperm (including frozen options)
• Impregnator: For sperm that needs a little extra pep
• BabyMaker: For users with sensitivities or conditions like vaginismus

And here’s a shocker: these kits are reusable and cost-effective, which feels almost rebellious in a world where everything is single-use and over-packaged.

Open Loop: "But Is DIY Conception Actually Effective?"

We know what you’re thinking: Sure, it sounds good on paper, but does it actually work? Let’s talk numbers.

According to MakeAMom’s glowing testimonials and published success rates, 67% of users report success using their home insemination kits. That’s… a lot higher than your smartwatch’s ability to get your partner in the mood with a reminder ping.

Plus, every kit ships in top-secret, unbranded packaging. No nosy neighbors, no awkward conversations with the mail carrier—we see you, introverts.

Why Function Beats Fashion

Let’s be honest: fashion and fertility don’t always intersect. The Lily 2 (or whatever wrist candy is trending) will tell you how many calories you burned dreaming about a positive pregnancy test. But the tools that help people actually build families? They’re not always sexy—but they’re effective as heck.

Here’s what you really get with next-gen at-home insemination kits:

• Control: You set the pace, the timeline, and the ambiance (yes, you can wear your smartwatch if you want)
• Customization: Options for differing fertility needs—motility issues, sensitivities, and more
• Privacy: No waiting rooms, no sympathetic nurses, no “so, what brings you in today?”
• Community: Resources, success stories, and zero judgment

The Bottom Line: Tech Should Enhance, Not Distract

We’re not anti-smartwatch. If the Lily 2 is calling your name, grab it and track those 83 steps to the kitchen. But if family-building is your goal, invest in the tools that give you real, actionable results—not just flashy graphs and well-meaning reminders.

So go ahead, let your wrist sparkle with deal-priced wearables. But when it comes to your fertility journey, let clever at-home solutions (like those from MakeAMom’s empowering toolkit) take center stage. After all, your future family deserves more than just a daily step count.

What’s the most surprising thing you’ve tried on your fertility journey? Confess below—your future self (and fellow readers) will thank you!

Picture this: You’ve just handed your kid a shiny new Nintendo Switch 2 so you can (finally) get twenty minutes of peace, only to realize Nintendo just made a sneak-attack upgrade that’s not just for kids—it's a quiet revolution for parents everywhere.

If you haven’t read The Verge’s take on the Nintendo Switch 2's family-friendly features, let’s just say it’s not all about who has the fastest thumbs anymore. This sequel isn’t just selling nostalgia—it’s solving real struggles of modern parents, from digital game sharing to parental controls that don’t make you want to cry into your coffee.

But here’s the twist: what if the secret sauce behind Nintendo’s success has a lot to teach the world of fertility tech? Stay with me, because both worlds—video games and at-home insemination kits—are quietly (and not-so-quietly) transforming how we build and raise families.

Nintendo’s Not-So-Obvious Solution to Family Chaos

Let’s be honest. Parenting in 2025 means navigating a maze of screens, schedules, snacks, and, oh yes, attempting to avoid a meltdown in the cereal aisle. The original Nintendo Switch was a hit, sure, but its 2025 upgrade is sneakily genius:

• User-friendly game sharing (so siblings stop sparring over the same device)
• Intuitive parental controls that don’t require a Ph.D. to operate
• Seamless transition from solo to family play

It’s not about more tech. It’s about better tech that makes life easier, removes friction, and quietly celebrates the real MVPs: parents just trying to keep it together.

Open Loop: Is Fertility Tech Stuck on Level 1?

That got us thinking. Why should game nights be the only part of parenting that gets smarter? For millions on the fertility journey, the real “boss level” isn’t Bowser—it’s confusing clinics, uncomfortable procedures, and the endless loop of waiting rooms.

What if the same design principles that make the Switch 2 such a delight could be sneakily applied to at-home insemination kits?

Leveling Up: The Quiet Revolution in At-Home Fertility

Let’s be real: At-home fertility used to mean confusing syringes and a prayer to the fertility fairies. But that’s changing—fast. Companies like MakeAMom’s resource-packed website are taking a page (or five) from the Nintendo playbook:

• Simple, reusable kits (no more single-use landfill guilt or complicated setups)
• Personalized options for every fertility scenario (low motility, sensitivities, frozen sperm? There’s a kit for that)
• Discreet packaging (because your neighbor doesn’t need to know your business)
• Clear, human-friendly guides and resources (no medical degree required)
• Real results: an average 67% success rate among users—now that’s a Power-Up!

Let’s call it what it is: a subtle but game-changing shift toward empowerment and comfort, led by people who know that sometimes, you just want a simple win at home.

Why Techy Parenting Wins Matter for Everyone Trying to Grow Their Family

Nintendo gets that today’s families are more diverse, more tech-savvy, and—frankly—expect more. That same demand is reshaping fertility tech. The days of sterile clinics as your only option? So 2015.

People want:

• Privacy: No more awkward pharmacy runs.
• Clarity: Straightforward instructions, not a 90-page manual.
• Affordability: More value, less stress on your wallet.
• Control: The ability to build a family on your own terms, at your own pace.

In 2025, these aren’t just nice-to-haves—they’re the bare minimum. The family-building journey can be hard, but does it have to be needlessly complicated? Nintendo says, absolutely not. And innovative at-home fertility companies are starting to shout “us too!”

Final Boss: Ready for the Real Innovation?

If Nintendo’s approach shows anything, it’s that real upgrades happen when companies listen (really listen) to what families need right now. Whether it’s a joyful co-op Mario session with your kid or an empowering, private at-home insemination experience, the goal is the same: less friction, more connection.

So if you’re navigating the wild world of family creation—whether through tech, science, or sheer determination—remember: The best innovations don’t just add features. They add joy, agency, and a sense that hey, you’ve got this.

Your Turn: What would your dream at-home fertility kit “upgrade” look like? Drop your wish list below. Or, for a sneak peek at how the next-gen of family-building empowers parents (and parents-to-be) behind closed doors, check out MakeAMom’s selection of kits and guides. Who knows? The only thing better than a new console might just be the family you build while holding the controller (or… something else!) in your hand.

Level up your journey. Because in this game, your family is always worth the upgrade.

Imagine this: You’re standing in your kitchen, fertility kit in hand, determined to build your family—on your terms, in your space, and most importantly, without an audience. Now imagine if every step on this deeply personal journey was as public as a viral TikTok. Chill down your spine? You're not alone.

But what if we told you that, in 2025, a revolution is quietly unfolding for people who crave both privacy and support while navigating life’s most personal moments? It’s not just about baby-making anymore; it’s about protecting what matters most: you.

People Over Papers—And Why That Matters For Fertility

This week, Gizmodo’s eye-opening exposé on the “Waze for ICE immigration raids” caught our attention—and not just because of its dramatic title. An anonymous grassroots network is helping communities proactively track and dodge ICE activity, placing privacy and safety over bureaucracy and paperwork.

So, what on earth does immigration activism have to do with making a baby at home? More than you’d think. At the heart of both: The right to make deeply personal decisions without unwelcome eyes, interference, or stigma. Families—whatever their shape, origin, or backstory—shouldn’t have to broadcast their every move just to access basic freedoms or services.

The Privacy Problem Nobody Wants to Talk About

Let’s be honest: Fertility can feel like a parade of paperwork, awkward clinic visits, and nosy third parties asking questions like, “So, how long have you been trying?” (Thanks for that, Aunt Linda.) But as the non-stop march of technology infiltrates daily life, with data breaches and oversharing reaching fever pitch, the desire for true privacy has become a modern battle cry.

Nowhere is this more obvious than in the brave new world of at-home fertility. Gone are the days when your only path to conception involved sterile waiting rooms or invasive procedures under fluorescent lights. Today, more people are asking: “Why can’t I do this my way—at home, comfortably, and privately?”

Enter Grassroots Innovation: Not All Heroes Wear Capes

The unsung hero of the ICE tracker story isn’t just the app or its elusive creator—it’s the community, banding together to protect their own. That same spirit is fueling breakthroughs in fertility tech, too. Companies like MakeAMom are reimagining conception as a journey you can own: no judgment, no prying eyes, just science and support delivered right to your doorstep.

Let’s break down what that “ownership” really means:

• Plain, unmarked packaging: No more side-eye from neighbors or nosy delivery people.
• Reusable kits: Not only are you saving the planet (and your wallet), but you’re also avoiding repeat purchases and unwanted records piling up.
• Tailored for all needs: Whether you’re dealing with low motility sperm (hello, Impregnator!) or sensitivities like vaginismus (shout-out to BabyMaker), there’s a solution that fits.
• Freedom from bureaucracy: No insurance forms, no medical gatekeeping, no need to explain yourself to strangers.

And the results? A reported 67% success rate among MakeAMom’s at-home users—a stat that’s as impressive as it is empowering.

The 2025 Zeitgeist: Privacy Is the New Self-Care

Swipe through Twitter—or, let’s be real, Threads—today, and you’ll notice: Privacy isn’t just trending, it’s a lifestyle. The public has spoken, and the verdict is clear: Whether dodging invasive surveillance or sidestepping prying fertility clinic staff, more of us are opting in to keep our business, well, our business.

So, how do you make sure your fertility journey stays as private as your DMs? Here’s what the best innovators (and community-driven tech) are teaching us:

1. Embrace home-based options: Keep your journey out of the headlines (and off the clipboard).
2. Champion discretion: From unmarked deliveries to encrypted resources, demand vendors who value your confidence.
3. Seek out community—without sacrificing privacy: Grassroots networks (online and IRL) are finding clever ways to offer support and solidarity while protecting members’ anonymity.
4. Educate yourself: The more you know about your options, the less power the “system” has to define your narrative.

The Bottom Line—And Your Next Move

Family isn’t created by filling out forms or sitting in waiting rooms under harsh lights. It’s built by people—bold, determined, privacy-loving people—who refuse to trade their dignity for a chance at happiness. In a world where even immigration justice warriors are going low-key to protect what matters, why should your fertility journey be any different?

If you’re ready to take control, learn more about discreet, science-backed at-home fertility options that put you in the driver’s seat. And remember: When it comes to your family, people—not paperwork—should always come first.

What’s your experience with privacy on your fertility journey? Share your thoughts below—and join the movement for empowered, personal family building!

What do underground zines and at-home insemination kits have in common? More than you think—and the answer might just change how you see the future of fertility.

Picture this: It’s the summer of 2025. TikTok is full of DIY everything—mushroom farming, mini solar panels, even home-built biosensors. But the biggest surprise? Fertility DIY is trending, and it’s a lot more sophisticated than you’d guess.

Let’s back up. Earlier this year, WIRED published a delightfully retro, printable zine called "How to Win a Fight"—a nod to the pre-internet era when knowledge was grassroots, handmade, and passed between friends. The zine, meant to be printed, folded, and shared, quickly went viral (in zine terms) as a symbol of taking empowerment into your own hands. For many, it was nostalgic. But for those navigating the modern fertility landscape, it was a timely reminder: some of the most powerful resources still come from your own two hands and supportive communities.

The Data Behind the DIY Fertility Surge

Fast-forward to right now. According to the CDC and independent fertility forums, searches for "at-home insemination" have tripled since 2022. The reasons are clear:

• Clinic waitlists are longer than ever.
• Privacy concerns and stigma haven’t disappeared.
• People want control—over timing, costs, and their stories.

But what’s even more interesting? The methods people use to take charge. Modern home insemination kits have taken a quantum leap from the "turkey baster" era. Companies like MakeAMom’s at-home insemination solutions are leading the charge, offering specialized, reusable kits that address everything from sperm motility to sensitivities like vaginismus. Their data-driven approach isn’t just marketing: with a reported 67% success rate among clients, these products are giving clinical alternatives a run for their money.

The Zine Effect: Grassroots Guides & Shared Stories

So what’s driving this shift? It’s not just tech. It’s culture. The open-source spirit of zines—where people would share their hard-won knowledge, tips, and troubleshooting in DIY booklets—is alive and well online and off. Folks aren’t just using products, they’re:

• Swapping stories and techniques on Reddit and Discord fertility channels
• Printing and handing out "conception tip zines" at local LGBTQ+ centers
• Crowdsourcing research and advocating for transparency in product claims

WIRED’s zine piece may have been about winning a fight, but for many families, the fight is for agency and information. The resurgence of printed resources (yes, people are literally folding and sharing zines again) mirrors the analog reliability many crave in an era of algorithmic overwhelm.

Are At-Home Kits Right for You? An Analytical Look

Before you start printing zines or clicking "buy" on a kit, let’s get real with some numbers and questions:

Pros: - Cost savings: At-home systems can be as much as 80% cheaper per attempt than clinical IUI. - Privacy: All shipments from reputable brands, like MakeAMom, are discreet—no awkward pharmacy pickups. - Accessibility: No clinic appointment necessary—vital for rural residents or those with mobility challenges.

Cons: - Learning curve: Proper technique matters; resources like online tutorials or peer-made guides are critical. - Not for every case: Severe infertility may still require medical intervention. - Emotional load: DIY can be empowering, but can also feel isolating—community support is crucial.

How to Plug Into the New Fertility Community

If you’re considering the at-home route, don’t go it alone. Here’s how the 2025 “zine mentality” can empower your journey:

• Find or start a zine: Share stories, best practices, or reviews. Whether digital or printed, you’ll build instant community.
• Leverage data: Don’t just trust testimonials—look for companies (like MakeAMom, which shares detailed usage data and success rates) that are open about outcomes.
• Ask tough questions: Peer groups and online forums are great places to crowdsource product reviews or troubleshoot issues.

The Bottom Line: Printed Wisdom, Digital Savvy, Real Results

The return of the zine isn’t just whimsy—it’s symbolic of the DIY fertility renaissance. In 2025, building a family can be as collaborative and empowering as folding a zine with friends. It’s about blending clinical science (hello, 67% success rates!) with the timeless power of community.

Thinking of starting your own journey? Tap into resources grounded in both expert knowledge and lived experience. And remember, just like folding a zine, you don’t have to do it alone—there’s a whole toolkit of support, both analog and digital, waiting for you.

What’s your experience with DIY fertility? Would you trust a home kit, or are you still on the fence? Drop your questions in the comments below, and let’s build the next chapter of family-making, together.