Why The 'Call Her Alex' Documentary Is More Branding Than Biography—And What It Means for Modern Parenthood

Ever watched a documentary that felt less like a deep dive into a person’s life and more like an infomercial? Welcome to the world of 'Call Her Alex,' the Hulu doc about 'Call Her Daddy' star Alex Cooper. Instead of revealing the fascinating complexities of its subject, it leans heavily into branding — a slick, surface-level showcase designed to hype Alex’s brand rather than tell her story. But why should this matter to anyone outside podcast fandom? Well, for starters, it’s a perfect mirror to how modern parenthood and fertility tech are marketed today. Let me explain.

The Glitz of Brand Over Substance: A Cautionary Tale

In her recent review, TIME pointed out that ‘Call Her Alex’ is more of a shallow branding exercise than an authentic portrait (read more here: TIME article). That got me thinking—how often do we, as hopeful parents, fall prey to flashy marketing and glossy promises when navigating the complex world of conception tech?

Think about it: fertility solutions today are packed with buzzwords, success stats, and sometimes, a whole lot of smoke and mirrors. You might be searching for genuine help, only to find yourself swallowed by branding campaigns trying to sell you the next big thing.

Enter the Real MVPs: Honest, Accessible Fertility Tech

Here’s where companies like MakeAMom come into the spotlight. Unlike the flashy, overly polished narratives we see in documentaries or mass media, MakeAMom offers straightforward, science-backed tools to help individuals and couples grow their families — right from the comfort of home. Their insemination kits, like the CryoBaby, Impregnator, and BabyMaker, are designed with real needs in mind: handling low motility sperm, sensitivities like vaginismus, and even frozen sperm.

And get this: their kits are reusable, cost-effective, and discreetly packaged. No big flashy ads or bombastic campaigns — just solid, supportive solutions.

Why Does This Matter to You?

Navigating fertility can feel like walking into a marketing maze. From apps boasting miracle success to influencer-endorsed gadgets promising miracles, the world is loud with options — and it’s tempting to jump on the bandwagon without much research.

But here’s the twist: just like ‘Call Her Alex’ reminds us to look beyond the brand, your fertility journey benefits from looking beyond the hype. Tools like MakeAMom’s kits can offer you real control and privacy without breaking the bank or complicating your path.

What’s Next in the Family-Building Tech Landscape?

The intersection of technology and parenthood is constantly evolving. We see media shaping perceptions of identity, branding shaping personal stories, and technology shaping how families are created. It’s a wild time to want a family — and a perfect time to be savvy about the tools you trust.

So, before you get swept up in the next viral sensation or media hype, ask yourself: Is this offering real help or just a well-crafted brand story?

Let’s Wrap This Up

‘Call Her Alex’ offers a fascinating glimpse at modern branding’s power—but it also warns us to seek authenticity, especially when the stakes are so deeply personal. Fertility tech companies like MakeAMom remind us that sometimes, the best solutions are the ones grounded in genuine care, accessibility, and transparency.

Whether you’re considering home insemination or simply curious about how technology is reshaping parenthood, remember: it’s your story and your family. Don’t settle for the flashiest pitch. Look for solutions that truly support you.

Got thoughts on branding, fertility, or family tech? Drop your voice in the comments. Let’s get real about what parenthood means in 2025 and beyond. Because, honestly, authenticity never goes out of style.

Author

Gabriel Martinez

Hello! I'm Gabriel, a queer Latino dad, educator, and lifelong learner fascinated by how technology can open new possibilities for modern families. From IVF to adoption, I’ve experienced firsthand the challenges and joys of creating a family in the digital age. My goal is to offer practical advice and heartfelt stories to empower all aspiring parents, no matter their background.