In this week’s episode, Shannon and Nick have a follow-up discussion concerning genetics, diet and weight loss. Included in the discussion is the role genes can have in weight loss, but why it’s not the only factor. Plus, Nick elaborates more o

Episode 10: How secure is your genetic information online?

Aug 17th, 2018 21m 37s

Data breaches are all too common today, ranging from retails to credit companies. In June, we learned that MyHeritage had a data breach that impacted 92 million users. How serious was the database breach and how can you fight back and prevent t

Episode 9: Exploring the link between weight loss, diet and genetics

Aug 5th, 2018 37m 12s

How important are your genes when it comes to fitting in your jeans? In this week’s episode of Genetic Jackpot, we explore how genes can impact obesity and the food you like. We speak to Emily Brown of Genetic Garden about how your genes, diet

Episode 8: The backlog of thousands of untested rape kits

Jul 23rd, 2018 24m 41s

Statistics show that one-in-six women will be raped or sexually assaulted in their life. On average, there are over 300,000 rape cases annually in the United States. A "rape kit" is one of the first steps a victim can take in helping authoritie

Episode 7: Chicago news anchor's journey to Africa for answers

May 23rd, 2018 36m 9s

For many, online records and databases can serve as our primary source of research into our families following a DNA tests. Many others, unfortunately, do not have that option. WGN anchor Cortney Hall spoke to us about her journey to Senegal af

Episode 6: Helping younger generations become aware of DNA

May 8th, 2018 23m 46s

Back when we were in high school, we learned what was known about DNA through boring textbooks and lectures. Thankfully for today’s high school students, there’s a new way to become aware of DNA. Throughout the nation, undergraduate students ar

Episode 5: DNA's Role in the Golden State Killer Case

Apr 29th, 2018 31m 58s

For years, authorities in California have pursued an individual believed to be responsible for at least 12 murders, more than 50 rapes and over 100 burglaries. This week, a suspect was arrested after matching crime scene DNA with genetic materi

Episode 4: Opening up the Pandora’s Box

Apr 17th, 2018 22m 41s

A Chicago area biologist discovers he’s related to a world famous pop band from India! How a genetic genealogist helps family trees bloom.

Episode 3: Pets and DNA

Apr 6th, 2018 22m 52s

One of the very few things that unite most in the world is our love for pets, whether they’re dogs, cats, fish or reptiles. Pets are becoming a larger part of our family - and now that includes the world of DNA! In Episode 3, we speak to George

To test or not to test?

Mar 16th, 2018 28m 21s

Access to DNA testing has become more available across the country and many have taken advantage of it - but others have not. Shannon Halligan and Nick Sloan dive into why that’s the case and discuss their own thoughts on DNA testing.