Transforming Fertility Through Science and Support
Our Story
RSI was founded in 2009 by John Smothers and his late wife, inspired by their struggles with infertility.
While chairing the Lubbock Regional Bioscience Initiative, John was fortunate to meet Dr. Samuel Prien, Dr. Dustie Johnson, and Dr. Lindsay Penrose, and he was fascinated with their research into male infertility and, in particular, the methods used to collect and process sperm.
John, with the researchers as co-founders, licensed the technology from Texas Tech University. Initially, RSI was a passion project, focused on research. In 2017, the company relaunched through the Texas Tech Innovation Hub's Accelerator program, securing grants that revived the dream of bringing their product to market.
In 2018, John's wife passed away after a long battle with cancer. Motivated by his promise to honor their dream, John took a leap of faith and dedicated himself full-time to growing RSI. Since then, RSI has remained steadfast in its mission to help with couples' fertility challenges.
John remains involved with RSI as a Board Member.
Explore independent and investigator-initiated research related to sperm collection and preparation methods.
Meet Our Team
Passionate Experts Behind Your Success
Meet the team driving progress in reproductive science and technology, backed by over 75 years of combined experience.
Sam Marple, MS
Chief Executive Officer
Men's health is Women's health
"Women have historically carried a disproportionate share of fertility treatment, even when male reproductive health plays a significant role. At RSI, we believe that recognizing and addressing men’s health is fundamental to creating a more balanced, effective approach to reproductive care."
Amanda Hanson
Executive Vice President of Scientific Strategy
Men's health is Women's health
“To me, ‘Men’s health IS Women’s health’ reflects the reality that health and family-building are deeply interconnected.
My years as an embryologist showed me that fertility journeys are rarely linear and often involve many people — partners, donors, intended parents, and support networks alike. Everyone’s health and well-being play a role.
As both a healthcare professional and a mom of boys, I believe we need more open, inclusive conversations around reproductive health that support all individuals and all paths to parenthood.”
Lynette Guidry
Clinical Account Executive
Men's health is Women's health
"My partner’s well-being affects me just as much as it affects him. His appointments, daily habits, and overall health are things I care about and actively support. When he’s struggling, it impacts me too. In the context of creating life and experiencing infertility, men’s health and wellness are just as important as a woman’s, and focusing on it benefits the couple equally. I love that couples using our products can continue this health journey together, staying connected and supporting each other every step of the way."
Shyanne Simonson
Operations Specialist
Men's health is Women's health
"Advocating for women’s health means telling the full story of fertility. For decades, reproductive care has focused almost entirely on women, even though male factors play a critical role. Men’s Health is Women’s Health reflects my belief that building families requires acknowledging every part of the reproductive picture."
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