Chemistry For Your Life
Melissa and Jam, Bleav
A podcast that helps you understand the fascinating chemistry hidden in your everyday life.
Have you ever wondered why onions make you cry? Or how soap gets your hands clean? What really is margarine, or why do trees change colors in the fall? Melissa is a chemist, and to answer these questions she started a podcast, called Chemistry for your life!
In each episode Melissa explains the chemistry behind one of life’s mysteries to Jam, who is definitely not a chemist, but she explains it in a way that is easy to understand, and totally fascinating.
If you’re someone who loves learning new things, or who wonders about the way the world works, then give us a listen.
Have you ever wondered why onions make you cry? Or how soap gets your hands clean? What really is margarine, or why do trees change colors in the fall? Melissa is a chemist, and to answer these questions she started a podcast, called Chemistry for your life!
In each episode Melissa explains the chemistry behind one of life’s mysteries to Jam, who is definitely not a chemist, but she explains it in a way that is easy to understand, and totally fascinating.
If you’re someone who loves learning new things, or who wonders about the way the world works, then give us a listen.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 15, 2024 • 36min
What happens to eggs when we cook them? (with Jason Cress)
Joining the conversation is Jason Cress, a former co-host and seasoned breakfast chef. He dives into the fascinating transformations of eggs during cooking, unraveling the chemistry behind why they change from clear goo to a delightful white jiggle. The discussion also touches on the roles of proteins and amino acids, showcasing how heat alters their structure. With personal anecdotes and relatable analogies, Jason emphasizes the joy of cooking eggs while reflecting on gratitude during Thanksgiving.
Aug 8, 2024 • 28min
Bonus: Fun Fact or Fake Factoid?! A Chemistry and Trivia Showdown
Claire Caballero, a recurring guest known for her competitive spirit and chemistry knowledge, joins host Melissa and co-host Jam for a lively trivia showdown. They explore quirky fun facts, revealing truths about tomato pollination, the surprising biomass of ants compared to humans, and the intriguing scent of old books. The trio mixes humor and scientific inquiry, discussing glacial ice as a hidden fresh water reserve and even typing trivia. The engaging atmosphere makes for an entertaining and educational experience!
Aug 1, 2024 • 38min
Ask a Neuroscientist: Why is Adderall addictive to SOME people and not others? (and other questions)
Join a fascinating discussion with a pharmacology expert who reveals the inner workings of antidepressants and the complexities of drug side effects. Discover why Adderall is addictive for some people and how it impacts dopamine levels in both the brain and gut. Gain insight into the challenges of pursuing a biomedical PhD, sprinkled with humorous grad school anecdotes. The hosts wrap things up with quirky fun facts and a celebration of scientific curiosity, inviting listeners to engage with their community.
Jul 25, 2024 • 1h 9min
How do anti-depressants work? (featuring Claire Caballero)
In this enlightening discussion, Claire Caballero, a pharmacology and neuroscience PhD student, sheds light on how antidepressants function. She dives into the roles of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and GABA in mental health. Claire breaks down various antidepressants, including SSRIs and tricyclics, and explains their mechanisms and side effects. The conversation also touches on the complexities of medication interactions and the personal experiences that shape treatment journeys, offering a valuable perspective on managing mental health.
Jul 18, 2024 • 32min
Vitamin C: Myths, Facts, and Daily Needs
Discover the fascinating world of vitamin C as the hosts unpack its daily intake recommendations and its critical role in preventing scurvy. Learn about the surprising facts surrounding food labeling and what you should be eating to boost your intake. They also touch on vitamin C's dual powers as a preservative and skincare hero, while sharing personal anecdotes on dietary habits. The discussion emphasizes the importance of getting nutrients from food rather than supplements for optimal health.
Jul 11, 2024 • 27min
Why do apples turn brown when we cut them?
Curious about why apples turn brown when cut? Dive into the fascinating biochemical processes behind this phenomenon, including the role of the enzyme polyphenol oxidase. Discover if the browning changes the taste and explore the development of genetically modified apples that resist this reaction. The hosts also share nostalgic memories linked to apples and reflect on the importance of clean drinking water while incorporating fun insights about technology and personal connections. It's a delightful blend of science and sentiment!
Jul 4, 2024 • 46min
Should we take Vitamin C when we're sick?
The discussion dives into vitamin C's powerful role in immune support, particularly during colds. One host breaks down oxidation and reduction, showcasing how this vitamin acts as both an oxidant and an antioxidant. They explore Linus Pauling's historical take on high doses, the latest research findings, and even draw amusing analogies to superheroes. The conversation also touches on elderberry as a cold remedy and teases upcoming topics on vitamin C's benefits, including its applications for pets and skincare.
Jun 27, 2024 • 25min
Ask a Chemist: Why do chemicals smell "chemically?" (And other questions)
Listeners dive into the intriguing world of chemical smells versus natural scents, exploring how our perceptions are shaped by context. The discussion also illuminates plant poisons and the environmental effects of refrigerants. Insights from the beauty industry reveal the science behind face scrubs compared to harsher soaps. Additionally, the hosts tackle the complexities of food deserts, shedding light on the challenges of accessing healthy food. Throughout, gratitude is expressed for the supportive community that fuels this ongoing exploration.
Jun 20, 2024 • 41min
How does Vitamin C keep our bodies from turning into mush?
Vitamin C plays a pivotal role in collagen production, which keeps our bodies from turning into mush. The hosts explore how this vitamin enables crucial enzymes to form strong collagen structures, vital for skin and connective tissues. They discuss the connection between Vitamin C deficiency and scurvy, highlighting its historical significance. Additionally, there's a humorous take on intermolecular forces and collagen's structure, alongside a teaser for future topics on Vitamin C's broader benefits in immunity and skincare.
Jun 13, 2024 • 40min
Do anti-aging products work?
The podcast explores the effectiveness of anti-aging products with vitamin A, touching on skin structure, UV radiation impact, and the benefits of sunscreen. They discuss the role of retinoids in repairing skin and share personal anecdotes. Chemistry, skincare tips, and scientific studies are blended in this episode.
