

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

Oct 31, 2024 • 42min
How do things glow in the dark?
Dive into the enchanting world of glow-in-the-dark chemistry! Discover how phosphorescence works, with fascinating insights on electron excitation and the quirky concept of 'forbidden transitions.' The hosts share nostalgic glow-in-the-dark favorites from childhood, sparking memories that connect science with fun. Engaging analogies, like ladders and pinball machines, make complex concepts relatable. Uncover why not all materials glow and explore modern uses, adding a contemporary twist to this spooky topic.

Oct 24, 2024 • 26min
Ask a Chemist: Why do self-tanners smell weird? (and other questions)
Question and Response 61
New College-Style Sweatshirt! And Spooky Chemistry Shirts Are Back!
In this episode of 'Chemistry for Your Life,' hosts Melissa and Jam address a variety of intriguing listener questions. They cover topics such as the chemical processes behind self-tanners and why early formulations could result in uneven appearances, the unique properties and phase changes of dry ice, and the complexities surrounding high fructose corn syrup. The discussion spans the importance of physical chemistry, the societal pressures linked to beauty standards, and the exfoliating benefits of chemical peels. Positive feedback from viewers is acknowledged, and the hosts encourage further engagement via questions and Patreon membership.
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
00:35 Welcome to Chemistry for Your Life
01:26 Listener Questions: Tanning and Self-Tanning
06:54 Chemistry Behind Self-Tanners
08:09 More Listener Questions: Self-Tanner Reactions
11:13 The Smell of Self-Tanners
12:09 Scariest Chemistry Class
12:36 Understanding Small Particle Physics
13:33 Physical Chemistry and Thermodynamics
14:41 Chemical Peels Explained
15:34 Is Fructose Bad for You?
16:29 The Science of Dry Ice Sublimation
22:09 Listener Questions and Comments
24:15 Supporting the Show and Community Shoutouts
Thanks to our monthly supporters
Heather Ragusa
Autoclave
Chelsea Morelos
Dorien Vdb
Scott B
Jessie Reder
Ciara Linville
J0HNTR0Y
Jeannette Napoleon
Cullyn R
Erica Bee
Elizabeth P
Sarah Moar
Rachel Reina
Letila
Katrina Barnum-Huckins
Suzanne Phillips
Venus Rebholz
Lyn Stubblefield
Jacob Taber
Brian Kimball
Emerson Woodhall
Kristina Gotfredsen
Timothy Parker
Steven Boyles
Chris Skupien
Chelsea B
Bri McAllister
Avishai Barnoy
Hunter Reardon
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
★ Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel ★
Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com
Watch our episodes on YouTube
Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Oct 17, 2024 • 48min
How does spray tan stain our skin?
Discover the chemistry of self-tanners and how they stain our skin! With roots tracing back to the 1960s, the key sugar dihydroxyacetone (DHA) interacts with skin proteins much like the Maillard reaction that happens when cooking food. The hosts break down complex concepts into simple terms and explore the safety and timing of color development. Fun quizzes and engaging discussions keep the vibe light, while intriguing insights about increased UV sensitivity and side effects offer a deeper look into your next sun-kissed glow!

Oct 10, 2024 • 36min
What makes jalapeños spicy, and what other crazy properties do they have?
Dive into the fiery world of capsaicin! Discover how this spicy compound activates heat and pain receptors, creating a burning sensation without real heat. Learn why some can handle the heat better than others, thanks to receptor damage over time. Explore the surprising benefits of capsaicin, including its use in topical pain relief. Plus, find out why milk is the ultimate antidote to spicy discomfort—thanks to its fats and proteins. It's a flavorful journey through science and sensation!

Oct 3, 2024 • 49min
Why does ibuprofen take so long to work?
Dive into the intriguing world of ibuprofen, where chemistry meets pain relief! Discover why it takes about 30 minutes to kick in, thanks to the chiral nature of its molecules. Only one of ibuprofen's enantiomers is effective, while the other complicates production. Fun comparisons with aspirin reveal differences in action and safety. Plus, explore exciting research on ibuprofen’s potential against cancer and the benefits of green chemistry for its production. Who knew pain relief could be so fascinating?

Sep 26, 2024 • 30min
Ask a Chemist: Does raw milk have more bacteria? (and other questions)
Dive into intriguing questions about chemistry! Discover how pasteurization enhances milk safety and why gelatin gives Jell-O its wobbly texture. Learn the surprising differences between oxygen in water and air, and unravel the secrets of glitter's composition. Explore infrared spectroscopy's fascinating connection to the Northern Lights and find out how milling affects the oxidation of whole grain flour. Plus, insights into collagen and its role in muscle building add to the mix!

Sep 19, 2024 • 43min
How do pain killers relieve pain?
#195
New College-Style Sweatshirt!
In this episode of Chemistry For Your Life, hosts Melissa and Jam delve into the science behind ibuprofen, a common pain reliever. They discuss the role of prostaglandins in inflammation, how ibuprofen inhibits the cox enzyme to reduce pain, and the body's natural immune response. They also share personal anecdotes about meeting listeners, their favorite types of ibuprofen, and explore plans for future episodes about other pain relievers.
00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdote
01:00 Meet the Hosts
01:11 Exciting Announcements
02:46 Listener Shoutout
05:41 Understanding Pain and Inflammation
06:48 The Role of Prostaglandins
14:38 How Ibuprofen Works
18:15 Personal Experiences with Pain
21:16 Preview of Next Episode
22:10 Understanding Pain and Inflammation
23:07 The Role of Prostaglandins
24:50 Enzymes and Their Functions
27:11 How Ibuprofen Works
35:11 Personal Experiences with Ibuprofen
40:42 Supporting the Show and Final Thoughts
References from this episode:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4276492/
https://thispodcastwillkillyou.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/TPWKY-Episode-29-Aspirin.pdf
https://www.chemistryworld.com/podcasts/ibuprofen/4011375.article
https://pubs.acs.org/doi/epdf/10.1021/bi010045s?ref=article_openPDF
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4355401/ 6. Garret & Grisham Biochemistry Textbook
We want to give a special thanks to Bri McAllister for illustrating molecules for some episodes! Please go check out Bri’s art, follow and support her at entr0pic.artstation.com and @McAllisterBri on twitter!
Thanks to our monthly supporters
Scott B
Jessie Reder
Ciara Linville
J0HNTR0Y
Jeannette Napoleon
Cullyn R
Erica Bee
Elizabeth P
Sarah Moar
Rachel Reina
Letila
Katrina Barnum-Huckins
Suzanne Phillips
Venus Rebholz
Lyn Stubblefield
Jacob Taber
Brian Kimball
Emerson Woodhall
Kristina Gotfredsen
Timothy Parker
Steven Boyles
Chris Skupien
Chelsea B
Bri McAllister
Avishai Barnoy
Hunter Reardon
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★
★ Buy Podcast Merch and Apparel ★
Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com
Watch our episodes on YouTube
Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sep 12, 2024 • 30min
Why do we use fluoride on our teeth?
Fluoride isn't just a buzzword at the dentist's; it has real benefits for your teeth! Discover the fascinating chemistry behind fluoride and how it strengthens enamel against cavities. Learn about the differences between fluoroapatite and hydroxyapatite and why one outshines the other in dental defense. The hosts share personal experiences along the way, highlighting the importance of fluoride levels and the impact of acidic drinks on dental health. Plus, they sprinkle in some delightful anecdotes about parenting and classroom excitement!

Sep 5, 2024 • 51min
What are dental fillings and how are they chemistry?
Discover the intriguing chemistry that powers modern dental fillings, from organic monomers to inorganic fillers. Learn how light-activated photoinitiators play a crucial role in hardening these materials. The hosts also share humorous dental anecdotes and reflect on memorable moments from pop culture related to dentistry. With engaging discussions on polymerization and the science of tooth decay, this episode blends education with entertainment, making dental care fascinating and relatable.

Aug 29, 2024 • 25min
Ask a Chemist: Reddit's Chemistry Questions Answered
Join the hosts as they delve into intriguing chemistry questions from Reddit! Discover why ice makes fizzy drinks fizzier, and learn how stainless steel can eliminate onion odors from your hands. They also tackle the best strategies for students to contact professors about recommendation letters and share a hilarious debate on classroom pranks. Packed with relatable anecdotes and practical advice, this conversation makes chemistry fun and accessible for everyone!


