

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

Mar 28, 2024 • 37min
Did the FDA eliminate Forever Chemicals? (PFAS Part 5!)
#183
We're adding another chapter to the PFAS series! There's new information from the FDA that we've got to talk about,. It's about the PFAS that coat food wrappers. What does it mean? Is it good news? Is it enough? Let's talk about it!
References from this Episode
https://cen.acs.org/materials/coatings/PFAS-paper-food-packaging/99/i36
https://www.fda.gov/food/process-contaminants-food/market-phase-out-grease-proofing-substances-containing-pfas
https://www.fda.gov/food/process-contaminants-food/questions-and-answers-pfas-food
https://www.fda.gov/food/process-contaminants-food/authorized-uses-pfas-food-contact-applications
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
Ciara Linville
J0HNTR0Y
Jeannette Napoleon
Cullyn R
Erica Bee
Elizabeth P
Sarah Moar
Rachel Reina
Letila
Katrina Barnum-Huckins
Suzanne Phillips
Nelly Silva
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 ★
Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com
Watch our episodes on YouTube
Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife.
Want to start your own podcast? Use Transistor and you'll have the best podcast platform available. We use it and we are totally in love with it.

Mar 21, 2024 • 29min
Why do things fade in the sun?
Exploring the science behind why things fade in the sun, the podcast delves into the chemical processes affecting colors and materials. It discusses the impact of sunlight on objects like plastics and hair, revealing how UV light alters different materials. The hosts also share personal updates on transitioning from freelancing to a part-time job and the challenges of maintaining a consistent routine.

Mar 14, 2024 • 39min
What's the REAL reason we can't look at a solar eclipse?
As a solar eclipse approaches, the podcast dives into why it's crucial to protect your eyes during this celestial event. Discover the eye's molecular response to harmful sunlight and the science behind protective measures. Explore the awe-inspiring visuals of eclipses and the biological changes they trigger. Personal anecdotes sprinkle throughout the chat, highlighting both excitement and safety concerns. There's even a tasty detour discussing the health perks of avocado toast! Tune in for a mix of science and fun!

Mar 7, 2024 • 28min
Ask a Chemist: How does purple shampoo work, or does it? (and other questions)
Curious about how purple shampoo works? Discover its magic in neutralizing brassy tones and hear personal stories from the hosts. They also tackle the science of salt on icy roads, revealing surprising properties. While discussing antioxidants in coffee, they debunk common myths about quality. Plus, dive into the world of MSG and its culinary impact. The blend of chemistry and everyday experiences makes for lively conversations, all with a dash of humor!

Feb 29, 2024 • 45min
What is Vitamin D? And what does it have to do with the sun?!
Delve into the sun's essential role in producing Vitamin D! The hosts break down its significance for calcium absorption and bone health. Discover the fascinating journey of pre-vitamin D transforming into D3 through sunlight. They also share personal stories on how dietary choices impact kidney health and throw in some light-hearted bird anecdotes. Plus, learn the importance of gratitude and community support in life and education, tying together science and personal reflection.

Feb 22, 2024 • 27min
Why do plants die in freezing weather?
The podcast dives into why plants struggle in freezing weather. It uncovers the damage caused by ice formation in plant cells, leading to bursting and pressure shifts. Personal stories illustrate how local plants, like succulents, were affected during a harsh freeze in Texas. The hosts also contemplate the resilience of certain species amid cold and reflect on how this natural phenomenon connects chemistry to our everyday lives.

Feb 15, 2024 • 36min
What's up with Fahrenheit, Celsius, and... Kelvin?
Explore the origins of Celsius and Fahrenheit temperature scales, and learn about the unused Kelvin scale. Discover the convenience of Celsius for scientists and intriguing misunderstandings between Celsius and Fahrenheit. The hosts also discuss accommodating family during the holidays, recent achievements, grant deadlines, and express gratitude to listeners.

Feb 8, 2024 • 48min
Ask a Chemist: Why do metals look metallic? (and other questions!)
Bonus Episode: Question and Response 52
In this month's bonus episode, Melissa and Jam respond to your comments and questions about metals, kombucha, learning styles, condiments, and more!
Reference from this episode:
https://radiolab.org/podcast/g-miseducation-larry-p.
Thanks to our monthly supporters
Ciara Linville
J0HNTR0Y
Jeannette Napoleon
Cullyn R
Erica Bee
Elizabeth P
Sarah Moar
Rachel Reina
Letila
Katrina Barnum-Huckins
Suzanne Phillips
Nelly Silva
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 ★
Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com
Watch our episodes on YouTube
Find us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook @ChemForYourLife.
Want to start your own podcast? Use Transistor and you'll have the best podcast platform available. We use it and we are totally in love with it.

Feb 1, 2024 • 35min
How do infrared thermometers work?
Bri McAllister, an illustrator known for her captivating artwork on scientific concepts, joins the conversation about infrared thermometers. They discuss how these devices operate by detecting infrared radiation, a fascinating contrast to traditional probe thermometers. The hosts share personal anecdotes and highlight the growing popularity of these thermometers since the pandemic. Additionally, they delve into balancing multiple jobs while pursuing their creative passions, making science relatable and fun for listeners.

Jan 25, 2024 • 28min
How do we see our breath in the air?
Exploring why we see our breath in cold air, discussing the scientific reasons behind it, and enjoying a fire pit hangout. Also, praising the budgeting app 'You Need a Budget' and expressing excitement for teaching everyday chemistry on the podcast.