Distillations | Science History Institute

On today's show we look at how delicate desert ecosystems are affected by climate change. Then the impact of toxic metals on Rocky Mountain streams. SHOW CLOCK 00:00 Opening Credits 00:33 Introduction 01:10 Feature: Water Webs 09:10 Interview: Johanna Kraus 14:48 Closing Credits CREDITS Special thanks to Diane Hope and Jody Roberts for researching this show. Additional credits available at chemheritage.org/distillations.

On today's show we look at the modern power grid, on the brink of a new era. First, why the smart grid matters. Then, the critical mission of Caltech's Solar Army. SHOW CLOCK 00:00 Opening Credits 00:34 Introduction 01:09 A Smarter Grid 10:11 The Solar Army 16:23 Closing Credits CREDITS Special thanks to Charlie Mintz and Jennifer Dionisio for researching this show. Video produced by Josh Kurz. Additional credits available at chemheritage.org/distillations.

On today's show we look at questionable appearance enhancers. First The Beauty Historian shares some shocking beauty rituals of yore. Then a look at how Brazilian Blowouts are making salon workers sick. SHOW CLOCK 00:00 Opening Credits 00:38 Introduction 01:10 Interview: The Beauty Historian 06:22 Brazilian Blowouts 14:48 Closing Credits CREDITS Special thanks to Stephanie Coleman, Audrey Quinn, Mia Lobel, and Jennifer Dionisio for researching this show. Additional credits available at chemheritage.org/distillations.

On today's show we investigate the science beneath our streets. First how a team of amateur speleologists is keeping Howe Caverns safe for future generations. Then a look at Philadelphia's historic sewer system. SHOW CLOCK 00:00 Opening Credits 00:39 Introduction 01:24 Howe Caverns' Annual Cleanup 09:30 Interview: Adam Levine 16:02 Closing Credits CREDITS Special thanks to Amy Kraft,Adam Levine, Mia Lobel, and Jennifer Dionisio for researching this show. Additional credits available at chemheritage.org/distillations.

On today's show we learn how advances in urban agriculture are providing new access to fresh food. First how hundreds of tons of fishbones are cleaning up Oakland soil. Then tips on how to create your own backyard garden. SHOW CLOCK 00:00 Opening Credits 00:30 Introduction 01:23 Fishbone Remediation 10:24 Interview: Alex Jones and Alice Edgerton 17:48 Closing Credits CREDITS Special thanks to Charlie Mintz, Alex Jones, Alice Edgerton, and Jennifer Dionisio for researching this show. Additional credits available at chemheritage.org/distillations.

On today's show we see old bones made new again. First the ongoing restoration of Philadelphia's 19th Street Baptist Church. Then a discussion about what makes some old buildings greener than new ones. SHOW CLOCK 00:00 Opening Credits 00:28 Introduction 01:20 The 19th Street Baptist Church 09:31 Interview: Heather Blakeslee 16:35 Closing Credits CREDITS Special thanks to Alex Lewis, Heather Blakeslee, and Jennifer Dionisio for researching this show. Additional credits available at chemheritage.org/distillations.

On today's show chemistry takes center stage. First, why science and comedy make gut-busting bedfellows. Then the history of science as popular entertainment. SHOW CLOCK 00:00 Opening Credits 00:36 Introduction 01:20 Science Comedy 08:51 Interview: Rebecca Onion 20:43 Closing Credits CREDITS Special thanks to Deanna Day, Rebecca Onion, and Daisy Rosario for researching this show. Additional credits available at chemheritage.org/distillations.

During decades of tension between the United States and the Soviet Union over the course of the Cold War, both sides wielded science as a weapon. Find out how on today's show. SHOW CLOCK 00:00 Opening Credits 00:32 Introduction 01:31 Interview (Part I): Audra Wolfe 05:41 Oral History: Leslie Vadasz 10:36 Interview (Part II): Audra Wolfe 14:34 Closing Credits CREDITS Special thanks to Hilary Domush, Mat Savelli, and Audra Wolfe for researching this show. Additional credits available at chemheritage.org/distillations.

Just in time for Valentine's Day we explore the sexier side of alchemy. Historian Joel Klein explains how alchemists used passionate prose to disguise the details of their secret experiments. SHOW CLOCK 00:00 Opening Credits 00:44 Introduction 02:07 Interview: Joel Klein 13:28 Closing Credits CREDITS Special thanks to Joel Klein for researching this show. Additional credits available at chemheritage.org/distillations.

Today your taste buds take center stage. First,how super-tasters' genetic gift might afford them better health. Then the art of imitation flavors. SHOW CLOCK 00:00 Opening Credits 00:41 'A World of Pure Imagination' 01:23 Super-Tasters 08:04 The Art of Imitation Flavors 15:40 Closing Credits CREDITS Special thanks to Mary Harris and Jennifer Dionisio for researching this show. Additional credits available at chemheritage.org/distillations.