Best Chemistry Podcasts (2024)

1
THMG453 – NFPA 1994 Deep Dive 27:25

23h ago27:25

27:25

Join us as we chat with our buddy Dan Bowen about some often-overlooked aspects of PPE in classes. We dive into intriguing scenarios and the NFPA's guidelines on the right PPE for each situation. Thank you to our sponsor for this episode: KULR Technology A great new battery technology that is exciting the community, check it out here. ObexionAG Ano…

1
Why do apples turn brown when we cut them? 26:58

2d ago26:58

26:58

#035 Rebroadcast Do you like apples? Ever wonder why they turn brown when you cut them? This week, Melissa and Jam explore this very question. What's going on in these apples? Where does the brown come from? Is it a good or bad thing? Does it taste different? Is the brown actually apple tears from the pain of being cut? And how do you like them app…

1
The Ames Test 43:27

4d ago43:27

43:27

In 1973 biochemist Bruce Ames created a simple test that showed if chemicals had the potential to cause cancer. The Ames test made him a hero of the emerging environmental movement. But then he completely changed course and said concerns about chemicals were overblown. So what happened? Did Ames change? Or did our understanding of what causes cance…

1
THMG452 – Safety 4th | Fireworks 27:21

8d ago27:21

27:21

In this episode, we dive into the world of fireworks, exploring what they're made of, how they work, and what that means for responders. We also break down the colors and their mechanisms. Tune in; it's quite fascinating! Also, July 18, 2024 at 1930 EST is our long form episode of the After Action Report Podcast featuring Mike Hildebrand which will…

1
Should we take Vitamin C when we're sick? 45:44

9d ago45:44

45:44

#190 In this episode of 'Chemistry for Your Life,' hosts Melissa and Jam delve into the role of vitamin C in the immune system and examine whether taking mega doses of the vitamin can help with common colds. Melissa, a seasoned chemist, explains the chemistry behind oxidation, reduction, and free radicals, and how vitamin C's properties make it cru…

1
Is Ozempic Different? 43:48

11d ago43:48

43:48

Ozempic and others in this family of drugs are nothing short of miraculous. Meant to treat Type 2 Diabetes, the drug exploded in popularity after researchers found that patients were reporting losing 15-21% of their body weight in clinical trials. There were some side effects, but none so severe that it raised concerns. Doctors began prescribing it…

1
Use of Maternal Race and Weight Provides Equitable Performance in Serum Screening for Open Neural Tube Defects 9:35

12d ago9:35

9:35

By Glenn Palomaki

1
THMG451 – Tuning your pool with Science 37:26

15d ago37:26

37:26

Having reviewed pool emergencies, let's now shift our focus to the homeowner's viewpoint. How can I make my pool look as blue and stunning as possible using science? Join us as our lead instructor, Steve Kotlarczyk, guides us through this fascinating topic. Thank you to our sponsor for this episode: KULR Technology A great new battery technology th…

1
Ask a Chemist: Why do chemicals smell "chemically?" (And other questions) 24:45

16d ago24:45

24:45

Question and Response 57 In this bonus episode of 'Chemistry For Your Life,' hosts Melissa Collini and Jam Robinson answer listener-submitted questions about various chemistry topics. They discuss the distinction between 'chemical' and 'natural' smells, plant poisons, and the mechanisms behind face scrubs and soaps. The episode also features insigh…

1
Traffication: An Interview with Paul Donald 45:18

18d ago45:18

45:18

The impact of cars on wildlife extends beyond roadkill, affecting species that never venture near roads. Car noise disrupts bird communication and behavior, and tire and brake dust from pollutes waterways with microplastics. In this wide-ranging interview, we talk to the author of Traffication: How Cars Destroy Nature and What We Can Do About It, P…

1
THMG450 – 354 Take 2 – EV Bus Fire 33:57

22d ago33:57

33:57

In August 2022, an episode about a unique EV bus incident was recorded but not published due to a last-minute investigation. The team re-recorded on a new topic and forgot about the original episode. Recently, the friend involved approved its release. The episode is audio-only, recorded before video was used. Thank you to our sponsor for this episo…

1
Audio Summary July 2024 5:42

23d ago5:42

5:42

1
How does Vitamin C keep our bodies from turning into mush? 41:17

23d ago41:17

41:17

#189 In this episode, Melissa and Jam delve into the crucial role of Vitamin C in the body, focusing on its importance for collagen production. They discuss how collagen, a key structural protein found in tendons, cartilage, bones, teeth, skin, and blood vessels, relies on Vitamin C to form strong, functional structures. The conversation explores t…

1
Dyes, Drugs, and Psychosis 35:23

25d ago35:23

35:23

In 1856, Henry Perkin's attempt to synthesize quinine led to something very different: a vibrant purple dye. Perkin’s mauve revolutionized the fashion industry when Queen Victoria wore a dress of the color to her daughter's wedding. And in an ironic twist, synthetic fabric dyes ultimately led to synthetic drugs, including the first antipsychotic. T…

1
THMG449 – Pool chemical Response | Part 1 27:08

29d ago27:08

27:08

This idea came from a dear friend on the Haz Mat Happy Hour. Seems like a seasonal issue, tis the season, so we spent sometime on this topic. Thank you to our sponsor for this episode: KULR Technology A great new battery technology that is exciting the community, check it out here. ObexionAG Another tremendous battery containment product that is ma…

1
Do anti-aging products work? 40:24

30d ago40:24

40:24

#099 Rebroadcast In this special re-release episode, Melissa and Jam dive deep into the world of Vitamin A (retinol) and its role in anti-aging skincare. They revisit a popular episode that explores whether anti-aging products genuinely work. The hosts break down the scientific functions of the skin, the impact of UV radiation, and the importance o…

1
Pink: An Interview with Dominique Grisard 23:10

1M ago23:10

23:10

The color pink has long been in vogue, and when Barbie hit theaters in 2023, its appeal only increased. But its popularity dates back much further than the Mattel doll. In this bonus episode, Dr. Dominique Grisard, a gender studies professor at the University of Basel, discusses the hue and its ties to femininity, class, and Whiteness, as well as h…

1
Can Color Heal Us? 39:28

1M ago39:28

39:28

For centuries people have been drawn to the potential healing powers of colored light. From a civil war general to a Thomas Edison wannabe, people have touted it as a medical miracle. Despite claims to the contrary, though, colored light won’t regrow limbs or heal burns. And yet, we are still drawn to the idea that somehow it can fix us. Today ther…

1
THMG448 – Mailbag 17:57

1M ago17:57

17:57

2 pieces of mail came in from either the actual email machine or an in-person class question. Take a listen to our in-depth explanation of topics that are usually just glossed over. In this episode is: Propane Rain and Battery Ventilation Thank you to our sponsor for this episode: KULR Technology A great new battery technology that is exciting the …

1
What even ARE vitamins? And do we actually need them? 46:06

1M ago46:06

46:06

#188 In this episode, hosts Melissa and Jam dive into the basics of vitamins. They discuss the origins of vitamins, why they are labeled with letters, and the difference between water-soluble and fat-soluble vitamins. The episode also touches on the history of vitamin regulation, the necessity of supplementing vitamins, and the impact of diet on vi…

1
Biological Insights from Cell-Free DNA Methylome Analysis in Preeclampsia 11:28

1M ago11:28

11:28

By Stephanie C Y Yu

1
The Word for Blue 39:13

1M ago39:13

39:13

In his epic poem, The Odyssey, Homer mentions the colors black, white, red, and yellow. But despite numerous mentions of the brilliant Greek sea and sky, the word blue never makes an appearance. This omission set off a debate between perception and language that would repeat itself over and over again throughout history: was there something wrong w…

1
Microbiome-Based Diagnostics for Disease: Where Are We Now and Where Are We Headed? 16:52

1M ago16:52

16:52

1
THMG447 – 1994 – Classification & Designation 29:35

1M ago29:35

29:35

An inbound email became the beginning of an investigation and subsequently the seed for a course on suit selection. We take a small section of this course and present it for your viewing (and listening) pleasure. Also, June 5, 2024 at 1930 EST is our long form episode of the After Action Report Podcast featuring Mike Hildebrand which will be stream…

1
Ask a Chemist: Why do you need yogurt to make yogurt? (And other questions) 25:46

1M ago25:46

25:46

Question and Response 56 In this bonus edition of Chemistry for Your Life, hosts Melissa and Jam engage with their listeners by answering a variety of chemistry-related questions and addressing listener comments and reviews. They read and discuss both positive and constructive reviews, and provide important updates about joining a network for the p…

1
Biomarkers vs Machines: The Race to Predict Acute Kidney Injury 17:31

1M ago17:31

17:31

By Joe El-Khoury and Lama Ghazi

1
PIA001 – Calamity #1 – Maryland Strip Mall, May 7, 2009 30:19

2M ago30:19

30:19

Mike was able to whip up a quick report for the incident that happened in Maryland a mere few years ago. We take a brief look into the incident history and give ideas as to the path to make sure this doesn’t happen again. Mike Callan Will be at the conference in Baltimore at the following sessions: Thursday, June 6th, 2024 | Street Smart Hazmat Res…

1
New Season Trailer! Coming June 4th 2:52

2M ago2:52

2:52

Check out our new season, dropping weekly on Tuesdays, starting June 4th.

1
THMG446 – Using Behavior Modeling 27:41

2M ago27:41

27:41

What began as a complex drill Mike runs in his courses evolved into a road map to one of the most efficient methods to move safely through an incident like a breeze. Enter behavior modeling. Also, June 5, 2024 at 1930 EST is our long form episode of the After Action Report Podcast featuring Mike Hildbrand which will be streaming on Facebook and You…

1
Why does hair turn grey when we age? 53:06

2M ago53:06

53:06

#187 This episode of 'Chemistry for Your Life' delves into the fascinating world of gray hair, exploring its chemistry and biological processes. Hosts Melissa and Jam share personal anecdotes about encountering gray hair before diving into a detailed explanation of how hair turns gray. They discuss the roles of melanin, melanocytes, and enzymes lik…

1
Audio Summary June 2024 6:16

2M ago6:16

6:16

1
C&EN Uncovered: Can ‘forever chemicals’ be destroyed? 19:03

2M ago19:03

19:03

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, a class of chemicals known as PFAS, are often called “forever chemicals” because of how long they persist in the environment. They are prevalent in drinking water and have been linked to negative health outcomes. A slew of cleantech start-ups are cropping up with the aim of breaking down and destroying PFAS mole…

1
THMG445 – The Seveso Disaster of 1976 – Part 2 20:36

2M ago20:36

20:36

We take a detailed look at a “long ago” hazardous materials incident that we only recently began to read about. This was pre-everything that started the ball rolling on legislation and right-to-know. Check it out! PLUS: A bonus form our very good friend and mentor Ron Huffman from Responder Training who makes the finest Propane gas flaring tools an…

1
Why do bad smells smell bad? 32:01

2M ago32:01

32:01

#030 Rebroadcast Melissa and Jam continue to sniff out the chemistry of smell, focusing this week on bad smells. Why are we so good at smelling bad smells? Why do they haunt us at night? Why are some bad smells so strong and long lasting, while many great smells are subtle and temporary. What’s in a smell? "That which we call a rose by any other na…

1
Evaluation of Nanopore Sequencing on Polar Bodies for Routine Pre-Implantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy 12:14

2M ago12:14

12:14

By Anna Oberle and Michael Feichtinger

1
THMG444 – The Seveso Disaster of 1976 – Part 1 27:24

2M ago27:24

27:24

We take a detailed look at a “long ago” hazardous materials incident that we only recently began to read about. This was pre-everything that started the ball rolling on legislation and right-to-know. Check it out! Also, June 5, 2024 at 1930 EST is our long form episode of the After Action Report Podcast featuring (someone, they haven’t committed ye…

1
What is old people smell? And is the internet wrong about it? 46:23

2M ago46:23

46:23

#186 In this episode of 'Chemistry for Your Life' hosts Melissa and Jam explore the common notion that elderly people have a distinct smell. They delve into the scientific basis behind this observation, discussing the role of volatile organic compounds, fatty acids on our skin, and how these compounds can change with age. The episode features discu…

1
THMG443 – Dry Powder Decon 21:52

2M ago21:52

21:52

We got a phone call from a dear friend about a new way of decon and wanted our thoughts. A potentially new product is being put forth on a powder that will decon and is non-toxic. Take a listen to hear our thoughts on it. Also, June 5, 2024 at 1930 EST is our long form episode of the After Action Report Podcast featuring (someone, they haven’t comm…

1
Challenges Associated with the Effective Implementation of New Laboratory Tests—The International Experience 15:27

2M ago15:27

15:27

By Andrew St John

1
Ask a Chemist: Reddit Edition! 25:39

2M ago25:39

25:39

Bonus Episode: Question and Response 55 In this bonus episode of 'Chemistry for Your Life,' hosts Melissa and Jam deviate from their usual format of answering listener questions to engage with the Reddit community instead. They delve into various chemistry-related topics, starting with a Reddit user's struggle to understand moles in chemistry, whic…

1
THMG442 – Words Matter – Part 1 30:51

3M ago30:51

30:51

A whirlwind of recent travel and teaching has brought us across a discovery, that words matter. Weather it be the difference between evaporation and boiling or organic or inorganic. This will be a multipart series that is going to be broken up and published periodically. In this episode is: ORGANIC vs INORGANIC and PHASE CHANGE WORDS Also, May 1, 2…

1
Time to Reevaluate the 95% Inclusion Criteria for Defining Reference Intervals? 17:29

3M ago17:29

17:29

By Joe El-Khoury

1
Is compost dirt?? 56:24

3M ago56:24

56:24

#185 Let's make dirt. Or is it dirt? I don't know, well, can you dig it? We've all heard of compost, maybe you compost, maybe your friend does, maybe they talk about it a lot. But how does it work? Why can we compost some things, but not others? And why can't we just put compostable stuff into the trash can, won't it break down in the landfill? Let…

1
THMG441 – CNG Portable Pipelines – Part 2 26:15

3M ago26:15

26:15

Bob was talking to Chief Dan Baker from New York States OFPC about a recent rash of emergencies on “portable pipelines”. Bob had never heard of this and was intrigued, so we naturally brought him and Chief Massaro from Schenectady Fire Department and FPS Chris Gould to explain this and break down 2 of these emergencies. The visuals in these 2 episo…

1
Audio Summary May 2024 5:50

3M ago5:50

5:50

1
How do sunglasses protect our eyes? 38:49

3M ago38:49

38:49

#082 Rebroadcast Wow sunglasses sure are cool. What's the coolest thing about them? Is it how cool they make us look and feel? Or is it the chemistry inside them? We'll let you decide, but we think you'll be surprised to find out how significant a role chemistry plays in the making of your shades. References from this episode https://pubs.acs.org/d…

1
Large Language Models for Scientific Publishing: Please, Do Not Make Them a Foe 13:41

3M ago13:41

13:41

By Nader Rifai

1
THMG440 – CNG Portable Pipelines – Part 1 28:33

3M ago28:33

28:33

Bob was talking to Chief Dan Baker from New York States OFPC about a recent rash of emergencies on “portable pipelines”. Bob had never heard of this and was intrigued, so we naturally brought him and Chief Massaro from Schenectady Fire Department and FPS Chris Gould to explain this and break down 2 of these emergencies. The visuals in these 2 episo…

1
Eye Catching Advancement for Creutzfeldt–Jakob Disease Diagnostics 11:20

3M ago11:20

11:20

By Cyril Helbling and Mari DeMarco

1
What are the Northern Lights? 44:00

3M ago44:00

44:00

#184 That's right, the Northern Lights aren't just cool CGI after all. They're real, but what are they? Why do they occur? And how are they chemistry? Let's find out! References from this Episode https://webbtelescope.org/contents/articles/spectroscopy-101--types-of-spectra-and-spectroscopy https://imagine.gsfc.nasa.gov/educators/lessons/xray_spect…

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