Chemistry is a Long, Loving Look at the Real with Michelle Francl

This is the second episode in our little two-part miniseries featuring Catholic scientists. Be sure to check out last week’s conversation with Deacon Matthew Pinson, SJ, who has a Ph.D. in theoretical physics from MIT. Today’s guest is Dr. Michelle Francl, a professor of chemistry at Bryn Mawr College outside Philadelphia. In addition to being one of the 1000 most-cited chemists in academic literature, Michelle writes about both science and faith for a broad audience. She also serves as an adjunct scholar at the Vatican Observatory, where she has worked with Jesuit astronomers like Brother Guy Consolmagno. (She actually worked with Br. Guy on an audio book series highlighting various Catholic scientists through the ages: https://www.audible.com/pd/Great-Catholic-Scientists-Discoveries-and-Lives-of-Faith-Audiobook/1632517213?srsltid=AfmBOopuQZ9bq8EJ-PDGWMewb2E1OwaNfACWNbBphFE5blNnOUuWp7up) Host Mike Jordan Laskey asked Michelle about how faith and science go together for her and how she responds to popular arguments about how faith and science are totally incompatible. Mike also asked her about wonder and awe in science, and they talked a bit about the book she wrote on the chemistry of brewing tea. You’ll learn once and for all on this episode if those fancy pyramid-shaped tea bags are worth it. We’re sure you’ll love Michelle’s perspective and depth of insight. Dr. Michelle Francl: https://www.brynmawr.edu/inside/people/michelle-francl Michelle's spirituality writing: https://www.michellefrancldonnay.com/ "Steeped: The Chemistry of Tea": https://www.amazon.com/Steeped-Chemistry-Tea-Michelle-Francl/dp/183916591X