

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 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
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Check out our website at chemforyourlife.com
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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!

Aug 22, 2024 • 46min
What is up with RAW milk?
Explore the intriguing world of milk as hosts investigate the chemistry behind raw versus pasteurized options. They dissect pasteurization processes and their impact on nutrition, alongside the shelf life and safety concerns of raw milk. Misconceptions about raw milk and its benefits are challenged, while the hosts share fun facts about milk. With engaging listener questions and community shoutouts, this conversation blends science with a touch of humor.

Aug 15, 2024 • 36min
What happens to eggs when we cook them? (with Jason Cress)
Joining the conversation is Jason Cress, a former co-host and seasoned breakfast chef. He dives into the fascinating transformations of eggs during cooking, unraveling the chemistry behind why they change from clear goo to a delightful white jiggle. The discussion also touches on the roles of proteins and amino acids, showcasing how heat alters their structure. With personal anecdotes and relatable analogies, Jason emphasizes the joy of cooking eggs while reflecting on gratitude during Thanksgiving.


