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A podcast from your friendly neighborhood electric and gas distribution company in North Texas. Bringing you stories, news, and innovation from CoServ. Hosted by Darreck Kirby.
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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 w ...
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#071 Rebroadcast It's time to crack into one of life's great mysteries: eggs. So what happens when we cook them?! How do they go from clear goo to white jiggle? This is a question we received long ago, and with topics this serious, we don't yoke around. So we waited until we could bring in an eggsperienced egg chef, Jason Cress, to figure out this …
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#194 In this episode of Chemistry for Your Life, Melissa and Jam delve into the chemistry behind modern dental fillings. They explore how dentists use a combination of organic monomers and inorganic fillers to address cavities and the role of light-activated photoinitiators in hardening these materials. Melissa also shares her personal experiences …
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Question and Response #59 Reddit's Chemistry Questions Answered In this episode of 'Chemistry for Your Life,' hosts Melissa and Jam dive into Reddit to answer chemistry-related questions. They explore why ice in a fizzy drink causes more fizz, how stainless steel removes onion smells from hands, when to email professors for recommendation letters, …
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#193 In this episode of Chemistry for Your Life, hosts Melissa and Jam delve into the chemistry of milk, focusing on the differences between raw and pasteurized milk. They discuss the processes of pasteurization and homogenization, how they affect the nutritional content of milk, and answer listener questions about raw milk's spoilage, nutritional …
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In this bonus game edition of 'Chemistry For Your Life', host Melissa, co-host Jam, and guest Claire embark on an entertaining journey of debunking or verifying popular 'fun facts' submitted by their listeners. The game, titled 'Fun Fact or Fake Factoid', involves dissecting quirky trivia ranging from the pollination of tomatoes to the weight of al…
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![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
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Ask a Neuroscientist: Why is Adderall addictive to SOME people and not others? (and other questions)
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Question and Response 58 In this bonus episode of Chemistry For Your Life, hosts Melissa and Jam are joined by Claire, an expert in pharmacology and neuroscience, to discuss the inner workings of antidepressants and answer additional questions from the previous episode. Claire shares her grad school experiences, highlighting the challenges and uniq…
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#192 In this episode of 'Chemistry for Your Life,' hosts Melissa and Jam introduce special guest Claire Caballero, a pharmacology and neuroscience PhD student, to discuss how antidepressants work. Claire explains the role of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and GABA in mental health, the mechanisms of various antidepressants such as SSRI…
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#191 In this episode of 'Chemistry for Your Life,' hosts Melissa and Jam delve into captivating and practical fun facts about vitamin C. They discuss the recommended daily intake, its role in preventing scurvy, the surprising regulations on food labels, and the common foods that are rich in vitamin C. Furthermore, they explore its use as a preserva…
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#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…
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#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…
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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…
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#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…
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#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…
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#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…
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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…
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#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…
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#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…
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#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…
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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…
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#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…
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#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…
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#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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Bonus Episode: Question and Response 54 In this month's bonus episode, Melissa and Jam respond to your comments and questions about dissolving, purple shampoo, coal ash, and petroleum waste. Thanks to our monthly supporters Ciara Linville J0HNTR0Y Jeannette Napoleon Cullyn R Erica Bee Elizabeth P Sarah Moar Rachel Reina Letila Katrina Barnum-Huckin…
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#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…
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#081 Rebroadcast The sun. It's nice, it's warm, it helps things grow, it helps us see, it helps us exist in the first place. But it's also a massive burning molten ball of radiation and ultraviolet rays. So how does our mysterious yellow friend fade the poor items we leave outside? Let's find out. Don't hurt us, yellow friend. References from this …
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#182 There's an eclipse coming to the US in April! Which means we'll all be getting that reminder to NOT LOOK AT THE ECLIPSE WITHOUT PROPER EYE PROTECTION. But why is that? At the molecular level, what happens to our eyes if we look at the eclipse? And how does eye protection prevent damage to our eyes? Let's find out! References from this Episode …
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Bonus Episode: Question and Response 53 In this month's bonus episode, Melissa and Jam respond to your comments and questions about purple shampoo, salt on icy roads, msg, and more! 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…
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#181 Have you heard about Vitamin D? Has someone ever told you that you need it and it's really important? Have you ever wondered why? And have you ever wondered what the heck THE SUN has to do with Vitamin D? Well rise and shine it's time to finally get to the bottom of this. References from this Episode https://www.chemistryworld.com/features/shi…
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At CoServ, we offer more than just a job. We provide you with an opportunity to shape your career and achieve your professional goals. Our Careers Campaign is specifically designed to help you grow and succeed in your chosen field. Join us and become a part of a team that values your potential and invests in your future.…
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#085 Rebroadcast Well here in Texas, we just suffered through an intense freeze. And many a plant became a casualty of the cold, but why? What's going on at the molecular level that causes freezing temperatures to be bad for many plants? And is talking about this even chemistry? Let's find out. References from this episode https://climate.ncsu.edu/…
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#180 Depending on where you live, you may use Fahrenheit or Celsius to measure temperature, but how did these measurements come about, why are they different, and seriously, who is Kelvin? References from this Episode https://highschoolenergy.acs.org/what-is-energy/thermometers.html We want to give a special thanks to Bri McAllister for illustratin…
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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 Cul…
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#179 Over the past few years infrared thermometers have started being EVERYWHERE. So as we've cracked open the conversation on thermometers we've got to find out, how do infrared thermometers work? How are they different from other kinds? References from this Episode https://highschoolenergy.acs.org/what-is-energy/thermometers.html We want to give …
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We may have thawed out a little since the winter storm, but we've still got 53 days of winter left to go! In this episode of As A Meter of Fact, Darreck sits down with Josh Sterling, CoServ's Manager of Energy Solutions, to discuss the best ways for Members and Customers to save energy AND money this winter. As a bonus, Darreck also explains how Co…
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#074 This time of year, it's a common occurrence, something so common that we might not even wonder about it anymore. But really, why do we see our breath in the air when it's cold? We see steam from cooking things and boiling water, but our breath isn't that hot, so why do we see it? What does temperature have to do with it? Let's find out. Refere…
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#178 Thermometers tell us what temperature something is. But how do the thermometers know what the temperature is? Who tells the thermometers? Or rather, how do thermometers accurately gauge what the temperature is, consistently, in high heat and super cold? Let's find out. References from this Episode https://highschoolenergy.acs.org/what-is-energ…
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Bonus Episode: Question and Response 51 In this month's bonus episode, Melissa and Jam respond to your comments and questions about PFAS/forever chemicals, the periodic table, chemistry and engineering, and more! Thanks to our monthly supporters Ciara Linville J0HNTR0Y Jeannette Napoleon Cullyn R Erica Bee Elizabeth P Sarah Moar Rachel Reina Letila…
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#177 Yogurt, sometimes known as thick milk. But what is it really? What happens at the molecular level, how does it become yogurt? And while we're at it, what is sour cream? Let's talk about these dairy substances. References from this Episode https://youtu.be/uJEkb4Hq5jY https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK234682/ https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/t…
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#104 Rebroadcast Seriously what the heck is cheese? It's a question we've all wondered, but most of us only ever know that it's from milk—but what else? How do we turn milk into cheese? What's going on at the chemical level? And why do cheeses taste different from each other? Let's find out. References from this episode http://pubsapp.acs.org/cen/w…
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With Lineman Appreciation Day fast approaching, it seemed as good a time as any to welcome CoServ Crew Supervisor Chris Hammonds to the studio to discuss what a typical day looks like for CoServ linemen. As a bonus, this episode will tie in with the January edition of Texas Co-op Power magazine for the Thank a Lineman essay contest. To win, listen …
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#176 We're in the portion of the year where cinnamon finds its way into many things we eat and drink: our pies, our tea, our coffee, our wassail, our candles, etc. But what is cinnamon really? What's going on with it at the molecular level? What makes it unique? Let's find out References from this Episode https://www.chemistryworld.com/podcasts/cin…
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Bonus Episode: Question and Response 50 In this month's bonus episode, Melissa and Jam respond to your comments and questions about mosquitos, kombucha, coated cookware, and more! 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 P…
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#175 MSG! The ingredient many of us reference but few of us know anything about. What is it? Why does it make things taste so good? What's in it? Is it bad for us? If not, why does everyone think it is? References from this Episode https://youtu.be/VJw8r_YWJ9k https://www.compoundchem.com/2014/08/25/msg/ https://www.nature.com/articles/1602526 http…
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#016 Rebroadcast This week Melissa and Jam explore the chemistry of onion tears, the emotional reaction we all have, against our will, when cutting onions. Grab some tissues, this one's gonna burn. References from this episode https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/jf60174a009 https://pubs.acs.org/doi/pdf/10.1021/acschembio.7b00336 https://www.nature…
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As we wind down the last few weeks of 2023, As A Meter of Fact looks at CoServ's many milestones, developments, and spotlights that marked the year.由CoServ
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#174 For many folks in the US, today is a day where we eat Turkey! And many times the factoid/rumor makes the rounds that eating turkey makes you sleepy... but does it? Let's get into it, and fair warning, it's not as simple as you think. References from this Episode Biochemistry, 4th edition, by Garrett & Grisham, https://www.scientificamerican.co…
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Bonus Episode: Chemmunity Style For this month's bonus episode we don't have questions, so we're recording an episode in the style of our secret supporter-only podcast. Check it out and enjoy an extra episode. Thanks to our monthly supporters Ciara Linville J0HNTR0Y Jeannette Napoleon Cullyn R Erica Bee Elizabeth P Sarah Moar Rachel Reina Letila Ka…
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#173 What is freeze-drying? How can something be both frozen and dried? How does it differ from just freezing, or just drying? And is it just for astronauts? Let's get into it! References from this Episode https://www.acs.org/middleschoolchemistry/lessonplans/chapter5/lesson6.html#:~:text=The%20added%20energy%20in%20the%2Csucrose%20molecules%20to%2…
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#020 Rebroadcast This week Melissa and Jam explore the chemistry of water and intermolecular forces. Why does it form into droplets? Why can you fill a glass of water just above the rim and it not spill over? How are some things water proof or water resistant? References from this episode General Chemistry: Principles, Patterns, and Applications - …
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Winters in North Texas can be unpredictable. As such, it’s important to understand not only how to help make your home energy efficient but also the factors that impact your bill. In this episode of As A Meter of Fact, Darreck discusses basic energy efficiency tips, budget billing, payment assistance options, what Heating Degree Days are, and how t…
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