So I Married A Scientist Mel & Corey

When you experience joy, what's happening in your body and brain? Corey and Mel discuss the neurotransmitters that work behind-the-scenes to create the emotions that many of us call happiness or contentment. The discussion covers emerging research on joy and the ways it's linked to health - as well as other highly important topics like Charlie Chaplain, baby yoda, and cookies. Whether you are listening during the holidays or not, this episode is a helpful look into the nature/nurture composition of mental health and includes ideas for boosting joy in our daily lives.

You may know Marie Curie's name, but do you know her story and what she contributed to the scientific community? In their second episode in the Under Appreciated Scientists in History series, Mel and Corey take a look at Madame Curie's life and what makes her so remarkable.

Hang out with Corey & Mel as they discuss all the listener feedback and questions they've gotten over the past 10 episodes from family and friends around the world. You'll learn a cool technique for relaxing stubborn muscles, conjecture on how Harry Potter World might use lasers, that Mel cannot impersonate an ice cream truck to save her life, the meaning of "biomimicry," and one good thing about mosquitos. They also throw in more questions and fun facts for each episode that they thought of after the original recording of each show. Enjoy!

Now that the mosquitos are gone for the winter (at least in parts of the Northern Hemisphere), Mel and Corey reflect on the awful problems they cause around the world even though they are important to many ecosystems. Did you know that scientists currently have the technology to wipe out mosquito species which carry the most deadly diseases? This week: the immense ethical dilemma of "gene drives" and what it means to possess this kind of power. On a positive note, in the spirit of the holiday season, consider donating a mosquito net to a family who could really use it! A small gift can make a huge difference. https://nothingbutnets.net/

Lasers: mysterious, powerful, amazing. Ever curious as to how they actually work? This week Corey and Mel discuss the underlying technology and applications of lasers, including laser pointers, LASIK eye surgery, missile defense systems, and household laser safety. WARNING: You may find this episode illuminating.

Have you heard of spider goats? Besides being a great band name, spider goats are real goats, designed by geneticists, to make spider silk in their milk. This week, Mel and Corey dive into the great debate over the technology and applications of genetically modifying organisms (GMOs). Mel covers every anti-GMO argument she can find, and asks Corey what he thinks as a scientist. His perspective may surprise you.