Distillations
Series produced by Distillations
Science + Culture + History
Each episode of Distillations takes a deep dive into a moment of science-related history in order to shed light on the present. Produced by the Science History Institute.
170 Pieces
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Pucker up! On this episode we investigate the kiss. First, what's in the saliva we share with each other? Then we interview Sheril Kirshenbaum, aut...
Bought by Prairie Public, KSFR, PRX Remix, and Marfa Public Radio
- Added: Feb 03, 2012
- Length: 12:41
- Purchases: 4
On this episode we look at how environments recover after natural and manmade disasters. First, we hear about how ecosystems repair themselves afte...
- Added: Feb 20, 2012
- Length: 13:42
On today's show we look at the real and imagined implications of genetic modification in the middle of the 20th century.
- Added: Mar 02, 2012
- Length: 14:40
In this episode we travel back in time to the Victorian era, when innovative teachers used fairies to convey complicated ideas in chemistry. We ada...
Bought by WTJU
- Added: Mar 16, 2012
- Length: 09:56
- Purchases: 1
In this episode we look at the diverse history of mass spectrometry, starting with a single question: exactly what is it? Then we dip into CHF's or...
- Added: Mar 31, 2012
- Length: 13:18
Asbestos, once a miracle product, is now a plague on the aging infrastructure to which it's bound. In this episode we explore a Pennsylvania town w...
- Added: Apr 17, 2012
- Length: 14:03
Sneezing, itchy eyes, runny nose? We all know what that means: allergies. On this show we look at pet dander, a common cause. Then we talk to a res...
- Added: May 02, 2012
- Length: 14:22
Big eyes, soft skin, squeezable cheeks. No doubt, babies are adorable. But in this episode we take a break from our cooing to examine some more ser...
- Added: May 16, 2012
- Length: 13:43
In this episode we cross the Atlantic to learn what makes a perfect cuppa. Then we learn about the surprising health benefits of Marmite, a spreada...
- Added: May 29, 2012
- Length: 15:27
We bring you some of our favorite segments from past Distillations episodes this week: animal communication in the Sonoran Desert and the toll of a...
- Added: Aug 04, 2012
- Length: 13:33
We bring you some of our favorite segments from past Distillations episodes this week: attempts to contact aliens in space and the secret behind th...
- Added: Aug 04, 2012
- Length: 15:34
Good science takes time... or not? On today's show we explore the extremes. First the longest-running experiment in the world; then the near-instan...
Bought by WTJU
- Added: Aug 29, 2012
- Length: 14:12
- Purchases: 1
In this episode we test your gag reflex. First an exploration of rank, funky cheeses made from your own body's bacteria. Then the history of how di...
- Added: Sep 18, 2012
- Length: 13:13
On today's show we track the evolution of smog from symbol of industrial progress to public-health catastrophe.
- Added: Oct 09, 2012
- Length: 14:19
In this episode, a conversation between two alchemy experts: James Voelkel, who curated CHF’s exhibit The Alchemical Quest, and Lawrence Principe, ...
- Added: Oct 18, 2012
- Length: 13:58
In this episode we welcome back author Sam Kean to discuss the secrets and surprises contained in our DNA.
- Added: Oct 31, 2012
- Length: 12:22
Treasure or toxin? In this episode we follow Teflon's rise from happy accident to indispensable tool at work, home, and even war.
- Added: Nov 15, 2012
- Length: 15:14
In this episode we peel back our skin. First, an innovative technology that could provide early detection of osteoporosis. Then, a look at stone ma...
Bought by KVSC
- Added: Jan 11, 2013
- Length: 16:24
- Purchases: 1
Today your taste buds take center stage. First, how super-tasters' genetic gift might afford them better health. Then the art of imitation flavors.
Bought by WTJU
- Added: Jan 23, 2013
- Length: 16:09
- Purchases: 1
Just in time for Valentine's Day we explore the sexier side of alchemy. Historian Joel Klein explains how alchemists used passionate prose to disgu...
Bought by WDBM
- Added: Feb 05, 2013
- Length: 13:59
- Purchases: 1
