The Science of Life with Dr. Raven Baxter

Latest Episodes:

The Dangers of Synthetic Braiding Hair with Dr. Jim Rogers Apr 08, 2025

Show notes

I'm joined by Dr. James Rogers of Consumer Reports. Jim Rogers is the lead on the study that came out of Consumer Reports highlighting the potential dangers of synthetic braiding hair. Consumer Reports tested 10 of the most popular brands and varieties of synthetic braiding hair on the market. They found dangerous chemicals in all of their samples. The study found VOCs in the braiding hair, including benzene, which is a known cancer-causing agent, as well as other potential and likely cancer-causing agents. They also found lead in the samples, in an amount up to 600% of the maximum allowable dosage level.
This study is a step in the right direction for consumers of synthetic hair to have the information they deserve to have. If you would like more information on the study, visit this link: https://thesciencemaven.com/blog/cancer-causing-chemicals-in-all-of-the-top-10-braiding-hair-on-the-market

EP 10: Neuroscience and Science Communication with Dr. Ben Rein Jan 17, 2025

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Join me as I chit chat with perhaps one of the most fun neuroscientists that you'll ever meet, Dr. Ben Rein. We talk about all things neuroscience as well as my most favorite thing on the planet, science communication.

EP 09: The Mysterious Origins of Life with Evolutionary Biologist Dr. Olivia Judson Dec 17, 2024

Show notes

Okay, friends. Gather round. So, this podcast is called The Science of Life, but we need to get to the MEAT of it all... what even IS life? Today we begin on our deep dive, deeper than the Mariana Trench. Microbes on Earth that make magnets? Are we aliens? We're getting into it ALL with evolutionary biologist Dr. Olivia Judson, author of Dr. Tatiana's Sex Advice to All Creation, The Definitive Guide to the Evolutionary Biology of Sex, in this episode.

EP 08: My psychiatrist, Dr. Mike Magarefteh Nov 24, 2024

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We're back after a hiatus, because: LIFE BE LIFE-ING! Today, we're talking to my psychiatrist, Dr. Mike Magarefteh. Yes, I brought my psychiatrist on my podcast! Why? Because he's awesome, and it's really important to talk about mental health and destigmatize it. I hope that hearing a little bit about my journey can inspire someone to do some introspection about their mental health, and consider therapy or psychiatric evaluation. Your brain is a part of your body, so let's take care of it like it is!

EP 07: It is rocket science, with Naia Butler-Craig Jul 31, 2024

Show notes

How many times have we said, "Well, it's not like it's rocket science." Well, TODAY is your lucky day! Today it IS rocket science, and we have none other than aerospace engineer Naia Butler-Craig to hold our hand while teaching us one of the toughest subjects. Today we're learning rocket science.

EP 06: Ultimate dolphin shenanigans, with Dr. Heather Spence Jul 10, 2024

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This episode is going to blow your mind. Learn about all things dolphins, music, and dolphin music with Dr. Heather Spence on my podcast!

EP 05: The microbes that live inside and on us, with Dr. Amy Proal Jun 25, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, I talk with CEO of PolyBio Research Foundation, Dr. Amy Proal, who is a microbiologist passionate about advancing science in a way that we understand the roots and drivers of the chronic illnesses that impact millions of people every day. We talk about everything from persistent pathogens, to breaking down elitism in science, and so much more. I loved this episode! You’re going to learn so much!

PS: So sorry I’ve been away! I had a bit of a hiccup in my life due to this real estate transaction (just google my name and New York Times to learn about that)
So glad to resume here on the podcast. Thank you everyone for your support.

EP 04: Astrophysics chit chat, with Dr. Ronald Gamble, Jr. May 21, 2024

Show notes

Meet my partner, Dr. Ronald Gamble, Jr.! Ron is a theoretical astrophysicist at NASA, and one of my biggest supporters. While waiting for our previous guest, Dr. Tiara Moore, to arrive, Dr. Ron took the hot seat to tell us all about BLACK HOLES and his research. He'll be back on soon! If you have any questions for Dr. Gamble to share on his full episode, find me online and leave a comment with your question!

EP 03: Dolphins do WHAT? Trailblazing in marine science, with Dr. Tiara Moore Apr 30, 2024

Show notes

In this special episode, I interview Dr. Tiara Moore, founder and CEO of Black in Marine Science (BIMS). We discuss the groundbreaking birth of the BIMS organization and the importance of creating equity in marine science. Dr. Moore shares her experiences as a trailblazer in the field and the challenges she has faced. We also delve into the concept of environmental DNA (eDNA) and its significance in marine science research.

EP 02: Just like a white-winged dove: birds, with Dr. Dan Baldassarre Apr 23, 2024

Show notes

This episode, I'm chatting it up with Dr. Dan Baldassarre, an expert in the behavioral ecology of birds. We discuss the fascinating world of birds, including their adaptations, courtship behaviors, and vocalizations. We also explore the connection between birds and dinosaurs, as well as the cultural and societal influences on bird behavior. From the complex songs of songbirds to the unique courtship displays of fairy wrens, birds offer a diverse and captivating subject of study. This episode provides a glimpse into the intriguing world of avian behavior and the wonders of the natural world. Most importantly, we talk about conservation efforts to protect bird species and how individuals can contribute to their preservation.

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