Podcast · Tech & Science

GeOCHemISTea

Every geoscientist is capable of understanding and applying geochemical data, however, at GeocHemiSTea we understand that there is an incredible amount of nuance and accumulated knowledge. We are here to break down the impediments towards geoscientists learning more about this exciting field! Are

New episodes: Monthly
Typical length: 1 hr 2 min
Latest: 23 Sep 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

23 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 6 min

What If We Treated Waste Like Ore with Anita Parbhakar-Fox

What if we treated mine waste with the same curiosity and rigor as the orebody itself? This month on GeOCHemISTea, Sam sits down with Dr. Anita Parbhakar-Fox to talk about rethinking mine waste across the life of mine. From environmental geometallurgy and waste characterization to valorization, closure planning, and the push toward net-zero mine waste, Anita challenges us to stop seeing waste as an afterthought. Plus, over tea, we dig into the geoscience skills shortage, the pressures facing educators, and why inspiring the next generation requires supporting the people teaching them. For…

Play episodeWhatsApp Download

Earlier episodes 29 most recent

S5 · E8 · 2 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 12 min
From Hand Samples to Satellites: Geochemistry with Brenda Bowen
In this episode of GeOCHemISTea, Sam talks with Dr. Brenda Bowen, Professor of Geology and Geophysics at the University of Utah, about using remote sensing to understand geochemistry at the scale of entire landscapes. Brenda traces her work from the Navajo Sandstone and ancient fluid-flow systems to modern salt flats, desert environments, and Mars analogs. We explore how multispectral and hyperspectral data can map mineralogy, how minerals preserve records of water and environmental change, and how surface halite can even provide clues about groundwater depth. We also talk about…
S5 · E7 · 21 Jul 2026 · 1 hr 2 min
The Fallacy of the Deep with Mark Arundell
Is the next generation of mineral discoveries really hiding at extreme depths, or have we overlooked opportunities much closer to the surface? In this episode, Sam sits down with returning guest Mark Arundell, geoscientist and geochemical consultant, to challenge one of exploration's most widely accepted assumptions: that bigger discoveries require deeper drilling. Together they explore the "fallacy of the deep," discuss why statistics matter when interpreting exploration success, and examine how integrating geology, geochemistry, geophysics, and modern analytical techniques can unlock value…
S5 · E6 · 17 Jun 2026 · 1 hr 20 min
The Rocks Meet Wall Street with Dave Lawie & Sam Scher
For Episode 51, the tables are turned as Imdex Chief Geologist and Technologist Dave Lawie takes over hosting duties and puts Sam in the hot seat. Fresh from the SME Current Trends in Mining Finance conference in New York City, Dave and Sam discuss the growing disconnect between how mining projects are evaluated financially and how they actually behave technically. From resource models and geometallurgy to critical minerals, permitting, and project risk, they explore why geology, mineralogy, metallurgy, and geochemistry remain central to project success. The conversation also looks at Sam's…
S5 · E5 · 20 May 2026 · 1 hr 40 min
Data Levelling Panel with Pedro Acosta-Gongora & Tom Carmichael
For our 50th episode of GeOCHemISTea , we’re doing something a little different... a panel discussion that brings together two very different perspectives on one deceptively simple problem: levelling geochemical data. Joined by a government survey geochemist, Pedro Acosta-Gongora, and a mathematical geologist, Tom Carmichael, this conversation digs into what levelling really means in practice, why it’s become standard in regional datasets, and where it can quietly distort the geological signal. From legacy data and batch effects to the tension between clean maps and real-world noise, this…
S5 · E4 · 15 Apr 2026 · 47 min
From Evidence to Origin: Solving Mysteries with Isoscapes with Gabe Bowen
In this episode of GeOCHemISTea , Sam sits down with Gabe Bowen to explore the world of forensic isotope geochemistry and the power of isoscapes. From identifying where someone has lived, to reconstructing movement through hair and teeth, isotopes are becoming a powerful investigative tool—bridging geochemistry, ecology, and forensic science. They break down: What forensic isotope geochemistry actually is (and what it isn’t) How isoscapes turn isotope data into geographic maps Why hydrogen, oxygen, strontium, and sulfur matter How hair, teeth, and bone record different parts of a life story…
S5 · E3 · 18 Mar 2026 · 55 min
Beyond Bulk Geochemistry: Cobalt, Nanoparticles, and Surface Processes with Owen Missen
This episode of GeOCHemISTea explores cobalt cycling, critical metals, and why geochemists need to think beyond bulk chemistry to understand how elements behave in surface environments. Sam is joined by Owen Missen, lecturer in environmental geology at the University of Tasmania and researcher with CODES, whose work focuses on the environmental geochemistry and mineralogy of elements like cobalt and tellurium. The conversation explores why cobalt matters in modern technology, how nanoscale particles are changing the way we think about metal mobility, and what this means for environmental…
S5 · E2 · 18 Feb 2026 · 1 hr 16 min
Fit-for-Purpose Geochemistry and Fewer Bad Programs with Simon Bolster
Simon Bolster joins GeOCHemISTea to unpack what actually makes near-surface geochemistry work in mineral exploration: understanding regolith and landforms before you ever “put dirt in bags.” With four decades in gold exploration, Simon argues that many programs fail not because geochemistry is “bad,” but because sampling and analytical choices do not match the terrain,the cover, or the project stage. The conversation moves from regolith terrain assessment andmapping as the real starting point, to why “lowest detection limit” is not a substitute for good planning. Simon also breaks down…
S5 · E1 · 21 Jan 2026 · 1 hr 7 min
From Geomet to the Mill: Breaking Down Silos with Mohsen Yahyaei
In this episode of GeOCHemISTea, host Sam Scher engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Professor Mohsen Yahyaei, a mineral processing engineer and director at the Julius Kruttschnitt Mineral Research Center. They explore the impact of geographical differences on mental health, particularly how varying daylight hours can affect mood and productivity. The discussion transitions into the importance of integrating geological and processing data to optimize mineral extraction processes, emphasizing the need for collaboration between geologists and processing engineers to enhance…
S4 · E12 · 23 Dec 2025 · 1 hr
Volcanoes, Mush, and Mineralization with Mike Stock
In this episode of GeOCHemISTea , Sam talks with Mike Stock , Professor at Trinity College Dublin, about magma systems from eruption to emplacement. Drawing on work in the Galápagos and Ireland, Mike explores how the same geochemical and petrological processes govern both volcanic activity and ore formation. The conversation focuses on breaking down silos between volcanology and economic geology—highlighting shared tools, concepts, and models that are often studied in isolation. The episode closes with a discussion on batholiths and crustal-scale magma systems, offering a fresh perspective…
S4 · E11 · 19 Nov 2025 · 1 hr 1 min
The mineralogy hidden in your assays with Scott Halley
This month on GeOCHemISTea, Sam sits down with Scott Halley to talk about extracting meaningful mineralogy from standard four-acid assay data. Scott walks through how the classic MINSQ approach evolved into modern linear-programming methods that handle solid solutions, honor thermodynamics, and produce fast, first-pass mineralogy models. They also dig into ambiguity in geologic interpretation, “cognitive entrenchment” in porphyry systems, and how linking calculated mineralogy to rock physics is helping bridge the gap between geochemistry and geophysics. For this episode we read: MINSQ - a…
S4 · E10 · 15 Oct 2025 · 49 min
Geochemistry Without Borders: A Conversation with Alecos Demetriades
Alecos Demetriades, applied geochemist and Chair of the IUGS Commission on Global Geochemical Baselines (2024–2028), joins GeOCHemISTea to unpack the Global Geochemical Reference Network (GGRN): why a 160×160 km grid matters, how harmonized sampling/analysis underpins trustworthy baselines, and what QA/QC must look like before interpretation. We touch on FOREGS, leveling national datasets to global references, and practical ways exploration and mining teams can access, use, and contribute to these datasets. Plus: tea stories during Tea Time and why passing knowledge to the next generation…
S4 · E9 · 10 Sep 2025 · 56 min
Geochemical exploration in low sulfidation epithermal systems with Simon Griffiths
This month on GeOCHemISTea, we welcome back Simon Griffiths, Principal Consultant at Third Planet Exploration Services, to unpack the geochemical exploration strategies for low-sulfidation epithermal systems. From vein textures to vanadium-rich roscoelite halos, Simon walks us through practical strategies for geochemical targeting and alteration mapping. He shares insights into sampling, spectral workflows, and how roscoelite at Porgera became one of the most reliable vectors to high-grade gold. Plus a wild tale about how an ICP machine was used to crack down on gold theft in the mine lab.…
S4 · E8 · 13 Aug 2025 · 59 min
From Sardis to the lab: a gold assay deep dive with Hugh De Souza
In this episode of GeOCHemISTea, we're joined by Hugh De Souza to explore the evolution of gold analysis; from 4,000-year-old fire assay traditions to disruptive technologies like photon assay. With over 40 years at research and industry analytical labs and deep experience in mineralogy, geochemistry, and lab innovation, Hugh shares his unconventional path into analytical geochemistry, breaks down the physics behind modern methods, and reflects on what the future holds for gold assay. Whether you're a field geo or into analytical chemistry, this one's for you.
S4 · E7 · 9 Jul 2025 · 53 min
Fine Fractions & Big Discoveries: A Deep Dive into Drainage Geochem with Mary Doherty
This month on GeOCHemISTea, we are talking about one of exploration geochemistry’s most foundational, and rapidly evolving, methods: stream sediment sampling. Sam is joined by geochemical consultant and educator Mary Doherty, lead author of a 2023 review on stream sediment geochemistry, published in Geochemistry: Exploration, Environment, Analysis . Mary shares a career’s worth of field, lab, and leadership experience, from carrying samples for her USGS geologist father as a child to building geochem training programs for Newmont and ALS, and recently teaching at the Colorado School of…
S4 · E5 · 11 Jun 2025 · 1 hr 2 min
Into the Plume: Hydrothermal Geochemistry and Alvin Adventures with Andy Campbell
In this episode of GeOCHemISTea, we're diving deep, literally, with Andy Campbell, oceanographer, geochemist, and former senior leader at the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Andy takes us back to his PhD days at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, where he conducted some of the earliest geochemical research on seafloor hydrothermal systems in the Guaymas Basin. His work on manganese cycling, water column anomalies, and hydrothermal plume modeling not only helped lay the foundation for modern vent geochemistry, it also offered early insight into how ore deposits might form in…
S4 · E4 · 15 May 2025 · 1 hr 30 min
Geothermal Geochemistry and the Roads Less Taken with Stuart Simmons
In this episode of GeOCHemISTea , Sam sits down with geochemist and geothermal expert Stuart Simmons to discuss the unpredictable paths that shape a career in geoscience. From early work in epithermal gold systems to pioneering research in geothermal energy, Stuart shares how professional pivots, academic curiosity, and a chance encounter at a pub in New Zealand all influenced his decades-long contribution to both industry and research. The conversation also dives into the geochemistry of geothermal systems, the evolution of isotope studies, and the promise of enhanced geothermal systems…
S4 · E4 · 9 Apr 2025 · 1 hr 4 min
Probing paleorecords to understand future climates with Brittany Hupp
Join us this month on GeOCHemISTea as we sit down with Brittany Hupp, Assistant Professor at George Mason University in the Department of Atmospheric, Oceanic, and Earth Sciences. Brittany specializes in micropaleontology, sedimentology, and low-temperature geochemistry, exploring ancient climates and ocean conditions to better understand modern environmental challenges. In this episode, Brittany shares her unconventional path into geosciences—from a dairy farm in rural Ohio to oceanic research cruises—and offers practical advice for aspiring geochemists seeking interdisciplinary careers.…
S4 · E3 · 12 Mar 2025 · 1 hr 7 min
Dynamic mapping of tailings oxidation with Oscar Benavente
This month GeOCHemISTea talks with Oscar Benavente, an environmental geochemist at SRK Consulting, about using satellite imagery to monitor mine drainage and environmental change. They dive into how Google Earth Engine, Python, and machine learning are transforming geochemical monitoring—mapping water bodies, tracking sulfide oxidation, and improving mine site remediation. Oscar shares insights from his career spanning geothermal exploration, environmental geochemistry, and consulting. They also discuss the importance of fieldwork, communicating complex science effectively, and the…
S4 · E2 · 12 Feb 2025 · 59 min
The trials and tribulations of historic geochemistry datasets with Putra Sadikin
Historical geochemical datasets can be challenging with variable methods, missing metadata, and shifting detection limits, but they’re also an invaluable resource for mineral exploration and mining. In this episode, we break down what qualifies as historical data, common pitfalls to watch for, and best practices for integrating legacy datasets into interpretation workflows. We also explore the newest geochemical data from field-portable and scanning technologies, examining how they complement and contrast with traditional datasets. For this episode we read: Advances in ICP-MS technology and…
S4 · E1 · 8 Jan 2025 · 1 hr 15 min
Avoiding sub-optimal sampling with Mark Arundell
In this episode we talk with Mark Arundell, Principal Geologist at IMEx Consulting, to delve into the past, present, and future of geochemical sampling. With over 30 years of international experience, Mark shares insights into avoiding suboptimal sampling, the importance of understanding regolith, and how smarter techniques can lead to better outcomes in mineral exploration. Whether you're new to geochemistry or a seasoned professional, this conversation is packed with practical advice and thought-provoking discussions on improving exploration geochemistry strategies. For this episode we…
S3 · E12 · 11 Dec 2024 · 1 hr 21 min
The Sci-Fi and Facts of Orogenic Gold with Rich Goldfarb
In this episode of GeOCHemISTea we dive into the origins of orogenic gold deposits with Rich Goldfarb, exploring the science behind fluids, isotopes, and formation processes. From debunking magmatic theories to highlighting the facts of metamorphic origins, Rich shares the real tea (and quite a number of shenanigans) on how to make an orogenic gold deposit . Join us for a conversation that’s equal parts science and intrigue. For this episode we read: Orogenic gold: is a genetic association with magmatism realistic? (Goldfarb and Pitcairn, 2022)
S3 · E11 · 13 Nov 2024 · 35 min
Exploring with pXRF and LIBS with Steve Tambanis
In this episode of GeOCHemISTea , host Sam Scher sits down with Steve Tambanis, Managing Director at STX Consulting and Director at RealTime Priority Limited, to explore the challenges and innovations in field-based geochemical analysis using portable XRF (pXRF) and laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS). Steve shares his journey from traditional exploration geology to pioneering real-time assays, recounting how he and his team set out to develop a portable field laboratory for immediate sample analysis in remote settings. Together, they dive into the highs and lows of calibrating and…
S3 · E10 · 9 Oct 2024 · 37 min
Upscaling pyrite chemistry with 4-acid data with Aidan Kitchener
Let's learn about upscaling LA-ICP-MS pyrite results to whole rock geochemistry data using PCA. On the way we'll hear about the life and times of an early career geochemist and some of the ins and outs of being a geochemical consultant. For this episode we read: Using whole rock and in situ pyrite chemistry to evaluate authigenic and hydrothermal controls on trace element variability in a Zn mineralized Proterozoic subbasin (Magnall et al., 2022)
S3 · E5 · 11 Sep 2024 · 45 min
Geochemical exploration for greenstone gold deposits with Simon Griffiths
For this episode we read: Archean Lode Gold Deposits in Ontario (Colvine et al., 1984) aka the Greenstone Bible. We talk about Simon's transition from working from large mining companies to opening his own consultancy for all those considering this as part of their future. Our tea... have you ever been late to your flight, anxious on the shores of Lake Victoria, Tanzania? As for the heart of the show? We talk about the applications of geochemistry to greenstone gold exploration. This one is dedicated to the fans of the show in Dubreuilville (Canada) who wanted some extra insight on…
S3 · E4 · 14 Aug 2024 · 26 min
Seeing porphyries in a new light with Cristal Palafox
This is our second episode on GeOCHemISTea where we have branched out from geochemistry into a sister geoscience - spectral geology. For this episode take a look at another of the spectral ecosystem's end-members: hyperspectral core imaging. Join us as we talk about hyperspectral imaging, the data load, and some interesting applications to porphyry geoscience. For this episode we read: Hyperspectral Core Imaging Applications in Porphyry Deposits (Corescan)
10 Jul 2024 · 1 hr 6 min
Analytical Geochemists & Instrumentation with Alan Koenig
Herein we present a general microanalytical technique rant, at least three soap boxes (my favorite being "I want to also rant about bulk chemistry techniques and why if these techniques are “so routine” that we still have some labs that suck at understanding (or respecting) how to do basic chemistry well"), and the story of how a geologist with a graduate degree in geochemistry found themself crushing rocks at the USGS and living in both Omaha, Nebraska and ::shudder:: Newark, New Jersey. If you are an aspiring analytical geochemist or generally have questions / concerns about analytical…
S3 · E3 · 12 Jun 2024 · 57 min
The future of remote sensing in exploration with Sam Casement
This is our first episode on GeOCHemISTea where we have branched out from geochemistry into a sister geoscience - spectral geology. For this episode we start from one of the spectral ecosystem's end-members: remote sensing, or satellites and airborne. Join us as we talk about the newest developments in sensor tech and data processing, while still paying proper attention to the role of remote sensing in the mining value chain. For this episode we read: Improvements in Mineralogical Classification with Increased Spectral Resolution: A Case Study over Cuprite, Nevada comparing Fused Bare Earth…
S3 · E2 · 8 May 2024 · 13 min
Outtakes with Rob Bowell
Want to hear some more of Rob's thoughts? But also just general silliness from before we started to record? Enjoy!
S3 · E2 · 8 May 2024 · 1 hr 13 min
Geochemistry, nature's gift to mine closure with Rob Bowell
For this episode we read Rob's paper: Natural attenuation in the vadose zone: Nature's gift to mine closure (Bowell, 2023) From rethinking the green economy to recovering metals and ores in naturally occurring ways, this episode encompasses a lot of topics currently in the news but a uniquely Rob perspective. Along the way, we may even learn about the vadose zone and the potential to remediate sites naturally.

About GeOCHemISTea

GeOCHemISTea is a English tech & science podcast from Sam Scher. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: Sam Scher
Language: English
Category: Tech & Science
New episodes: Monthly
Typical length: 1 hr 2 min
Latest episode: 23 Sep 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1619800829
Rights: Sam Scher

RSS feed Apple Podcasts

More English tech & science

Take it with you

The Melo app keeps playing with the screen off, works in the car and on your watch, wakes you to your station, and browses the whole catalogue offline. Free, no ads, no account.