Biosignaling
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
In this episode, we focus on biosignaling and cover how cells communicate through systems like voltage-gated and ligand-gated ion channels, using real-world examples such as neuronal signaling and muscle contraction. We also break down the role of enzyme-linked receptors, specifically receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), and explore how these pathways are involved in cell growth and cancer. Additionally, we take a detailed look at G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) and their role in activating secondary messenger systems like cyclic AMP (cAMP). Visit for more help with the MCAT. Jump into the...
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Gas Phase
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
In this episode, guest host Alex Starks dives into Gas-Phase Concepts for the MCAT. He breaks down the physical properties of gases, explores the ideal gas law, and unpacks the ABCD laws of gases. Alex also covers key conditions that influence molecular collisions in gases and highlights the most important takeaways to help you excel in this section of the exam. Visit for more help with the MCAT. Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Intro: Med School Coach promotion and podcast introduction (02:01) Physical properties of gases (06:03) The ideal gas laws (09:40) Conditions that promote...
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The Lymphatic System
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
In this episode, we focus on the lymphatic system, a crucial topic for the Bio/Biochem section of the MCAT. We'll cover the structure of the lymphatic system, including lymphatic vessels, lymph nodes, and major organs such as the bone marrow and thymus. You'll also learn about the system’s primary functions: returning fluid to the blood, supporting the immune system, and absorbing fats and fat-soluble nutrients. Hosts Sam Smith and Alex Starks break down how the lymphatic system plays a vital role in immunity, nutrient absorption, and fluid balance. By the end of this episode, you'll gain a...
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Psychological Disorders
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
In this episode, we dive into psychological disorders, a crucial topic for the Psych/Soc section of the MCAT. We’ll start by defining what a psychological disorder is, highlighting key concepts like significant stress and deviant behavior, and discussing how they’re classified using the DSM-5. You'll learn about various categories of disorders, including anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, trauma and stressor-related disorders, and more. We’ll explore the biopsychosocial and biomedical approaches to understanding these conditions, providing insight into the biological,...
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The Respiratory System
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
In this episode, we cover the respiratory system, an important topic for the MCAT Bio/Biochem section. We'll go over the anatomy of the respiratory system, highlighting key structures such as the lungs, bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli, and explain how they contribute to respiratory functions. You'll also learn about the main roles of the respiratory system, including gas exchange, thermoregulation, particle filtration, and maintaining blood pH. We’ll break down the mechanics of breathing, including the role of the diaphragm and intercostal muscles, and how pressure changes drive air into...
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DNA Mutations and Repair
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
In this episode, we focus on DNA mutations and repair, a key topic for the Bio/Biochem section of the MCAT. We'll cover the different types of mutations, including point mutations, insertions, and deletions, and explain how they occur due to replication errors or environmental factors like UV radiation. You'll also learn about the repair mechanisms that fix these genetic changes, such as direct reversal, mismatch repair, and base excision repair. We’ll also discuss how double-strand breaks are addressed through homologous recombination and non-homologous end joining. By the end of this...
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Social Institutions
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
In this episode, we focus on the structure and role of key social institutions for the MCAT Psych/Soc section. We'll break down the five major institutions—health and medicine, education, family, religion, and government—and explain how each shapes societal norms and individual behavior. You’ll learn about concepts like medicalization, the sick role, and how healthcare is delivered, as well as the hidden curriculum and educational segregation. We’ll also cover family structures, kinship types, and how religion influences social change. Lastly, we’ll touch on political systems and the...
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Aromatic Compounds
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
In this episode, we break down aromatic compounds, a crucial topic for the Biochem and Chem/Phys sections of the MCAT. You’ll learn what makes a compound aromatic, how to identify them using Huckel’s Rule, and the difference between aromatic, antiaromatic, and nonaromatic compounds. Sam Smith covers key examples like benzene, toluene, and phenol, and explains their role in biological systems like DNA and the electron transport chain. With practical tips and MCAT-focused insights, you'll be ready to tackle questions on aromatic compounds with confidence. Visit for more help with the MCAT....
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Aging
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
Aging is an essential topic for the MCAT, and in this episode, we’ll explore it from multiple angles. We start with the biological aspects of aging, including key processes like telomere shortening, cell senescence, and mitochondrial dysfunction—each providing insight into how and why cells age. From there, we dive into how aging impacts the brain, including the types of memory and cognitive functions that either decline or improve with age. Lastly, we’ll cover the sociology of aging, focusing on the life course theory, the social significance of aging, and demographic changes. Expect a...
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Personality
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
In this episode, we focus on personality and the theories relevant for the MCAT. We’ll cover key perspectives, such as psychoanalytic theory, humanistic theory, and trait theory, along with the influence of social cognitive and biological factors on personality development. You’ll get an overview of the different personality disorders, categorized into clusters like odd or eccentric behavior, dramatic or erratic behavior, and anxious or fearful behavior. You’ll also gain an understanding of specific disorders, including narcissistic personality disorder, antisocial personality...
info_outlineThis MCAT podcast covers psychological disorders. First, I talk about what a psychological disorder is and how they are classified. Then, I breakdown several psychological disorders to know:
- Anxiety disorders
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Trauma- and stressor-related disorders
- Somatic symptom and related disorders
- Bipolar and related disorders
- Depressive disorders
- Schizophrenia
- Dissociative disorders
- Personality disorders
Lastly, I cover the biological basis of several nervous system disorders.
Please email me if you have any comments or concerns: [email protected]
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Thanks for listening!