Thermodynamics
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
Thermodynamics is fundamental to mastering chemistry concepts and understanding the energy dynamics within biological systems crucial for the MCAT. In this episode, host Sam Smith dives into the laws of thermodynamics, covering everything from the zeroth law to the third. You'll explore key concepts like enthalpy, entropy, and Gibbs Free Energy and learn how they apply to reaction spontaneity and equilibrium. Sam also gives practical examples, including how the equilibrium constant and reaction quotient (Q vs. K) affect reactions, and covers types of heat transfer—conduction, convection, and...
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Cell and Tissue Types
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
Cells and tissues form the building blocks of life, which are crucial for mastering key concepts in the MCAT’s biology and biochemistry sections. In this episode, host Sam Smith breaks down the differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, exploring animal, plant, and bacterial cell structures alongside unique cell types like erythrocytes. You’ll gain insights into the various tissue types—epithelial, muscle, connective, and nervous—along with their roles in the body. Plus, Sam highlights essential details on ribosome size, cell reproduction methods, and structural elements...
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Renal Physiology
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
Understanding the kidneys' role in the body’s balance is essential for the MCAT and beyond. In this episode, host Sam Smith discusses renal physiology, covering everything from kidney anatomy to the nephron’s critical functions in filtration, reabsorption, secretion, and excretion. You’ll explore the roles of the renal cortex and medulla, learn about the loop of Henle, and uncover the importance of ions, plasma volume, and pH regulation in kidney function. Plus, we’ll examine hormones like ADH and aldosterone and their impact on fluid balance, as well as essential measurements like...
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Psychosocial Development and Identity
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
The essentials of identity theories and psychosocial development reveal the foundational elements of human behavior and self-perception. In this episode, Sam Smith discusses the core theories around identity, from Erikson’s stages of psychosocial development and Freud’s psychosexual stages to Piaget’s cognitive framework and Kohlberg’s stages of moral growth. Sam talks about how each theory is represented in MCAT questions, explaining key differences and how they impact our understanding of self-concept, self-esteem, and social roles. Whether it's Cooley’s looking-glass self or...
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Functional Groups: Physical and Chemical Properties
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
A deep understanding of functional groups is crucial for excelling in the MCAT, as they play a key role in the reactivity, physical properties, and biological functions of molecules. In this episode, Sam Smith breaks down the essential functional groups, covering their physical and chemical properties, biological relevance, and common reaction mechanisms. From alcohols and carbonyl-containing groups like aldehydes and ketones, to nitrogen-containing amines and amides, Sam explains how these groups are presented in exam questions and their impact on biological systems. Visit for more...
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Electromagnetism
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
Electromagnetism is a critical component of physics, playing a pivotal role in everything from circuits to medical imaging technologies like MRIs. It is also a crucial topic for the MCAT, appearing frequently in the physics and chemistry sections. In this episode, Sam Smith breaks down the fundamental concepts of electricity and magnetism. Sam walks through the basics of static electricity, charge conservation, and Coulomb’s Law and explains how moving charges create currents and the forces exerted by electric and magnetic fields. Visit for more help with the MCAT. Jump into the...
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Psychology and Sociology Theories
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
Understanding social and psychological theories is crucial for success on the MCAT, as these concepts shape everything from human behavior to societal structures. In this episode, Sam Smith breaks down the essential sociological and psychological theories you need to master, ranging from functionalism and conflict theory to the theories of emotion. Sam explains how these theories apply to real-world scenarios, including their relevance in medicine, healthcare disparities, and patient interactions. Visit for more help with the MCAT. Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Intro (01:58)...
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The Reproductive System
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
In this episode of MCAT Basics, Sam Smith discusses the reproductive system and development, breaking down essential topics for the bio and biochem section of the MCAT. Sam walks through the key reproductive organs, the processes of spermatogenesis and oogenesis, and the pathway sperm and eggs take in human reproduction. Visit for more help with the MCAT. Jump into the conversation: (00:00) Intro (01:30) Reproductive organs: Overview of male and female reproductive anatomy (03:16) Spermatogenesis: The process of sperm cell development (04:55) Meiosis in spermatogenesis: From diploid to...
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Atomic Chemistry
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
Atomic chemistry is a core component of the MCAT, essential for understanding molecular behavior and periodic trends. In this episode, host Sam Smith explores key concepts in atomic chemistry, including the intricacies of quantum theory, hybridization, and molecular geometry. You'll gain insights into electron configuration, periodic trends, and the role of quantum numbers in describing electrons. Sam also discusses the significance of nuclear decay, from alpha to beta and gamma decay, and how it impacts atomic structure. Visit for more help with the MCAT. Jump into the conversation:...
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Light and Optics
MCAT Basics (from MedSchoolCoach)
A foundational part of the MCAT, light and optics bridge the gap between physics and biology, making them vital for your exam preparation. In this episode, Sam Smith breaks down the fundamentals of light, covering both its wave and particle properties. From the energy of photons and the photoelectric effect, to wave behavior and the principles of refraction and reflection, Sam simplifies complex concepts to help you grasp key equations and principles. You'll also learn about lenses, ray tracing, and the real-life applications of polarization. Visit for more help with the MCAT. Jump into the...
info_outlineIn this episode, we'll break down the intricate processes of nutrient digestion and absorption, from the mechanical and chemical digestion in the stomach to the vital role of the small and large intestines. We'll also discuss the regulatory mechanisms involving hormones and nervous innervation and the essential structures like the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. And don't forget, this episode is packed with tips on everything you need to know about this high-yield topic for the MCAT.
So grab your notes, get comfortable, and let's embark on this fascinating journey through the digestive system. Stay tuned for a deep dive into how our bodies turn food into the vital nutrients we need to thrive.
Visit MedSchoolCoach.com for more help with the MCAT.
Jump into the conversation:
[00:00] Introduction to the MCAT Basics
[05:11] Digestive system involves mechanical and chemical processes.
[06:55] Food travels through digestive system over time.
[10:48] Small intestines: duodenum, jejunum, ileum, enterocytes crucial.
[14:38] Sphincters in digestive system control food movement.
[16:26] Podcast discusses physiology of digestive system structures.
[20:57] Salivary enzyme breaks down starch into glucose.
[23:46] Muscle contractions propel food through digestive system.
[27:40] Lipase enzyme breaks down fats in stomach.
[29:11] Stomach doesn't absorb nutrients, protects itself.
[32:55] Enzymes linked to cells for carbohydrate breakdown.
[38:05] Bile emulsifies fat, chylomicrons enter lymphatic system.
[41:35] Gut bacteria metabolize cellulose, form fatty acids.
[45:02] Living without large intestine; regulation of digestion.
[46:50] CCK stimulates pancreatic juice release, important digestion.
[49:57] Prepare for MCAT and excel with us!