Geochemistry QA/QC: 50 Years of Beef with Lynda Bloom

In this episode of GeOCHemISTea, we sit down with Lynda Bloom, an internationally recognized exploration geochemist and QA/QC specialist, to reflect on nearly 50 years in the mining industry and unpack some of her biggest geochemical beefs. From the dangers of comparing datasets using averages to understanding certified reference materials, analytical precision, and the uncertainties introduced during sampling, Lynda challenges some of the industry's most persistent assumptions. We also explore her unconventional career, the realities of consulting and junior mining, the importance of mentorship, and a few memorable field experiences from around the world. Along the way, Lynda introduces MineLabify, a new approach to laboratory auditing. It is a candid, entertaining, and technically insightful conversation about questioning our data, challenging established practices, and knowing when the numbers can actually be trusted. For this episode we read: Practical applications of quality assurance and quality control in mineral exploration, resource estimation and mining programmes: a review of recommended international practices (Smee et al., 2024)