Traditionally nuclear chemistry appears in the last few chapters of chemistry textbooks and is not normally considered a mainstream topic. In addition, some science teachers lack the training or equipment to teach nuclear chemistry. Yet nuclear chemistry is a very important topic that should be taught in all chemistry classrooms. Learning about nuclear chemistry concepts and investigating radiation in the laboratory helps students overcome their sometimes irrational fear of radiation. This article discusses the concept of half-life. It also presents a safe real-time lab activity wherein students use a radiation monitor, computer, and radioisotope generator to determine the half-life of Barium-137m. This lab activity is relatively easy to perform and enables students to determine the half-life of a genuine radioisotope.