Could your mold test be telling you only a fraction of the story or even giving you a false sense of security? 

Indoor Environmental Professional (IEP) Jessica McQuade of Mold Mentor, LLC and Mold Ease, LLC joins us to pull back the curtain on the most commonly used professional mold testing methods, including non-viable air sampling, tape lift, swab testing, and ERMI/MSQPCR. Jessica shares her six rules of sampling, explains the critical difference between viable and non-viable testing, and reveals why a "no" result never truly means "no." From the limitations of air testing to the creative ways professionals use tools like borescopes to collect samples in hard-to-reach spaces, this conversation will change the way you think about mold testing. 

Whether you've already spent money on testing or are just beginning your journey, this episode will equip you with the foundational knowledge to ask better questions, vet your IEP more effectively, and understand that testing is just one tool in a much larger investigative toolbox.

Episode Highlights

·      What is the difference between viable and non-viable testing? (4:07)

·      Why is every mold testing scenario different? (7:28)

·      What are Jessica’s six rules of testing? (9:32)

·      How accurate and reliable is professional air testing (spore trap), and what are its limitations when measuring mold in a home? (14:05)

·      How does tape lift surface sampling work for mold, and what are its strengths and limitations in identifying contamination? (26:32)

·      How does swab surface sampling work for mold, and what are its strengths and limitations in identifying contamination? (34:10)

·      What creative way does Jessica use a borescope to find hidden mold? (40:01)

·      How does MSQPCR/ERMI/HERTSMI II sampling work for mold, and what are its strengths and limitations in identifying contamination? (42:37)

·      Why should mold testing be used as just one piece of a larger investigation? (46:59)

·      Should ERMI testing be used as a standalone answer or as one data point alongside symptoms and a full home investigation? (48:59)

·      How do you decide when mold testing is truly necessary and ensure it’s used correctly as part of a full investigation and not relied on in isolation? (51:28)

Links mentioned in interview:

Start Here: https://changetheairfoundation.org/mold-in-the-home/

Mold Matters: Exploring the World of Fungi – Interview With Brantley May: https://changetheairfoundation.org/mold-matters-exploring-the-world-of-fungi/

Mini Class Series: Testing Options for Your Home: https://changetheairfoundation.org/testing-your-home/

Free Downloads: https://changetheairfoundation.org/free-downloads/

Get in touch with our guest:

Instagram: @moldmentorllc

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moldmentorllc

Jessica McQuade’s Website: https://moldmentorllc.com/ and https://moldeasellc.com/detailed-about

Learn more about Change the Air Foundation:  

https://ChangeTheAirFoundation.org

Sign up for our newsletter: 

https://ChangeTheAirFoundation.org/sta

What if the key to recovering from mold illness isn't rushing straight to binders and antifungals, but instead starting with sleep, diet, and basic health fundamentals?

 Dr. Joe Mather shares his evolved approach to treating mold-related illness, explaining why he moved away from the complex Shoemaker protocol toward a more practical, patient-centered method. He reveals his diagnostic framework and emphasizes that successful treatment follows a specific order: fundamentals first, then gut, and finally mold-specific treatments. His frank discussion addresses common treatment controversies such as the importance of reducing (but not eliminating) environmental exposure, and why chasing zero mycotoxins isn't necessary. 

Dr. Mather offers hope and practical guidance for anyone navigating the overwhelming world of mold illness treatment, emphasizing that recovery is possible with the right approach and practitioner partnership.

 Episode Highlights:

• What is Dr. Mather’s treatment philosophy for mold-related illness and how has it evolved over the years? (3:35)
• What are the main differences between Dr. Mather’s approach the approach of other doctors, and what can urine testing tell you? (10:07)
• What four criteria does Dr. Mather require for diagnosing mold toxicity? (12:43)
• Is the goal a zero on a urine mycotoxin test? (19:44)
• What percentage of the mycotoxins in our bodies come from food versus the air? (22:30)
• In what order does Dr. Mather treat patients, and what happens if patients skip steps? (25:43)
• What role do probiotics play in mold recovery and which types does Dr. Mather recommend? (29:18)
• Does Dr. Mather believe patients need to achieve zero mold exposure or zero mycotoxins to heal? (32:49)
• What are some stories of Dr. Mather’s patients healing from mold exposure? (35:18)
• What are Dr. Mather’s thoughts on finding the right doctor and finding the root cause? (42:32)

Links mentioned in interview:
Moss Nutrition: https://www.mossnutrition.com
Real Time Labs: https://realtimelab.com
AJ’s Story: From Seizures to a Second Chance: https://changetheairfoundation.org/?s=callegan
Seized by Mold: An HVAC Tech’s Recovery From Mold-Induced Seizures - Interview with AJ & Becky Callegan: https://changetheairfoundation.org/seized-by-mold-an-hvac-techs-recovery-from-mold-induced-seizures/

Get in touch with our guest:

Dr. Joe Mather's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@doctormather
Dr. Joe Mather's website: https://www.doctormather.com

Learn more about Change the Air Foundation: 
https://ChangeTheAirFoundation.org

Sign up for our newsletter:
https://ChangeTheAirFoundation.org/stay-informed/

Disclaimer: Your Indoor Air Podcast, a Change the Air Foundation production, is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, healthcare or other professional services, such as giving healthcare advice. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care.  Users should not disregard or delay in seeking medical attention for any medical condition or concern they may have.

Could the invisible energy fields in your home be disrupting your sleep, triggering anxiety, or causing other unexplained health symptoms? 

Certified electromagnetic radiation specialist Cathy Cooke breaks down what electromagnetic fields (EMFs) really are, where you're being exposed in everyday life, and how they may be affecting your health. From baby monitors with shockingly high fields to the surprising connection between mold illness and EMF sensitivity, Cathy reveals which devices are the biggest offenders and shares practical, budget-friendly steps you can take today to reduce exposure without overwhelm. You'll discover why your bedroom should be your top priority, learn simple habits like unplugging your Wi-Fi at night, and find out why that Food Saver on your kitchen counter could be flooding your home with dirty electricity. 

Whether you're already experiencing symptoms or simply want to create a healthier home environment, this conversation will empower you to make informed decisions about the electrical environment you and your family are exposed to daily.

Episode Highlights

• What are EMFs and what is EMF sensitivity? (2:26)
• How did Cathy discover that EMFs were causing her health symptoms? (9:32)
• In which settings are EMFs posing problems for people? (13:47)
• What items cause high levels of EMFs in a home? (18:49)       
• How high are EMF levels from alarm clocks and how effective are EMF cases for cell phones? (22:19)
• What is the best distance to keep away from devices with EMFs? (25:16)
• What are EMF levels like in kitchens? (26:44)
• Can people test EMFs themselves, or is a professional required? (30:32)
• What can people do about smart meters? (32:24)
• What is the connection between mold and EMFs? (35:44)
• What are ways you can reduce your exposure to EMFs at home? (39:54)

Links mentioned in interview:
Cece Doucette’s Website, Understanding EMFs:
https://sites.google.com/site/understandingemfs/introduction?authuser=0

Get in touch with our guest:
Website: https://wholehomeandbodyhealth.com
Instagram: @wholehomeandbodyhealth

Learn more about Change the Air Foundation:
https://ChangeTheAirFoundation.org

Sign up for our newsletter:
 https://ChangeTheAirFoundation.org/stay-informed/

Disclaimer: Your Indoor Air Podcast, a Change the Air Foundation production, is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, healthcare or other professional services, such as giving healthcare advice. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care.  Users should not disregard or delay in seeking medical attention for any medical condition or concern they may have.

What happens when your body is screaming that something is wrong, but every test says you’re “healthy”? 

In this empowering episode, fitness professional Kristie Calise shares her decade-long battle with mold-related illness, misdiagnosis, and debilitating conditions like mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) and hyperadrenergic POTS. Kristie recounts the frightening symptoms that derailed her career, the gaslighting she faced in the medical system, and the “perfect storm” of trauma, infection, and environmental exposure that changed everything. She offers hard-won insights on self-advocacy, root-cause healing, and why mold is far more than “just an allergy.” Kristie explains how her journey inspired the creation of the Balance Workout App, a wellness tool designed for people navigating chronic and invisible illness. 

This is an honest and validating interview for anyone searching for answers and reassurance that they’re not alone.


Episode Highlights

·      What was the “perfect storm” that led to Kristie’s decade-long health collapse? (2:48)

·      What tips does Kristie have to handle gaslighting from medical professionals? (10:26)

·      What would Kristie have done differently in her health journey? (15:39)

·      What are mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) and hyperadrenergic postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS)?  (21:40)

·      What does the Balance Workout App offer for people struggling with health issues?  (31:03)

Links mentioned in interview:
Medical Gaslighting - How to Be Heard in Chronic Illness: https://balancebanter.buzzsprout.com/2062689/episodes/18602059-e87-medical-gaslighting-how-to-be-heard-in-chronic-illness

https://changetheairfoundation.org/17-essential-questions-to-ask-a-medical-provider-when-dealing-with-indoor-environmental-illness/

Get in touch with our guest:
Website: https://balanceworkoutapp.com/

Instagram: @balanceworkoutapp and @kristiecalise

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/balanceworkoutapp

Learn more about Change the Air Foundation:  

https://ChangeTheAirFoundation.org

Sign up for our newsletter: 

https://ChangeTheAirFoundation.org/stay-informed/

Disclaimer: Your Indoor Air Podcast, a Change the Air Foundation production, is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, healthcare or other professional services, such as giving healthcare advice. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care.  Users should not disregard or delay in seeking medical attention for any medical condition or concern they may have.

What does it take to cultivate a healthy home without getting blindsided by costly mistakes? 

Ashley Spanovich of Awakening Spaces shares her deeply personal journey into healthy home design and how environmental exposures shaped both her health and her career. She explains why planning, education, and the right team matter far more than chasing the lowest rates or design trends. Ashley unpacks why so many homeowners regret expensive building and renovation decisions, from breaking ground without a solid plan to relying on DIY fixes that ignore building science. Learn about the hidden risks in new builds and older homes, practical steps you can take today to support your health, and why focusing on minimizing risk leads to better outcomes. 

Grounded in building science, this conversation will help you move from overwhelm to confident, intentional action.

 Episode Highlights:

• What is Ashley’s personal health journey and how did it lead her to the work she does today? 

• What are some of the pros and cons of building a new home from a health perspective? 

• What are some of the pros and cons of living in an older home? 

• Which popular design trends may unintentionally create health risks in the home? 

• What are a few simple, practical steps homeowners can take right now to improve the health of their homes? 

• What is one of Ashley’s most eye-opening client stories, and what can listeners learn from it? 

Links mentioned in interview:
Healthy Home Makeover - Interview with Ashley Spanovich & Amanda Boldin: https://changetheairfoundation.org/healthy-home-makeover/

EMF Research: https://awakeningspaces.com/2025/05/19/emf-research-2/

Get in touch with our guest:
Website: https://awakeningspaces.com

Instagram: @awakeningspaces

Learn more about Change the Air Foundation: 
 https://ChangeTheAirFoundation.org

Sign up for our newsletter:
 https://ChangeTheAirFoundation.org/stay-informed/

Disclaimer: Your Indoor Air Podcast, a Change the Air Foundation production, is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, healthcare or other professional services, such as giving healthcare advice. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care.  Users should not disregard or delay in seeking medical attention for any medical condition or concern they may have.

What if the most important factor in navigating mold inspection and remediation is not the number of tests performed, but a homeowner’s ability to think calmly and clearly? 

In this thoughtful conversation, Andrew Melrose of Melrose Mold Solutions challenges overreliance on testing and reframes mold inspection as a true “health procedure for the home.” 

Drawing on years of education and hundreds of on-site assessments, Andrew explains why thorough inspection, homeowner intuition, and calm, informed decision-making are more effective than fear-based reactions or quick fixes. He offers practical guidance on how to vet professionals, interpret mold stories with discernment, and make decisions without spiraling into panic. 

Woven throughout the episode is a steady message of hope, highlighting the role of community, gratitude, and the possibility that even difficult mold journeys can lead to empowerment and purpose.

Episode Highlights

• What is Andrew’s personal health journey, and how did it inspire him to dedicate his career to helping others? (5:59)
• What pitfalls do people often get stuck in, and how can people recognize and avoid them? (12:55)
• Why isn’t testing the first step in finding mold? What is the first step, and when does testing become useful? (21:46)
• What are some of the most interesting situations Andrew has encountered during mold inspections? (28:02)
• What advice does Andrew offer about reading mold-related stories on the internet? (30:03)
• How can people move out of fear or panic when dealing with mold concerns? (36:51)
• What message of hope does Andrew want listeners to take away from this episode? (43:13)

Links mentioned in interview:
Start Here tab: https://changetheairfoundation.org/mold-water-damage/

Questions to Ask When Hiring an IEP: https://changetheairfoundation.org/sdm_downloads/questions-to-ask-when-hiring-an-indoor-environmental-professional-iep/

Mold Remediation At a Glance: https://changetheairfoundation.org/remediation-guide/

Get in touch with our guest:
Website: https://melrosemoldsolutions.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@melrosemoldsolutions/videos

Instagram: @melrosemoldsolutions

Email: [email protected]

Learn more about Change the Air Foundation:
https://ChangeTheAirFoundation.org

Sign up for our newsletter:
https://ChangeTheAirFoundation.org/stay-informed/

Disclaimer: Your Indoor Air Podcast, a Change the Air Foundation production, is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, healthcare or other professional services, such as giving healthcare advice. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care.  Users should not disregard or delay in seeking medical attention for any medical condition or concern they may have.

Can mold hidden behind your walls really affect the air you breathe and your health? 

Jessica McQuade answers this common (and hotly debated) question with a clear, evidence-based “yes.” Using real-life demonstrations and visuals, she explains how air pressure, wall penetrations, and everyday household activities can pull contaminants from hidden spaces directly into your living area.

Have a question about mold, water damage, or indoor air quality?

Submit it to Ask Change the Air, our ongoing monthly Q&A series featuring expert insights based on real questions from homeowners and renters.

📩 Submit your question:
[email protected]

While we can’t answer every question directly, your submission helps guide future episodes and educational resources.

🔔 Don’t miss new episodes
Stay informed and catch each new release by subscribing below:

📧  Newsletter:
https://changetheairfoundation.org/st...

🎧 Podcast – Your Indoor Air Podcast:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

💻  YouTube:
   / @changetheairfoundation3440  

Disclaimer: Your Indoor Air Podcast, a Change the Air Foundation production, is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, healthcare or other professional services, such as giving healthcare advice. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care.  Users should not disregard or delay in seeking medical attention for any medical condition or concern they may have.

Where do molds like Stachybotrys and Chaetomium hide in homes? 

Jessica McQuade explains exactly where she finds them most often and why understanding mold ecology matters more than test results alone. From backside drywall and baseboards to shower walls, flooring, and hidden framing, you’ll learn how bulk water and cellulose-based materials create the perfect conditions for these molds to thrive.

Have a question about mold, water damage, or indoor air quality?

Submit it to Ask Change the Air, our ongoing monthly Q&A series featuring expert insights based on real questions from homeowners and renters.

📩 Submit your question:
[email protected]

While we can’t answer every question directly, your submission helps guide future episodes and educational resources.

🔔 Don’t miss new episodes
Stay informed and catch each new release by subscribing below:

📧  Newsletter:
https://changetheairfoundation.org/st...

🎧 Podcast – Your Indoor Air Podcast:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

💻  YouTube:
   / @changetheairfoundation3440 

Disclaimer: Your Indoor Air Podcast, a Change the Air Foundation production, is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, healthcare or other professional services, such as giving healthcare advice. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care.  Users should not disregard or delay in seeking medical attention for any medical condition or concern they may have.

What if the key to uncovering hidden mold in your home had four legs, an extraordinarily sensitive nose, and a partner who knows exactly how to verify what she finds? 

In this episode, Lindsay Reeves introduces us to Hope, a highly trained mold-detection dog whose remarkable abilities help reveal problems that often remain invisible to the eye. Lindsay explains how Hope works alongside her husband, Blake, a certified Indoor Environmental Professional (IEP), to deliver a powerful, complementary inspection approach that combines canine detection with same-day professional inspection and testing. She breaks down what happens during a mold dog inspection, why pairing it with an IEP is critical, and how this team approach can prevent costly remediation mistakes. You’ll also learn how Hope is continually trained, which species of mold she can detect, and the safety considerations and limitations of using a mold dog. 

If you’ve been chasing your tail trying to find the source of your home’s mold problem, this episode might finally help you sniff out the answer.

Episode Highlights

• What do mold detection dogs do, and how does a mold dog inspection work compared to a traditional IEP inspection? (3:10)

• What happens after a mold dog alerts, and what role does the IEP play in verification, inspection, and testing? (5:53)

• How does Hope detect mold in hidden or inaccessible spaces without physically reaching them? (7:28)

• Which species of mold is Hope trained to detect, and how is she trained to do this work? (8:59)

• What are the limitations of mold detection dogs, and how do they distinguish between indoor mold growth and outdoor spores entering the home? (12:21)

• How does Lindsay protect Hope’s health and safety while working in mold-affected environments? (16:32)

• How should homeowners prepare for a mold dog inspection, and what should they expect during the process? (19:25)

• How many mold issues does Hope typically alert to in a home, and are false positives or false negatives possible? (22:06)

• What are some of the most surprising mold discoveries Hope has made during inspections? (25:01)

• What should people know about properly training a mold detection dog, and why does training quality matter? (28:03)

 Links mentioned in interview:

A Cry for Help: The Reeves Family’s Journey Through Mold Illness – Interview with Lindsay and Blake Reeves: https://changetheairfoundation.org/a-cry-for-help-the-reeves-familys-journey-through-mold-illness/

What’s That Smell? MVOCs & Mold – Interview with Jason Earle: https://changetheairfoundation.org/whats-that-smell-mvocs-mold/

Start Here – Mold in the Home: https://changetheairfoundation.org/mold-in-the-home/

Get in touch with our guest:
Phone: 479-383-2911
Website: Hopethemolddog.com
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: Hope the Mold Dog
Instagram: @hopethemolddog

Learn more about Change the Air Foundation:  
https://ChangeTheAirFoundation.org

Disclaimer: Your Indoor Air Podcast, a Change the Air Foundation production, is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, healthcare or other professional services, such as giving healthcare advice. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care.  Users should not disregard or delay in seeking medical attention for any medical condition

Should the men and women protecting our country be expected to live in barracks riddled with mold, pest infestations, collapsing ceiling tiles, broken locks, and other dangerous conditions? 

In this compelling interview, veteran Rob Evans reveals how he is providing service members living in barracks with a safe, anonymous way to document unsafe living environments and receive help through his app Hots and Cots. Rob explains how the app is helping to solve problems, empower troops, and bring important safety issues directly to leaders who are often unaware of the hazards occurring under their command. From mold problems to surprising wins that have improved conditions for service members, Rob shows how Hots and Cots is becoming a powerful voice for those living in barracks. 

Tune in to hear why clean, safe, and healthy housing is not a perk but essential for the readiness and well-being of our military.

Episode Highlights

·      What does the Hots & Cots app do for service members?  (2:01)

·      What are living conditions in military barracks like? (3:53)

·      Do users need to worry about retaliation when submitting reviews? (6:23)

·      How do simple safety features such as functioning parking lot lights affect troops? (10:48)

·      What problems has the app helped resolve and how have leaders responded? (12:42)

·      What has surprised Rob the most about the app’s impact? (16:57)

·      How has the military community responded to the app? (19:20)

·      How is the app sustained and funded? (21:41)

·      What does the future hold for Hots & Cots? (23:10)

Links mentioned in interview:
Hots & Cots App: https://www.hotscots.app

Mold in the Military: https://changetheairfoundation.org/mold-in-the-military/

Start Here: https://changetheairfoundation.org/mold-water-damage/

Get in touch with our guest:
Contact Rob Evans: [email protected]

https://x.com/hotscots_app

https://www.instagram.com/hots_cots_app

https://www.facebook.com/hotsandcots/

Learn more about Change the Air Foundation:  
https://ChangeTheAirFoundation.org

Sign up for our newsletter:
https://ChangeTheAirFoundation.org/stay-informed/

Disclaimer: Your Indoor Air Podcast, a Change the Air Foundation production, is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, healthcare or other professional services, such as giving healthcare advice. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care.  Users should not disregard or delay in seeking medical attention for any medical condition or concern they may have.