Imagine this: you’re a fit, young mom in the prime of your life, but you’ve recently been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and your previously healthy children have developed symptoms of PANS and PANDAS. Something doesn’t feel right! This was Lauren Lowenstein’s reality until she uncovered hidden biotoxins in her home.

Determined to reclaim her family’s health, Lauren remediated her home using a home equity line of credit, immersed herself in research, and emerged as an advocate known as The Biotoxin Lady. In this episode, Lauren shares her journey of navigating the medical system, trusting her intuition, rebuilding relationships, and how she’s turned her experience into a mission to help heal others.

Episode Highlights:

How Lauren's family’s health worsened once they moved into their home. (2:40)

Lauren’s experience with doctors and mold illness. (7:06)

Why Lauren’s family decided to remediate using a home equity line of credit instead of selling their home. (9:51)

How mold illness affects relationships. (15:19)

How does a mother’s intuition affect their child’s health? (20:28)

What Lauren would have done differently. (22:49)

How Lauren has grown her advocacy efforts. (28:07)

Links mentioned in interview:

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

Get in touch with our guest:

Lauren’s Instagram: thebiotoxinlady.cirs

Lauren’s Email: [email protected]

Learn more about Change the Air Foundation:

https://www.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.

Ready to help make mold illness a thing of the past? Join the groundbreaking Mold Illness Questionnaire (MoldIQ) Research Initiative and be part of history! 

In this episode, Dr. Jill Crista dives into the purpose of this innovative study, the critical role of the IRB process, and how the collected data will be analyzed. Discover if you’re an ideal candidate and learn the steps to get involved. This inspiring interview will motivate you to take action and share the word about this important initiative!

Episode Highlights:

• What is the Mold IQ Research Initiative about? (2:04)
• Why is it important that this study is validated and goes through the IRB process? (8:16)
• How will the study’s data analysis be conducted and how can listeners participate? (10:29)
• Who is an ideal candidate to participate in this study? (12:17)

Get in touch with our guest:

The Mold Illness Questionnaire (MoldIQ) Website: https://MoldIQ.org

Dr. Crista’s Website: https://drcrista.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.

Does choosing between home mold testing options make you want to throw in your microfiber towel? Have no fear—Bill Weber is here to help you clear the air!

Bill breaks down the pros and cons of gravity plates, air sampling, surface sampling, ERMI, HERTSMI-2, cultural dust sampling, and PRV testing. You’ll discover which tests are best suited for your mold testing toolbox, and how to use the right test, in the right way, at the right time.

This episode is full of relevant information, so be sure to tune in to this go-to guide for navigating the world of mold testing.

Episode Highlights:

• Does a mold-free home exist, and what is “normal fungal ecology”? (3:53)
• How do we determine which thresholds for various molds are problematic, and which are not? (8:11)
• What are some of the drawbacks of air testing? (11:59)
• Can mold in closed-off spaces within your home impact your living space? (14:00)
• How can theatrical smoke help you to identify air penetrations inside your home? (17:51)
• How can living in multi-family housing affect your indoor air quality? (20:52)
• What are the benefits and drawbacks of air testing? (22:42)
• Why is it important to choose the right laboratory for air testing? (28:31)
• Is it helpful to disturb the air when conducting an air sample? (32:26)
• Are tape lift methods helpful to identify mold? (34:21)
• Are PCR tests such as the ERMI and HERTSMI-2 helpful?  What mistakes can be made, and how should samples be collected for accurate results? (35:58) 
• What do gravity plates have to do with Candida? (48:56)
• What is culturable dust testing, and why is it a valuable tool?  (50:53)
• Why is post-remediation verification (PRV) with an IEP important, and what are some helpful tips to ensure the job was successful? (55:19)
• Where should you start if you suspect mold is in your home? (1:05:26)

Links mentioned in interview:

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

Get in touch with our guest:

Avelar Website: www.avelar.net

Learn more about Change the Air Foundation:

https://www.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.

If you suspected mold and water damage were harming your military family, where would you turn? 

Casey McCurry shares her family’s heartbreaking story of severe health impacts from mold in military housing. Now advocating for change with Just Well Law, she sheds light on widespread poor building practices and maintenance, exposing the failures of private companies managing military housing. Casey offers practical advice for families facing similar situations and guidance on advocating for systemic improvements. 

Don’t miss this powerful story of one woman’s resilience and her mission to champion safer, healthier living conditions for military families.

Episode Highlights:

• How Casey’s family’s experience with water damage in military housing sparked her passion to advocate for families in similar situations. (2:52)
• How Casey’s taught herself to be her own advocate after doctors wouldn’t recognize that mold could cause health issues. (8:05)
• Casey’s family’s current health status. (13:46)
• The prevalence of mold and water damage in military housing and how it’s addressed. (16:33)
• The downfalls of military housing managed by private companies. (22:50)
• Casey gives military families hope to have their voices heard. (26:20)
• Advice for military families experiencing water damage in military housing. (28:50)
• Changes that should occur in military housing and how families can advocate. (35:10)
• The work Casey is engaged in to assist military families affected by mold and water damage. (39:42)

Links mentioned in interview:

Mold in the Military With Dr Bryan Stepanenko: https://changetheairfoundation.org/mold-in-the-military/

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

Get in touch with our guest:
Just Well Law Website: https://well.law
Casey McCurry’s Email:  [email protected]

Learn more about Change the Air Foundation: 
https://www.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.

Want to know the secret to getting the most from your homeowner’s insurance claim? Public Adjuster Gwynne Beatty shares how to increase your payout, sometimes by as much as 150 times the original offer!

Gwynne explains how a public adjuster can be your best ally, helping you avoid common mistakes, understand key terms, and navigate the claims process like an expert. Learn how to find a trustworthy adjuster, prepare before any damage happens, and more.

Don’t miss this helpful episode full of tips that could save you big money on future claims!

Episode Highlights:

• What is a public adjuster, and in which situations would someone want to call one? (2:58)
• What are the different terms for water damage, and how are they categorized? (7:12)
• What is the timeline for filing a claim and calling in a public adjuster? Is there a statute of limitations on claims? (10:09)
• Are there differences between the insurance terms “denied” and “closed”? What recourse do you have when those terms are used? (13:37)
• What is a covered peril? How can you know if mold is covered in your policy? (15:59)
• Which keywords should you use, and which ones should you avoid when speaking with your insurance company? (19:34)
• What are some real examples of how using a public adjuster has benefited people? (22:20)
• What is the typical fee to hire a public adjuster? Is a public adjuster licensed by their state? (24:53)
• How do you find a good public adjuster? (27:38)
• What role can attorneys play in the home insurance claim process? (31:29)
• Are there times you shouldn’t call the insurance company and instead pay out of pocket? (33:20)
• What steps can you take now to help you prepare for a future home insurance policy claim, and what steps should you take after a covered peril occurs? (35:43)
• What is an appraisal demand and a clue report? (40:36)
• What health effects can water damage and fire damage create? (45:53)
• Can insurance help cover anything related to sewage pipe cracks? How can a public adjuster help you secure matching materials for repairs? (52:55)

Links mentioned in interview: 

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

Mold Remediation Part 1: Hiring the Right Team & Order of Events: https://changetheairfoundation.org/mold-remediation-part-1/  

Hiring the Right Team: https://changetheairfoundation.org/hiring-the-right-team/

Get in touch with our guest:

Gwynne Beatty’s Email: [email protected]

Gwynne Beatty’s Number: 954-648-9258

Learn more about Change the Air Foundation: https://www.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.

Think all mold remediation companies know what they’re doing? Think again! 

Too many homeowners and renters have made the mistake of hiring a company with good reviews only to find out they have NO idea how to safely remove mold and other microbial growth. Mold remediation can be tricky, and it’s easy to get it wrong. But YOU don’t have to make the same mistakes.

In this episode, Kendra Seymour introduces Change the Air Foundation’s latest free series that will help you avoid costly mistakes and protect your health and your home from unsafe mold remediation practices. 

Links mentioned in interview:

Mold Remediation Mini Class Series: 

https://changetheairfoundation.org/mold-remediation/

Change the Air Foundation’s YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/@changetheairfoundation3440

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.

Join us for a very special interview with Change the Air Foundation’s Director of Public Policy, Brandon Chappo.

Brandon shares exciting updates about the groundbreaking passage of Illinois Senate Bill 1087, The Mold Remediation Registration Act.

He discusses strategies for writing bills and provides updates about the Foundation’s trailblazing Policy Brief and interactive map feature.

Brandon explains how the Foundation has positioned itself as an advocacy leader for mold and water damage reform throughout the United States.

Tune in to learn how your donations and our volunteers are changing America’s air for the better.

Episode Highlights:

·      Why is the recent passage of Illinois SB 1087 considered a huge victory for the mold advocacy community? How does it strengthen remediation standards and raise public awareness? (3:09)

·      Which key words are important to incorporate when drafting legislation? (11:00)

·      How can listeners use the interactive map on our website to access information on their state and federal legislators, as well as their state’s current indoor air quality laws? (13:42)

·      How can listeners support Change the Air Foundation? What advocacy work are we engaging in? (16:11)

·      Why is it important to understand the challenges of creating bills, and what factors impact the chances of a bill becoming law? (20:25)

·      What is the new Policy Brief from Change the Air Foundation about, and how does it help lawmakers and health officials better understand mold and water damage issues? (25:51)

·      How is Change the Air Foundation using the success of Illinois SB 1087 to pursue similar policies in other states? (35:13) 

Links mentioned in interview:

Policy and Advocacy tab: https://changetheairfoundation.org/policy-advocacy/

Start Here: Mold & Water Damage tab: https://changetheairfoundation.org/mold-water-damage/

Policy Brief tab: https://changetheairfoundation.org/policy-brief/

Get in touch with our guest:

Brandon Chappo’s 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.

Abigail was enjoying the prime of her life, but just two months after moving into a new apartment, everything fell apart. She shares how her health rapidly declined, leading to multiple ER visits, an incorrect diagnosis, and harmful treatments. 

Abigail finally found hope when a doctor discovered that her mystery symptoms were caused by hidden toxic mold. This is the story of a young woman’s life turned upside down, and how she is now learning to face the future with a new, healthier set of rules.

Links mentioned in interview:

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

Learn more about Change the Air Foundation:  

ChangeTheAirFoundation.org

Sign up for our newsletter: 

ChangeTheAirFoundation.org/stay-informed/

Donate: 

changetheair-bloom.kindful.com/

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. 

Mold In the Workplace: Vanessa’s story 

 What do you do when you’re forced to choose between your health and your career? That’s the tough choice Vanessa Johnson faced when a moldy workplace cost Vanessa her health as well as her job. Vanessa shares how she approached her employer and ultimately decided to make healthy changes with the help of the ADA. Tune in for valuable tips on navigating the workplace with mold illness and discover the steps Vanessa is taking to heal from CIRS.

 Episode Highlights:

· Vanessa shares her story about becoming sick from mold exposure at work and how she approached her employer about her symptoms. (1:33)

· Vanessa explains how raising concerns about her work environment led to her employer treating her differently, and what she did next. (8:45)

· Vanessa discusses what happened after she left, and how she approached looking for a new job while taking her mold illness into consideration. (15:03)

· Vanessa shares which accommodations she requested and how the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) came into play. (17:40)

· Vanessa shares which treatments and behaviors have helped her to heal, and how her day-to-day life has changed. (22:25)

Links Mentioned In Our Interview:

 Mayo Clinic Research 

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/1999/09/990910080344.htm

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH): www.cdc.gov/niosh/index.html

 Interviews with health practitioners: www.changetheairfoundation.org/health-focused/

Change the Air Summit: www.changetheairsummit.org

Learn more about Change the Air Foundation:  

ChangeTheAirFoundation.org

Sign up for our newsletter: 

ChangeTheAirFoundation.org/stay-informed/

Donate: 

changetheair-bloom.kindful.com/

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. 

This interview is a must-watch! 

Are you confused by which steps to follow when it comes to treating mold illness? Have you heard key words like colonization, biofilm, glutathione, binders, and coinfections but don’t know what applies to you or the order in which to tackle things? 

Dr. Terri Fox clears up the confusion and lays out her two-step mold illness protocol in a way that laypeople can clearly understand. This goldmine of an interview will give you the confidence to believe that healing from mold illness truly is achievable.

Episode Highlights:

• What symptoms are clues that mold may be the cause of illness?  (4:28)
• How does Dr. Fox diagnose someone with mold-related illness? (6:47)
• What is Dr. Fox’s treatment protocol for mold illness? (9:54)
• How do binders work and how should constipation be handled? (14:42)
• Does Dr. Fox recommend a mold-friendly diet? (18:51)
• How does glutathione help you heal from mold? (20:14)
• What is mold colonization, and does everyone exposed to mold become colonized? (22:13)
• What antifungals and biofilm busters do you use, and what are biofilms? (24:54)
• How long is a typical course of treatment? (29:23)
• What common treatment mistakes do people make? (33:08)
• If Lyme and coinfections are also present, in which order does Dr. Fox address the illnesses? (35:12)
• Dr. Fox summarizes key takeaways. (38:37)

Links mentioned in interview: 

Start Here tab: www.changetheairfoundation.org/mold-water-damage/

Questions to Ask When Hiring an Indoor Environmental Professional: 

www.changetheairfoundation.org/sdm_downloads/questions-to-ask-when-hiring-an-indoor-environmental-professional-iep/

Questions to Ask When Hiring a Remediation Company:

www.changetheairfoundation.org/sdm_downloads/questions-to-ask-when-hiring-a-remediation-company/

Get in touch with our guest:

www.BoulderHolistic.com  

www.DrFoxMedicalDetective.com  

www.facebook.com/boulderholistic

Instagram: @terrifoxmd and @boulderholistic

Learn more about Change the Air Foundation:  

ChangeTheAirFoundation.org

Sign up for our newsletter: 

ChangeTheAirFoundation.org/stay-informed/

Donate: 

changetheair-bloom.kindful.com/

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.