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Being forced out of your home because the walls are filled with Black Mold is a nightmare. Finding no legal recourse for the damages inflicted on your health and your finances is even worse. So today, we’re digging into the legal side of holistic home building.
Kristina is a national trial lawyer who represents sick people against the companies that made them sick. She founded Just Well Law to help clients recover financially so that they can rebuild their health and their lives. Kristina’s experience with water damage in her home was absolutely devastating for her family.
From neurological damage inflicted on her children to a complete depletion of her entire family’s financial safety net, Kristina genuinely lost it all due to negligence on the builder’s part. After that experience, she was fight the system that has been repeatedly allowing this to happen.
Listen to this episode to understand exactly what you can do if you find yourself in a moldy home. Kristina really wants to drive the point home that you have to get out of that house. No matter what the financial devastation looks like, the deterioration of your health is not worth staying.
In this episode, we’re chatting about:
How Kristina advocates for sick familiesKristina’s personal experience with Black Mold in her homeInsurance and builder accountabilityWho is ultimately responsible when negligence leads to an unhealthy home?What your options are if you’re experiencing untenable circumstances in your homeConnect with Kristina:
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A healthy home doesn't start and end with construction. Every single product, from cookware to perfume, can have a huge impact on your overall health. So today, I'm joined by Wendy Kathryn , a clean living coach and environmental toxins attorney. She's also the host of Toxin Free-ish Podcast where you can find all things toxin-free living, for real life.
When it comes to household products, greenwashing is rampant. So we're really getting into the knitty gritty with this conversation so you can feel more empowered the next time you head to Target. At the end of the day, you'll probably even save money in the long run! Because here's the thing - there is no reason for every household to have 10 different cleaning products. Let's get back to the basics and cut out the things that are cancer causing and ruining your air quality!
Even beyond the products themselves, Wendy has some really great, actionable tips that you can start implementing today to feel better in your home. Did you know that your indoor air quality is two to five times worse than the outdoor air? So small adjustments like opening up your windows whenever possible can help!
In this episode, we're chatting about:
Disinfectants are pesticides!? Why it's important to ditch fragrance whenever possible Simple tips to improve your indoor air quality All things water filtersConnect with Wendy:
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Houses don’t need to breathe. People need to breathe. Houses on the other hand, need to dry. These are the wise words of today’s guest, Emily Mottram. Emily is an architect and principal of Mottram Architecture. She is a building science educator, co-host on “The BS & Beer Show” and hosts a monthly podcast “E3 - Energy and Efficiency with Emily,” focusing on building science, architecture and female entrepreneurship.
Emily is a wealth of knowledge! She shares her journey from growing up in a farming community to becoming a leading expert in sustainable architecture and building science. We dive into various aspects of building science, including air quality, material selection, and the importance of air sealing.
Emily offers practical tips for homeowners on how to engage with architects and builders to achieve a healthy and sustainable home. We also discuss the challenges and considerations for production builds and renovations, and Emily highlights the importance of communication and collaboration in the design and building process. And stick around until the end for a little bit of information about a networking group for all the building science gurus and/or homeowners with questions that may be meeting up near you!
In this episode, we’re chatting about:
Why spray foam is NOT the cure all solution for building issuesCreating a passive home in a cold climate like Maine versus a hot climate like TexasThe water control layer, air control layer, vapor control layer, and thermal control layerHow to navigate the process of building with a production homeDe-stigmatizing renting property versus buyingConnect with Emily:
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Indoor air quality can make or break a home! Fresh air and clean water are the silent, and often forgotten, ingredients to a healthy living space. Today’s guest is Zack Pelzel, the Founder of The Purified Home. And no, we’re not just talking about air purifiers.
After backpacking through the Sierra Nevadas, Zack became more attuned to nature than ever before. Suddenly, he understood the power of living in lockstep with nature, instead of against it. From waking with the sun to breathing in pure mountain air, he knew he wanted to take these treasures to everyday life inside the home.
Did you know that a typical contractor will only test whether your HVAC heats and cools? They completely leave out the “V” - ventilation! Zack’s team will often come in and test the air quality, only to find that it’s as bad or WORSE than the outdoor air quality.
So how do we avoid this oversight in our own homes? How can we ensure that we’re not being exposed to more pollutants when we come home each day? Well, The Purified Home works to get your indoor air quality 90% BETTER than outside air. And of course, we’re giving you all the tools you need to make sure you’ve got clean water running through your home. Because no one wants to be drinking and showering in contaminated water!
In this episode, we’re chatting about:
All about the device Zack’s team uses to test indoor air qualityThe difference between an HRV and an ERV and which is right for youZack’s take on standalone air purifiersDo you need a whole house water filter?How you can find the contaminant reports in YOUR cityThe truth about detachable shower water filtersConnect with Zack
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Can you imagine a house without windows? Sounds more like a prison to me and my guest today, Peter Duppenthaler AKA @FenestrationGuy. Windows serve a purpose for the occupants mental health. With no sunlight streaming into a space, it can become depressing - fast. They also provide access to fresh air! And aesthetically, they’re an important aspect of your home.
So when you’re in the building or renovating process, you want to make sure that you’re having informed conversations with your contractors. Because while windows serve a purpose, they’re also one of the most vulnerable spots of the home. I often refer to them as a hole in the middle of an otherwise solid building envelope. So Peter is joining us to give us the inside scoop on all things windows!
Peter has been in the window industry for over decade and has found a passion for the connection between windows and building science / building envelope! He’s great with the technical details so get ready to take lots of notes.
Believe it or not, choosing the right windows for your home isn’t always straight forward. So I want you to walk away with a comprehensive understanding of how to approach all of your options. From choosing your frames to picking the right glass options, you’ll feel empowered to make the right choice for your home. We even uncovered a decision I made with my windows which may have lost me a manufacturers warranty. So tune in to avoid a mistake like that!
In this episode, we’re chatting about:
What is R Value and UL Value?The four tiers of window frame options: Vinyl, Composite, Fiberglass and Wood Interior/Aluminum Clad Exterior (or all aluminum)How your choice of coating can effect the efficiency rating of a homeYour window options if privacy is a big concern for youWhen conversations about the window details should happen in the building processThe #1 issue Peter sees with windows (hint: it’s NOT leaks)Connect with Peter:
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Many of us get into this industry because we have personal horror stories with mold. For me, I bought a home that had floor to ceiling mold in the kitchen. It was completely invisible to the naked eye, until we started the renovation process and took walls down to the studs.
For today’s guest, Megan Carson, she was reaching a sever level of mold toxicity and couldn’t identify the source until having an ERMI test and an inspection. Luckily, she was able to get out of her lease and high tail it out of there! But that led her down the path to becoming the founder of Guided Well LLC.
She is a certified mold inspector and IEP with a specialized focus on client education and building defect identification related to poor building science and design in relation to indoor air quality issues. After her own four walls made her sick, she’s making it her mission to help other people out of that sort of situation.
For any of you home renters out there, we’re starting this conversation with some safe guards that all renters need to know about. From getting your own inspections (not through management) to discussing additional clauses in the lease to guarantee a way out if water damage becomes an issue. Then, we’re chatting all things remediation so you don’t have to go into the process already overwhelmed.
In this episode, we’re chatting about:
Why Megan became a mold inspectorThe importance of good testing and validation before remediationHow to vet a mold inspectorWhat the sampling process should look like (hint: it’s not supposed to just be air samples in the middle of the room)Learning the difference between restoration and remediationWhy encapsulation should only be used as a last resortConnect with Megan:
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Windows are a uniquely vulnerable spot in your home. Essentially, you’ve got a stable structure with holes in the middle to let in light. So as you can imagine, all sorts of problems can present themselves if your windows aren’t constructed properly. It’s incredibly important that your windows are properly constructed to protect against water damage!
Before you can make any big decisions about the windows in your home, you need to know what type of windows you’re working with. So first, I’ll be differentiating the two types of windows you may be working with. From there, you’re going to get the full rundown on considerations that you need to make with your team. So if you don’t know what I mean when I say “head flashing, back dam, or slope sill,” you’re in for a treat.
But we’re not stopping there, I’m even covering what to do once your windows have been installed. You’ll want to make sure the windows are leak tested before you wash your hands of this step and move on. Have a hands off installer? No problem! This is something you can do yourself and I’ll tell you exactly how in this episode.
In this episode, we’re chatting about:
The two different types of windows (new construction and retrofit)The problem with retrofin windowsWhy I suggest new construction windows on an existing homeWhy I would caution against sky lightsDifferent considerations for windows in new buildsHow to conduct a leak testConnect with me:
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“The housing market is crazy, can I skip the inspection?” I hear this all the time. And truth be told, I’ve skipped the home inspection before. But I would NOT suggest doing this (you’ll have to tune into the episode to find out why I did).
Today, I’m joined by Tori McGee, a holistic realtor based in Atlanta, Georgia. This episode was so fun to record. We dove into the nitty-gritty of buying a healthy home and let me tell you, inspections are key! Tori shared her wisdom on the must-dos, from checking the roof to testing for radon and mold. She's all about making sure our homes are safe havens for our health and happiness.
I also really loved hearing about how a holistic realtor can be the buyers advocate. From asking the hard questions about what chemicals will be used in remediation to spotting foundational cracks, your realtor can speak up when you’re feeling intimidated. Plus, she gave us some great tips on finding a like-minded realtor and resources for a non-toxic living space. It was such an informative episode, and I can't wait for you to hear her advice.
In this episode, we’re chatting about:
The specific steps in an in-depth home inspectionHow a holistic realtor can help you understand next steps after an inspection reportSuggested inspections for new build homesWarning signs to look out for pre-inspection during the house searching processHow to navigate conversations about healthy homes with big buildersHow you can find a holistic realtor in your areaConnect with Tori:
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I’ve seen people rip their homes down to the studs in an effort to get rid of mold. And the worst part is, sometimes they do all of that and they still don’t find what they’re looking for. So today, you’re in for a treat because my friend PJ Harlow, owner and CEO of PJ Harlow Wellness, Inc. is joining us.
PJ Harlow Wellness, Inc is a virtual, IICRC-certified consulting firm specializing in holistic mold removal, decontamination & remediation. As the founder and curriculum director of The Academy for Holistic Home Health & Mold Sciences, she also offers bespoke online courses for homeowners, renters, and professionals!
We’re talking about how to maintain a health fungal ecology in the home. Just like your gut has a microbiome, so do the four walls you live in! And if you’ve been considering investing in an ERMI test, please listen to this episode! We don’t want you to go out and get a result that you can’t interpret. And turning to Facebook is not the answer! You’ll have amateurs catastrophizing and telling you to tear down your house.
In this episode, we’re chatting about:
how to maintain healthy fungal ecology - is there such a thing as being “too clean”Step number one when you think you have a mold problemWhy failed remediations are so commonWhat the remediation process actually entailsWhat is fine particulate cleaning?Connect with PJ:
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How do you come up with a figure for your renovation budget? I know allocating funds can feel really stressful when you’re being thrown so many options. So in today’s episode, I’m giving you a bird’s eye view of the budgeting decisions I would urge you to make.
At the end of the day, we want to use the renovation process as a way to avoid bigger headaches down the line. It might feel fun to focus a lot of our attention on fixtures and finishes! But I’m going to be pointing you towards some more integral processes to prioritize first.
I’ll be pointing you towards details that you may overlook otherwise. For example: access doors are incredibly important! Without access doors, you’re making it ten times harder to pinpoint issues as they pop up. And we’re not shying away from the big picture overhauls that might need to happen. If you’re already doing a renovation and you have plumbing from the 1950s, it’s probably time to address that before a pipe bursts a year from now.
I hope this episode gives you a solid place to start when you sit down to create your budget. just remember, it’s easier to deal with the big picture now and small, aesthetic issues can always be replaced later.
In this episode, we’re chatting about:
The big items you need to factor into your budgetWhy you might want to replace the plumbingWhy it’s almost impossible to totally clean a duct system without replacing itWhat I would do if I was in charge of a renovation budgetWhy I would minimize costs in fixtures and finishesThe importance of access doorsConnect with me:
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What does a passive home look like? Well, imagine a home that is completely energy efficient without breaking the bank. Today’s guest, Casey Grey, is the founder of the award-winning sustainable building company, The Conscious Builder.
Casey began passive home building after the birth of his first child. Knowing he wanted to leave the world better than he came into it, he took his background in construction and dove into building research to create a more sustainable future. Get ready to take notes with this episode because Casey is sharing a lot of knowledge! Even I learned something new about how to take an existing, older home and bring it up to today’s standards.
We’re getting the inside scoop on his processes and some of his favorite products for energy efficient home building. If you listen to this episode, you could save yourself from a major headache later down the line!
Casey is also the host of The Conscious Builder Podcast and The Conscious Builder Show on YouTube and the founder of The Conscious Builder Academy, an online course hub for future-focused builders who want to create better businesses. So go check him out!
In this episode, we’re chatting about:
Understanding the difference between a vapor barrier and an air barrierHow airtight remodels workThe difference between an HRV and an ERVWhy an airtight home can become problematic if the mechanical system in overlookedAn insulation option that is mold and fire resistantThe number one mistake homeowners make when communicating with their contractorsDon't forget to rate, review, and share in the group text. This podcast is free and ratings/reviews and shares are our currency.
Connect with Casey:
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How can you have a productive conversation with contractors? A lot of people will shy away from really digging in with their contractors because they get intimidated by all the jargon. But it’s a really important first step to getting that healthy home you dream of!
So today, I’m laying out exactly how you can approach these conversations. We’re even breaking down what it means to define the scope of the project. I’ll be asking questions that can give you an idea of what decisions need to be made before you talk to your contractors.
And how do you find the right contractor for you? Too often, people will just go with who their best friend or neighbor used. But finding the right contractor is a step that shouldn’t be rushed through. So I’ll be taking you through the red flags to watch out for in your search. For example, if you’re renovating your kitchen and you’re being charged a lump sum - that’s cause for concern. What materials are being used? What’s included vs. excluded, etc?
So if you’re nervous because you’re not sure what questions to ask your contractors - this episode is for you. If this episode is helpful for you, spread the word to friends and family who are about to embark on this process too!
Today, we’re chatting about:
Defining the scope of the projectReverse engineering the budget for your project based on the scopeWhy I suggest getting at least three proposals or bids from prospective contractorsContractor red flagsWhy you need to have every communication in writingResources Mentioned:
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One of the biggest misconceptions about mold is that your house needs to experience a massive flood to be at risk. In reality, mold can grow and thrive with minor leaks and excessive humidity. But how do you know when it's time to call an inspector? And what precautions can you take to make sure you don't have to go through the nightmare of chasing mold down to the studs of your house?
Today's guest, Anna Branch, is a mold inspector based in Southern California. She is my number one trusted source when it comes to all things mold. After living in a mold infested house herself, Anna is a testament to the fact that once you remove yourself from exposure, your health can thrive. Now, she's made it her mission to help other families live safely in mold-free homes.
So whether you're looking to build a home designed with mold prevention in mind, or you've spotted mold in your house and want to get to the bottom of it - this episode is for you. I'm particularly passionate about this subject. After going through the nightmare of buying a home and realizing it had a huge mold problem after making the buying decision, I know the value of the work Anna does. We're touching on everything from common misconceptions to actionable tips
In this episode, we're chatting about:
Common misconceptions about mold The role that maintenance plays in preventing mold When is the right time to call an inspector? What is it like working with a mold inspector? How you can prevent a mold catastrophe in your home
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Is your home making you sick? Of course, when it comes to illness, the walls of our home are not usually the first place we look to find the offender. That’s why today, i’m laying out the three biggest ways your home could be making you sick.
It’s important to look at your home from a bird’s eye point of view. The first, and perhaps most obvious, is water damage. Water damage can, of course, lead to mold growth and negatively affect our indoor air quality. Considering how much time we spend in our home, air quality is extremely important to take seriously. I’m going over a few safeguards, but if you’re concerned about mold, go ahead and listen to episode three with mold inspector, Anna Branch!
Second, radon or carbon monoxide. These are two invisible forces that can barge in and rapidly decline our health. Carbon Monoxide usually has some odor to it, so it can be easier to detect. But radon will go completely unnotices without a detector. So check out the radon map in your area to determine the risk your home is under.
And third, the product we’re bringing into our home. Cleaning products, detergents, etc. For some reason, even our trash bags are scented these days! Fragrance is something we want to avoid as much as possible. I know the buying decisions you make are personal to you and your needs, but keep this in mind with anything you’re bringing into the home.
In this episode, we’re chatting about:
Why water damage can negatively affect our healthHow to avoid water damageWhat is radon and how do you know how much is in your soil?Why does it matter what products we buy?
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Holistic home construction is not the norm. Traditional home construction is what you see being built all around you. Unfortunately, many home builders and renovators don’t know how to talk to their contractors, what to ask, and how to assert their needs. So what does holistic home construction even mean?
The most important thing to understand is that your definition of a holistic home will be different than everyone else on your team. Your contractor might not value one piece of the process as much as you. Certain timelines might be sped through, unless you go in with a clear understanding of what you need.
For example, someone coming from a home with water damage might make avoiding water damage the number one priority. While another person who experienced carbon monoxide poisoning might put detection much higher on their list. So I encourage you to write down what’s most important to you. What is the number one priority with your home?
In this episode, we’re chatting about:
The 5 different types of homes and building processesHow to create your definition of a healthy homeConsidering how you’re going to maintain a healthy home
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Here's a sneak peak at what to expect from The Holistic Homes Podcast each week! I’m your host Christine Cimabue, and I’m a licensed contractor and holistic construction consultant.
You're in the right place if you're a homeowner considering a new build or renovation. Join us every Wednesday for guest expert conversations and quick, actionable tips from me. Together, we're going to ditch the jargon and empower you to take the health of your home into your own hands!
