The Mold Money Podcast

Practical advice, insider tips, and proven strategies to help you avoid costly mistakes, ensure effective mold removal, and reclaim your living spaces. Expert advice on mold and mold remediation. Your ultimate guide to saving money, protecting your health, and navigating the challenges of mold remediation and home restoration.

Featured Episodes

Paint and Encapsulation: Should You Use It in New Home Construction? 

Encapsulating wood with paint is often marketed as a mold-fighting miracle for new home construction. It's not. In this episode:

  • Caliwel paint and how it’s supposed to work
  • Active ingredients (hydrated lime) and their role in mold prevention
  • Why using an encapsulant on wood during new home construction might not work.
  • Problems paint encapsulation coatings create, including trapping moisture and failing
  • How to prevent mold without using paint or encapsulation

The Mold Money Podcast

 

TRANSCRIPT

If you're one…

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AMEA Mycotoxin Air Test for Mold (Airborne Mycotoxin Environmental Analysis) 

On my other podcast, The Daniel Stih Podcast, I had Andrea Hermbroff, owner of Align Mold Consulting on as a guest. Her company helps people with environmental health issues, find professionals to treat and diagnose them.

She also works for a company that sells a new type of mold test, one that tests the air for mycotoxins. The company's test is called AMEA, A-M-E-A, short for Airborne Mycotoxin Environmental Analysis.

What's collected in the air sample is actually analyzed using ELISA, E-L-I-S-A, it's…

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Mold in Your Rental? How to Talk to Your Landlord—and What NOT to Say 

Mold in your apartment or rental home can feel like a nightmare—how you handle the conversation with your landlord makes all the difference. In this episode, Daniel Stih shares practical guidance for tenants and landlords navigating mold problems:

  • What to say—and what NOT to say—to your landlord if you find mold
  • Common mistakes tenants make that can derail getting help
  • Smart steps for landlords to protect their property and avoid liability
  • Why involving the right experts matters

Daniel cuts through the…

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Mold Is Not Everywhere - Debunking Misinterpretations of NYS Mold Law 

A mold remediation company in New York claims that New York State doesn’t require mold to be completely removed — only that the area is “clean, dry, and free of visible mold.” In this episode, I dive into Article 32 of the Law and expose flaws in how some remediation contractors interpret — and twist — the language of the law to suit them. As a mold expert and a rocket scientist, I break down why their interpretation is misleading and unprofessional, using logic, the standard for professional mold…

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CFS and Mycotoxins: Why Mycotoxin Testing May Not Reveal the Cause of Your Illness 

Explore why urine mycotoxin testing in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) patients might be misleading.

  • Why the science behind urine mycotoxin tests is flawed
  • How mycotoxins come from food
  • Why people with CFS might have impaired detox pathways, making them sensitive to toxins
  • The pitfalls of focusing on mycotoxins instead of a broader picture
  • What better strategies  to help CFS sufferers identify root causes and improve their health

Daniel cuts through the fear and misinformation, offering a science-based…

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Why Your Home Still Smells Musty After Mold Remediation and How to Fix it 

You paid for mold remediation, the work is done, and a musty, mold-like odor lingers. Learn why a lingering mold odor means something is still wrong - and how to find and fix the source of mold contamination in your home.

TRANSCRIPT

Today's episode is on why your home still smells moldy or musty after you've had mold remediation done. You paid for remediation, the work's done, and a mold or a musty odor lingers.

Here's what it means and how to get rid of the odor. You're not imagining it. You walk through the…

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Debunking the Panic: Does Your Cell Phone Really Make Mold Worse? 

Some experts claim your cell phone might be making black mold more aggressive and making you sick— citing Dr. Klinghardt and the idea that EMFs drive mold to release more mycotoxins. In this episode, I break down what the article gets wrong. Learn:

  • The actual research behind EMFs and mold and what it doesn’t say
  • Why it misrepresents the data and misinterprets the video reference
  • How fear-based content like this spreads misinformation and harms those struggling with mold-related illness
  • What to watch out for…
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Mycotoxins Are Not VOCs - Debunking Mold Misinformation - Mold Mycotoxins Do Not Off-gas 

In this episode I clear up the misinformation about a widespread myth in the mold world -  the claim that mycotoxins are volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Spoiler alert — they’re not.

Learn the science behind mycotoxins, how they differ from VOCs, and why this misunderstanding can lead to misdiagnosis, ineffective testing, and wasted money. Whether you're a homeowner, practitioner or mold inspector, this episode will give you the clarity to separate fact from fiction — and protect your health and your…

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Yes- All Molds Can Produce Mycotoxins — And Why That Matters 

In this episode of Mold Money, Daniel Stih breaks down a controversial, scientifically sound truth: all molds have the potential to produce mycotoxins, not just a few that “toxic” species.

Learn why the common belief that only certain molds are dangerous is misleading and leads to false assumptions. This is a problem when people find mycotoxins in their urine and try to trace them back to specific molds in their home, something that can not be done that way.

Daniel clarifies what he means by "potential" and…

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Do EMFs Make Mold Grow Faster? Part 1: The EMF - Mold Connection Experiment 

Can electromagnetic fields affect how fast mold grows and which types grow? In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of an experiment I designed to find out.

You'll learn:

  • How I designed my experiment
  • What I’m measuring, for how long, under what conditions
  • The different types of EMFs I studied — WiFi, electric, magnetic fields

This is Part 1 of a two-part series. In the next episode, I’ll share what I found, and what it might mean for people trying to live in healthier homes. It was inspired by a blog…

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Why ERVs Don’t Belong in Crawlspaces: What Actually Works to Keep It Dry 

ERVs (Energy Recovery Ventilators) are popular for improving indoor air. When it comes to crawlspaces, they can do more harm than good when used to dry a crawlspace out. In this episode, I explain why using an ERV to dry a crawlspace is a flawed strategy that can make moisture and mold problems worse — and what you might do instead.

In this episode:

  • Why ERVs may introduce humidity instead of removing it
  • The science behind moisture control in unconditioned spaces
  • Smarter strategies for drying crawlspaces…
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Does Your Cell Phone Help Black Mold Grow? EMF & Mold Experiment Results 

Could your smartphone or home WiFi be encouraging the growth of toxic mold?

Listen as I share the surprising results of an experiment performed to study whether exposure to electric fields, magnetic fields, or WiFi affects mold growth. Hear what did cause black mold such as Stachybotrys sand toxigenic species such as Aspergillus to grow. An insightful breakdown of what was discovered — and what it might mean for your health and environment.

SHOW NOTES :

Experiment Equipment, Procedure, Data

Watch the full…

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Mold in Your HVAC ( Air Conditioning ) System & Air Ducts: Myths, Facts, and How to Fix It 

There’s a lot of misinformation about mold in HVAC ( air conditioning ) systems and air ducts. Should you be concerned? Will sanitizing the ductwork solve the problem? In this episode, I break down the facts and debunk myths surrounding mold in your air conditioning and ventilation system.

You'll learn how mold grows in HVAC systems, how to detect and test for mold in air ducts and—most importantly—how to remove mold effectively without wasting money on ineffective solutions such as sanitizers and UV light…

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Answers to Mold Questions: Special Situations 

In this episode, we tackle the more questions about mold and its impact on your home and health, even your vehicle. Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or just mold-curious, this episode will give you the essential knowledge to stay informed and mold-free.

TRANSCRIPT:

Welcome to The Mold Money Podcast, where I give you ideas on how to save money and get rid of it when you're doing mold remediation, how to save money and make sure the mold is gone.

So today's topic is special situations, special questions.

Can…

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Mold Exposure : Health and Safety Risks from Exposure to Mold 

Mold exposure can pose serious health risks, but how do you know if it’s affecting you or your loved ones? In this episode, we explore the health impacts of mold exposure, from respiratory issues and allergies to chronic symptoms linked to toxic mold.

Learn how to recognize the signs of mold-related illnesses, protect yourself and your family, and safely address mold issues without compromising your health. Whether you’re dealing with mold in your home, workplace, or rental property, this episode will…

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Stop Mold Before It Starts - Mold Prevention, Essential Tips for Preventing Mold 

Mold prevention is easier (and cheaper!) than mold remediation and removal. Learn how to control moisture, improve ventilation, and maintain your home to prevent mold from growing. In this episode, I share practical strategies to keep mold at bay in your home or workplace. 

We discuss how to handle humidity, leaks, and condensation, and  provide tips for preventing mold in hard-to-reach areas like crawl spaces and attics. Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or business owner, this episode equips you with the…

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Mold Remediation and Mold Removal: How to Get It Done Right 

What does it take to remove mold effectively? In this episode, we break down the process of mold remediation step-by-step, from containment and cleanup to ensuring the mold doesn’t return. Learn how to hire the right professionals, what questions to ask, and how to avoid scams or unnecessary expenses.

We address common concerns: you can stay in your home during remediation,  what it costs and if you can do it yourself. Whether you're dealing with a small mold problem or a major infestation, this episode is…

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Mold Testing: What You Need to Know Before You Test for Mold 

In this episode, I dive into mold testing, explaining when it’s necessary, how it works, and what the results mean. Learn about the different types of tests—air sampling, surface testing and more—and how to choose the right method for your situation. We’ll also share common pitfalls to avoid, how to find a reputable mold inspector, and what to do once you have your test results. Whether you're concerned about toxic mold, buying a new home, or just want peace of mind, this episode will give you the clarity…

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Common Mold Questions: What You Need to Know About Mold in Your Home 

In this episode, we tackle the most common questions about mold and its impact on your home and health. What is toxic mold? How can you tell if mold is hiding in your walls? What causes it to grow, and how can you prevent it? Join us as we break down the basics of mold, including its health risks, where it’s commonly found, and practical steps to protect your living space. Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or just mold-curious, this episode will give you the essential knowledge to stay informed and…

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Welcome to Mold Money: The Podcast 

Welcome to the Mold Money Podcast where you will get expert advice on how to save money, effective mold remediation techniques, how to test for mold, and other mold related insights. The Mold Money Podcast is your ultimate guide to saving money, protecting your health, and navigating the challenges of mold remediation and home restoration. 

Hosted by industry expert and bestselling author Daniel Stih, this podcast delivers practical advice, insider tips, and proven strategies to help you avoid costly…

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