Indoor Environments Association Podcast

Indoor Environments Association
  • 5.0 (7)
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Presented by the Indoor Environments Association (IEA), The Indoor Environments Project is the podcast that takes you beneath the surface of radon, vapor intrusion, and indoor air quality. We explore the science, stories, ethics, and standards shaping the built environment—from homes to workplaces and everything in between. Each month, we sit down with leading experts, seasoned professionals, and sharp thinkers to tackle the industry's most pressing challenges, uncover historical milestones, and imagine what’s next for indoor environmental health. Whether you're a seasoned professional, policy advocate, or just curious about the air you breathe, this podcast delivers insight, practical knowledge, and a few surprises along the way. 📅 New episodes drop the 4th Wednesday of every month. Subscribe today and join the conversation on the spaces we live, work, and thrive in. #IndoorAirQuality #Radon #VaporIntrusion #IEApodcast

  1. 2d ago

    Episode 13

    Send us Fan Mail Installing a vapor mitigation system may solve an immediate exposure problem—but what happens five, ten, or twenty years later? In this episode of The Indoor Environments Project, host Diane Swecker talks with Jennifer Borski of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and Susan McKinley of the Indiana Department of Environmental Management about Operation, Maintenance and Monitoring (OM&M) and the long-term stewardship required to keep vapor mitigation systems protective over time. Jennifer and Susan explore how Wisconsin and Indiana approach long-term responsibility differently, what happens when properties change owners or documentation disappears, and why a system that worked when it was installed may not remain protective without continued attention. They also discuss the new ANSI/AARST OM&M standard, the role consensus standards can play within different state regulatory frameworks, documentation and inspection practices, remote monitoring and digital records, and what contractors can do today to make future stewardship easier. Because when contamination remains, installation isn't the end of the story. Guests: Jennifer Borski, Wisconsin DNR, and Susan McKinley, Indiana DEM Host: Diane Swecker Produced and edited by: Daisy Rezende Support the show The Indoor Environment Project is brought to you by the Indoor Environments Association—advancing science, policy, and professionalism in radon, vapor intrusion, and indoor air quality. 📬 Got feedback, questions, or a story to share? Email us at info@indoorevironments.org! 💡 Subscribe to stay updated on future episodes—and don’t forget to leave a review if you enjoyed the show! 🌐 Learn more about our work at indoorenvironments.org. Because better air starts with better professionals.

  2. Aug 26

    Beyond the Manometer: Inspecting Radon Mitigation Systems

    Send us Fan Mail Beyond the Manometer: Inspecting Radon Mitigation SystemsA radon mitigation fan is running. The manometer shows pressure. The post-mitigation test came back low. So, is the system good? In this episode of The Indoor Environments Project, host Diane Swecker is joined by Bruce Snead, instructor for the NRPP Soil Gas Mitigation Compliance Inspector course, and Greg Johns, a professional home inspector and certified Soil Gas Mitigation Compliance Inspector, to look beyond whether a mitigation system simply appears to be working. The conversation explores what professionals evaluate during a mitigation system inspection, common deficiencies found in the field, system labeling and monitoring, exhaust and moisture considerations, active versus passive systems, and the important distinction between radon reduction and standards compliance. Bruce and Greg also discuss how specialized training and mitigation system inspections can support homeowners, home inspectors, mitigation contractors, state radon programs, and the continued improvement of the radon industry. Earn 1 NRPP CE Credit This episode is approved for 1 hour of NRPP continuing education credit for NRPP-certified professionals who are IEA members. After listening, log in to your IEA account, visit Free Education and Exam Study Guides, click COURSES, and select this episode to complete the requirements for your CE credit. Continue the conversation in Norfolk! Join us October 4–7 for The Indoor Environments Symposium 2026 in Norfolk, Virginia. Learn more and register at IndoorEnvironments.org. Guests: Bruce Snead and Greg Johns Host: Diane Swecker Producer: Daisy Rezende Technical Support: Holly Content Review: Myca Bruno and Duane Support the show The Indoor Environment Project is brought to you by the Indoor Environments Association—advancing science, policy, and professionalism in radon, vapor intrusion, and indoor air quality. 📬 Got feedback, questions, or a story to share? Email us at info@indoorevironments.org! 💡 Subscribe to stay updated on future episodes—and don’t forget to leave a review if you enjoyed the show! 🌐 Learn more about our work at indoorenvironments.org. Because better air starts with better professionals.

  3. Jul 22

    What Property Owners Wish Every Environmental Professional Knew

    Send us Fan Mail What happens after the environmental report is delivered? Consultants investigate. Engineers design. Contractors install. But ultimately, someone has to decide what happens next. In this episode of The Indoor Environments Project, host Diane Swecker welcomes Mark Quimby, Vice President of Ashley Capital and former environmental consultant, for a conversation about vapor intrusion from a perspective rarely discussed—the property owner responsible for balancing environmental risk, redevelopment, business objectives, and long-term stewardship. Drawing on nearly two decades of consulting experience before moving into commercial real estate development, Mark shares what he looks for when selecting environmental consultants and contractors, how technical recommendations influence business decisions, and why collaboration is essential to successful projects. The conversation explores lessons learned from large redevelopment projects—including the historic Buick City redevelopment in Flint, Michigan—and highlights the importance of transparency, community engagement, and building trust throughout the environmental decision-making process. In this episode:  Why environmental consultants are hired to support decisions—not just deliver reports  How property owners evaluate vapor intrusion risks  What distinguishes outstanding consultants and contractors  The role of transparency, documentation, and "showing your work"  Why professional organizations and peer networks matter  Lessons from brownfield redevelopment and community engagement  Why every building—and every project—deserves its own approach Whether you work in vapor intrusion, radon, environmental consulting, brownfield redevelopment, engineering, indoor air quality, or environmental regulation, this episode offers valuable insight into how successful projects are built through collaboration and informed decision-making. About the Guest Mark Quimby is Vice President of Ashley Capital, where he oversees environmental strategy for redevelopment projects across North America. Before joining Ashley Capital, Mark spent nearly twenty years as an environmental consultant specializing in vapor intrusion, remediation, and brownfield redevelopment. His unique experience on both sides of the table gives him valuable insight into what owners need from environmental professionals and how successful project teams are built. Resources  Learn more about the Indoor Environments Association: https://IndoorEnvironments.org Register for the Indoor Environments 2026 Symposium (October 4–7, Norfolk, VA)  Follow The Indoor Environments Project on your favorite podcast platform. Support the show The Indoor Environment Project is brought to you by the Indoor Environments Association—advancing science, policy, and professionalism in radon, vapor intrusion, and indoor air quality. 📬 Got feedback, questions, or a story to share? Email us at info@indoorevironments.org! 💡 Subscribe to stay updated on future episodes—and don’t forget to leave a review if you enjoyed the show! 🌐 Learn more about our work at indoorenvironments.org. Because better air starts with better professionals.

  4. May 27

    How Standards, Design, and Reality Collide in Vapor Intrusion Work

    Send us Fan Mail Vapor intrusion mitigation is rarely straightforward. In this episode of The Indoor Environments Project, host Diane Swecker is joined by Rachel Saari and Tony McDonald for an in-depth discussion on what happens when pilot testing, system design, standards, and real-world building conditions collide. From pressure field extension and pilot testing methodology… to flow versus vacuum… to system overdesign, discharge considerations, and the realities of large-scale buildings… this conversation explores the complexities professionals face when designing and implementing vapor intrusion mitigation systems in the field. Topics discussed include: • Why “pressure fields aren’t round” in real-world conditions • The role of pilot testing in mitigation design • Flow rates, vacuum, and common design misconceptions • Pressure field extension and soil variability • Translating data into actionable system design • Challenges with large commercial and industrial buildings • The importance of ANSI/AARST standards in VI work • System overdesign and unnecessary complexity • Vapor discharge considerations and long-term performance • Why collaboration across disciplines matters in successful projects Rachel and Tony also discuss the evolving relationship between vapor intrusion mitigation, standards development, and field application — including lessons learned from reviewing real-world pilot testing reports and mitigation designs. Whether you work in vapor intrusion, radon mitigation, environmental consulting, engineering, regulation, or standards development, this episode offers valuable insight into how experienced professionals approach system-level decision-making in complex environments. Guests: Rachel Saari — Principal Engineer at Arcadis and technical expert leading the firm’s vapor intrusion mitigation community of practice Tony McDonald — CEO of A-Z Solutions and leading voice in radon and vapor intrusion mitigation Learn more about the Indoor Environments Association: IndoorEnvironments.org Listen to more episodes: IndoorEnvironments.org/podcast Support the show The Indoor Environment Project is brought to you by the Indoor Environments Association—advancing science, policy, and professionalism in radon, vapor intrusion, and indoor air quality. 📬 Got feedback, questions, or a story to share? Email us at info@indoorevironments.org! 💡 Subscribe to stay updated on future episodes—and don’t forget to leave a review if you enjoyed the show! 🌐 Learn more about our work at indoorenvironments.org. Because better air starts with better professionals.

  5. Apr 22

    Radon in Water: Understanding Sources, Exposure Pathways, Testing, and Mitigation

    Send us Fan Mail Radon is most often discussed as an indoor air issue — but what about radon in water? In this episode of The Indoor Environments Project, we explore a lesser-known yet important pathway of exposure: radon in well water. For homes that rely on private wells, radon in water can contribute to indoor air levels and raise important questions about testing, health risks, and mitigation. Host Diane Swecker is joined by Dr. Uttam Saha and Dr. Michael Kitto, two leading experts whose research and standards work have helped shape our understanding of radon in both air and water. Together, they break down:  How radon enters groundwater and why levels can vary dramatically—even between neighboring homes  The key differences between radon in air and radon in water  How everyday activities like showering and laundering can release radon into indoor air  The real health considerations, including inhalation vs. ingestion pathways  When and how homeowners should test well water for radon  What to look for in a qualified testing professional or laboratory  Current guidelines, regulatory challenges, and how standards are evolving  Mitigation options, including aeration and granular activated carbon systems  A practical field question: should you test water and air at the same time? This episode highlights an important reality: radon in water is highly variable, often overlooked, and must be tested to be understood. 🎓 Continuing Education Credit This episode is approved for 1 NRPP continuing education credit for IEA members. To claim your credit:  Log in to your Indoor Environments account → Navigate to CE Courses → Select IEA-402. 📍 Join Us at the IEA Symposium Want to go deeper? Join professionals from across the country at the Indoor Environments Association Symposium in Norfolk, VA (October 4–7, 2026).  Early Bird (by June 30): $645 for members | $800 for non-members After June 30: $745 for members | $900 for non-members Student Rate: $450 (with valid student ID) 🔍 Key Takeaway Radon doesn’t just come from the ground beneath your home — it can also come from the water you use every day. Understanding both pathways is essential for making informed decisions about testing and mitigation. 🎙️ About the Podcast The Indoor Environments Project is the official podcast of the Indoor Environments Association, bringing together experts, practitioners, and researchers to explore the science and standards shaping indoor environmental health. Support the show The Indoor Environment Project is brought to you by the Indoor Environments Association—advancing science, policy, and professionalism in radon, vapor intrusion, and indoor air quality. 📬 Got feedback, questions, or a story to share? Email us at info@indoorevironments.org! 💡 Subscribe to stay updated on future episodes—and don’t forget to leave a review if you enjoyed the show! 🌐 Learn more about our work at indoorenvironments.org. Because better air starts with better professionals.

    Radon in Water: Understanding Sources, Exposure Pathways, Testing, and Mitigation

  6. Mar 25

    When Vapor Intrusion Gets Complicated: Design, Testing, and What Really Matters

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Indoor Environments Project, host Diane Swecker is joined by Rachel Peterson, P.G., Environmental Department Manager at AGW, and Tony McDonald, CEO of A-Z Solutions, for a deep dive into vapor intrusion in practice. While vapor intrusion is often discussed alongside radon mitigation, this conversation explores where the similarities end — and where complexity begins. Together, they unpack how vapor intrusion projects are identified, designed, and executed in real-world settings, including:  What types of sites present vapor intrusion risk and how those risks are evaluated  The role of the conceptual site model in shaping mitigation decisions  Key differences between radon mitigation systems and vapor intrusion systems Why verification testing can be significantly more complex, especially when VOCs from building materials influence results  How pilot testing and pressure field data inform system design  Why successful projects depend on a multidisciplinary team, including consultants, regulators, and mitigation professionals The discussion also highlights common challenges in the field, including misinterpretation of data, overreach in project scope, and the importance of understanding the limits of your expertise. Whether you’re a radon professional expanding into vapor intrusion, an environmental consultant, or involved in building design and redevelopment, this episode provides valuable insight into the realities of vapor intrusion work. To learn about the benefits of being an IEA member go to indoorenvironments.org Support the show The Indoor Environment Project is brought to you by the Indoor Environments Association—advancing science, policy, and professionalism in radon, vapor intrusion, and indoor air quality. 📬 Got feedback, questions, or a story to share? Email us at info@indoorevironments.org! 💡 Subscribe to stay updated on future episodes—and don’t forget to leave a review if you enjoyed the show! 🌐 Learn more about our work at indoorenvironments.org. Because better air starts with better professionals.

  7. Feb 25

    Beyond the Snapshot: Radon as a Lifetime Risk

    Send us Fan Mail Radon risk is not a snapshot in time — it’s a lifetime exposure. In this episode of The Indoor Environments Project, we’re joined by Dr. Alison Wallace, thoracic surgeon and lung cancer researcher, to explore how cumulative radon exposure contributes to lung cancer risk — particularly among never-smokers. Dr. Wallace shares insights from her ongoing research in Nova Scotia, where elevated residential radon levels have prompted new investigation into biologic “signatures” of long-term exposure. Her team is studying lung tissue, blood, saliva, and even toenails to better understand how radon affects the body over time — and how that data could eventually refine lung cancer screening criteria. We discuss: • Why lifetime exposure is difficult to quantify  • The challenge of expanding screening beyond smoking history  • What happens when patients discover high radon after decades in one home  • The gap between public awareness and medical education  • Why radon is uniquely positioned as a preventable environmental risk This conversation bridges environmental science, clinical medicine, and public policy — and reinforces a powerful truth: radon is measurable, manageable, and preventable. Better air starts with better professionals.  Indoor Environments 2026™ | Radon Mitigation | Vapor Intrusion | Lung Cancer Screening | Environmental Health | ANSI/AARST Standards  Support the show The Indoor Environment Project is brought to you by the Indoor Environments Association—advancing science, policy, and professionalism in radon, vapor intrusion, and indoor air quality. 📬 Got feedback, questions, or a story to share? Email us at info@indoorevironments.org! 💡 Subscribe to stay updated on future episodes—and don’t forget to leave a review if you enjoyed the show! 🌐 Learn more about our work at indoorenvironments.org. Because better air starts with better professionals.

    Beyond the Snapshot: Radon as a Lifetime Risk

  8. Jan 7

    AI in the Radon Industry: Tools, Trust, and the Role of Professionals

    Send us Fan Mail Artificial intelligence is showing up everywhere — but what does it actually mean for the radon industry? In this episode of The Indoor Environments Project, we take a grounded, professional look at how AI is beginning to influence radon measurement, mitigation design, quality control, documentation, and public communication — and where firm boundaries still need to remain. January is Radon Awareness Month, making this conversation especially timely. While AI can support better data analysis, pattern recognition, and reporting, it is not a replacement for certified radon professionals, field experience, or professional judgment. Host Diane Swecker is joined by two guests with complementary perspectives: Lorin Stieff, Vice President of Rad Elec, with extensive experience in radon technology, software development, and standards workChad Smith, NRPP-certified radon measurement and mitigation professional, owner of Monarch Radon Testing, and founder of RadonSketch, bringing deep field and diagnostics expertiseTogether, they discuss: Where AI can genuinely support radon professionalsHow AI may help with QA/QC, documentation, and defensibilityThe risks, limitations, and ethical considerations of AI toolsWhy trust, standards, and human accountability remain central to public healthThe episode closes with a reminder of why radon testing matters — and a short song to help make the message stick. Support the show The Indoor Environment Project is brought to you by the Indoor Environments Association—advancing science, policy, and professionalism in radon, vapor intrusion, and indoor air quality. 📬 Got feedback, questions, or a story to share? Email us at info@indoorevironments.org! 💡 Subscribe to stay updated on future episodes—and don’t forget to leave a review if you enjoyed the show! 🌐 Learn more about our work at indoorenvironments.org. Because better air starts with better professionals.

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About

Presented by the Indoor Environments Association (IEA), The Indoor Environments Project is the podcast that takes you beneath the surface of radon, vapor intrusion, and indoor air quality. We explore the science, stories, ethics, and standards shaping the built environment—from homes to workplaces and everything in between. Each month, we sit down with leading experts, seasoned professionals, and sharp thinkers to tackle the industry's most pressing challenges, uncover historical milestones, and imagine what’s next for indoor environmental health. Whether you're a seasoned professional, policy advocate, or just curious about the air you breathe, this podcast delivers insight, practical knowledge, and a few surprises along the way. 📅 New episodes drop the 4th Wednesday of every month. Subscribe today and join the conversation on the spaces we live, work, and thrive in. #IndoorAirQuality #Radon #VaporIntrusion #IEApodcast

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