Get Well With: Brian Karr

Meet The Founder 

What are your own daily wellness non-negotiables?

Alright, buckle up because I'm about to spill the tea on my health and wellness routine. don't get to all of it every day, but it's good to have a plan!

So, here's the scoop: my day starts with a bang - rise and shine at 5 am, way before the kiddos. And you better believe the first thing I do is hit the ground running with a morning workout. Sauna time comes next, because what better way to get those endorphins flowing, am I right?

After the chaos of getting the kids off to school, it's finally time to chill. Meditation is my jam, and it's the perfect way to clear my mind before diving into the workday.

But hold up, the afternoon isn't over yet! I'm all about that midday pick-me-up, which means it's time for some PEMF action during work hours. Couple that with a bit of breathwork and red light therapy - total game changer.

Now, let's talk about my evening routine. I like to keep it chill and nourishing, so I make sure to finish eating at least two hours before hitting the hay. And you know what helps me drift off into dreamland? Some bedtime PEMF therapy to promote that deep, restorative sleep.

And there you have it - my day, packed with tech-fueled wellness from sunrise to sunset. Because let's be real, who doesn't love a little self-love sprinkled with some cutting-edge tech magic? 😉

Can you provide a brief overview of your background and journey that led you to co-found We Inspect?

Becoming a mold inspector wasn't exactly on my radar from day one. It all started years ago when my apartment was hit hard by mold damage, and I had no clue. Picture this: my bedroom ceiling comes crashing down on me, and suddenly, I'm feeling the effects of my environment in ways I never imagined. The cherry on top? A mold inspector swoops in, spends a mere 10 minutes in my room, and declares it mold-free. Spoiler alert: it wasn't. Cue the eczema. That whole ordeal opened my eyes to a harsh reality – I wasn't alone. There were countless others facing the same moldy mess. That's when it hit me: I had to do something to change the game. I made it my mission to shake up industry standards and ensure nobody goes through what I did.

As a co-founder, what has been the most rewarding aspect of creating We Inspect? Are there any memorable moments or experiences that stand out to you?

This wasn’t a decision I made overnight…

It all started years ago when my apartment was plagued by severe mold damage, a problem I had no clue about. One day, my bedroom ceiling gave way, and I found myself reacting visibly to my surroundings. Despite my concerns, the mold inspector my landlord hired dismissed the issue with a cursory 10-minute inspection, claiming there was no mold. However, as my health continued to decline, with eczema and other symptoms emerging, I realized I wasn’t alone in this struggle. 

That’s when Mark Levy, my now father-in-law, stepped in. Armed with his extensive knowledge of mold, he became my mentor, showing me the ropes and guiding me through the intricacies of mold inspection and remediation. His support not only empowered me but also fueled my determination to revolutionize industry standards. My mission is clear: to ensure that nobody else has to endure the same hardships I faced.

In your experience, what are some of the most effective methods for preventing mold growth in the home?

You know, in my book, the best defense against mold is catching it before it even starts. Yes, air purifiers and keeping the house clean are great for lessening your mold load, but those practices won’t prevent a mold issue. What I always advise is a good old-fashioned visual inspection of your home, at least once a month. Check under sinks for any sneaky leaks, give your plumbing a once-over, and stay on top of those maintenance tasks. Trust me, a little vigilance goes a long way in keeping mold from becoming a headache.

Side note… I’m releasing a new free download from We Inspect real soon all about how to prevent mold at home. I’m so excited about this one, I know you’re going to love it! Make sure you’re following us on Instagram @moldfinders to be the first to know when it’s released! 

How do you find work life balance?

I'd be lying if I said it's easy for me to unplug from work. I love brainstorming new creative ways to help everyone, and that keeps my gears turning at a rapid pace. However, I draw the line at ensuring I have weekends with my family. There's nothing that keeps me more grounded than spending time with my loved ones. It's the best recharge, better than any health gadget a guy can ask for!

We Inspect and The Wellness Industry 

Can you discuss the potential health risks associated with mold exposure and the importance of detection?

Mold exposure isn't something to take lightly, as it can trigger a range of health issues, especially for those who are more sensitive. The effects can vary widely from person to person, affecting different systems in the body. For instance, respiratory problems like coughing, wheezing, and throat irritation are quite common. Some individuals might experience digestive issues such as nausea or diarrhea, while others might notice neurological symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or even cognitive impairment, often referred to as brain fog.

Skin conditions like eczema can flare up due to mold exposure, and persistent fatigue is another red flag. What's particularly tricky is that mold toxicity can affect individuals differently within the same household. You might have one family member experiencing symptoms while others seem unaffected, adding another layer of complexity.

Genetic predisposition can play a significant role in determining how someone reacts to mold exposure. Some people are inherently more sensitive to mold toxins due to their genetic makeup, making them more susceptible to its effects.

That's why early detection is key. The sooner you identify mold growth in your living space, the sooner you can take steps to mitigate its impact on your health. It's all about staying proactive and safeguarding your health and the health of your loved ones.

Can you walk us through the process of a mold inspection conducted by We Inspect, from initial assessment to report delivery?

Here’s a step-by-step on what you can expect to get from us:‍

Step 1: Info Gathering

During our call, we'll focus on two crucial aspects to craft a personalized inspection plan that suits your needs perfectly. Firstly, we'll delve into your health concerns, which inform us about the specific tests needed. For instance, if you've had mycotoxin exposure, we'll prioritize testing for it in your home. 

Secondly, we'll explore your home's layout and any past water leaks to ensure a comprehensive inspection.

Step 2: Home Inspection

Our inspection process relies on a collaborative effort between a Field Inspector and a Lead Consultant. The Field Inspector is adept at uncovering hidden mold growth and navigating your home's unique features. Meanwhile, the Lead Consultant orchestrates the inspection strategy in real-time, ensuring thorough testing of all potential contamination zones.

‍Step 3: Consulting & Guidance

Following the inspection, we'll present your results along with a Remediation Priority Overview. This concise overview highlights areas needing attention, ordered by importance to meet your goals. Accompanied by detailed remediation protocols, you'll review these findings with your Consultant for clarity and additional advice.

What you get with We Inspect:

Identification of mold sources and contamination.

Prioritized areas for remediation.

Detailed protocols for addressing issues.

Consultant support for explanations and advice.

Clear guidance for next steps toward your objectives.

How does We Inspect utilize technology and methodology to efficiently and accurately detect mold in various environments?

At We Inspect, our approach to detecting mold is rooted in proven methodologies. Rather than just hunting for mold itself, we focus on identifying potential sources of moisture and water damage within various environments. Why? Because where there's moisture, mold often lurks.

Our trained inspectors utilize advanced tools and techniques to uncover hidden signs of water damage that may indicate the presence of mold. Yes, we are able to pinpoint areas of concern even if they're not visible to the naked eye.

Once we've identified potential problem areas, we proceed with testing to confirm the presence of mold. Our methods adhere to industry standards. This ensures that our inspection reports and remediation recommendations are not only accurate but also aligned with the latest scientific findings and best practices.

We are continuously staying informed and evolving with the science to ensure our clients receive the most effective and reliable service possible. We combine the power of technology, rigorous methodology, and scientific knowledge to efficiently and accurately detect mold in various environments, providing our clients with peace of mind and actionable insights for remediation.

What are some common misconceptions people have about mold, and how does We Inspect address and educate clients about them?

There are SO many misconceptions surrounding mold, and I make it a priority to address and educate you all about them. Here are some common misconceptions and how we tackle them:

Myth 1: Most buildings aren't water damaged.

Contrary to this belief, research from the EPA indicates otherwise. They found that up to 85% of buildings have experienced past water damage, highlighting a widespread issue.

‍Myth 2: Mold requires active water to grow.

While mold typically thrives in damp environments, it can persist even after a leak is fixed. Mold doesn't necessarily need ongoing moisture to survive. The EPA notes that mold's presence can still pose health risks, regardless of whether it's actively growing.

In a recent study, we discovered that hidden mold contamination was present in 80% of areas previously affected by water damage, even if they were currently dry.

Myth 3: Mold remains confined behind walls.

Mold spores and particles can easily migrate into living spaces due to building pressurization. Research indicates that gaps around fixtures like outlets, lights, and vents allow for this movement, posing potential health risks to occupants.

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Also, check out my YouTube episode “10 Most Common Mold Myths” where I debunk prevalent misconceptions.

How do you ensure that your team stays updated on the latest advancements and best practices in mold detection and remediation?

At We Inspect, we're committed to staying at the forefront of remediation techniques and what to test for. We regularly scour scientific literature and attend conferences to incorporate the latest findings into our protocols, ensuring they're both efficient and effective.

When it comes to detecting mold, it's often hidden from plain sight. That's why we prioritize hands-on training for our team, equipping them with the expertise to spot even the subtlest signs. Armed with the right tools and backed by our dedication, my team leaves no stone unturned during inspections. We believe in the importance of thoroughness, and it's this commitment that sets us apart as leaders in our field.

To schedule a free call with the We Inspect team to see how they can help click here. 

To listen to a great conversation between Brian and Chloe, check out their podcast episode together.