5 Questions: Lee Ann Billings

1 | Can you tell us about your background?

I grew up in a three-generation family business, which instilled in me a strong work ethic from an early age. I always wanted to be a writer, so I earned my bachelor’s degree in journalism, marketing, and advertising. While working for the University of Tennessee, I earned a master’s degree in strategic and digital communications in 2023. I am also certified in Google Analytics and Google Ads and hold multiple certifications in search engine optimization.

Throughout my career, I’ve most appreciated the generosity of people who have shared their knowledge, made introductions, and invested their time in helping me succeed.

2 | What inspired you to pursue a career in this industry?

My own experience of becoming ill from mold exposure after Hurricane Katrina and my family’s journey of recovery got me involved in the mold industry. It was just random chance that I even found out there is a mold industry.

Back in 2005, it was common for doctors to tell patients that mold cannot make you sick. Fortunately, we met a leader in the mold industry who told us about the negative health effects of mold. Looking for answers for my family, I interviewed the leading medical and science experts on mold. After our recovery, we published the book “MOLD: The War Within,” which helped people around the world better understand mold illness.

3 | What obstacle or setback has tested you the most, and how did you overcome it?

Getting sick from mold exposure was a huge obstacle to overcome. We had two young children, we were too sick to work, and doctors were telling us we were crazy.

Given my training in journalism, it was natural for me to begin researching medical literature and interviewing leading experts in mold science and medicine. Their willingness to share their expertise was instrumental in our full recovery. The more we learned, the more we were able to work with our physicians to develop a treatment plan that restored our health.

4 | Is there a mentor, colleague, or family member who played a pivotal role in your success?

Yes, Doug Hoffman, executive director of NORMI, the National Organization of Remediators and Microbial Inspectors, has been both a friend and mentor. He hired me as the marketing manager for NORMI, which led to my earning three NORMI certifications: Certified Mold Assessor (CMA), Certified Mold Remediator (CMR), and NORMI Certified Remediator for Sensitized Individuals (NCRSI).

While working for NORMI, I deepened my knowledge of the mold industry and discovered how much I enjoyed helping NORMI members grow their businesses. I now provide marketing services primarily to companies in the mold and indoor air quality (IAQ) industry.

5 | What lessons have you learned that you wish someone had shared with you when you were starting out?

I wish someone had told me early on that your biggest strength may be the combination of your experiences that no one else has had. My background in journalism and marketing, combined with years of mold research and industry certifications, enables me to help mold professionals explain their work in ways homeowners can understand.

Helping mold companies grow is rewarding, but knowing I am indirectly helping families with mold concerns gives my work even more purpose.