All Things Fumigation

About All Things Fumigation

Welcome to All Things Fumigation, the podcast that helps you lower fumigation costs with a consultative approach. Each month, we provide expert insights on safety, innovation, and cost-effective strategies. A series that helps identify custom solutions that reduce expenses while ensuring compliance and protecting your products. Actionable advice that helps you optimize your fumigation processes and stay ahead of the curve!

Publisher

John Mueller

Category

science

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

21 Jul 2025

Latest episode

21 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

12 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   21 Sept 2026

   Fumigation Quality Management

   This episode of All Things Fumigation centers on raising the bar for quality management in fumigation. John B. Mueller begins by contrasting results-focused and revenue-focused company cultures, arguing that a dedication to results ultimately ensures customer satisfaction and business growth. He highlights the vital traits of successful fumigators, such as respect for safety, scientific curiosity, and the drive to do things right. The episode transitions to a technical discussion with Tom Mueller, who shares practical approaches for bioassay placement and management. They discuss the value of customized bioassays for post-fumigation validation and recommend using mixed life stages, particularly eggs, to truly assess fumigation efficacy. The role of pheromone monitoring systems is explored as a key tool for ongoing quality assessment, allowing pest managers to track and respond to insect populations before and after fumigation events. Consistent and accurate data collection is underscored as essential for making informed decisions and achieving long-term control. Listeners learn that successful fumigation is a continuous process built on scientific methods, customer collaboration, and thorough validation. Using high-quality monitoring tools not only leads to better outcomes but helps avoid costly, ineffective treatments. The insights provided empower fumigators and facility managers to create safer, more efficient pest management programs rooted in data and proactive strategies.

2. 

   21 Sept 2026

   Fumigation Review

   Episode 11 of All Things Fumigation features John B. Mueller addressing the importance of comprehensive fumigation review and the necessity of forming strong partnerships between fumigators and facility teams. The episode emphasizes that while the technical application of fumigation is vital, true success hinges on thorough post-treatment documentation and collaboration. John B. Mueller highlights how small oversights in paperwork and critical review often lead to failures, despite otherwise effective service. The discussion covers key elements such as assessment, the fumigation management plan, restricted use reports, roles and responsibilities, and post-fumigation documentation. John B. Mueller illustrates the value of analyzing performance indicators like gas concentration, temperature, pest density, and duration to improve future treatments. The episode also showcases practical insights using examples like identifying sources of pest infestation and utilizing digital tools for site assessment and reporting. John B. Mueller underscores the need for active communication, ongoing education, and the collection of actionable data to assure safety, compliance, and customer value. By advocating for regular collaborative review meetings, John B. Mueller demonstrates how partnership leads to better outcomes and supports the continual improvement of pest management operations.

3. 

   4 Aug 2026

   Ventilation & Clearance

   John B. Mueller opens Episode 10 with a focus on the high-risk phase of fumigation: ventilation and clearance. He responds to a listener's concern about investing in connected remote monitoring systems, outlining how the up-front cost provides notable savings through improved gas usage efficiency and safer verification processes. The episode covers the ventilation process in detail, clarifying terminology and stressing the importance of thorough planning well before the application of gas. Different post-harvest environments like containers, grain facilities, food processing plants, and large warehouses are compared, each requiring unique strategies for effective ventilation and safe clearance. John B. Mueller shares practical advice such as always having the team that sealed a structure unseal it, using supplemental ventilation for faster clearance, and keeping meticulous records and signage to meet legal and safety requirements. The discussion addresses critical calculation methods for estimating clearance timelines and stresses double-checking dense material and corners for lingering gas. Ultimately, John B. Mueller underscores that effective ventilation is a scientific, safety-focused process requiring diligent execution and post-operation documentation. Key takeaways include the importance of pre-planning, tailored ventilation strategies for different facility types, leveraging technology for safety and savings, and the need for rigorous clearance verification before reentry.

4. 

   21 Apr 2026

   Gas Monitoring

   In episode 9 of All Things Fumigation, John focuses on the essential practice of fumigant gas monitoring and illustrates its importance with relatable analogies, such as never driving a car without a gas gauge. The episode addresses frequent excuses and faulty practices in monitoring, including reliance on infrequent manual readings and outdated equipment. John explains the science behind fumigant efficacy, emphasizing how maintaining correct concentration over time is crucial for targeting all pest life stages, especially resistant eggs. The discussion highlights the escalating costs of fumigant chemicals and the substantial losses that can result from poor monitoring, making a strong case for investing in modern, accurate, and connected devices. Technological options are reviewed, comparing the reliability of older and newer monitoring systems, and best practices for setup and calibration are covered. The episode also explores how defensible data supports partnerships, prevents costly disputes, and strengthens industry reputation. Key takeaways include the necessity of routine, accurate monitoring, understanding the technology in use, preparing for equipment failure, and recognizing that defensible data not only improves outcomes but also drives profitability and trust with clients.

5. 

   27 Feb 2026

   Fumigant Application

   Release the Hounds: Nuances of Safe and Effective Gas Application in Fumigation In Episode 8, John B. Mueller brings listeners deep into the crucial gas application phase of post-harvest fumigation. He opens by reinforcing safety, regulatory compliance, and the legal responsibilities of licensed fumigators, before responding to a listener's question about sealing hard-to-access leak points. Through real-world insights, he stresses that advanced planning, strategic partnerships, and situational analysis are key to overcoming such challenges. The episode moves on to compare legacy, tactical fumigant labels with modern, prescriptive ones, illustrating how scientific advances drive more precise, pest-targeted dosing strategies. John B. Mueller explains concentration-time (Ct) concepts, half-life calculations, and the impact of structure type, temperature, pest biology, and environmental factors like wind and temperature disparity. He provides practical advice for applying fumigants in different facility types, such as vertical storages, warehouses, and food processing plants, emphasizing the importance of accurate dosing, monitoring, and pressure management to avoid gas loss and ensure efficacy. Throughout, John B. Mueller advocates for deliberate, safety-first operations and closes with reminders to contribute feedback and continue professional learning. Key takeaways include the vital role of preparation, adapting application strategies to both science and site-specific variables, and always prioritizing team and facility safety during fumigation. Key Segments [00:00:00] Fumigation Focus & Safety Insights [00:07:25] Fumigation Gas Application Insights [00:09:55] Fumigation Dosage and Monitoring Insight [00:12:02] "Modern Labels and Prescriptive Practices" [00:17:27] Improving Metalphosphide Label Accuracy [00:20:00] Fumigation Process and Half-Life Insights [00:24:50] Phosphine Fumigation Strategy Insights [00:27:57] Fumigation Strategy and Monitoring Tools [00:30:54] Post-Harvest Fumigation Overview [00:34:53] "Fumigation Strategy and Challenges" [00:38:37] "Wind Impact on Fumigation" [00:42:47] Temperature Disparities in Processing [00:43:50] "Optimal Fumigation Timing Insights" [00:46:56] Gas Management in Fumigation Applications [00:50:33] Fumigation Safety and Science Tips Show Notes Host Bio: John B. Mueller has spent 40 years in the commodities fumigation trenches. He's the founder of The Fumigation Company and host of All Things Fumigation, where he shares straight-talk strategies and science-backed tools to improve safety, compliance, and performance across the post-harvest and structural fumigation world. LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-mueller-90499020/ Resources Website: thefumeco.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-fumigation-company/ Email: John.Mueller@TheFumeCo.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AllThingsFumigation

6. 

   16 Dec 2025

   Fumigation Setup

   Sealing Strategies for Safer and More Effective Fumigation Applications Episode seven of All Things Fumigation, led by John B. Mueller, explores the vital role of sealing and containment in the fumigation process, drawing clever parallels to the workings of a hot air balloon. John B. Mueller discusses the significant effort—up to 80 percent of a successful fumigation—that goes into proper setup, stressing that containment is crucial for both performance and safety. He shares insights on collaborating with facility personnel, including maintenance, security, and site leadership, underlining the need for clear roles, responsibilities, and thorough review of Fumigation Management Plans. The episode addresses practical strategies for sealing under adverse conditions, such as wet surfaces and wind, and highlights the importance of daily seal checks during both long and short fumigations. John B. Mueller also unveils expert tips for preventing issues that lead to recalls or insurance claims, such as the thorough removal of internal seals. The episode concludes by emphasizing continuous improvement, the integration of staff development into the sealing process, and the use of real data to refine future fumigations. Key takeaways include the necessity for robust preparation, teamwork, documentation, and ongoing training to ensure safe, compliant, and effective fumigations. Key Segments 00:00 Sealing Strategies for Safer and More Effective Fumigation Applications 04:53 Fumigation Basics and Preparation 08:36 Fumigation Responsibilities and Partnerships 15:23 Sealing Tips for Effective Fumigation 22:26 Fumigation Dynamics in Structures 25:15 Continuous Monitoring for Fumigation Efficiency 27:59 Challenges in Bin Sealing 33:12 Clear Communication During Fumigation Show Notes Host Bio: John B. Mueller has spent 40 years in the commodities fumigation trenches. He's the founder of The Fumigation Company and host of All Things Fumigation, where he shares straight-talk strategies and science-backed tools to improve safety, compliance, and performance across the post-harvest and structural fumigation world. LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-mueller-90499020/ Resources Website: thefumeco.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-fumigation-company/ Email: John.Mueller@TheFumeCo.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AllThingsFumigation

7. 

   18 Nov 2025

   Intro to Ethyl Formate: The New Kid in the Toolbox Part 2

   Episode 6 of All Things Fumigation brings together host John B. Mueller and guest Kade McConville, executive director of the Intreso Group, for a more in depth look into eFUME®, the latest ethyl formate-based fumigant. Kade McConville recounts the seven-year journey through US registration for eFUME®, emphasizing the investment of time and resources required for modern regulatory approval. The conversation highlights ethyl formate's favorable safety profile, including its GRAS status and lack of concerning residues, and details the specialized application equipment designed to handle its flammability and pressure hazards. Regulatory differences across countries are addressed, as well as the process of expanding the US label for broader commodity use, including treatments for brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB). The episode also explores how eFUME®'s costs align with existing fumigants when considering dosage rates and operational efficiencies, such as faster treatment times. The potential for eFUME® as an organic solution is discussed, with ongoing efforts to source ethyl formate naturally for future certification. Key takeaways include the importance of industry support for successful adoption, the need for collaborative feedback, and the exciting role ethyl formate could play in sustainable and organic pest control practices. Key Segments [00:00:00] Part 2: Intro to Ethyl Formate: The New Kid in the Toolbox [00:05:50] Seven-Year Registration Journey of eFUME® [00:08:35] eFUME®: Product Hazards Explained [00:13:07] US Key Commodities Focus [00:23:35] Ethyl Formate Supply Challenges [00:26:47] Promoting New Fumigant Globally [00:28:44] Access to a new Substance Show Notes Host Bio: John B. Mueller has spent 40 years in the commodities fumigation trenches. He's the founder of The Fumigation Company and host of All Things Fumigation, where he shares straight-talk strategies and science-backed tools to improve safety, compliance, and performance across the post-harvest and structural fumigation world. LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-mueller-90499020/ Resources Website: thefumeco.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-fumigation-company/ Email: John.Mueller@TheFumeCo.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AllThingsFumigation

8. 

   11 Nov 2025

   Intro to Ethyl Formate: The New Kid in the Toolbox

   Benefits, Challenges, and the Path Forward Episode 5 of ATF introduces listeners to ethyl formate, branded as Efume, the first new postharvest fumigant in the United States in nearly seven decades. John B. Mueller lays the groundwork by explaining ethyl formate's origins, its chemical properties, and its approval process, emphasizing its unique status compared to conventional fumigants. Spencer Walsh, an expert in postharvest fumigation, provides historical context and discusses how ethyl formate stands out for its incredible efficacy against mites and other surface pests, especially in fresh fruit. The chemistry behind ethyl formate and its hydrolysis in moisture-rich commodities enables low residue concerns, leading to an EPA exemption from food tolerances—a key win for global trade and consumer safety. The conversation also touches on the operational advantages ethyl formate offers, such as portable application and alignment with regulatory demands for minimal residues. Both speakers caution that, despite its regulatory and consumer-friendly attributes, ethyl formate must be handled with strict safety procedures due to its flammable nature and potential risks. The episode concludes with a reminder to fumigators about the critical importance of monitoring concentrations and respecting all safety protocols as ethyl formate enters wider use in the industry. Key Segments [00:00:00] Welcome to All Things Fumigation [00:05:16] Ethyl Formate: Revived Fumigant [00:09:03] Boiling Points of Fumigants [00:13:55] Ethyl Formate Fumigant Safety [00:16:12] Interview: Spencer Waslse, PHD [00:19:38] Pest Control in California Agriculture [00:23:35] Fresh Fruit Fumigation Innovation [00:26:33] Respiratory Penetration of Ethyl Formate [00:30:31] Warm Fumigation for Fresh Fruit [00:31:56] Efficient Pest Control for Mites [00:34:57] Ethyl Formate Fumigation Challenges [00:40:18] Monitoring Ethyl Formate Fumigation [00:43:18] Feedback & Fumigation Guidelines

9. 

   25 Sept 2025

   Mastering Fumigation Preparation

   This episode of All Things Fumigation focuses on the preparation phase of the fumigation process, building upon previous discussions about overall planning. John B. Mueller draws inspiration from Michael Jordan's perspective on success coming from preparation, tying this mindset to the world of fumigation. John walks listeners through the transition from macro-level planning to the granular details of preparation, emphasizing that these practices are not just good management but legal requirements governed by the pesticide label and state law. A central focus is the Fumigation Management Plan. John breaks down the eight EPA-mandated components, underscoring aspects such as site inspection for suitability, historical documentation, communication with relevant personnel, exterior monitoring, emergency notification procedures, placard placement, and ensuring appropriate safety equipment and manpower. He shares practical insights and stories from the field that illustrate how these steps actively prevent hazards and promote safer outcomes. John also explores the importance of defining team roles, effective communication, and on-site training. He highlights strategies like advance safety briefings, pre-job site visits, involving maintenance staff, and including local emergency responders in the notification process. Mental visualization is encouraged as a powerful tool for anticipating and navigating complex jobs. The episode concludes with a call for thoroughness, collaboration, and commitment to safety, positioning preparation as the cornerstone of successful fumigation operations. Key takeaways include the necessity for detailed compliance, partnership with site staff, robust safety practices, and fostering a culture of continual improvement for every fumigation event. Key Segments 00:02:20 - Common Fumigation Process Overview 00:04:25 - Fumigation Management Plan (FMP) Introduction 00:05:50 - FMP Evolution 00:06:14 - EPA's 8 FMP Requirements Introduction 00:09:16 - EPA Requirement #1: Site Suitability Inspection 00:10:15 - EPA Requirement #2: Historical Records & Structural Changes 00:10:57 - EPA Requirement #3: Documentation & Safety Procedures Review 00:13:52 - EPA Requirement #4: Safety Procedures for Workers 00:16:37 - EPA Requirement #5: Exterior Monitoring Plan 00:18:15 - EPA Requirement #6: Emergency Notification Procedures 00:18:56 - EPA Requirement #7: Warning Placards Placement 00:21:43 - EPA Requirement #8: Safety Equipment & Personnel 00:23:18 - Team Management & Roles 00:24:20 - Site Visit Considerations 00:26:57 - Construction & Hazard Coordination 00:30:11 - Timeline Management 00:35:09 - Emergency Responder Notification & Hospital Emergency Room Preparation 00:36:44 - Mental Preparation & Visualization

10. 

    2 Sept 2025

    Fumigation Safety & Training

    Episode 3 of All Things Fumigation, hosted by John B. Mueller, centers on the principle that victory in pest control is determined before the actual fumigation process begins. Drawing inspiration from Sun Tzu's "Art of War," John underscores the importance of thorough planning and preparation in outsmarting pests. He details the key steps in fumigation planning, with a major focus on understanding environmental conditions such as facility and commodity temperatures, which directly affect fumigant concentration and exposure time. John highlights the difference in efficacy between various fumigants, explaining why temperature and exposure duration are especially vital in achieving success against different insect life stages, particularly eggs. The episode also addresses the less-discussed but critical factor of insect population density. High infestation levels and delays in fumigating can undermine effectiveness, leading to increased survivors despite a high percentage of efficacy. John emphasizes the necessity of strong partnership and communication between fumigators and facility staff, as their collaboration is essential for optimizing environmental conditions and roles prior to treatment. Listeners are encouraged to plan proactively, communicate clearly, and foster site partnerships to drive continuous improvement. The key takeaway is that strategic preparation is fundamental to safer, more efficient, and more successful fumigation outcomes. Key Segments [01:50] Insect Battle Strategy [03:06] Fumigation Analysis: Temperature's Crucial Role [06:22] Deeper Analysis [10:02] Population Density [13:08] Fumigation Challenges and Solutions [15:55] Plan Ahead for Successful Fumigation Show Notes Host Bio: John B. Mueller has spent 40 years in the commodities fumigation trenches. He's the founder of The Fumigation Company and host of All Things Fumigation, where he shares straight-talk strategies and science-backed tools to improve safety, compliance, and performance across the post-harvest and structural fumigation world. LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-mueller-90499020/ Resources Website: thefumeco.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-fumigation-company/ Email: John.Mueller@TheFumeCo.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AllThingsFumigation

11. 

    7 Aug 2025

    Foundational Fumigation

    Fumigation Market, an objective market overview The second episode of "All Things Fumigation" dives deep into the world of post-harvest fumigation, led by host John B. Mueller and moderator Kalah Schmitz. They begin by mapping out the major segments of the fumigation industry, such as structural, soil, post-harvest, and the emerging antimicrobial market. With a focus on post-harvest, John explains the types of commodities involved, from bulk grains like wheat and rice to specialty crops like tree nuts and spices. The conversation also distinguishes the event-driven, industrial nature of fumigation from standard commercial services, highlighting the extensive planning, seasonal aspects, and operational challenges these projects require. Emphasis is placed on the crucial role fumigation plays in the Integrated Pest Management toolbox, especially where traditional methods fall short due to accessibility issues or regulatory requirements. John and Kalah address common misconceptions, such as the expectation of 100% efficacy, and stress the importance of science-based approaches and proper gas monitoring. This episode provides not only a comprehensive overview of the fumigation landscape but also insights into realistic industry expectations and the evolving nature of pest management in food safety and commodity protection. Key Segments [02:06] The Different Fumigation Markets [05:14] What Are Commodities [07:20]  Commercial Services of Post-Harvest [08:57]  The Different Sectors of Post-Harvest Fumigation [12:59] Post-Harvest Fumigation Challenges [16:27] Follow and Subscribe! Show Notes Host Bio: John B. Mueller has spent 40 years in the commodities fumigation trenches. He's the founder of The Fumigation Company and host of All Things Fumigation, where he shares straight-talk strategies and science-backed tools to improve safety, compliance, and performance across the post-harvest and structural fumigation world. LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-mueller-90499020/ Guest Moderator Bio: Kalah Schmitz brings two decades of boots-on-the-ground experience in fumigation and food safety. Former leader of the Food Protection Alliance, she returns as guest moderator of All Things Fumigation, offering sharp insights and a family legacy rooted in the pest control trade. LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kalahschmitz/ Resources Website: thefumeco.com (http://thefumeco.com) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-fumigation-company/ Email: John.Mueller@TheFumeCo.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AllThingsFumigation

12. 

    21 Jul 2025

    Introduction to The Fumigation Company

    The Truth About Fumigation In this pilot episode of All Things Fumigation, host John B. Mueller teams up with longtime industry ally and guest moderator Kalah Schmitz. Together, they lay the groundwork for bold, real-talk about fumigation in today's high-stakes structural and commodity fumigation landscape. With a combined six decades of field and leadership experience, John and Kalah break down what fumigation is, what it isn't, and what led John to launch The Fumigation Company. They swap stories from the field about the myths and mechanics of this commonly misunderstood practice, from the outdated thinking that still lingers in parts of the fumigation industry to misunderstood labels, regulatory myths, and field missteps. Kalah, former leader of the Food Protection Alliance, steers the conversation with humor and insight, bringing clarity around pest fumigation versus fogging, EPA regulation, optimizing performance, and more. If you're in grain, food safety, pest management, or just wondering how the "big hammer" of pest control really works, this episode kicks off the series with no-nonsense conversation, practical takeaways, and a fresh take on what good fumigation really looks like. Key Segments [02:50] John's Journey in Fumigation [07:49] Who Needs Fumigation? [10:40] Fumigation Safety [12:07] Compliance, Labels, and the EPA [13:31] Industry Innovations [15:36] What Are Fumigants? [19:28] Low to No Residual Toxicity [21:37] The History of Fumigation Science [24:50] Why Fumigation Is Still Relevant [29:06] The "Science Cowboy" Philosophy

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Contact All Things Fumigation

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.