There comes a time when every field must take a hard look at itself—when the noise quiets, the lights dim, and only integrity remains in the room. The paranormal community is no exception. Over the years, I’ve seen it evolve, fracture, and rebuild. I’ve seen unity rise and fall, and I’ve seen individuals stand tall in the face of judgment, misunderstanding, and ego. It hasn’t always been easy to watch. But through it all, one truth remains: there are still those among us who pursue this work for the right reasons.

For many, this field began with curiosity—a whisper in the dark, a voice that defied explanation, a moment that made us question everything we thought we knew. But somewhere along the way, too many forgot why they started. They traded discipline for spectacle, validation for clicks, and integrity for attention. That’s not what this field was built upon. True research—true exploration—requires humility, patience, and honesty, even when the results don’t fit the story we want to tell.

But I still believe.

I believe in the investigators who spend long nights in silence, logging every sound and every variable.

I believe in the recordists who review their sessions with care, not haste.

I believe in those who would rather find nothing than fabricate something.

These are the ones who will carry this field forward.

No one owns the paranormal. It isn’t a competition or a popularity contest—it’s a calling. And for those who remain true to that calling, your work matters. Even if it feels like no one’s watching. Even if your evidence never goes viral. The truth will always rise above the noise. It may take time, but time has a way of revealing who was genuine all along.

Each week on EVP Explorations, I’ll continue reading my statements—because it’s my part to play. It’s my responsibility to speak the truth as I see it, to remind us why we began this journey, and to help guide this community back to its roots of honesty, respect, and wonder. Words have weight, and I intend to keep using mine for the good of this field.

Despite the actions of a few, my hope remains with the many—those who stand firm, who keep learning, and who never stop listening. The future of paranormal research is still bright, and I believe it belongs to those dedicated not to fame, but to truth.

Let’s make sure we earn it.

— Todd Bates

Founder, EVP Explorations

“Discover the Voice Beyond the Veil”