Picture this: a sunlit summer day in upstate New York, Moravia to be exact. The sky was annoyingly cheerful—blue like a kid's crayon drawing—and I was about to step onto a stage for the Paranormal Expo. It marked exactly one year since my team, Paranormal Xpeditions, survived (barely) the whirlwind that was Zak Bagans and Paranormal Challenge. If you know Zak, you know it was a mix of adrenaline, eyerolls, and “Did he really just say that?” moments. But here I was, ready to talk about all things spooky, sweaty, and sublime in front of a crowd that was either hungry for ghost stories or just the free snacks.
Girls and Ghosts: Breaking Stereotypes and Equipment
Our group, Paranormal Xpeditions, has always been about pushing boundaries—not just with the spirits, but also with society. Paranormal investigating is still very much a boys’ club, and we’ve heard every possible condescending comment. “You’re too pretty to be serious investigators” (cue gagging noise), or my favorite, “Do you actually know how to use that equipment?” Spoiler alert: I named my EMF detector Thingy, and yes, it works just fine. If Zak can call a ghost “bro,” I can give my gadgets nicknames.
We didn’t shy away from the drama of our first big investigation aboard the USS Salem. Let’s just say dropping our gear within the first five minutes on live television wasn’t exactly ideal. But hey, no one ever became a legend without a few stumbles, right? That investigation gave us the infamous “Get out!” EVP that catapulted us into the paranormal spotlight and turned skeptics into begrudging believers. Or at least believers in our ability to trip with flair.
Haunted Nail Salons and Other Meet-Cutes
In my presentation, I recounted how our group came together in the least intimidating place imaginable—a nail salon. I’d just finished an investigation at Houghton Mansion and had an EVP that still gives me chills: a little girl calling my name, “Rachel,” clear as a bell. Naturally, I forced everyone at the salon to listen. Tina, a professional photographer with a razor-sharp eye, was one of those unlucky listeners. What started as a casual exchange of numbers turned into a partnership that redefined how we approached the paranormal.
Why We Do This: The Power of Community
One of the highlights of the Expo wasn’t just sharing our experiences but connecting with other investigators. Paranormal Unity is a buzzword, but for us, it’s real. The paranormal field isn’t just about chasing shadows; it’s about building bridges between the living and the dead, between skeptics and believers, and sometimes, between me and that one guy who won’t stop calling every dust particle an orb. (It’s not an orb, Ted.)
We were also there for a cause—raising funds for Brianna, a little girl who needed help. Seeing a room full of people united for her, despite their differing beliefs or methods, was a reminder of why I stick with this crazy, frustrating, beautiful work. The paranormal community isn’t perfect (some of you really need to stop with the glow sticks), but when it counts, they show up.
Lessons from the Beyond and Laughing at Ourselves
At the Expo, I shared what I’ve learned in over a decade of ghost hunting:
Be Open-Minded: The best evidence often comes when you’re least expecting it—like when you’re dressed as the Mad Hatter for a tea party experiment. Yes, that happened. And yes, it worked.
Laugh at Yourself: Whether it’s dropping equipment on national television or being called out by Zak Bagans for calling your thermal camera a Thingy, don’t take yourself too seriously. Humor keeps you grounded, even when the floor feels like it’s shifting under your feet.
Protect Yourself: Not just with white light and sage (though those help), but by knowing your limits. I’m not a demonologist, and I’m not about to pretend to be one. That’s what experts are for, and I’m happy to pass the baton when things get hairy.
Looking Ahead
As I wrapped up my talk, I reminded everyone why we do what we do. The paranormal isn’t just about the thrill of a good ghost story—it’s about connection. Whether it’s with the spirits we encounter, the people we meet along the way, or even ourselves, every investigation is a step closer to understanding the unseen world.
Moravia reminded me of something I try not to forget: the living and the dead aren’t as separate as we like to think. We’re all just stories waiting to be told. And as long as there’s someone willing to listen, I’ll keep telling mine—with a little sass, a lot of heart, and maybe a Thingy or two.
Comments