Don Jeffrey Meldrum is a renowned anthropologist best known for his extensive research and media appearances regarding the elusive and controversial subject of Bigfoot, also known as Sasquatch. Born on May 24, 1958, Meldrum developed a fascination with the natural world and human evolution from a young age, which laid the foundation for his future career.

Meldrum earned his B.S. in Zoology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and his M.S. in Anatomy from the same institution. He later obtained his Ph.D. in Anatomical Sciences, with an emphasis on anthropology, from Stony Brook University. His academic journey provided him with a strong background in the study of primate anatomy and locomotion, which became instrumental in his Bigfoot research.

Meldrum’s interest in Bigfoot was sparked when he encountered a set of large, mysterious footprints in the mountains of southeastern Washington in 1996. This experience led him to apply his scientific expertise to the study of evidence for the existence of Sasquatch. As a professor at Idaho State University, Meldrum has conducted extensive field research, analyzed footprint casts, and collaborated with other scientists in the search for this elusive creature.

His approach to Bigfoot research is grounded in a rigorous scientific methodology, focusing on physical evidence such as footprints, hair samples, and visual sightings. Meldrum’s work in this field has been both celebrated and criticized, as the existence of Bigfoot remains a topic of debate in the scientific community.

Meldrum has authored several books and numerous articles on the subject, including “Sasquatch: Legend Meets Science,” a comprehensive examination of the evidence and arguments for and against the existence of Bigfoot. His work has also been featured in various media outlets, including television documentaries, radio interviews, and podcasts. Meldrum has appeared on programs such as the Travel Channel’s “Finding Bigfoot”, Discovery Channel’s “MythBusters,” the History Channel’s “MonsterQuest,” National Geographic’s “Is It Real,” as well as numerous documentaries.

Despite skepticism from some in the scientific community, Meldrum remains a prominent figure in the field of cryptozoology. His dedication to applying scientific principles to the study of Bigfoot has earned him both respect and controversy, but he continues to pursue his research with a commitment to uncovering the truth behind this enduring mystery.

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Ronny LeBlanc is a nationally recognized researcher, author, and television personality known for his work in the fields of Bigfoot investigation, UFOlogy, and the paranormal. He rose to prominence as a featured cast member on the hit Travel Channel series Expedition Bigfoot, where he appeared in Seasons 1 through 4 as part of a specialized team of experts using cutting-edge technology and scientific methods to track evidence of the elusive creature across the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

With decades of independent research into cryptids and high-strangeness phenomena, LeBlanc brings a unique perspective to the field. His interest in Bigfoot was sparked by strange encounters in his hometown of Leominster, Massachusetts—an area rich in unexplained sightings and legends, now known as “Monsterland.” In 2010, he made history by casting the first Bigfoot footprint ever recorded in the state, discovered in the Leominster State Forest. His fieldwork combines traditional boots-on-the-ground investigation with an open-minded approach to the interconnectedness of cryptid sightings, UFO activity, and other paranormal anomalies.

Ronny is the best-selling author of the Monsterland book series, which explores these phenomena through real-life encounters and eyewitness accounts. His books—Monsterland: Encounters with UFOs, Bigfoot and Orange Orbs and Monsterland: Shamans, Sasquatch, Synchronicity and High Strangeness—have garnered a wide following and have helped shift the conversation around Bigfoot from folklore into the realm of serious inquiry.

He’s also appeared on Paranormal Caught on Camera, Coast to Coast AM, and other major platforms, sharing his insights with audiences worldwide. In addition to writing and television, LeBlanc co-hosts the Monsterland podcast with Matty Blake, where the two explore the strange, the spooky, and the unexplained.

Ronny LeBlanc continues to be a leading voice in modern cryptozoology, bringing credibility, curiosity, and passion to his search for the truth behind one of North America’s greatest mysteries.

Ken Gerhard is an acclaimed cryptozoologist, author, and television personality, renowned for his extensive research into the world of mysterious and unexplained creatures. With an adventurous spirit and a deep curiosity for the unknown, Gerhard has established himself as a leading figure in the field of cryptozoology, dedicating his life to exploring and documenting the existence of enigmatic animals.

Gerhard’s journey as a cryptozoologist has taken him across the globe, where he has conducted investigations in search of creatures such as Bigfoot, the Loch Ness Monster, the Chupacabra, and various giant winged creatures, including those likened to werewolves. His expeditions are driven by a passion for discovery and a commitment to scientific inquiry, as he seeks to unravel the mysteries behind these legendary beings.

As an accomplished author, Ken Gerhard has penned five books on the subject of unknown animals. These works showcase his comprehensive research, offering readers an in-depth look at the world of cryptozoology. His writing is both informative and engaging, blending scientific analysis with captivating narratives of his adventures and findings.

Gerhard’s expertise and charismatic presence have made him a sought-after figure in the media. He has been featured on numerous TV shows, including “Missing in Alaska,” “Monster Quest,” “Ancient Aliens,” “Legend Hunters,” and “Unexplained Files.” His appearances span a variety of major networks, such as the History Channel, Animal Planet, Discovery Channel, Syfy, National Geographic, and the Science Channel. Through these programs, Gerhard shares his knowledge and experiences with a wide audience, contributing to the public’s fascination with cryptids and the unexplained.

Currently, Ken Gerhard is a featured expert on the Travel Channel series “In Search of Monsters.” In this show, he delves into the lore and evidence surrounding some of the most famous and elusive monsters from around the world. His role on the series allows him to further his pursuit of uncovering the truth behind these legendary creatures, while engaging viewers with compelling storytelling and scientific analysis.

Throughout his career, Ken Gerhard has remained a prominent and respected voice in the world of cryptozoology. His dedication to the field, coupled with his ability to captivate and educate audiences, has solidified his status as a preeminent figure in the quest to understand and document the world’s most mysterious creatures.

Adam Davies is a renowned explorer and cryptozoologist, known for his extensive travels in pursuit of evidence of legendary and undiscovered creatures around the world. With a background in both travel and research, Davies has embarked on numerous expeditions to remote and challenging environments. His quests have taken him to the dense jungles of Sumatra in search of the Orang Pendek, the vast wilderness of the Himalayas in pursuit of the Yeti, the deep forests of North America in search of Bigfoot, and the swamps of Florida looking for the Skunk Ape.

Davies is not only an adventurer but also a dedicated researcher. He collaborates with local experts and scientists, employing a blend of traditional folklore and modern scientific methods in his investigations. His work has been featured in various documentaries and publications, making significant contributions to the field of cryptozoology.

Davies is admired for his determination, courage, and respect for both the natural world and the cultures he encounters. His explorations continue to inspire those fascinated by the mysteries of our planet and the possibility of undiscovered species.

Ryan “RPG” Golembeske is a notable researcher and media personality specializing in the study of Bigfoot, other cryptids, and various aspects of the paranormal. Known for his enthusiastic and inquisitive approach, Golembeske has made significant contributions to the field of cryptozoology and paranormal investigation. His interest in the unknown and unexplained began at an early age, leading him to pursue a path in researching mysterious phenomena and elusive creatures. His fascination with Bigfoot, in particular, has driven much of his work, as he seeks to gather evidence and understand the nature of this legendary cryptid.

Throughout his career, Golembeske has been involved in numerous field investigations, exploring areas known for Bigfoot sightings and other paranormal occurrences. His research methods combine traditional techniques with innovative approaches, allowing him to gather unique insights and data. Golembeske’s fieldwork often involves interviewing eyewitnesses, analyzing physical evidence, and employing technology to track and document potential encounters with cryptids and paranormal entities.

Golembeske’s expertise and charismatic personality have led to numerous appearances in the media. He has been featured on various television shows, documentaries, and podcasts, where he discusses his research and shares his experiences in the world of cryptozoology and the paranormal. His media presence has been instrumental in bringing these subjects to a broader audience, fostering interest and awareness in the mysteries that lie beyond the realm of conventional understanding.

In addition to his fieldwork and media appearances, Golembeske is an active member of the cryptozoology and paranormal communities. He participates in conferences, seminars, and events, engaging with fellow researchers, enthusiasts, and those curious about his work. These interactions provide opportunities for collaboration, discussion, and the exchange of ideas, furthering the pursuit of knowledge in these intriguing fields.

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Jonathan “Redbird” Dover is a retired Navajo Nation law enforcement officer renowned for his extensive investigations into paranormal phenomena across the American Southwest. Serving as a Navajo Ranger for over three decades, Dover specialized in cases involving unexplained events, including UFO sightings, Bigfoot encounters, hauntings, and the enigmatic skinwalker legend.

His work has been prominently featured in various media, notably in the Netflix series Unsolved Mysteries and the History Channel’s The Secret of Skinwalker Ranch.

During his tenure, Dover collaborated closely with fellow Ranger Stanley Milford Jr., forming a duo often referred to as the “Paranormal Rangers.” Together, they approached each case with a blend of traditional Navajo knowledge and modern investigative techniques, bringing credibility to reports that might otherwise be dismissed. Their investigations have shed light on numerous unexplained occurrences within the Navajo Nation, including reports of shapeshifting entities and anomalous aerial phenomena.

Dover’s expertise extends to the interpretation of ancient petroglyphs and symbols, which he believes may indicate historical accounts of interdimensional portals and otherworldly beings. His insights have been instrumental in exploring the connections between indigenous folklore and contemporary paranormal reports.

Beyond his investigative work, Dover is a sought-after speaker and consultant on matters related to indigenous perspectives on the paranormal. His contributions continue to influence discussions on the intersection of culture, spirituality, and unexplained phenomena.

Jessi and Joe Doyle are the dynamic duo behind Hellbent Holler, a field-based cryptid and paranormal research team known for their immersive investigations into the unexplained phenomena of the Appalachian region. Operating primarily in the dense forests of the southern Appalachian Mountains—including areas like the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest and the Land Between the Lakes—their work focuses on uncovering evidence of elusive entities such as Bigfoot, Dogman, and other mysterious creatures.

Jessi, originally from western North Carolina, spent a decade in New Orleans exploring its rich tapestry of folklore and the occult. Her experiences there deepened her interest in the supernatural, leading her to return to the Appalachian Mountains to pursue her passion for cryptid research. Joe, her partner in both life and investigation, complements the team with his expertise in fieldcraft and survival skills. Together, they employ a blend of traditional investigative techniques and modern technology, utilizing tools such as night-vision equipment, audio recorders, and thermal imaging to document their findings.

Their approach is characterized by a commitment to on-the-ground exploration, often venturing into remote and rugged terrains to gather firsthand evidence. This hands-on methodology has led them to document a range of anomalous phenomena, from unexplained vocalizations and footprints to eerie encounters that defy conventional explanation.

Beyond their fieldwork, Jessi and Joe share their adventures and findings through their Hellbent Holler platform, which includes a YouTube channel featuring documentaries and investigative footage. Their content not only showcases their discoveries but also aims to educate and engage the public in discussions about the unknown.

Their dedication to exploring the mysteries of the natural world has positioned them as prominent figures in the field of cryptozoology and paranormal research. Through Hellbent Holler, Jessi and Joe continue to push the boundaries of conventional investigation, driven by a shared passion for uncovering the truths that lie hidden in the shadows of the wilderness.

Cam Buckner is the creator and host of the popular podcast and YouTube channel Dixie Cryptid, a storytelling platform dedicated to eyewitness accounts and folklore centered on Bigfoot, cryptids, and other strange phenomena. With a calm Southern voice and a gift for narration, Cam has become a beloved figure in the cryptozoology and paranormal communities, known for bringing eerie encounters to life with authenticity and respect.

Drawing from listener submissions and extensive research, Cam curates a wide range of first-hand stories involving cryptids, mysterious creatures, and unexplained events from across North America—especially the Deep South. His work often highlights the cultural and regional context of these tales, weaving them into the larger fabric of rural folklore and modern-day mystery.

While not a field investigator in the traditional sense, Cam’s role as a storyteller has significantly contributed to public interest in cryptozoology. His dedication to giving a voice to those who have experienced the unexplained has helped normalize the conversation around sightings of Bigfoot, Dogman, and other legendary creatures.

With a loyal following and hundreds of episodes to his name, Cam Buckner continues to explore the intersection of myth and reality—one campfire story at a time.

Brittany Barbieri is a seasoned cryptozoologist, ufologist, and paranormal investigator with over two decades of experience exploring the unexplained. She serves as the lead cryptozoologist on Discovery Channel’s Lost Monster Files, a series that reopens the long-lost archives of legendary researcher Ivan T. Sanderson to re-examine some of the most compelling cryptid cases in modern history.

Barbieri’s fascination with the unknown began in her childhood in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, where she had a chilling encounter with an unidentifiable creature at the age of eight. This experience ignited a lifelong passion for investigating mysterious phenomena.

In addition to her work on Lost Monster Files, Barbieri has appeared on several other television programs, including Unidentified with Demi Lovato, UFO Witness, and Jack Osbourne’s Night of Terror. She collaborates with renowned experts such as Professor Jeff Meldrum on Sasquatch research and partners with Ben Hansen of Hypocenter Productions to investigate UFO and UAP reports. Barbieri also serves as a ufology consultant for the TV series Station 2-1-1 and Fifth Kind.

Beyond her investigative endeavors, Barbieri is a certified zoologist, exotic animal trainer, and professional photographer. She is a board member and Creative Director of the Crocodile Research Foundation, dedicated to the conservation of crocodiles and their habitats in Central America and the Caribbean. She is also an active member of the Cryptid Women’s Society, promoting awareness and inclusion in the field of cryptozoology.

Through her multifaceted career, Brittany Barbieri continues to bridge the gap between science and the supernatural, bringing a unique blend of expertise and passion to the exploration of the world’s most enduring mysteries.

Brandon Gayheart, widely known as The Supernatural Sleuth, is a 25-year law enforcement veteran turned viral TikTok creator who investigates the paranormal through the lens of faith, reason, and firsthand experience. With over 400,000 followers and millions of views, Brandon has captivated audiences by sharing chilling stories from his night patrols in the Appalachian region—where eerie encounters often blur the line between natural and supernatural.

Rooted in his Christian faith, Brandon explores hauntings, ghost sightings, and spiritual warfare while offering insights into how these phenomena intersect with Biblical truths. His calm, credible storytelling style sets him apart in the paranormal space, earning trust from both skeptics and believers alike.

After experiencing personal loss and taking time away, Brandon returned to social media with renewed clarity and purpose: to use his platform not just to share ghost stories, but to encourage spiritual awareness and point people toward hope in Christ.

You can find him on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube Shorts @thesupernaturalsleuth—where every video invites you to “believe in more… but test everything.”

Wayne Totherow is a dedicated paranormal investigator, podcast host, and the founder of Mannimal Research, a Sasquatch-focused research team based in southeastern Tennessee. With a passion for uncovering the truth behind unexplained phenomena, Wayne has spent years interviewing eyewitnesses, exploring reported hotspots, and bringing compelling cryptid encounters to light.

As a key figure at Paranormal World Productions, Wayne produces and hosts Paranormal Odyssey, a podcast that dives into real-life paranormal experiences and mysteries from across the country. He also co-hosts That Bigfoot Podcast and The Bigfoot Report, platforms where he engages in deep discussions with fellow researchers and experiencers, while covering the latest in cryptid news and sightings.

Wayne’s calm, thoughtful approach and his firsthand fieldwork make him a respected voice in the Bigfoot and broader paranormal communities. Whether investigating the woods of East Tennessee or interviewing a witness with a decades-old encounter, Wayne brings authenticity, curiosity, and a down-to-earth style to everything he does.

He continues to build Paranormal World Productions into a hub for high-quality, community-driven paranormal content—where storytelling, research, and respect for the unknown all come together.

Andrew Auton has never been a skeptic when it comes to Bigfoot—he’s always had a sense that something was out there in the woods. As a kid, he even caught a glimpse of Bigfoot on a local news story by accident (a whole other story in itself). For many years, Andrew was what you might call an “armchair researcher,” immersing himself in documentaries, videos, and books on the subject.

That all changed in 2022.

With guidance from a former professional researcher, Andrew and his close friend Joe were led to a remote location in the Smoky Mountains—an experience that would become their first, and most eye-opening, Bigfoot encounter. Since that day, Andrew has transitioned into hands-on fieldwork, embarking on hikes, gathering experiences, and deepening his study of the phenomenon.

Grounded in his Christian faith and guided by the growing body of evidence collected by respected researchers, Andrew firmly believes that Bigfoot can be explained—and even understood—in a rational, logical way. Though he balances his passion with the responsibilities of a full-time job, he continues to explore when he can and is committed to sharing what he learns along the way.

Raised in the rugged Appalachian region of East Tennessee, Harley Owens began as a typical outdoorsman—hunting, fishing, and exploring forested woodlands. But on September 23, 2020, a startling encounter near Pound, Virginia shook his worldview: he discovered massive footprints and heard eerie, inhuman vocalizations. This experience, captured in a single shaky photo before his phone died, spurred a three‑year hiatus from the woods—until Thanksgiving 2023, when he mustered the courage to return.

Since reclaiming his path, Harley has fully embraced field research. He’s captured additional evidence—footprints, photos, and audio—documenting multiple encounters with Bigfoot and even Dogman in the Smoky Mountains. His work is rooted in authenticity and transparency, as he shares firsthand findings without sensationalism.

Harley founded Bigfoot Reports & Data, a community-driven group on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, dedicated to gathering and analyzing cryptid sightings and evidence from Appalachia.

He’s a sought-after guest on cryptid-focused podcasts such as Strangeology and The Confessionals, as well as on YouTube series like Beyond BMR and Bigfoot Society, where he discusses his encounters, field techniques, and his journey from skepticism to active investigation.