“Strategies for Solving Mysteries” delves into a few of the investigative techniques Kenny Biddle uses while researching/investigating claims and also spends some time talking about “Trained Observers” and the weight of their testimony concerning strange experiences.
“Over the years of investigating alleged paranormal claims, I’ve put together an ever-growing series of strategies that have helped me research extraordinary claims and, in many cases, solve them. From asking clarifying questions to breaking down eyewitness accounts (and why we must still fact-check them) – we’ll go through a few of these strategies: explaining what they mean, how they apply to an investigation, and I’ll cite some examples of how they solved the case.”
About the Speaker:
Kenny Biddle is known for his scientific approach to paranormal claims. Initially drawn to ghost hunting in the late 1990s—spurred by shows like In Search of… and Unsolved Mysteries. Originally drawn to ghost hunting in the late 1990s, Biddle shifted to a science-based investigative framework after personal experiences—most notably after being mistaken for a “ghost” by other investigators in Gettysburg in 1999—which prompted him to reevaluate his methods. He now systematically applies critical thinking, rigorous photography and videography techniques, and controlled testing to paranormal claims, dissecting purported ghost photos, EVP recordings, and “ghost hunting” gadgets to expose natural and technical explanations.
Biddle communicates his investigations and results through multiple platforms: he writes the regular column “A Closer Look” for Skeptical Inquirer, hosts the weekly livestream “The Skeptical Help Bar,” produces the Ghosts in the Machine video series for the Center For Inquire YouTube channel, and is frequently quoted by major outlets such as Newsweek, Live Science, The Atlantic, and The New York Times Magazine. Beyond media engagement, he actively fosters collaboration between skeptics and paranormal enthusiasts – frequently attending paranormal conferences (setting up his Skeptical Help Booth), lecturing on investigation techniques, and hosting workshops on debunking ghost gadgets – all aiming to build trust and improve the quality of investigations. His work emphasizes understanding common non paranormal causes – such as optical illusions, data misinterpretations, and environmental factors – while promoting critical thinking, science, and reason.
Contact:
Kenny Biddle
Site: https://skepticalinquirer.org/authors/kenny-biddle/
Email: kbiddle@centerforinquiry.org
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