I am about to step out of the spotlight.

The gap between serious researchers and the entertainment field keeps widening.

Trying to remain active on both sides of that gap… it’s become more difficult, disappointing, and time-consuming.

In the paranormal field, I’m an academic, not an entertainer, though I like to think that I’m an entertaining speaker.  I definitely lack the guile necessary to navigate challenging political shoals in this field.

By nature, I’m a geek. Professionally, I’m at my best when I’m relatively undistracted. Then, I can focus on unique (“what if”) research and writing.

This field has changed radically in recent years. My career changed with it, and the further along the popularity bell curve I travel, the less time I have for research & writing.

I think I’ve been helping people via comments, emails, interviews, and personal appearances… but frankly, other people are better at those things and enjoy them more.

Instead, it’s time for me to get back to what I do best: Innovative research & writing.

HollowHill.com has been great fun. In the 1990s, it was one of the first ghost-related websites, providing free how-to information for people interested in ghosts and haunted places.

Currently, HollowHill.com receives nearly 3000 unique visitors, daily. I’ve written over 700 articles at that site during the past 14+ years, and it’s a good resource.

Though — in the immediate future — I plan to focus on books rather than articles, I’ll continue to update Hollow Hill now & then.

In addition to my books, I’m looking forward to sharing more idle thoughts and speculation at Fiona Broome’s Lab, and exploring the Mandela Effect.

I’m undecided about the future direction of my other paranormal-related websites.

Several personal and professional matters may prevent me from speaking at Dragon*Con this year. I haven’t cancelled as a Guest, in case my schedule and commitments change at the last minute. However, as it looks right now, I’m unlikely to be in Atlanta during the Labor Day weekend.

I’m sad about that, because Dragon*Con is one of the high points of my year.  It’s always a wonderful opportunity to meet friends and fans, and connect with others who enjoy this field.

In October, I’ll be speaking in Ontario, Canada at the 2nd Annual G.H.O.S.T.S. Conference, and in Austin, Texas at the Central Texas Paranormal Conference.

After that, I’m scheduling no personal appearances.

It’s time for me to resume academic (and theoretical) research and writing. I’m best among innovators and early adopters. I think that’s where I contribute the most to this field. I know it’s where I’m happiest.

I appreciate your friendship, support and encouragement. This is not goodbye. It’s simply a change of emphasis in what I do, and — now that I’ll have more time for what I do best  — I think you’ll be pleased by this decision when you see the results.