In the realm of cryptozoology, few voices resonate as deeply as Bigfoot researcher and North American Bigfoot Center curator, Cliff Barackman. Known for his no-nonsense approach and scientific lens, Cliff has been a prominent figure in Bigfoot research for decades. In a recent interview with Aaron Sagers on Talking Strange, Cliff offered his candid thoughts on the current state of Sasquatch research, misconceptions in the media, and the importance of scientific fieldwork in moving the mystery forward.

The Science of Sasquatch

Cliff is clear: Sasquatch is not paranormal. Unlike the theories that place Bigfoot in the realm of shape-shifting, interdimensional beings, Cliff emphasizes its biological roots. "For the same reason we don’t call bears paranormal," Cliff explains, “Sasquatches are likely undiscovered primates, relic hominoids that fit well into the scientific paradigm.” Recent advancements in anthropology—including the discovery of multiple hominid species coexisting in the last 100,000 years—suggest there’s room in science for creatures like Bigfoot.

Why the Public Perception Matters

As curator of the North American Bigfoot Center in Boring, Oregon, Cliff has made it his mission to educate the public on Sasquatch’s plausibility as a biological species. Despite schlocky media portrayals of Bigfoot as a monster or paranormal entity, Cliff maintains the focus must remain on the animals, not the researchers or sensationalized stories.

“If Bigfoot exists, it’s out there right now, doing its thing,” he explains. “Our job is to understand it—not fear it.” Stories have their place, but the emphasis must shift toward gathering tangible evidence, like footprints and repeatable data.

The Role of Fieldwork and Data Collection

When asked about the state of Bigfoot research, Cliff pulls no punches. While social media may highlight endless stories and self-promotion, Cliff stresses that real progress comes from consistent fieldwork. His own efforts are dedicated to casting footprints, mapping patterns, and targeting active regions for potential sightings.

He advocates for the importance of footprint evidence: “All elusive mammals are studied through their tracks—bears, wolverines, and even tigers. Sasquatches are no different.” Combining repeated footprint data with other evidence, like DNA, could move the needle toward scientific acceptance without requiring a specimen.

Addressing the Media Problem

For Cliff, television has been both a blessing and a curse. While shows like Finding Bigfoot brought Sasquatch research into mainstream consciousness, they often leaned on sensationalism to hook audiences. Cliff, however, ensured the integrity of his work on the show, refusing to fabricate or misrepresent evidence.

“We never lied about the Bigfoot stuff,” Cliff says. “If we heard something, we heard it. If we believed something, we genuinely did. That’s rare in TV.”

Bigfoot’s Future: Hope and Caution

Cliff remains optimistic about the eventual discovery of Sasquatch but warns that public awareness is a double-edged sword. Encroachment, habitat destruction, and media-fueled misunderstandings could create new challenges.

“We need to protect these animals and their habitats,” Cliff emphasizes. Education, he believes, is key to ensuring Bigfoot’s future, as is continuing field research driven by genuine curiosity and scientific rigor.

The Bigfoot and Beyond Podcast

For those eager to learn more, Cliff and his Finding Bigfoot co-star James “Bobo” Fay co-host the Bigfoot and Beyond podcast. Launched in 2019, it has become a go-to resource for Sasquatch enthusiasts and skeptics alike, featuring interviews with researchers, academics, and witnesses from around the world.

In Cliff’s words, “It’s like hanging out with Bobo and me in the car. We’re just talking Bigfoot, and you’re along for the ride.”

Cliff’s message is clear: Bigfoot research demands patience, persistence, and a scientific mindset. Whether through his work at the North American Bigfoot Center, in the field, or on the Bigfoot and Beyond podcast, Cliff Barackman continues to push the mystery forward while staying true to his guiding principle: focus on the animal, not the hype.

For more from Cliff, visit the North American Bigfoot Center or check out the Bigfoot and Beyond podcast, available on all major platforms.