Before podcasts dominated the landscape, The Malliard Report was already carving out space for honest, curious conversations about the unknown. In this archival 2012 episode, Jim Malliard reflects on the early years of paranormal radio — the community conventions, the emerging culture of open discussion, and what it meant to build something meaningful with limited tools and unlimited curiosity.
Jim discusses what made the paranormal scene of the early 2010s so special: the raw energy of small-town events, the camaraderie between investigators, and the shared drive to explore what others dismissed. He also opens up about the realities of live broadcasting — the thrill of an unpredictable guest, the discipline of time management, and the genuine nerves of going live every week.
This episode captures the roots of what The Malliard Report would become — a space for curiosity over sensationalism, respectful skepticism, and community over ego. Listening back reminds us how far the show has come while preserving the heart of what made it matter in the first place: connection.
It’s a rare look behind the curtain — both a time capsule and a reminder that good storytelling never goes out of style.
00:00 – Beginnings of The Malliard Report
Jim opens with reflections on how the show started — live radio, minimal tech, and maximum curiosity.
05:00 – The paranormal community of the early 2010s
Discussing the energy around conventions, ghost-hunting groups, and how grassroots enthusiasm fueled the scene.
10:00 – What makes a great guest
Jim breaks down the traits of memorable guests — authenticity, curiosity, and openness — and how those early interviews helped shape his signature style.
15:00 – Behind the mic
Insights into the realities of live broadcasting: nerves, timing, and the unpredictability of unscripted talk radio.
20:00 – Convention culture
From local meetups to major expos — the unique blend of true believers, skeptics, and the simply curious that defines the paranormal crowd.
25:00 – Building a listener community
Jim recalls how the “duck pond” came to life — the early fans who called in, shared stories, and built the foundation for the loyal Malliard audience.
30:00 – The art of hosting
Balancing curiosity and professionalism: how to ask big questions without leading the guest or sensationalizing the story.
35:00 – The evolution of the field
Reflecting on how paranormal media has grown — more podcasts, more voices, and more tools, but also the risk of losing depth in the noise.
40:00 – Favorite moments on-air
Memories of standout interviews, surprises, and the satisfaction of chasing ideas that don’t have easy answers.
45:00 – Why radio still matters
Jim’s appreciation for the intimacy of the format — one voice, one listener, and the timeless pull of conversation.
50:00 – Looking ahead
What Jim hoped to achieve beyond 2012 — more reach, better guests, and using curiosity as a bridge, not a wall.
55:00 – Closing thoughts
A sincere reflection on gratitude — for guests, listeners, and the ongoing exploration that keeps The Malliard Report thriving.
“You don’t need a million-dollar setup to ask good questions — just the guts to go live.”
“The best guests aren’t the loudest ones; they’re the ones who care about the truth.”
“We didn’t have algorithms, we had conversations.”
“Every great interview starts with curiosity, not certainty.”
“Community is what keeps this show alive — from 2012 to today.”
