Just making **** up.

We have enough liars. Stay true to yourself and your craft. This is why we're all here!🫶

Vilma McGuinness

Don't compromise on the facts. Albert is right, we trust you

Ivette IbarraSmith

To spin a bit or make light of is expected, but honestly part of what makes you good is that you always serve the facts or express not having them all. In truth I trust you, Ever thought of running for president ? LOl just kidding. Right now no one wants that job. But on the real keep it you.

Albert Deleon

Fabrication is off putting and for some it’s noticeable on a persons face. If ya wanna keep the smarties ya can’t fabricate. But…. you knew that ❤️ Been thinking bout ya buddy. You’re a good egg. I dig ya big time.

BeciDGreat

Not a fan of lies... Have you shared the Chris Bledsoe story? It's fascinating & I believe anyone here who hasn't heard it yet would be interested. Thanks for all that you do!

Mary Helen Mannie

I'm writing a book now that is full of actual facts most don't know about, but there are portions of it where a few non important details are made up to fill a few gaps. So go ahead and tell a few white lies, just stick to the truth in the end.

MysTerri

It's not a lie to embellish a BS story. Keep it fun, save the truth for the end where it's not such a downer.

Jim Shaffer

Lie, how else do these urban legends grow.

Howard Perlin

Hello new flounder here Hello to the patreon hi hecklefish aj and hello to everyone can you do a video on the possible link between RH negative and aliens ?

Lyra Celestine

Lie, Pinocchio, lie! The ones that are clearly someone's work of fiction or delusions are fertile ground to be played with. Makes the wrap-ups explaining how the sausage is made makes it all the more amusing.

CharlieTheGeezer

Thank you for asking

Jeremy Carlucci

I think that this is a impossible call... as a policy issue and only partially because every policy is bound to have exceptions. Your pragmatism and honesty are wonderful aspects of your being and nature... but you’re also being a storyteller and the use of fiction is incredibly useful for getting at the nonfiction realities and providing understandable examples. If I must vote... I would go with the Urban Legends don’t need anything added... but because I would want you to not be bound by arbitrary rules that limit your imagination and willful whimsy and capricious humorous anecdotes and insights I would abstain from voting. : ) “Lies are used by artist’s to express the truth.” Paraphrasing from “V for Vendetta” and your art is wonderfully crafted and presented with great efforts and deliberate concerns.

John A Votta

Just try to stay as true as you can to the lore, whatever it is. Sometimes to make the structure of the story more cohesive you might have to add some of your own speculation. But keep it to the bare minimum, and disclose the parts of the story you added, and maybe why, when its appropriate to do so. You guys do a great job, it's interesting, fun, and educational.

Edward Hamilton

I wish everyone had an education on story structure. Then the idea of a Hollywood "true" story could be understood. Facts don't need a structure. Stories demand it. There are stories we don't get if you can't take liberties in telling them. I'd prefer the story.

Functional Joe

It’s not a lie if you openly say that the filler detail is speculation. Go ahead, but if it bothers you maybe lampshade it whenever you bring that in. Tartaria is definitely fake but worth talking about. And they always talk about “mudfloods” and “thinking robots and supertechnology in the 1920’s.”

Tyler Finn

You don’t need to lie. I watch your videos because of your honesty.

Teresa H.

Great point! I struggle with any inclusion of lies personally, once you’ve been seen as a liar, that’s how you will always be seen.

Keland Logan

Don’t ever lie. Integrity is imperative in and at this time. Lies are the reason why you are needed.

Keland Logan

Love how y'all actually reply to my nonsense comments. Appreciate it!

Samuel Brister

Conspiracy as well dirty fuckin gerbils

Darius Dagger

Every single person in Lompoc or any federal prison for tax evasion should be released immediately.. The guilty ones are free. The AMNESTY should not be granted. Dire consequences are needed. Genocide is the crime.

Darius Dagger

A new world is ready to be born if we can take it...

Darius Dagger

Out

Darius Dagger

I speak from the heart. Truth is our only way our

Darius Dagger

The misuse it lie to us and steak trillions a year w no response but a shrug of the shoulders.. What the fuck has my generation done? Asleep at the wheel. Just wait to hear what they have done already . Occupy other planets travel faster than the speed of light time travel it goes on and on. If everyone knew what I do it would be impossible to contain the anger.

Darius Dagger

STOP PAYING TAXES

Darius Dagger

Patreon members some of you seem oblivious to the real world danger we face . Maybe it's time to stop wondering and start doing even if it may be the wrong response. Anything is better than going out the way they planned it and WHILE SITTING IN FRONT OF THE TV DISOLVING

Darius Dagger

Lie is the incorrect word unsubstantiated is the word we should be using.

Darius Dagger

Facts are fleeting because the CIA and all the other assholes bury and defile all physical evidence

Darius Dagger

Sam h Go walk your dog

Darius Dagger

Problem is when your opposition kills the competitor what's really going on here?

Darius Dagger

Your not at all kidding my count is 46 Dead or disappeared by our lovely Uncle Sam Thant includes James Forester John Fitzgerald Kennedy and Marilyn Monroe

Darius Dagger

AJ . Facts require proof and the powers that be have whittled away at them for a century. Your intelligent enough in my opinion to meld a theory or partial evidence into a believable story.. it's all there but the bonesotive and circumstantial evidence are enough to convict considering the unfair playing field fuck em in the neck..Time is not on our side!

Darius Dagger

Talk about how few people really know who is running this country this world. Does anyone know or even heard of the black pope?

Darius Dagger

If you’re just adding your speculative input between the unknown, do it! It’s your speculation and story. You get to interpret the evidence as you see it based on your totality of the information. But also, please let us know what your speculation is and why you speculate…keep up the solid work AJ- Hecklefish, you better not let him slip and best be carrying your share of the research…;)

Brandon Gilbert

Whatever. I just like listening to your episodes. Your compilations are awesome:))

Ardelean Alex

I believe they have slightly covered some of that in blips in one or several episodes but not a direct video lol love the reply. Such a great crew I cannot believe we have waited this long to get on the Patreon game. I guess life’s just been so busy that’s why I’ve been so patient about waiting for a video. We all have so much going on at times!

TheVaccas

Hey AJ and Team, I think the core appeal of *The Why Files* is the trust viewers have in the way you balance entertainment with fact-checking. While adding small, harmless details to bridge story gaps can make things more engaging, I'd be cautious about going too far. Even if you're debunking the story in the end, creating new details might blur the line between storytelling and misinformation for some viewers. That said, creative embellishments that help keep the flow, as long as they're clearly part of the myth, could still work—just don't alter the original lore too much. I think keeping the channel's integrity intact is key, but it doesn't mean you can't have a little fun with it as long as you stay transparent in the end. It's a tough balance, but trust in your gut and the audience will follow!

Kirby Pinkham

Both! Urban legends Always are either incorrect or just plain out lies, and like language, they are changing Constantly, even daily sometimes. THATS the story. The Truth in the end is where your Integrity Shines! So... Both? 🤷‍♀️

My Pet Giraffe

Now let's be honest I've got to go the truth and the lie because the stories will change anyway down the line whether we like it or not

Justin Barber

The truth is that either could ve the correct answer. I agree that honesty and the ability to be transparent while being forthcoming with the information is absolutely necessary when a jounalist covers a topic. It is also crucial to be objective and unbiased in your report. That being said AJ is not playing the role of journalist. He is one of us sharing creepy tales of the strange and unlnown. Every time these yarns are spun they go through a telephone like transformation. I voted no to lying but i believe that it just might be ok to add his take, twist, or even personal interaction with the story. Who knows the government. Aliens, creeps, or mythical beasts may just find the story teller and make them a true part of the lore.

Tyler Fisher

Have you read The Creature From Jekyll Island? Fascinating story, especially when you tie in the Titanic!

John Tressler

😂

Damian Golladay

❤️❤️😊

Kelp

Whew! Glad to hear. Was worried about him!

Kelp

We decided to premiere on Thursday to get back on that day again!

The Why Files

He's heads down working on getting a video out ... bare with him. He's got something special for Patrons.

The Why Files

When can we expect to hear directly from AJ about what is going on?

Rambin Wreck

Love you love us that much Samuel - promise AJ is working hard and you will see something very soon!! Victoria

The Why Files

Haarp is not too far away!

The Why Files

We would like to stay alive, thanks 😉

The Why Files

Hi Pappy! All good! AJ has a special episode coming up that will have a version just for patrons! Coming very soon!! 🥰

The Why Files

The majority voted for no lies or additional storytelling. Between that and life itself maybe there's a struggle to wrap up this next episode. Either way.. I'm ready and waiting. Hope everything is all good.

Billy Pugh

I thought Aj said that he was already caught up lol

Nick

I’d just like an episode at this point 😂 anything at all

Kyle Fenton

After the hurricane we need a haarp episode

Damian Golladay

We need a video on the rothschilds and all of the central banks

Damian Golladay

A.J. and Victoria any news on the new episodes and A.J. mouth surgeries?

Adam (Pappy) Koehler

Often stories have more than one opinion/truth/whatever depending on the observer. I'd focus on showing when two people see things a bit differently and discuss the differences and similarities.

Mark Denney

They said yesterday on a comment it’ll be out soon

Kyle Fenton

Agreed, dystopia B plots bloat the production and tread the same water Hollywood has for over 30 years

FourLeaf

I am going to commit atrocities if we don't get an update today 😡

Samuel Brister

Can you give your Patreon supporters an update of any kind? Please and thank you.

GW

Lie until your pants burn off.

Bryan W Kindel

AJ had surgery done on his mouth

Uncle Scooby

who had surgery? inquiring minds want to ,know

DannyO

Nice. Thanks for replying.

Billy Pugh

AJ is working on it. Will be out soon!

The Why Files

Anyone heard anything about the next episode?

Billy Pugh

This is how urban legends live anyway, they get modified over time. Every person who tells it has the potential to distort it, either on purpose or on accident. There's nothing wrong with adapting the story for entertainment's sake. It's fiction! Good story telling relies on the narrator to improvise as needed.

E G

Stories are stories.

Robert Ivancic

I don't come here for the speculative fiction. I come here for the speculative non-fiction. During that Illuminati video, where you kept breaking away to tell a sci-fi dystopian story about some fictional journalist, I wanted to skip those parts. Not that they weren't well produced or anything. I just come here for the facts about actual events or at least actual people who actually claimed events were actual. Also, that stuff clearly slowed down production. I've heard it said that a manuscript isn't finished until the author has run out of things to cut out, rather than things to add.

Hank Meyer

Do you have any specifics you could share from previous episodes ? I'd say very small embellishments are ok but changing the narrative of the original story makes it your own story. Even though I love TWF because you debunk things, debunking is the least fun part of the show because I want these stories to be true! The Accidental Time Travelers episode was great but I was sad to find most of it wasn't true. I want TWF, not Fact or Fiction!

Mel80

To be or not to be, that is the question

Natty Dread

Don't be a Sheep like the rest. Your structure and style is what brought us here.

Dustin Perry

Part of the fun is revealing the reason why some is embellished with lies, no need to add to them, and when they are not debunked, it is even better.

Jackson

With oral tradtion, the important thing was rememering lage chunks of story and filling in around the big events. It wouldn't be the same here IMO. I'm happy with embellishments, but new chunks of story affects the integrity that AJ has spoken so often about maintaining. Prefer the show didn't make up new chunks.

Christopher McCartney

Oooo I like the idea of hecklefish telling the whole story then AJ debunking it.

Selkie Olsen

In oral storytelling tradition, everyone who tells a story adds their own twists and embellishments. I don’t see anything wrong with this. ESPECIALLY if you’re going to come clean at the end. I don’t see how it compromises your integrity at all.

Selkie Olsen

I don't see what most are seeing in your post. I'm taking as adding a little filler. For example, just watched Alien Overlords and the guy checking the weather station got sick from fear....he opened his eyes saw....and got sick again. They have to fill in some time, I would think. I don't see AJ changing important facts crucial to the story. That would be a problem for me too. Off course I may have it all wrong.

Joanie Yannotti

Everyone be nice to AJ. Imagin being on an alternate timeline without TWF. 😬

nannanom nanna

Your hypothetical scenarios/speculations created content derived from your research is fine. They are incredibly entertaining, even the scary ones, this is fine AJ.

nannanom nanna

Never let the truth get in the way of a good yarn

Adam McDonald

If your just filling holes to entertain go for it. Now don't add whole sections. But almost every storyteller in history added their own spins/add-ons it's what makes a great story. It's also a time honored tradition. You're already debunking you You're on a higher ground than most.

stephen ash

Keep it true and keep it real. BUT... a story time Spin off type of video is something I can get on board with. Like that old show Fact or Fiction? You present from the start a few storys and at least one will be false, to keep us guessing. At the end reveal everything. That sounds pretty fun.

Dan Scott

Agreed, a small fib here and there is ok, but keep the stories told as true as possible

lisa brandt

Aren't you glad you asked AJ.

Joanie Yannotti

A.J. that's what the government and politicions do 🙂 . We don't need more lies . They make up enough shit already. I know you're smart enough you don't need filler. I feel like you're a pretty good person and honest. Pappy.

Adam (Pappy) Koehler

If you lie you might as well go to the mainstream media - most of the topics are so crazy to begin with they need no embellishment IMO. I would like to see more science/tech topics mixed in FWIW

Ken

I was going to vote for the middle choice, “maybe, just a tiny little bit, like you said you are already doing.” I def vote No if it’s all-in lying. So — abstained?

Eric Brodeur

So I see a lot of us are okay with Hecklefish lying, but not you AJ. I guess that lets us know its BS. 😊 FYI, if you do start lying, might want to change .com to .gov. 😜

Tim Murphy

Hmmm....little "filler" type stuff is ok - even on YouTube I understand you still need to do things like this to make something more presentable. However, I would stay away from bigger lies and misinformation. As recent history and current times have shown, even when the creator admits to a lie, it can already have taken on "a life of its own". This has led, many times, to people not believing the admission of the creator rather than accepting it was a lie.

Ed Kowalczyk

I just want a video

Pea Rhad

Integrity is ALL AJ. We must be immediately from those that spread misinformation and propaganda. I like to be entertained, not bullshitted to!

Sean Heathen

Don’t modify any legends or myths. F-That! Or like someone said have Heckle Fish lie in some super sarcastic tone with an eye roll or something. Keep the lore as true to its current tale as you can. There’s enough of a lack of integrity in wives tales and urban legends. Please don’t contribute to it. Even if you did come clean at the end there’s always those people that don’t finish for the truth hit. They’ll take your additions and you’ll contribute nonsense by De facto.

4xBill

Maybe the team could combine stories that are somewhat related, like how Wendigoon does with his iceberg cryptics. And there definitely needs to be a Halloween special—talking about ghosts, ghouls, witches, and monsters. Hecklefish can even dress up! And if this has been done before, do it again!

DanR

Have heckle fish exaggerate any lie that could be a fun thought adventure on any story. So the viewer knows what is fact and what is fun fiction. Hecklefish, what if? Moments.

Adam Lopez

Yay! The truth is the clear winner of stories that are probably BS anyway, hahaha. 😊 Standards, man, standards. And yeah, I voted for the truth too.

Tim Murphy

Keep on doing what you do exactly how you do it! We❤️It! Lore is unique to the storyteller Interpretation of the base story that always stays the same.

Kristi

F&#@! The MIC

Darius Dagger

Lies have been fed to us in every orfice for the last 8 decades its time for truth no matter how disturbing

Darius Dagger

If you have a input or thoughts on a subject that's total bs anyway why not make up a story everyone else does it seems but tell people it's made up and buy whom it was that said it

Daniel Champagne

🔺😄😊⚠️

Eric Naman

If there's no resolution, just say so - but don't make stuff up; we are getting enough lies from the various alphabet agencies, politicos, medical establishments, corporations and m/i complexes as it is. At least we can count on you and Hecklefish.

Owen Lebouef

I think, even if there are few details/not a lot of evidence about a story, we want all of the evidence/lore and stories as is so we can make up our own minds, as I feel like it always has been.. or seemed. 🤔🤨😂 I don't want to assume that everyone feels that way, but it seems most of us agree in the pole. Make a list video with them ? I hope some of that made sense? ❤️🤗😂

Fizzgig

As a retired Naval Officer, the best sea stories get longer every time you tell them.

Dave Kahkonen

Something must be working. I'm binging Comps over & over.

Joanie Yannotti

If a story ends without a resolution, tell it anyway. No need to add a thing. For example, the US Department of Defense is legally required to submit to financial audits but defies the law and law enforcers. It has done so for decades. Since 2017, it has done so in the face of additional legislation and auditors. The story is "What happened to the stolen money?" Dr. Steven Greer has an answer: Unacknowledged Special Access Projects, a.k.a. USAPs. USAPs exist. US Presidents, superior military officers, the Congressional "Gang of Eight" and other legitimate, constitutional officeholders are told that they lack a "need to know" when they inquire with those running USAPs. No consequences, legal or otherwise, follow. Presidents, legislators, and regulators keep busy doing lesser things instead of pressing the matter or they remain willfully ignorant. Use Dr. Greer's film "Unacknowledged' as the narrative for your story. Use the epilogue "the fight for the truth about the missing money continues" after debunking and/or confirming Greer's assertions...BTW, the Pentagon also publicly states that it doesn't know the value of its trillions of dollars in assets: real estate, goods, intellectual property, etc.

Steve Pisani

Use "based on a true story" at the beginning. Hollywood gets away with it. 🤣

Roy Doolin

Why not disclose it up front. That will give you license to turn it into the story people think it is, then you can debunk away.

Dave & Jeanne Sheber

You could do something like where we already know it's fiction, and you can just tell a story, like a book on tape, but a podcast. Creative freedom AND honesty. I'll soak up anything the why files crew has to offer!

jason dommer

Don't mess with anything true obviously, but anything else should be as entertaining as possible. If you didn't debunk at the end then adding to it is just wrong. Maybe clarify what you added if you do? Love the show! Feel better soon!

Jeff Kovarik

No they most definitely do not. I’m a research scientist genetics mainly). Since I’ve retired, I’ve spent the last 4 years investigating all these phenomena, watching video footage, listening to experts analyze the information we have. How much have you looked into this? I know a commander in the Navy out of Norfolk that sees UAPs nightly, with his crew. You’re being contentious with people here, based solely on your opinion and limited knowledge. When you don’t have information or potential evidence to add to help bring clarity to an event, the smart thing to do is close your yap, open your mind and listen. You would’ve been the guy 500 years ago, who’d of thought the plague was condemnation from God, rather than a microscopic bacteria rats carried that caused bubonic plague. We couldn’t see microbes back then, bc we didn’t have the technology. We have the technology now. You being dismissive of every possible thing you can’t explain or haven’t personally witnessed doesn’t make you smart. Doesn’t mean you’re thinking critically. It means your biased based on your own belief system, & are limited in your knowledge and understanding. It’s up to you to change that.

D.Shepherd

No, it doesn’t

D.Shepherd

A thought, make some details up and challenge the audience to spot them during the video. Then reveal the lies at the end and see how we do!

Katy 🖖

I watch your show and really enjoy it. One reason is that you give us the truth. And you give it in an entertaining way. Another reason I enjoy the show is you give us FACTS to back up what you say. I can tell you have done your homework Keep up the good work.

Wolf SGJ

If I remember correctly, there was a TV show, perhaps named Fact or Fiction, that told a story and at the end there was a truth reveal. I found it entertaining at first but it also gave the program and a game show feel as I was guessing what was true or not through out the episode.

De La O

As long as the show is entertaining and the truth comes out at the end, play with the facts

Francis Smith

You always add lib. But come clean at the end by saying, "but is it true? " this allows the watcher to be prepared for truth.

Joe and Shelby VanLiew

No one will ever know if your fake tidbits were derived during research. Just minimize it to bridge huge holes in research

Flamboyance (Travel with)

You rock, love watching your content, especially when I’m at sea for months at a time. Just keep going as you have been, add in content to the story if it’s necessary to fill in gaps, we all know you will tell us at the end anyway, so no harm done!

Simon Lawton

I wanted to comment on the Moon episode, where you question how the astronauts could cross the Van Allen belts safely. The answer is, they passed the thinnest part of the belts at that time and received radiation equivalent to a CT scan. The skin of the craft did offer protection, and the speed and duration were such, that exposure was limited. In addition, the Sun was at solar maximum, and thus produced enough of a solar wind, to help shield the crew.

John

What exactly do you mean?

The Why Files

What if we did this again but you can’t change your vote.

Cunninglinguist

I think the way you are is just fine! Your story telling us very captivating! But whatever you do is fine with me,I'm hooked and ain't going nowhere.i think that you could absolutely do whatever you wanted and I still would stay there. You have a knack for telling stories and then letting people know the truth at the end. I mean it is absolutely the most captivating I've ever been with a show! It doesn't matter how you do it. The people are going to stay with you if they've been with it doesn't matter how you do it. The people are going to stay with you if they've been with you and that is really what the most important thing is and they're going to tell more people. I mean. I just found you guys like a couple months ago and absolutely telling everybody about your show. Good luck! I hope that you figure out what form you want for the show but I think when you got a good thing why change it. Of course I could be wrong. I have been lol you guys got this. I am not worrying at all!

Patty Greer

There’s plenty of true stories to report on that are fantastic enough and don’t need help.

Duckmom

I thought about it and actually had to change my answer. Most times, truth is stranger than fiction. Probably no need to lie and then come clean later. Rather, stay true to the legends, and then debunk at the end. This is a good format.

Bark at the moon

A story teller as far back as I remember sitting around a campfire. Is allowed to embellish the story. It is those bits of whatever that keep the story entertaining. Then you can come clean later .

Ronald Dean Ray

I wonder how long he’s been doing this to us?

Hunter Mcbryear

It’s an urban legend just have fun telling it. Who knows maybe you’ll make an addition or modification that makes its way into the future telling of the stories.

Richard

I like this show because it doesn't lie and mislead (except the little bit and honestly I don't love the increase in that even if it's mostly through ommission) Highly likely it would make me pull back from the channel. Just because there's a ton of content like that. Honesty IS your brand. You know that. Dont try and convince yourself it isn't true.

E Hawkins

I'm gonna cheat and add a second comment. Bear with me...So I am a historian and teacher but first and foremost, I am a storyteller and imbiber of stories, fiction or non. In my experience, just like in Anthropology, just by telling the story, we have influenced the listener and added something of ourselves to it. Do you think Plutarch took a poll as to how he told, or retold his "histories?" Now, AJ, you have said that, often, Pseudo-Science becomes Science, and conspiracy theories "become" the truth. In the same vein, fiction can become non-fiction, and vice-versa. I do not advocate the intended "embellishments" for entertainment's sake. I think your role, for now, is one of a trusted source of information on narratives that otherwise may be hidden from the majority of "non-researchers," the general public, and this makes what you do a service. You open the door to what could be possible for a lot of us. If I wanted a good 'ole yarn, I'd read Tolkien or watch Game of Thrones. I watch the Why Files because of the light you shine on narratives that are not told enough (and when they are told they usually are told tongue-in-cheek, behind a chuckle). I would hate to have had my own experience with one of the topics you've covered, feel relief that it is being covered and hopeful that I am "not alone," just to find out that it was all made up, or "embellished" for entertainment purposes, and feel not only utterly alone but also like I was once again made fun of for my experience or belief. Ok, that's my piece. I love what you do. I would drop everything I've got going to be a part of what I feel is a very special channel, with the opportunity to affect thousands, if not millions of lives, in a positive, inclusive way that comes from a place of empathy, understanding, and a longing to discover and share with the world (key word coming in 3, 2, 1...) the truth.

Jacob Medina

Why fix it, if it isn’t broke? Keep doing what u have been doing. What u guys do is magic.

Trent dummy what else would ya call me.

I like the stories and overall want the truth. Just don't stretch it clear to fiction before the punch line.

Kdizzle

I strongly prefer the episodes that are real, not debunked at the end because at the end of a debunked episode I'm all fired up about the topic, ready to go research more then the debunking either just takes the wind out of my sails OR turns that wind into a hurricane trying to prove the debunking wrong.

Oleum

Trust your judgement AJ, as long as the arc of the story is not fundamentally changed

Kristopher Stuart

It is only lying if you are attempting to deceive. Taking creative liberties with your storytelling is part of being a great storyteller. You are not claiming it is a true story. You set the record straight by telling us what you could verify as factual from your research at the end of every episode. Even non-fiction stories have added content for dramatic purposes. I don't see any harm as long as you set the record straight at the end as you always do. Be your creative self, go crazy, do whatever you think will make a better story. But, it isn't lying in my opinion. Thanks for asking our opinion.

Teresa Ceesa

Urban legends grow because everyone puts their own spin on them, it’s okay to contribute to the evolution

Ellie S

Urban legends get better with embellishment!

Jenelle

There's plenty of true, or likely true amazing material that you can use creatively. 1) I'm thinking of Elon Musk's claimed reverse engineering of the alien antigravity drive, that produces such high accelerations that only an autonomous AI can pilot it. He claims in Youtube videos that prototypes have traveled to Mars in minutes, and the outer solar system in a few hours. 2) Are there liquid water channels under the Antarctic ice that lead to the sub-polar pre-human civilization ruins at depths within the operating parameters of current US nuclear submarines? I find nineteenth century urban legends uninteresting, and will usually pass on these. I'm not sure how many other loyal viewers feel the same.

Preston Calvert

Let's do the DMT episode, the cave of Brahma, cerebrospinal fluid tied to the birth and death of all creatures and the afterlife, reincarnation mushrooms all of it. Let's go hard on this one why not?

Daniel James

Lot of damage has been done to UFO research and abductions. From people creating fan fiction. Whether it was disinformation from the government agents or people with book deals. I think it's in bad taste to add fiction to paranormal stories. Your credibility is top notch. Stay gold Ponyboy.

Chuck Criss

I voted to lie, but I don't really mean lie. What I mean is take the story as far as possible. Then you can always use "what if" as long as you remain true to the story and your "what if" is logical and plausible I don't see the harm. We are all big boys and girls capable of understanding artistic license and as long as you are up-front about it I believe your integrity will remain unblemished. Just one old man's opinion

Rob

Hi AJ, please do not lie to your audience, even to improve a story. There are so many great topics out there that this should not be necessary. Your audience, who have come to trust you, will lost this valuable opinion of you. Just keep doing what you've been doing. That what's helped you come this far, so don't change the formula! :-)

Sandra

We love your history of events and debunking some in the end is fine. History is never boring to me ☺️

Laurie Salts

I wouldn’t ask my readers opinion. You are the creator of your product. If people like it, they come. Which they obviously have! We don’t know the amount of work, decisions, and thought that goes into what you do. Nor the processes you establish to make your content. In our current society we have become either/or. Seems like the art of goodwill compromise is lost. Just two sides now and I trust you much more than I trust us!

Floyd Mays

What's the number one selling book in the US? That's right, the Good Book. How many embellished stories are in that compendium? And there's no debunking going on there--just generations of people that understood the difference between allegory, poetry, fables, and good story-telling. A skill that got lost over time somehow. The only way we can get it back is to tell stories--really good stories--and then share what we know, what we hope, and what we made up to serve a greater purpose. While we're on the topic of the US.... It's a minority-ruled democracy y'all. Don't be sore losers majority voters...

Noah Stroehle

I'm torn too, guys. I'm my head it's lining up where one question might clarify it. A.J., are you a storyteller or a reporter? By definition, your role in this publication, were it concrete, would give us all the answer. If no lines were blurred, of course. Then there's also the elephant of the matter... the danger that, whether we choose to believe it or not, seemingly attaches itself to quite a many individuals involved in the realm of topics we choose to explore. Coincidences or not, it can't be denied that danger looms in the shadowy corners of every story we have suggested, and those you've covered or put a pin in. Are you more at risk by contributing? How about if in your research you inadvertantly come across, or make a previously undiscovered connection and report that? I think I remember an episode where you briefly mentioned a concern about it, and I'm my house it's not uncommon to catch a "Ooohh! Careful A.J.! Tiptoe, buddy!" 'cause we love ya, and things are scary, and the real monsters are always the people. But that said, and as someone who worked for the state legislative bureau, I rather enjoy the non-partisan style you deliver your episodes to us with. I like hearing your opinion and additional possibilities and theories as part of your closing synopsis. But if you feel like wearing your Bard Pants on occasion, knock it out. I would say though, if you do, don't tell us. Having the whole community know which parts you've added or embellished immediately removes then from the story. If you plant it, let it grow. :) Sorry, I know I'm wordy. Devil's advocate in me wants to question how many reporters are also storytellers though. Just saying.

Reno Foxx

I hope you see this one, I put quite a bit of thought into this even talked to the wife. (crazy how much I care about a YouTube channel when I normally despise all forms of internet post military) AJ, we all love you and have grown accustomed to how the show is now naturally, humans don't like change. however while I don't want to see the channel change in the delivery of preexisting/expansive stories (no need to make stuff up about the Annunaki or illuminati bc there's so much already) there are in fact a finite amount of interesting theories/conspiracies/urban legends. big number but still finite so I think if you deem it necessary to cover as topic (such as Tartaria) give a disclaimer pre or post story and I personally would love to hear what your mind creates. however to sum up.. we are all happy with how you've done things thus far, and unless necessary for the continuation of the channel I believe we as the viewers respect you for asking but are happy with how things are currently.

Zachariah Mcbride

Adding fiction to fiction part kinda rubs me wrong. I thought the stories told are meant to be close to the truth?

Bee

One of the reasons I like your show, yes you are a GREAT story teller, but I don't like the idea of just fabricating entire swaths of information for the benefit of story telling. But how about you have a kind of "sub-section" of where you do that - something like: "The Why Files - Tall Tales" or something, where anyone watch those KNOWS that it is mostly fabricated? In other words, do both, but letting people know the difference. :) Really enjoy watching and hearing your stories, A.J.!

Valerie Quarles

This is a difficult question, and I'm not sure which way I lean. I personally enjoy writing fiction, and if I can write fiction based on reality or actual human legends, that's even more fun. However, I do think you have options before coming to fabrication on a legend, such as a multi-topic episode? I'm very entertained by the versions of the stories you tell regardless, but I do think that integrity does have merit. That said, you have stated that you care about facts, but also are here to entertain as well. Someone mentioned a disclaimer, which may be a good idea to let people know if you had to add to the story.

Zach Jacobs

I voted in the minority, but only because I think the word "lie" is too strong a word. You aren't lying - not to intentionally deceive anyway. You are telling a story. Good stories always have embellishments - maybe to make it coherent or maybe for presenting a complete timeline (if you weren't there, how could you possibly know what is the truth or what is made up anyway?). As long as you debunk it in the end (as you always do). As many people have stated in the comments already, it isn't as if you are starting new urban legends or making up completely false stories - you are taking stories that are already out there and adding your own "take" to them. It reminds me of the scene in the movie Johnny Dangerously (with Michael Keaton) where the story starts at one end of the line of people and gets to the end. Michael Keaton's character repeats what was said at the beginning and the guy next to him who told him the story says "That's not what I said at all" and his reply was "Yeah, but I know how this line works". As long as we all know how it works, its fine.

John Walko

I'm a storyteller by nature. I believe a reasonable amount of embellishments is not only OK, but often necessary to fill out a story with obvious holes in it, logical fallacies, or too few details in the overall ambience or scene setting. By embellishments, I'm not referring to adding fictional "facts," or blowing out already embellished statistics, or adding "facts" that are totally unfounded or brand new. All that said, you're an excellent storytelling crew already.

The Bosco

I'm not sure that it matters that the fiction originated with some random storyteller on the Internet, or with the Why Files team. The most important thing is that at the end you sort out fact, fiction, and the unknowns. If it's fiction you created, you know unequivocally that it's fiction. If it makes an even better story to be told, that's great! I never want to see things land where fiction is pawed off as fact, but that's not something you guys do, so that's great in my book!

Jeremy - Brinohm

Any “embellishment” you choose to make will be cleared up in the end so have fun with the creative process! What is reality anyway? Thank you for all your efforts. 🙏

Jan Deardorff

I voted in the minority, but I would add a caveat that some sort of disclaimer in your debunking segment that this was our addition to the lore. You and your crew are as much as part of the urban legend making community as any other source these days! Your allowed creative license! Just with a bit of civic responsibility, as you also do the debunking. The truth, is also a very subjective thing when dealing with stories especially when the story is around a conspiracy theory or urban legend, unless your doing a science show. Even then, who paid for the science?

Richard Latarewicz

The show is perfect as you do it

Quantum Beach Rebel

I say lie. Let's see what kind of flat conspiracy theorist the channel can make by some viewers not watching the full video. BTW very cool to hear Rogan mention the channel specifically on his show. You've probably heard that a million times by now but Idc still cool.

Frasure

Thanks for asking is AJ. I’m honestly as torn as you are. I’ve been known to fabricate entire ghost stories for an audience’s entertainment, but then had to ask did I then impact an urban legend with my own hubris? I think with a platform as watched as yours you have to be careful. I am sure you will make the right decision, as you have in the past.

David “Kiwi” Keller

Hey AJ, That’s an interesting ethical dilemma you’re wrestling with! I think it comes down to striking the right balance between entertainment and integrity, especially for a show that aims to debunk myths or misinformation. Making up details to enhance a story could be entertaining, but if you’re going to reveal the truth at the end, the key is making sure your audience doesn’t feel misled in a negative way. If you add small fictional elements that are clearly there for humor or narrative flair (and not to intentionally deceive), it could actually work to your advantage—like a storytelling tool. It also helps if you maintain transparency at the end by distinguishing what’s real from what’s added for entertainment purposes. Some listeners might even appreciate the creative license as long as they trust you’ll always tell them what’s what. On the other hand, creating details could risk eroding trust if it’s unclear to your audience that you’ve done so, even if you clarify later. If the goal is to build credibility, it might be worth erring on the side of caution and sticking as close to the original (even messy) version of the story as possible, just presented in a way that’s engaging. Since you’re asking the team, it sounds like you care about maintaining integrity, and that’s probably the right instinct. Why not use your creativity to make fun of the chaotic or nonsensical elements rather than adding new ones? Ultimately, the question seems to be: are you making the story more interesting or inadvertently spreading more fiction? If it’s for fun and clarity comes at the end, it could work, but the poll will have the final say! Let me know if you want help crafting more of these story arcs! Shorell

Shorell Jones

It is best to maintain your integrity by not fabricating. Like you said, "Keep your mouth clean." You answered your own question.

Diana Heineck

Nah don't lie , it will be in the back of my head for every episode that half of the claims are made up ...twice

Matt Auslander

I say spice it up then drop the hammer at the end and listen to hecklefish moan about it.

Gods Demon

I would listen to you tell stories all day, every day -true or not- lol…you get my attention and keep it all the way thru….it’s the way you tell em, I can’t get enough!

Ellie

Do what you think is best on a case by case basis. I trust you as a storyteller.

Sean Harris (Thank You Bray Wyatt)

I agree , It don't matter which way you go with it AJ it's already destined for a great story either way

William Lyles

Terrence… I’m not sure it’s total nonsense. AJ 100% believes the moon is hollow and some crop circles are real or at least unexplainable. TWF is not just a total fictional channel.

Deepwater

A second comment: I’m not exactly sure how either of these would look. Some of the episodes are fully debunked, while others are mostly debunked without identifying the undebunked parts. Perhaps if you identified a couple episodes that exemplify what you’re talking about doing, it would be easier to determine which works better. Alternatively, you could pick a story to tell both ways (maybe as a podcast) and let people vote on which they prefer. Of course, that won’t help either because half will choose one way while the other half the second way and a third group will like (or hate) both! Hmmm. “People are a problem!” Whatever you decide we’re here for it, so just “go for it!”

Kyle Trimbach

Don’t straight up lie. But I’m not opposed to embellishing.

Glenn Rudolph

Both?! You are a great storyteller! I was thinking how original you were on the Z.Stichin one, until you identified it as all coming from him! Ah well. Still VERY entertaining. Or the story of Apollo 20. Again, great retelling. Those wholly fictional accounts were great! Turning a minimal mystery into something like that is still really good stuff.

Kyle Trimbach

The Truth and Reality are always far more interesting than fiction--suggested topic: what if all of these happened simultaneously? --namely the Third World War (a When, not an IF) involving China, Russia, and Iran and North Korea against everyone else;-- the eruption of Yellowstone (again, a When, not an IF), with the consequent horrible world-wide effects from ashfall, blocking of sunlight, dropping temperatures, acid rain, destruction of electricity (solar panels covered by ash anyone?), loss of life, etc., etc.,-- because of the shifting Earth balances caused by the melting of ice and influx of water to the oceans, with the movement of tectonic plates and vastly renewed volcanic activity and earthquakes;-- the exploding of the Sun (as recently alluded to);-- asteroid impact(s); --other effects of Climate Change (flooding, loss of crop yields, loss of world population by at least one-half, overheating effects, changing weather patterns);--add to that Aliens, a physical return of Jesus Christ, a re-election of Donald Trump to be Commander-Chief, and the lack of military preparedness of the US caused by years of last-minute avoidance of government shutdown (making long-term defense contracts impossible), critical defense products available only from our industry now in China, and needed preparedness funds blocked by Republicans ---- and oh yes, do you know where your nearest Fallout Shelter is, and whether its stocks of supplies have been renewed/updated from the 1950's/1960's, hmmm? ---- well, this will do for a Starter List of suggestions --- So, Fiction more interesting than Reality --- you know now on which side My vote is ----- SMC

STEPHEN MORRIS

The voting questions was very confusing to me! I don’t mind the debunking. I don’t mind you telling the story how it was heard, written, or seen! In fact, I prefer the debunking. At least I know what to not believe in! Also the ones that can’t be debunked makes you wonder! But adding to the story not cool! Unless you’re up front on the debunking part and what was added by you guys, or however, the story was told in the first place. Whatever this is meant to be just keep up the good work big fan that’s it.

Mark Gutierrez

Don’t outright lie, but embellishment for the sake of the story has always and will always be a part of storytelling, so I don’t think there’s anything wrong with stretching things a little further than maybe they were meant to be. I don’t necessarily consider that a lie in the realm of storytelling🦀🐱

Chris

I voted “no,” but would welcome creative narrative if it is specifically designated as such: “Campfire Tales,” or something in that vein.

Neva and Omar

being lied to helps build up critical thinking skills. it's a great way to keep an audiance listening to what you are saying just to be able to pull the bs flag

Sean Story

You are by FAR, the most reputable and honest channel in the conspiracy/myth zeitgeist. I wouldn't do anything that might harm that reputation or bring your integrity into question. Besides, you've got Hecklefish. I think that's your golden avenue for 'embellishment' so to speak. AJ is who I trust while watching. Hecklefish is the contrarian, the Devlis Advocate. He could say almost anything you want him to without it having a meaningful impact on the integrity of the episode. In fact I've come to expect Hecklefish to say wild bizarre things that are obviously not true....or are they? Lol.

Dustin King

I've never flocked. I do not flock. But the sentiment is correct.

Jacob Medina

Stick to source material. If you make stuff up just to debunk it, it seems a bit dishonest.

Greg Miller

I just want you to get well. And do more cryptid stuff lol. Quit stressing yourself. Just be AJ and we'll flock to you.

Coleman J. Rimer

Lying is a deliberate falsification with the intention to mislead. Fabricating characters to humanize the story isn't lying, even though it isn't "the truth". Some of your best material is the fisherman who hopes his knot holds in the face of a monster tsunami. The character is fiction, but the circumstances are rooted in fact. You're just telling a better story than giving stats about the destruction that is impending.

John Tressler

I like the current balance, but I would also love to hear AJ and crew make up fun stories. That just wouldn't feel like the Why Files to me.

T. Alexander

I wouldn't go any further than you already do in most cases. I don't mind minor embellishments and filling of gaps with assumptions. If you want to do stories that you'd have to flesh out more, that might be good as a separate series.

T. Alexander

Lie? Is a big part of your show about spinning out a good story? Otherwise it's like giving the punchline without telling the joke. Or watching a movie with only the titles and the end..... Batman versus the Drain Cleaner, stuff happens, Batman wins. Pretty dull. Not sure I'd give you my bugs bunny (rhyming slang/money) to see your movie or go to your comedy show based on that idea. If I want to listen to some tit simply blurting facts in a smarmy, yet somehow slimy, manner, I will search for Niel De Grasse Tyson. I must run, even mispeling his name makes me want to vomit.

Geejas

I’ve personally always loved the fact that you aren’t over embellishing on details. Keeping things rooted in “truth” is what makes your channel different. Perhaps, you can do a grab bag episode where you cover a couple different topics that may not have enough fodder to fill a full episode of its own but people have interest in.

Chill Wil

"All I want is just to hear the TRUTH. So, Why Files on repeat all through the night."

dean

You’re in the entertainment business, so feel free to fabricate your stories as long as they are rooted in truth.

Aurora Sunna

Sounds like perhaps those story holes can be smoothed over by suggesting, "Perhaps it's this. Or perhaps it's that, but whatever it was, blah, blah, blah, was the result." Then you aren't passing it off as a story point, that happened but suggesting possible ways the story would get passed the holes that exist (because it lacks credibility). Then you aren't adding something without acknowledging that the story is lacking specific details.

Vince In Houston

I guess it depends on what you are talking about specifically. I think there is a difference between telling the story in a way that makes the story better, maybe stretching the facts as told, but uses what is already there to an extent - even if someone else, somewhere along the way may have changed the facts. That to me isn't what I hear from you telling the stories you do. My perception has always been what you are doing is different than making up new elements whole cloth. That would basically be making a different version of a story. Perhaps you are referring to something different than that. Edit: When I say 'facts of the story' I don't mean they are necessarily the truth (or it wouldn't be debunkable) I mean the established points of the story, true or not.

Vince In Houston

Keep it real and integral we love the why files for the whole production

Gary Moore

Nothing wrong with a little ‘embellished’ to fill in the more ambiguous data. Those that believe will understand, history is full of massaging to maintain the flow of a story. No blatant BS, just enough to make it fun. I’m retired U.S. Navy and am no stranger to fill in the gaps to make a story fun. We all love a good ‘sea story’.

Drayton Calhoun

I wouldn't 'lie' but embellishment is part of good story telling. The honesty at the end and the debunking should be sufficient. I agree with Dean, put a disclaimer in stating there isn't more or clear information and this is how you feel it may have evolved. No 'lies' involved, just moving the storyline along and giving good entertainment.

Robyn Button

If they actually did the work, I would back off.

Joe Cichacki

If I were telling the story, I would not be adding to it. Especially in your case, having such a large audience…if this is the first time they’re hearing the story and you add false details, it could change their perception as let’s be honest not everybody makes it to the end of a video. Not us of course, we love all your content!

Dustin Hicks

Continue on your current method it is what sets you apart from all the others,they only repeat what is out there without any fact checking.

Mike

We dont need to add to disinformation. Leave that to people of like of richard doty

Chuck Criss

I’m a little torn. While I think it’s okay to create a story point where none exists as long as you point it out at the end I’m also thinking that if that’s all there is out there then that’s all it is and bridges for the story can exist in the “that’s all that’s mentioned along this line of the story”.

LigerFan

Is an urban legend evolving on its on not the changing of details from one telling to another

AkB

I belive the great story tellers can craft a tale in the correct sequence and wording that over-embellishment isn't really needed. I've also noticed a lot of new topics materialize from tid-bits from other episodes. Continue to do "side notes" and they could lead to greater stories and lore. Keep up the great work AJ and team. 🤘🦀🐱

John Davis III

A simple clear answer. Thanks dean!

Ben K.

I disagree. Theories are just science's "best guesses". Since almost every topic is almost impossible to find in truth and totality... most filler to ANY story already is embellished. If AJ and the crew need to fill in too make the alloted time work out. Then do be it. Do you blame them? Even patrons can be trolls and complain the show is too short or ect, if the embellishments are minor and don't add lore to anything, then why not? Especially if the story is made up in the first place? They always tell us what's real and false. So in kind, shut up and let em work!!!

Ryan Adams

"The story isn't clear at this point. But, we think it might have happened like this..."

dean

The natural evolution of a story gets embellished (lie?) . Because the audience naturally has questions about the story and it's characters. Audience members relate to and identify with the characters and want to know what would happen if this or that, so good story tellers may add to the story to broaden the scope as it were, so long as it does not take away from the original lesson/moral of the story. And then you hit them with the facts at the end we can all smile and shake our heads at the silliness of it all.

Stuart Peace

😭😂

Bee

I agree with this

Bee

NOOOO

Bee

Pleeeeease don't make crap up! We come to you for the truth, however disappointing. At least then we know. If a topic doesn't have enough to be a full episode, but is super popular, maybe a shortie that covers the lore and the debunk in 10 minutes? Maybe you could call them something like "truth bombs" or "urban legend reveals."

Autumn Spredemann

Keep it real!

Skeptical Believer

This channel is becoming quite the mess.

Joe Cichacki

Just have a mini episode after the main called if I wrote the story and tell your tweeky lie.

ChuckA

🎵…All I ever wanted was to just hear the truth …🎶

Chuck Criss

Agree with a little embellishment to make the story more compelling, but that's a slippery slope, so maybe some sort of disclaimer when you do it might appease those that feel "the whole truth and nothing but the truth" is the only right way of doing it. You've always been great about laying everything out in the follow up at the end, as it seems most are.

JC

I have an "however." When you make up a story as an "example," which you do really well, that I would like to still hear. Or when you embroider a story that your telling by adding little things like, "His wife was still asleep as..." That sort of thing just makes it more thrilling.

Kazren

I don't think you should lie, but if its done like the AI episode of the "future to come" its pretty obvious and that's just fine. Maybe have a Why Files bedtime story of something you've already covered with your twists on it, to try it on and see? I appreciate the small things that help tell the story but don't think a large spin on it could help.

Jon Conley

I would say with something like Tartaria, instead of trying to piece it all together, just present as many of the different theories on it. Then tell the viewer that on this one, they are just gonna have to look into it on their own to see what they believe.

Excited Molecule Divided

I voted for 'Lie a little and trutherize at the end' but with the caveat that Why Files never slips down the obvious slippery slope here :)

Kevin Gates

I say: acknowledge the lack of story before weaving one; like when you ask your viewers to immerse themselves in the experience when you create the, "picture this" scenarios.

Travis Garza

Just the facts, sir. Thank you 😊

MGP

Wow, this is a tough question! I generally come on here to hear stories about what other people already think or have at one time thought. And with the stories that get debunked at the end, I think it's pretty safe to say that as the stories are told over the years, each person telling it added their own little flavor to it - whether intentional or unintentionally....that's kinda how they came to exist in the first place. If I'm ever out in the world talking to other people who have heard such stories, I don't want to be like, "No!! She had red hair that smelled of fresh pine because she prepared an ancient cleaning product for the kings that also prevented tuberculosis!!!" If it's just something that was made up on why files for story telling purposes.... Since every word of mouth story has some of an individuals flavor - if you were to BS 5% of non material stuff, then...well...that's just how these things go. If you were going to create a more material part of the story on your own....maybe just preface it with "this next part of the story is a little unclear, but a variation of it that I personally enjoy is _______." Then of course debunk the story at the end as you suggested. Hard to fit that into an actual vote, but I'm choosing "don't lie"….......But this that got me thinking that if you had separate compilation of "breadcrumbs of truth that needed a story (so I made one up)"......I'd still listen to it...I'd still love it, and I wouldn't feel like I was getting an inaccurate understanding of things, because of the clear disclose about who made up the story.

Sheryl Jaje

I voted no however I really don’t have an issue with little added details so long as everything is revealed at the end. Just my personal take. That said though I’d really rather not see you potentially compromise your integrity and receive blowback from it. I’m also a cynic in a lot of ways. Regardless I love the content!!

Dallas Marrison

You are a great story teller. I really mean that. I would stay the same. However, a bend here and there won't hurt.

Don Stewart

You have often compared yourself to art bell! You are a story teller not one of the horrible journalist.... Tell the story! yes, keep the conclusion honest ... if you have to fill a few pot holes to smooth the journey then ok I watch every video you put out. I don't think you are reporting but you are telling a "damn good story" and in tis time of STUPID entertainment your vids are terific! I thank you!

Mike Koster

Let's just not. You tell stories really well, if the story meant you have to "embellish" it then I suppose it is not worth telling the story to begin with. Perhaps if it will come to it, I suppose you can make a compilation of these "almost true" stories.

Marcus Aurelius

We are lied to every day about most things anyway Go for broke I say.Hope ya feeling better and good luck with the next procedure.On a side note my 3 year old said yatzee this afternoon for the first time, we put a compilation on.He saw th WF logo and just blerted it out.Sounds silly I know but a proud moment all the same.

Wandag

If I had a channel, which I might one day, I’d be wary of adding anything just in case one day it does turn out to be true. I wouldn’t want all my contents’ quality to come into question. Adding texture for the sake of storytelling eg “in a moment of questioning whether fleeing was the right idea, lot turned his head to look back” versus “as lot looked back three giant UFOs appeared and blasted everyone to smithereens” is a big difference. I wouldn’t do the latter but I might add texture for storytelling in the former, whether it could be supported with evidence that he questioned his fleeing.

Nathan Camarillo

People are seeking truth now, I think. At least I am. Our education through the public system has pretty much lied to us already about mostly everything. I’m 67 and would enjoy some honesty.

Patricia Besseck

It's not lying. It's artistic license. Make it juicy get us excited. Glass of wine whilst I'm engrossed...heaven. better still believe! Don't debunk . Those episodes gv me hope!!

Janet Thomson

You are an amazing story teller with the facts you have. You make every story interesting. Please don’t lie to make them more entertaining. It will lose something.

Susan Kutner

Tartaria is a messy thing to be sure but it might be interesting to "demystify" some of the main points, like: Is it an area or the entire world? Why all the architectural similarities on a world scale? Why are most of the skies doctored in the old photos after the last reset (hiding remnants/clues)? Definitely a mega project. Too many more questions around the subject to list.

Auric

Voted to lie. But i do not think it is a right word. More like what if moments. Or shoud i say why if moments 😄 If the legend is this why not like this, kind of thing.. But doing a complete fun fiction is a wrong way too. It really is tough decision to make. Maybe it really depands on the subject. Sry for my english 😅

JerykoOo

I say no big additions, but a little story enhancing is cool and to be expected from any great storyteller.

Patrick Dunlap

Terrance - the lie as it is is what WF is about. It's what's circulated naturally. It shows the viewer the evidence - fake or otherwise, and the viewer is left to decide what they believe of it, and importantly what they believe of the debunking at the end. Misinformation is a thing, poisoning the apple tree, diluting the truth is too, so is subversion. These are all powerful weapons against the truth. WF gives us a chance to see what's out there by some great researching. Sure they don't go "On-site" to look for primary evidence... not yet anyway. But the do their cyber legwork well. If WF was to add its own layer of entertaining inventiveness, that takes away from the rumours, and real evidence circulating. It adds to the noise, making an almost impossible assessment just that little bit more so. I think ....well, we know now - that 70% of people want the "facts" and any debunking WF can find. They don't need an extra 20 minutes of irrelevant story adding. It's that connection to what COULD be real that brings people watching. You're sure that every story is fake and poor. A lot of us have a little scepticism due to conspiracy made facts - just like the bag of pigs, or MKUltra. Watching the WF....... we may be seeing another truth mostly hidden by disinformation. It's this that brings people back watching. The reality that we may be gaining a tiny peek behind the curtain of lies.

Sarah Cartwright

I feel we have been and are being lied to and fed disinformation for far too often as it is. I support your channel because you have the cahonies to examine these urban legends and ferret out the truths that may be hidden within their content. Don't lose your integrity just to add content. If it gets a little thin at time, like Linda Plant stated, just make a two part series.

Gail Peterson

Terrence Cain

If the story is nonsense, then what does it matter if you garnish it a little?!? It’s a bunch of malarkey after all. If the story may be true, then you can speculate based on what you have learned. It’s what ALL the urban legend experts do. A dry or flimsy story won’t move by word of mouth like a lively one.

Doesn’t Matter

We all want the truth and no more lies.

David Saul

Gather the evidence and tell the story, that's what we love and what you are awesome at. No need to lie or embellish anything. Don't ruin the integrity of what you do and muddy the product.

Mikey Jay

I feel like there is a difference between telling a story that you created and telling a story that you researched. The stories that you tell within the larger tale is yours to do with as you wish, but to add overall to already convoluted legends further hides any kernel of truth that may exist in research.

SheerAsshattery

If the story is a little boring, make it short and tell two stories on the same topic. As for Truth, let the chips fall where they may.

linda plant

Hmm I was going to say lie as long as you tell the truth at the end... but I see so many people take stories that you have made, like the story about AI taking over with the Roomba.. somone told that exact story and did not credit you or mention you or the why files at all. That is BS. I have seen people use parts of your clips also without saying where it was from. They need to get there own ideas or at least give you guys credit!.. but whatever you guys think will be fine I am sure. You guys are great.

Tom Martin

Can’t say im not guilty of requesting tartaria there are just no in depth videos that are produced well about it on YouTube

Elephant Dingleberries

Story telling is at the heart of humanity. The Klingons would tell you that no story is worth listening to if there wasn't some embellishment in it. I was severely chastised for making my young niece believe I had shown her a fairy house. Her mother was enraged saying that she would be made fun of at school. But I believe that the wonder I saw in her eyes as her imagination took flight would be worth any ribbing. The ribbing would toughen her up as well. If adults can't take the time to listen to the truth at the end then it's their fault. Of everything that there is on the web your channel is the most important. My very own research team to uncover the truth to a lifetime of stories. My father embellished stories and I never heard one complaint other than from mom. But she was just doing your job. Liven it up but I expect the truth at the end. Sincere thanks.

Ashdad

There's no reason to lie. If there's not enough meat to a story, just make the episode shorter.

Al Reynolds

Slippery slope. Could also further muddy the waters considering all those silly people that don't watch through to the end who are going to think even more stuff actually happened. 😄

RomeroCarpenterGaming

No need to add lies when the truth is always better!

Kathy Vowell

While I love hearing you tell stories, I feel that others might take clips of your material and push them as facts, and the doubters might use these against you

Erik Holmes

Don't lie because if we figure it out, it kills the rest of the video. In the recent timetravel one, I immediately knew they couldn't have paid with modern currency and it ruined it so much I never finished it.

Mercbenz

If you say it in the beginning, so every one can try to find out which part is added and which is "real"... it can be funny.

annonyme

Don't lie.. Remember truth is stranger than fiction!

karen Hillyer

I’m torn because I personally love retelling old stories with new twists and stuff, but I think the established purpose of the channel is to present and report on things that are already there in Urban Legend land, and that’s what people rely on you for. To add too much creative writing undermines the integrity of the body of work you’ve already done. If the channel were established as a place for creative storytelling, that would be different. Maybe you can do some videos that are stories “based on true or believed incidents.” Love what you do! Thank you and keep up the good work!!

Patrick Corrigan

No need to add to the mess 🥳 — rather safe that for a crazy 1st of April homemade episode about something 100% made up 🤓

Ingi Jensson

I love this idea. I already suggested, via the proper page, a compilation of infamously missing British people where there is indication of some kind of conspiracy. For example, the Royal Navy diver Buster Crabb (not to be confused with the American actor of the same name), Lord Lucan (did he do it, or did he not?), Richie Edwards (from Manic Street Preachers), Suzy Lampugh (the estate agent who went to meet Mr Kipper), etc. For one, they are fascinating stories, and secondly, not many of your American audience will know anything about them, so it'll be new information.

Susi Su

Lügen haben kurze Beine - Lies have short legs

Andi Fanti

I’m in between both. As long as you’re honest in the end and maybe reveal your spice to the mix

trickeh2k

In an after files you once mentioned grouping smaller stories together in some way. Do that instead of embellishments. Compilations of past episodes have been successful, no reason why a compilation of some smaller stories won't be - you can do the reveal at the end "Fact, or fiction?" style.

Rob Potts

They'd never evolve without someone adding to them but I prefer this channel kept a more strict 'journalistic' slant - I think it would undermine the credibility of your critical assessments to be part of the legend than just document it.

SoJennIsConfusion

Interesting conundrum, I understand why you have asked the questions of us. However, I don’t feel the need to exaggerate or add to the story by making up elements is entirely necessary. One thing we all respect you (AJ) and Why Files for is integrity. There is no reason to compromise that whilst creating your superb content! Best to play everything with a straight bat, old boy

Raj Narula Trombone

Quick suggestion for a topic: zombies!

Paul Jordan

“Tell the truth, or at least, don’t lie.” Jordan Peterson.

Paul Jordan

Hi AJ I agree with no lies we love your channel the way you tell the stories .

Judy and Dave

Here is a juicy story for you SHAG HARBOUR UFO EVENT. I lived in Nova Scotia at the time... we thought it was a Russian Invasion. Best documented UFO well USO incident probably ever,,, CHECK IT OUT.

Catherine White

If you lie, aren't you just debunking yourself?

Stuart Randall

Don't lie... never add fiction to fiction

Catherine White

Nothing good ever comes from lying 🤥 stay true 👍

Emberglow

No lie! I think keeping true to the lies and misinformation is good enough :)

CaspianByDefault

if a story isnt juicy enough by itself skip it or add it to a compilation. I realize most of the stuff we talk about has been made up by someone but i want to hear the myth, the urban legend as it exists now.

Rob Wissenburg

Never lie. You don’t need to. What would your dad say to you.

Andrew Ellis

Don't make up details! Love the channel, how it is! ( however "less is more" with Hecklefish, haha) I already sometimes feel a bit negatively about some episodes where you cover stories or details that seem like very obvious lies right from the get go, and then debunk them - that's not interesting to me. The mystery and wonder is what I enjoy about these tales!

Whiteness

Ändert sich denn damit etwas am bisherigen Format? ;) Grüße aus Deutschland

Katja Kubiak

Please don’t embellish. There are a plethora of interesting topics with pre existing claims / stories to cover. No need to make up your own. I honestly don’t understand why you would want to. Would t it take more time to create your own myths? I’d much rather see that energy go into researching the ones that already exist. I realize you wouldn’t be creating your own myths just to debunk. The Illuminati part 1 was one of my lesser favorite episodes. I still enjoyed it but certainly not as much as the others. I’ve been watching this small channel call “Metaphysical” which is a wonderfully complimentary to y’all’s channel. I found the moon is even weirder! 🤯Perhaps look through their channel? I’d love to see some of what they claim debunked ( I think a lot of it can’t be?). I Love all of what “WF?” does , I’m sure if you decide to embellish it will be tasteful. Still, I very much prefer the format you currently have. If ain’t broke, don’t fix it . ✌️

Michelle Arsenault

THE TRUTH IS OUT THERE

idoru gibson

We get enough lies from our polititions and entertainment passing as "news" channels. I discussed this with other fans when i started waching your channel a couple of years ago...we all loved the integrity of your content in a sea of misinformation. That is what keeps us coming back. We trust you. The team's research is incredible in this day and age. Please I trust your handling of content. Trust once broken is not easily regained. Don't become another mediocre story teller.

Carolyn Barnes

Don’t lie. Things have changed too much already. And not for the better.

এStarౄ

Nah - keep it as it is. There’s nothing wrong with having a story which has holes or inconsistencies if you point them out. Tartaria is a great example, it certainly is a mess, but a fun mess.

Craig Walker

No lying. It will cast a shadow over everything else.

Brendan Walshe

Some say lie, and others say "don't let the truth get in the way of a good story" but they are morally corrupt. Not trying to tell you what to do, just saying , let your conscience be your guide.

I SOFA KING META

Someone has to lie for them to evolve. I think it's fine as long as the debunk is at the end.

Nyoka the Jungle Girl

Don't add to or lie or anything like that. Keep it true, accurate & factual. Stick to what has worked, it's not broke so don't fix it.

Rawhide & MissKitty

If you’re going to debunk as you always do at the end, then adding to the incoherent ones so you can tell them and we can find out about them I feel is perfectly fine. You’re a great writer. You have awesome instincts. You’ll know if you’re going too far. So why not give it one try at least. Just a chance and see how the writing flows. It won’t take you long before you’ll know if it feels right or not. I know that’s how it works for me when I try a new twist or sub genre in my writing

Carol Green

Someone else suggested it already, but if lack of tangible material means an episode is shorter, I'd be totally ok with it! If a story ends up being total camp fire story a little sprucing up won't hurt a soul of course, but I vote to keep it to a minimum. Thanks, keep up the good work!

Lex Joseph

Hear hear!

Lex Joseph

Disclosure is the mark of respect.

Patrick Thomas

What brought me to this channel was indeed your integrity. Your extend research with whatever’s available for research with the types of content you’re showing. To be very honest: the content expressed in this channel was the very last kind of content I was looking for in terms of “podcast food for thought” I thought I wanted to listen to and yet, here I am Patreon member! Thanx to my baby brother 😎 But I wonder if I would have listened as closely and tried to do researches on my own about your topics if I would have thought some things in your episodes could be made up. YET … You’re a great storyteller, vey entertaining so I say maybe if you tell upfront in the beginning of the episode that you made some things up I think it would be not so bad… yet I don’t know if I would have gone and done reads and research on my own about those topics if I didn’t think at first you were credible let alone become a patreon member! - (but now i’ve seen episode 113 in your latest compilation so … yeah 😉!) - Of course by publishing a great “story” it could bring more people in the conversation, more followers, more people thinking instead of following the masses plus you seem to have a positive message overall, along with “the Force”, so why not? But personally I would prefer you didn’t although I would understand if you chose otherwise because I do see the potential if you approached it that way.

Annie M-M

I wouldn’t be opposed to even watching an occasional ‘mini myths’ episode of WF where you just tell us what you can find in these stories and let us fill in the blanks on our own. Sort of a ‘stories around the campfire’ format. Whatever you end up deciding, keep up the great work, and take care of yourselves. The content is always great, and I know people on YT complain about schedules, but it’s important that you’re taken care of too.

Mike Hays

I was actually thinking about this the other day. Last episode and the format was excellent; it was Classic Why Files. But there were a few before were there was a lot of “what ifs” and hypotheticals that I didn’t like. The Accidental Time Travelers was one. I was trying to figure out why and it became clear after the last episode Devils Den which I loved. The details were laid out as far as they were known; they were true to the lore. Even if they were debunked at the end. When you start to introduce hypotheticals it feels like filler, it dilutes the entire story. I thought the whole time story of each person was fluff with the extra hypotheticals that I couldn’t determine what was the lore. When the debunk came at the end, it was was so far removed away from the initial story we were told that the whole story became diluted. These may be two different issues but their affect is the same. I feel your brand and integrity that you’ve built would suffer if you started to em embellish more. We will continue to support you and watch either way. Hope you’re feeling better! ❤️

Christine Atanasio

It’s like when you’re watching a “true life” movie that is inspired by true events, or fictional aspects have been added in for a more dramatic effect. I think it’s fine to a degree. Maybe add a caption at the end?

Gladys Quintal

I think it's fine to add fiction to fiction. At the end it would be nice if you discussed the few embellishments you and HF added to the lore, so people researching the topic know what's established lore and what parts were added by WF.

InSyder

I agree with every comment I've read here, but to be honest, I have not watched your shows with the enthusiasm I once had. Something was lost for me when I saw your video in the back yard, telling us your opinion about Terrance Howard and at some point saying something like "I don't believe anything I talk about on WF except maybe the moon. The moon is weird." I really never saw you as a "debunker" before. Now I'm kinda waffling on my love for WF. And maybe, probably, I'm wrong. So I continue my patronage and wait to catch up with you, but it's difficult because I still believe in a lot of the things I thought you were serious about but turns out you were just laughing at. (Sorry, Hecklefish. You didn't do anything wrong.)

Robert Deatrick

The WFs is what smart folk watch to learn stuff. Not BS!

Jo S.

Definitely don't lie, overly, but I don't see a problem with using a little artistic license to spice up the tale, as long as the "what if?" scenarios you create are plausible! Regarding Tartaria, I'm torn! Some of the "evidence" seems plausible but, at the same time far-fetched! I honestly don't know quite what to think about it so I'm definitely interested in your perspective! After watching so many of your videos, I find myself in agreement with you in most cases. As a matter of fact, the only conclusion of yours that I disagree with (that I can think of) is regarding Sasquatch!

Christopher B

that's what made the show..truth aj and true believer hecklefish. Ying to yang....two hecklefish seems unbalanced.

Chuck Criss

Artistic license is your call AJ….. as long as the core is solid…. You probably aren’t going to add anything to it that hasn’t already been added by somebody else in a different location than where you find your information….. that’s why it’s always dependent upon where you get your information and data from….. if it helps you to get into the wonder and lore of the story…..as long as you clear it up at The end

Laura Love

Like @Billy Pugh said. Just mention what you changed or added during the debunk.

Cracken of the North

Tell the story.. once a myth or lore comes from a new mind or mouth, you have the right to tell it however you see fit. Your listeners will listen, believe me. Of course if you do add anything new, you could always mention that while doing the fact check/debunking. Your first fans will be your last. You were good enough in the beginning and you'll be good enough come the next episode. Can't express how happy this show makes me. Appreciate all the hard work from all of you.

Billy Pugh

Hope you're feeling better.

Lenny Torney

AJ, it is up to you to write and present in the manner that fits your storytelling. Only you know best as long as it is honest in the end.

Patrick McInturff

No reason to add to the stories. It reminds me when animal planet went full mermaid and lost all credibility. I'm here to learn the lore of the story and listen to the debunking. We don't get treated as true believers. I'm here because wf treats their audience as critical thinkers. I vote to keep heckelfish as true believer and AJ as a Truth teller. All things balanced. Or Maybe start a another new channel

Chuck Criss

AJ, I like and respect you a lot man. You're special. This channel is special. This channel is a reflection of you, your talent, and all of... Idk man... I just really find the way The Why Files does things unique and it just makes me feel a curiosity and level of engagement that I simply can't find anywhere else in any other form of media. My vote is don't lie because I don't want anything to take away from or tinge the special place I have in my heart for your channel. I am just one person with one vote. Just know that before the Why Files, I never sponsored anyone on Patreon. Now thanks to you, I support 9 creators. Thanks for everything.

Anonimity Smith

I think it should remain the original story but I saw someone post about hecklefish adding his own spin to it. Like he thought it happened this way instead and tells his version where he’s the narrator.

FrostyArt

Whatever changed the last couple of months has turned many people off.

Mailliw Remraf

I’m not a ‘believer’, but I absolutely love the lore, the legends and the stories. I appreciate the sense that, when they’re coming to me, they’re intact. A big part of what makes your channel so successful is that you’re a master storyteller. Flourishes and a little ‘coloring’ of existing canon are fine, but I feel like I might be ‘taken out of the story’ if I were always wondering, ‘is this part of the original legend, or something they’ve added?’ Just my own $.02. Thanks so much for asking and trusting us!

Mike Manthe

I voted the don’t lie option, but I am torn as well. Whatever you’re doing, it’s fantastic. Keep it up!✌️

Joe Mustonen

I formerly had a website covering folklore and weird stories in my state. Many folks added more info or alternate versions and I was happy to growing each of the stories with the visitor's guidance. But I didn't add anything on my own. I did edit some for vocabulary or to make the content kid friendly, but that's all. Had I made anything up, it wouldn't have been as authentic as I tried to make it.

Leaning on water

I voted NO. But, umm, if hecklefish is adding the new facts, all is fair game (as a joke). Then it seems fun and who gives an, an...thingy. Historyically, seems you were just reporting what you researched. Is that not true? :( Anyway. I say nay, unless you make it clear you are adding something. Otherwise, yeah, that is some bs. Thanks! Love you guys, Don't frinkin' LIE!

Tim Murphy

Lie = storytelling and storytelling = the whole purpose of the show. If you change the Hansel and Gretle so that it was a chocolate house instead of gingerbread, is it really a big deal? 🤔😁

Kevin

Hecklefish you need to get a photon measuring device and see if your humans are very enlightened and do they get darker when they lie about aliens.. So they question in search of the truth has to be can we measure a politicians photon output at a debate as a quick fact check???

Kenneth Parent

I think telling a story that’s completely bogus is fun. What you can do is bring up contradictions and issues and kind of.. try to make sense of it.. “this says abc and this says xyz but what i think they were both trying to get at is lmnop” that way you are adding to it, but not so on the nose with it. Having fun and being all loosey goosey sounds fun.

SalvSays

flip a quarter,

Deirdre a greene

And the recent episodes have been entertaining but please, be careful with doing too many episodes that are "tall tales". The best ones IMO are the ones with corroborates. Nevertheless, you guys know better, keep doing you and we'll keep watching and enjoying every episode

C-daddy312

Personally, my favorite episodes are the ones you can't fully debunk. I love that "probably not true.... But possibly🤔" kinda episode. Love you guys, please keep up the hard/great work. And just a PS about this post, I think it's really cool to ask your fans opinions on stuff like this. Very cool guys👍 thank you 🙏

C-daddy312

I see that the nays are carrying so far, but creative license is to be encouraged with some of these. Especially if you do so keeping in the vein of the story you’re telling. Like you said, you already do it a bit (little bits at the end of a chapter if I’m not mistaken?) so I say go for it. It’s an embellishment rather than a lie and you always give us truth in the wrap.

Zeb Francis

You are!

The Why Files

Thanks for asking. I feel like I am part of the team.

Melissa

I thought Hecklefish did that anyway!! Keep up the great work AJ and team.

Pocock III Edward

Yeah, don't lie. Tell the story. Enough lies on main stream Tartaria is mixed bag. depending on who you listen to.

David Torrez

I appreciate that you made yourself vulnerable and asked us! Thank you, AJ and team, for the great work and content you consistently do and provide!

David Parisi

Please do Bohemian Grove.

Rupert Pupkin

I love this channel because of the way its been being done. I know it's not up to just me but my choice would be not to change the way you have been doing it. I also really appreciate that you include all of us in these decisions that is so awesome. Thank you for such a great channel. 😃😄

Chadwick Devaux

Yeah don't lie man. I love this channel for its honesty

DontWorryAboutIt

Embellishments add to the mythos, and most of this stuff, right, wrong, or indifferent, swims in such. "Keeping the story straight" just stagnates thought, and turns the tale in its own way as well. At the end of the day, a person makes their mind up for themselves, every time. I don't see how a "lie" on a lie, is any different than truth, in "truth".

Slink

I just like the way you tell story so do it please

Luc Grenier

Could you weave some of these bits and pieces that could be embellished into something that could be posted some April Fool's Day?

Murrianna

Wow the pole is surprising

Dagger Hagger

Your show is perfect the way it is. It would ad a little flair sure, but the cost would be great. I honestly think that if you do it would come off as disingenuous since it is not the way you already perform. We buy into the stories as is and I myself am always thinking “oh crap this is legit and he is not going to debunk it cause it’s real!” Then you do lol. Live that. The way you tell the story now IS the way it’s being told all over so it’s just familiar enough for us all to validate it and think that there is nothing to debunk. I don’t know if you intentionally did that but either way it’s awesome!

Brad Evertsen

15 votes 258 comments? We're not acting like Producers

Jeff Alcorn

I say state the truth of the story at the end. If all can be verified then say so. If it there are parts that cannot be verified then state that. The story is all in the telling. Who, what, where, when and why are the building blocks. What shape the building takes is architectural. But tell us at the end what is fictional and nonfiction at the end.

Jim Sharrow

Isn’t the story created by folks and evolves through time? I say you all should evolve the story also. BTW even if you completely debunk a story there are always some who would reject your analysis and choose to believe anyhow. That is how Coast 2 Coast stays in business 🥳

Shawn Legrand

Your mistake was calling it lying. You are NOT lying! You are attempting to be entertaining, you’re filling in the gaps, you’re giving your audience the story they want to hear. These aren’t lies. You need to trust yourself more. Your intuition is excellent. You know the difference between right and wrong. We trust you, we know you don’t LIE to us, we know your only goal is to give us some interesting information, while doing your best to entertain us. We also know that when you’re finished that we will know exactly what you think and even how you feel. Again, TRUST YOURSELF MORE! Samuel Clemens loved the truth and hated lying more than anything. Mark Twain, however, said, “Don’t let the truth get in the way of good story.” You are a fantastic storyteller! That’s why I support you. Brad

Brad Fregger

I'm always bitterly disappointed when you debunk. BITTERLY DISAPPOINTED. I would prefer you only cover topics you can't completely debunk. I want to believe! Give me something to believe in!

Julie Hall

I like the show just the way it is presented. I dislike it when falsehoods keep being generated to later generations of people. How does that help us get any closer to the truth?

x x

They make Space Force coins? Cool!

Keith Haussel

Just as AJ said about NASA altering pics....if you tell one lie, we have to question everything. I hold this show in too high a regard to want to or have to start questioning the veracity of the WF, now.

Kevin McBride

Your show still has a lot of integrity because of the truth that underlines it. Once you lose the integrity you will never get it back. Please, lean the other way. Your stories still stand on their own even if you can debunk all of it. I still learn a lot from your stories. And I buy a lot of books to help me learn more. Know that we care. Thank you.

Bill Koch

If you lie, and people have a conversation about that topic, they may say "Well, AJ from the Why Files says so." You don't need that.

Keith Haussel

I'm surprised at the numbers. Everyone seems to love the show the way it is. I know I do.🥰 Maybe I read his post wrong but it seems to me AJ is asking us if he should change the way he tells a story. I like the way it is. To me it all evens out at the end when he debunks. The last new episode was excellent.

Joanie Yannotti

No need to lie. You are entertaining no matter what. And like someone said earlier I love the "But is it true" explanations.

Eddie Goodson

Ps the AI images are fun

Jessica Abbene

Please don't add to the BS pile. I love love love your 'but is it true' segments and I want to know what's being debunked. It may sound odd since you're an entertainment channel, but there is a kind of integrity in what you do.

Armando Mistral

I believe you could find a way to embellish lore without inserting a twist into the lore. Like what if's or imagine that's. You are a talented writer/storyteller/actor. You can use creative liberties to show a 360 view of a tale!

Jessica Abbene

Noooooo I’d rather we dig and find more reliable stories.

Bee

Thanks for asking our opinion!

Mark and Debbie Peyron

AJ, I sent you a Soace Force coin…thanks for the hecklefish coin! I think you should make a new genre of videos that are what if videos that look into the future. It’s not lying but you can be creative . For example the issue of declining birth rates driving the skewnwss toward an elderly population. What will that do? What is the trickle down effect. You can even use GenAI to help craft scenarios. These are real issues that people would be very concerned about. Use your imagination!

Jamie Johnson

When you say "stay honest at the end" you mean you'll share the bits of the story that you added in? I like that idea. It's original, bravely honest, and gets you a great story upfront.

Ell Leigh Clarke

Just that you'd ask for input says where your heart is for your congregation. Humbly I submit, have fun with it. You've got epic storytelling chops. Don't dial it back to preserve the integrity of a work of fiction.

Fr33Way

Half of what we think we see isn’t there and half of what is there we don’t see. Being a Story Teller, which is basically what you are, doesn’t make you a liar. Embellish the stories as you see fit; you always give us the truth at the end,

Kat Gamage

If you make shit up you are simply adding to all the crap the next researcher will have to sift thru. Grow up. Be honest.

Steven MG

Even if you don’t purposely lie, the lore evolves in tiny ways… because that’s how lore works. Have you ever listened to Dan Jones’ Bedtime Stories for Grownups? If you wanted to make up stories as a side hustle (lolz), you’d probably be really good at it. His stories get wild.

Kat TheCardboardKitty

thats a really Vexxing dilemma, part of me thinks "what ever" can't hurt to add to the fiction, hell that's how that whole thing started ... but then the other half thinks " well, thats how we got to where we are now with tartaria in the first place, people adding their own spin. adding to the fiction. but i tend to agree with most folks here, stick to the truth, tell their story,.. then break it all down and debunk it,

Odd Marcus

Is this the forum?

Greg R

Don't lie. The lore embellishes itself. If it's not ready, wait until you have a cohesive story. I think most of your true followers are here for the story but followed by "the truth". If you start adding to it, at which point do you stop in order to create your own stories? Seems like a slippery slope. Keep at what makes you amazing and unique, even i if it's not sustainable for a weekly release. We've followed for a while and we get excited for a new episode. No matter how long it takes. The only rules are what you impose on yourself.

Holly Miller

We want the TRUTH, not whatever sounds good.

Paul Rohrbaugh

Please don’t turn out like Ghost Adventures! They totally jumped the shark …: don’t see you doing that , but I think the poll says for itself :) - humbled at whatever you do though. I’ll watch you even if you jump that darn shark lol

J.D. Brandon

Don't do it AJ. I for one want truth. Let those dem*****s make things up. I want truth and transparency!!

Fluffy McTavish

I think I would vote no. AI is already pushing the reality limits for me. If that makes sense. Regardless, I'm still watching.

Shanon Freeman

Lie. I think adding to the game of telephone is adding to the lure of alot of myths and urban legends. If you ain't adding zest it ain't the best. Wink 😉

Anthony Zaro

I wouldn't mind an April fools episode about the crab cat, or a christmas episode for the kiddos that stretched things a bit, but in general no to embellishing the stories.

CJS

I love what-if stories, especially based on lore or history. Alt history is one of my favorite things to explore, and I think adding "other scenarios" to already established stories is perfectly fine. It's all about the story telling, after all.

Haugendaus

I think the stories speak for themselves without embellishment.

djmikekc

Remember that old George Costanza quote from Seinfeld..."Jerry, just remember...It's not a lie, if you believe it"...anway I hope this helps. :)

Louie

Take over episode to do the fictional stories! Yes.

Travis L Jamison

I vote no lie. Keep things factual. Telling the rumor or folklore as it's been passed down, right or wrong, is educational. Then you hit with the truth at the end. That's why I listen/watch your podcast. 💜

Debra Doolittle

We wouldn't have Hecklefish if he didn't.

John Knox

I voted not lie, but would be ok with making new things up if they were outlined at the end

Michael S

Reality for the news? Hmm... We must not get the same news channels.

John Knox

😒 Meh, guess we'll never hear the Tart story. If you did lie, I think it would only help to either quash the story or help it evolve.

John Knox

Its amazing that u ask everyone for this and I truly appreciate it! One more time you prove your true worth as a human and as a creator AJ. I personally believe in "point of view". A story is a story, sometimes the narrator colors and hihighlights different things and elements of a story. As long as you are in the fabric and essence of the story.

Niko Gkotsis

It's not a lie, especially when you debunk story "fillers" at the end.

Deena

I am happily gullible and excited during the early part of the show. If it turns out to be all made up I admit to being disappointed.

Robin Maxwell

How about a show with a few of these short and incoherent stories regardless of them being related. Kind of like a junk drawer of stories. Just don't add to them.

Azle Roth

I don't mind a bit of indulgence as long as what you've added is shown at the end. That way the legend can tell it in the original fashion or the way it is

Brad

Hey AJ never let the truth get in the way of a great yarn. Detonate words to live by

Gavin Evans

A good story, is a good story. I think a little more “Rod Serling” is needed in this dried-up-dog-droppings of mundane news, etc., that is shoved into our eyes and ears on a daily basis. You are doing a great job! Bring on the creative juices!

Craig William Dayton

i wanna see what you can do with story telling! Lie your asses off <3

KayBear

Love WF just the way it is. Please let the stories evolve.

Brimi's Mom

Good evening AJ, I really enjoy the question you pose here and here's my thoughts on it. I think it's ok to add details as long as the core of the story stays true because isn't that how story telling and stories evolved over the years? Someone always adds their own flair to the story when they tell it and the story constantly evolves as it moves from story teller to story teller. I believe it's not staying true to the customs of story telling if you don't add your own flair.

Tracy Muns

I would love to see more research done about the incas. Is Viracocha an alien? Was pachacuti light skinned snd had blue eyes? Were the nazca lines created by aliens? Were they the first crop circles? How about the obelisk at Chavin de Huantar?

Kenneth J

If you are absolutely debunking a topic in the end, embellishing shouldn’t be frowned upon, unless you are directly involving someone’s behavior or quotes…You don’t want to make someone or something out to be something they are not, but I don’t see the harm in crafting a better tale, and that’s just part of storytelling…till the end, when debunking, then it’s time to stick to the facts. At least that’s my take.

Jack Latta

I think the important thing is full disclosure. Either at the end or somehow a subtle signal that you only pick up by watching the second time through. All in all the disclosure will help maintain your honesty.

Patrick Thomas

Most mythology is truth and made up stuff! Reality is for the news! Go with what makes you feel good for the audience. Keep up the great work, pass on to all who work with you. Blessings!!

Jan McCartan

You are a storyteller by trade now. Then again can’t the same be said of Lawyers? Not really a joke but that in and of itself makes a point. You ply your craft as you learn on the job quite well if I may humbly note. You don’t claim to be anything you could be charged with in a court of law so good job? Your subject matter is at least suspect by its very nature. Keep up the nice fact checking and reporting and I believe you can be held by any witnesses as anything other but entertaining and informative. Professors should be held to such standards, lol. Thank you and I know behind every great man is an even more wonderful partner as you know!

Mark william lane

I wanted to stay that we loved the last compilation “ the stories that made me a believer”. In my opinion, it is your best compilation ever! And a joy to watch. Thank you!

Rambin Wreck

Some good questions to ask. ❤️Love the Why Files ❤️

Army Nation

A lie, in this context, is okay, especially if exposed during the debunking. The exposition reinforces the credibility of the narrator since they're the one doing the debunking.... Imo

Kree

You don’t have to lie to embellish or add flavor to the story. You can always preface additional details with phrases like “one might be inclined to believe…”, “it might seem that…”, and “and you might be wondering if…” but interjecting those lines of thinking doesn’t imply any of those thoughts are being spread already. It’s merely pointing out the logical ways that one might expect a myth to evolve. It’s my opinion that you can both spread the myth in its purest form and still spice it up a little without telling any lies beyond those already baked into the story.

Jace Fuse

Thank you for respecting the stories man. They may change from person to person, but that’s what makes a story unique. It’s our interpretation that gets passed down. In a show, there’s more of an audience and it wouldn't be as fun because everyone would know it as one thing that came out of one person's mind. I believe what makes a story fascinating is hearing how it evolves across different cultures and then seeing that progression in one single source like in the Why Files which I will watch forever.

Kenneth J

I tend to agree with Edmund here 😊👍

Shata

Please don't make stuff up.

Robert Bushman

AJ, you magnificent bastard, don’t you dare let them clip your creative wings! The beauty of The Why Files is that you dive headfirst into the madness with us, letting us float in the ether of 'what if' before bringing us back down to earth. That’s the magic—it's like a mix of sharp wit, no-nonsense attitude, and pure curiosity rolled into one. You give us the wild ride we crave, then wrap it up with the facts, and that’s why we’re hooked. So what if you sprinkle a little extra seasoning on the more convoluted stories? It’s not like you’re leading us down the garden path without a map. You always drop the truth bomb at the end, and that’s what keeps us coming back. Just don't let Moriarty spill the beans too early! No matter what, you’ve got a fan for life. Whatever direction you take, I’ll be getting my popcorn out every Thursday as long as The Why Files keeps bringing the hits! Stay awesome, AJ. P.S. Where do you get that loaded Nicotine Gum!? I can only find the 4 mg!

Raj Hudek

I say if the story is lacking to the point that you’d need to embellish too much, then the subject isn’t strong enough to be worth your time. You’ve got great standards that make the quality of the channel what it is - I’d hate to see you compromise that!

Tim Fernandes

On the other hand, I really do want to see a takeover episode with HeckleFish at the Helm, commanding his army of beavers and the lovely Gertie. And of course Crab Cat 🦀😼🍣🥷would have to make an appearance and maybe even a space panda cameo. 🤔 now that I think about it the cameo possibilities are endless. I think you and the team would have an absolute blast creating it as well…….. commencing chaos 😳😬🫨dun dun dun🤣😂

Adam Smalley

I sent in a great story about the 1950s evealotuon of anti gravity in the government and then all of a sudden never mentioned again. And the Original G6 looks almost like the TIC TOK. So a 1950s vehicle they said they where developing 89 years later is in the air. They also had a Triangle anti grav patpatent submitted in the 50s which I still think I was the 1st to see in 1991 as seen on Hanger 1 and Contact. I didn't seek out the shows and tell the fish thethere will never be a book. I want the truth before I'm dead. That's it. So get on it AJ. Kevin IE the Proffesor.

Kevin Via

Yes, I agree! Thanks for being kind! ❤️

Teresa

Now you've got me wondering. Does this mean that Hecklefish isn't real? I'm crushed!

J.M.

Is there a way to do the new episodes in question like the back rooms theory or the cyptid one? Similar topics messed together in one episode... Big truths and small lies is how our government operates. Keep TWF unprofessional, thats the only way to tell the truth imo. Best channel on youtube hands down!

Pat Jacks

I like when you give your take on something but adding directly to the story and presenting it as part of that story seems like a slippery slope. part of what sold me on your channel is you presenting urban legends as a story that you're just telling me about, then debunking it. if you're the guy making up the stories, that magic is gone. maybe film the parts you want to add then release the embellishments on patreon or something?

Brian

I love the way you do it know. That's what got me interested. Your a great story teller and always lay it out the way you see it at the end.

Mike Stoner

Instead of lying, there's tons of unverified sources on various forums that could provide the links you require. Just reference those threads as the source so it's not completely made up by you.

Mighty Cideys

Some say…There’s an old saying that dates back to the days of the Neanderthal’s “You car’t polish a turd and call it gold”. I find this to be true!! Hope you all remember “this is where ‘smart folks like us come to laugh and learn “!! Let’s find out why? Stay true. (As interestingly as posable ,,,hecklefish got to eat

Terry Lynch

Hey, tell me the urban legend, I’ll add, or “evolve” it, then you can use my version, and it’s not lying.

SusanWoodcarver

Honestly you’re content could not get any better I literally wait week by week for you’re episode to come out. working a hard job all day in a steel factory it’s the only content that truly takes me out of that work place for how ever long the video is make the day a bit more bearable thanks a ton it don’t matter don’t lie do lie you’re videos are great the way they are regardless do what ever makes you happy friend.

Aj Mustin

I agree with the previous comment I feel like if you start to embellish the story the eventual debunking at the end is almost redundant. Is it not?

Adam Smalley

In the immortal words of Indiana jones, making it up as I go, doesn’t work here. IMHO. 🤷‍♂️🤷‍♂️🤷‍♂️

Rob Daws

Wouldn't it be artistic license and not lying?

CJ Jones

I see this poll going in the direction of not making up stuff, but I and many others have come to enjoy the format where you give the story - whatever truth and myth is entwined together - and then separating the facts from fiction and the end. It's a good format that provides an enjoyable experience with knowledge

Jeff McDonald

Take in sources you don't normally, forum posts, thread it's, Art Bell transcripts etc

Nichole Parker

Look. We're all grown ups and can differentiate fact from fiction. But I get a break from reality for a brief moment in our chaotic lives. Hence, that's why I love your show. Go for it. Let us do our own homework.

Rudy

YOU are the storyteller deluxe, fascinating and quirky. Take us there and we know it is AJs enhancement of stories we may already know and love. Do what YOU want to do at your own schedule too. We will wait.

SallyB

Personally I don't think that the debunk that comes at the end would be a good enough justification for making up stuff. In some ways I think it would make the debunk kind of hollow if that makes sense. What other people have suggested instead seems a much better idea - i.e. a compilation of sorts for the more wacky nonsense that doesn't fit the usual format

Biggus Dickus

The fact your asking shows an insane amount of integrity and transparency. Thank you!

Matt Powell

In every situation I would prefer the truth.

Robyn Macedo

Tell all the facts, your a success! Don’t change anything, you’re doing great we love the truth and honesty!

Debo

Maybe If there was a disclaimer beforehand that some details may be fictional to make the story more complete, and then reveal the truth in the end.. maybe that would work?

Heather McCrary

I love what you all are doing with each and every episode. Embellish the story to make the story cohesive, and if needed explain that in the wrap up/debunking. Best show ever!

David Martinez

You often, very often, talk about the importance of truth and of the integrity of your channel so my vote is stick to the story. Whether you clarify or not at the end is beside the point, and maybe not all viewers watch to the end (though not us loyal Filers of the Why).

Joan Robinson

I would think of it more like having your own take of Jack and the Beanstalk versus lying. Part of what this channel does well is giving people a reason to set down the conspiracy without having to feel dumb you bought into the story in the first place. Why? Because good stories spread, whether they are true or not.

Chelsea G

One thing I hate more and more, is when a movie “claims” to be a true story or based on real life events etc. and then when you research the actual story, you find out only 10% was even remotely factual and the rest was made up. To me, that’s lying to the viewers and it’s wrong. Either way, I’ll ALWAYS watch your show, whether it’s totally fake (and we’re told that up front) or a mostly true rendition that turns out to be fake. Just don’t lie.

Brian Harder

Oh one last thing, the government lies enough as it is, so, I dunno 😞 l want the truth, you can't handle the truth 👿.

Karl poff

Tartaria is a cover story for something else

Knowone

Go with the truth whenever and wherever possible. We can handle it.

Rebecca Metzger

Just the facts, ma'am

Jim Hoffman

Couldn't decide on the vote, like what you do and the way you do it, more than once you had me believing only to pull the curtain back and I'm like well AJ got me again dagnabit. So creative license is great. I guess the devil is in the detail's.

Karl poff

Sometimes filling in the gaps is necessary, but overall I would prefer to know the already existing lore. Though, if you’re debunking it at the end and noting which parts were embellished - I’m happy with that! ✨Side Note✨ I would love to see some of these “incomplete” stories made into a compilation. Maybe a “fill in the blanks” episode? 🤔

Emily Armstrong

"The truth is out there", not "The truth is subject to creative license".

Wutend

I say, let the legend evolve on its own, but if you do embellish, clear that up in the end. They are stories after all.

Thomas Stauber

For those saying all facts... you can't say facts that aren't true...

David Bentley

I’ll be a bit concerned if Hecklefish is the only one I can trust

Deepwater

Don't lie please

marsavul

Most of this IS fiction, I understand the point you are trying to make though. Cheers!

Dane Busick

All facts please. Then prove or debunk.

Anne Herron

The legend only grows if SOMEBODY lies somewhere along the line. No?

Cindy Lambrecht

Well, if TWF add to the story, it does evolve on its own. How does it evolve otherwise? People add different aspects.

Kiki

David Daniel 6:54 PM (1 minute ago) to The I don't know how to respond in the given format. It depends on how you envision your role in the developing lore. Are you an outsider or insider? Are you an objective reporter or a participant in the phenomenon? Really, the Paranormal is not generally about objectivity. It is about people telling what happened to them. Maybe if you add something into the story you should reveal that in the debunk. If you'd feel wrong somehow owning up to the addition, maybe you shouldn't do it. The Why Files is, as you say, about telling stories. A good story gets better with successive tellings. Does it get more accurate? Is that the point? It's storytelling. I guess it depends whether you consider you are telling fiction or non-fiction stories. And maybe that changes from story to story. But I know that many times, I have become more fully informed about the stories you tell by listening to your versions. There have been many times I came away from an episode feeling like "now I know the WHOLE story". So maybe you don't want to add to it without disclosing. Actually, you could probably make the front part of the show much better by adding some creative flourishes. And the second part becomes more of a rollercoaster if you say - "And that really weird part right there - nah, I just made that up". It's your show, AJ. It's your creation. Make it what you want. Evolution is interesting to watch. In the end, I'm voting for lie.

Davey_D

I love that you debunk and filling in holes in stories is icing. So far, the stories have been almost methodical in keeping bs out. Do what you will, oh glorious nerd lord, you continue to amaze. How about you and Hecklefish do a buddy bit. You are always frustrated, show why you are friends and then why he’s a tool.

Emyz

You telling the story is a natural evolution of the urban legend, so you're allowed to add your own sauce to it as the story teller. If I was telling the story at a campfire i.e. I would add to the story to make it fit with the ambiance as the story teller. Imo.

Spacepirate13

Most of the topics you present have already evolved over years of retelling. You have commented on this many times yourself. It just doesn't seem necessary when there is already so much fiction to wade through, and can actually take away from something that is already fun to begin with. Just my two and half cents...inflation, ya know. Peace!

Pete Mitchell

Isn't that taking poetic license? When you change a little bit here or there, not altering the story, or the outcome just a little creative license?

Karl poff

I think you should do it for an April Fools Day episode and lie….then say it was an April Fool joke! Best of both worlds?

Christine Glinski

Thinkin' don't lie.

Greg R

My thoughts exactly, or do an anthology

Teresa

Good luck whatever you decide. I think the problem is, I'd hate to see a story that I enjoyed whether fact or fiction, only to find that you made up the best parts. If I wanted fiction, I'd get it elsewhere, from channels that I can roll my eyes at. I don't want this channel to become one of those

Teresa

Thanks for the vote, but I have really no comment, I wouldn't be here listening to your shows if they didn't interest me. I say keep up with your story telling as is, don't change anything. However, at the end when you blow out the candle of mystery & wonder, kinda puts a damper on the story, so I'm on the fence about that. All and all, it's just another brrick in the wall!

John Seychel

How about an episode that we all know is BS but you take it, and try to convince us that its real? Like how Sid and Marty Krofft were both sailors in Operation Highjump, and the experience inspired them to create The Land of The Lost

jay

I say… for the smaller ones or the ones without enough to make the content for to make up an episode, but that would be really good, go for it make up some filler. But the higher tier ones try to stay away from it. I mean most of those you probably wouldn’t need to anyway. But I mean. Isn’t urban legend (especially when there’s enough evidence to heavily debunk) just a made up story from someone, told many times and details added or missed and changed?

Joshua Edgington

There are plenty of 'entertainment' channels out there. Please don't over embellish.

Margo Monroe

By the way, New York boy like yourself and live the show.

Rob Albergo

In the end this is storytelling. Adding to the story to help move the narrative along is fine as long as you’re honest about it. You are a storyteller telling us stories around a digital fire. To be honest though I like to leave decisions like this up to the storyteller themselves. Do what you feel is the best thing to do.

Walter Tinsley

I noticed that the second choice was that urban myths should evolved on their own. You can't have evolution without change and for a myth to evolve it therefore must change.

Rob Albergo

If there's not enough story material just do a short, we love those too.

Helle

We already have enough “fake” everything. You do what you do best. It’s a formula that keeps your brand interesting and enjoyable without the extra BS we get everywhere else. Follow your gut on this one. We love you. 😉

Spirit fox

How bout we split it, call one series of videos “Campfire Tales” and add in whatever details you want. Call everything else as you normally do, so that we can stay informed on real stories that get debunked or leave us wondering who is really in charge.

Max Garner

This is how an urban legend evolves.

Pyrite Sun

I’m okay with a little narrative adjusting. You guys already make up some stories for topics that don’t have a story attached to them yet. Like the AI story or the one with the gene editing.

Matthew Lynn

First of all- don’t call it a LIE. Since the beginning of time storytellers have added “color” to the story… it’s what makes it your own. The Why Files is not the news- it’s entertainment. Spin it baby!!!

jennifer thompson

Why not add to the lore?

Logan

It's interesting and see both sides, points well made here. The formula works great as it is, but if you feel that itch creatively then should go for it. However, I get the feeling it's possibly more finding a way to sate the calls for stuff like tartaria and draw a line under it, à la cryptids/Bigfoot? My personal preference would be more Unredacted episodes over tartaria/cryptids etc

Leslie Hibbert

I enjoy the lead in story and enjoy the "big reveal" as much. It's entertainment. On your most recent compilation, your reveal shows us that your a skeptic, yet open minded. Healthy mindset, I think!

Toni G

For those nonsense stories; why not add to them. Be a part of the silliness and see how it evolves. You are always honest at the end and simply entertaining.

Chad George

Truth is superior

Russ Nedyals

And sunglass stores lol!

Wildmoon

Urban myths are what they are simply because they grow and develop along the way. Each time someone tells it they will add a little something or leave something out. I've heard the same myth told by different people and each was a little different then the other's. Just tell your viewers that you sightly embellished this story and I beleave all will be fine with it. You're a story teller and story tellers add their own spin to it.

Rob Albergo

I like your current approach. Explore the myths and legends but debunk when you’ve got that info. It’s fun to try to figure out what is real and what will be debunked. That’s what puts the WHY in ‘the why files’.

Nadine Meeker

I'm always going to go with the "truth" of the legend...but I'm willing to bet you can find just about anything within the stories of said legend. I'm black and white on truth, so I don't know if I'm exactly a fair vote. This is more of a gut check for me. Another option may be that you put a disclaimer at the beginning? Or end? And yet ... who really knows what you've embellished? 🤷‍♀️

Amy_OnlyForHecklefish

Keep things as they are :)

Kristina Michelle

I think it would be interesting to add to the lore and then show us how its evolved. It helps us to see the sausage being made, and it's fun!

Greta Koehn

I'd say the current formula is still AMAZING! I understand both sides. If filling in gaps makes some harder legends to tell easier, go for it. The show is always a must listen and the truth is always laid out at the end.

Travis Scanlan

Glad you asked. Just tell the stories. No extra weaving imo.

Vincent Marziale

I totally agree.

BushkaBlue

That's because mattresses are so overly expensive, a store only needs to sell one per year in order to stay open.

Chase Schleich

Seems like you've developed the "perfect blend" of information. Why mess with success!! :-)

Rick Flynn

I think I’ve had enough of made up stories. In a time in which everyone feels like they’ve been lied to by the gov, our legacy news media outlets, corporations, the entertainment industry, & your channel stands out. Please don’t change that. It’s why I watch🫶 It does so bc you start out telling all the well known lore on a subject. When you’re finished, I’ll bet most people believe it. Then you start using facts to separate out fact from fiction, & you explain how. Quite a lot of people frequently do not seem to know how to tell fact from fiction. I’m an XGen too. Bit older than you & Jen, but whether you realize it or not, you’re helping people learn to think more critically, an area in which our public school system has completely dropped the ball. Please don’t muddy the waters with lies, or completely unverifiable stories. We have too much of that now.

D.Shepherd

Loads of stories have many, many differing accounts and different details and I know you're not talking about stories related to 3 letter agencies etc. Go for it. We all know some of the more lighthearted stories will definitely benefit. There is a difference between weaving a good story and lying. We all realise that time machine you used to observe Neanderthals, and visit the younger dryas is probably costly to run. 🤔

BushkaBlue

I'd rather you not even cover a story that's complete nonsense.

Chase Schleich

If you lie ( or perhaps fib migh be a less harsh word) to enhance the story, surely the conclusion that, let's face it, your channel if famed for runs the risk of being discredited if the story becomes unbelievable the nothing you say at the end will be, in other words you open yourself up to people saying you edited the story to fit your conclusion, this is just my opinion and like the show anyway, you and your team do an excellent job I'd like to know what you decide to do and the reason why but I also understand why you wouldn't reveal what you decide. Keep producing a brilliant show well done all.

Ian Dodds

You are a great story teller and you make us believe EVERY WORD is true even if its not! You are that good. So go ahead and embellish it! As long as its fun and you like it. We will like it. 😊👍😊

Betsy

Don't ask, don't tell. Decide for yourself if it fits, AJ!

Caramia

You can embellish if you let people know you're slipping into entertainment mode. I do that all the time. :)

PICKETT

Thanks for asking! Very cool way to operate the channel

Erick Jefferies

Be creative and live your passion❤️

Jim Jim

I appreciate the way you have been doing it so far i. e. mixing the truth with the legend, especially that, at the end, you tell the truth as you know. If I can chose, I prefer that you don't lie. But whichever way you want, I love your program and I am learning a lot from you. Thank you A. J.

Edgard Abd

Story tellers have always changed the stories They shape them according to the audience and they make them more fantastical the longer a story is told over and over it becomes a living thing and never so close to the original when it meets its end

Dr Liz Windham

I'd love to see you make a video of a crazy BS conspiracies on mattress stores. Nobody ever shops there, and they are everywhere! With more popping up!

jay

Im not lying, when I say WeLoveVic!

Bill Alexander

I think some AV indicator of when you've entered lie territory would be best honestly, that way I'm not left doing my own research to find where the embellishment started this time around

Matthew

If the stories are small, maybe they can become part of a new WF series where you talk of different stories. Tartaria, the maps of Piris Reis, Atlantis all can relate to a specific subject like the search for the unknown or something.

Willdesigns

The msm lies about everything. Do you really want to be like them? I'm sure Hollywood loving sheeple won’t mind, but I'm not like them. 👺

Ruby Corundum

If you're going to make one up, you might as well make it up 100% amd tell an original story. That's how you make your mark. More work but more reward. Sort of like Beyond Belief.

Joseph Tavano

Im torn… i feel like some people might not finish videos to the debunk and grasp on to the lie… it could be their proof you know more than other youtubers…i guess it could also be a way to catch copycat channels 🤔 Dang i might have to vote for lie 🤣 I really dont think it should matter, as long as the story is fun and interesting and makes for hecklejokes…. You talk to a fish 😁

MaryJaneMcWeed

I’m holding him to it! He says he wants to do more. The animals one and numbers one are both severely under-appreciated for instance

Lee and Julia

Art Bell would let the other parties sort of bend realities and the truth but he tended to stay within the lines while also telling stories in the middle of the night - it kept his credibility in between the lines. That’s where a second mic would help - non animal second mic perhaps perhaps not. My entire family cares more about what Hecklefish says than the content sometimes…

Ryan Kabacinski

Add to it, I’m here because you are a wonderful storyteller. The majority of the myths or legends have been altered in some way or another. I say have at it!

Mindy Bates

Dear AJ and Team, We are bombarded with bs everyday, I have come to rely on the Why Files for truth and clarity on topics others are obfuscating, while maintaining a healthy skepticism. Your debunks are often the best around while remaining compassionate and concise. I fear embellishments would undermine previous episodes when you have brought light to very dark agendas and operations. If you feel deeply I would state it loud and clear prior in the opening credits, but it is still a risk where people have come to trust you. Take it from me, that trust is sacred and in a world of confusion I feel must be protected at all costs. Once lost it is nearly impossible to get back. My humble $0.64 (inflation adjusted)

Denver Haslam

Lie to fill in the tiny details is fine. Nobody watching your vids thinks everything is 100% TRUTH. Shit, even the HISTORY channel makes shit up from time to time. Go ahead. Carry on wayward son...

JIM CASTRO

I’m actually surprised how many want to add to the lie! That’s no fun! Let the rubbish be its own story, and you can carry it as the garbage man serving Lord Hecklefish to keep his bowl clean

Lee and Julia

Love your work! I understand that there is a limit to fresh material that meets the WF high standards. So being scrupulously accurate in the details to a story which is incomplete or otherwise not ready to be produced must be very difficult and limits the number of stories available to become an episode. That said it is the only way to proceed that maintains the credibility and bond you have with your audience. Whiel acknowledging that it makes life difficult for the creatives at WF it is the only long term way to go. Thanks for all you guys do to make such a fantastic program!

Tim

You're telling a story in your own way as it is. It's not like someone is going to go "Hey thats not what color the loch ness monster is"... I hope.

Johnnie Snider

If you intend to reveal the truth at the end of the story and you really do, your not lying to us. I'd always prefer to keep it real, but a good story is fun, fiction or not.

Elliott Sears

I was torn. If everyone is prepared that the stories are embellished and the truth comes out in the end, will people only remember what was juiciest? Then it's just a bigger lie. The Gvt does that to us excessively. I feel I would try stay on a straighter path. It means more work but more respect it sets you apart from the rest of the Media BS we are subjected to. IE: social media mogul & their perfect lifestyles.

S.A.Shaw

No-one Absolutely no-one wishes to be lied to. With so many amazing stories on this planet why not just tell these & enrich an emerging generation with the wonder of true life?

Kate Gibson

It’s all fun and games till some one loses an eye, or a fin. Have fun with whatever you want as long as the end gives us the “facts” I’m good with it all.

Tammie Harper~Wilson ❤️

Dont add to the lie.

Brett Lowder

I wonder if those smaller, less fleshed out stories would lend well to a different format. Something that is shorter form, conversational style. Could give a stream of content that is less demanding from the production side and can be put out in the weeks between larger episodes that take more time. Everyone on the team has great personality and the hang outs are very entertaining. Could be a new interesting format to supplement the core videos.

Mike Stiles

Is it jst mean or does anybody else read twf posts and hear aj voice in thier head as he was reading it to u lol

Christopher Hutchison

If the story is nonsense, I have no issues with some creative writing. If the subject is more grounded in truth. I have no issues in creating a fictional character to help connect the dots.

Bad-Haggis

I say as long as you call out at the end the parts that you added, go for it!

Cole Mullinax

I love the anxiety than the reveal of what is real and what is not. Change nothing, it’s a good formula.

Christopher Gilbert

Lying is about intent. Are you trying to deceive someone? Storytelling is not lying, if you are not trying to deceive the listener. I say make the story as entertaining as possible. Adding little things is how myths and legends grow.

Ryan Stevens

You are first and foremost a storyteller, if you want to take some artistic liberty with a story that you will tell the truth of in the end, I say go for it, embellish away for the sake of the story.

Christina L

As long as you do what you've been doing, which is clearing the air and exposing the truth at the end, what should adding to the story hurt? Especially if you aren't taking away from the established lore? Also, one of my all time favorite episodes is "Humans vs Superhumans", and the best part for me was the story about the village being raided by the Neanderthal. I'm pretty sure that didn't happen. I understand that may be splitting hairs a bit, but I feel the message of the potential parallel is clear. The embellishments add to the overall story, and if it's what you've been doing all along, that is what people want, even if they don't or can't admit it. Thanks again for all the work you guys!! Feel better AJ!! 👍👍👍✌️✌️✌️👊👊

Brian Crowder

Where is the option for this is contextual lol. I'm not against adding to a story if it adds something to it doesn't just make it long. If the story is short and b/s just give us 2 that week or just do a video where your up front and make a compilation of story's that aren't true but popular.

Ben and Lara Fonner

I feel like you report "the story so far" and it's fun at parties to know the story. If you add or contribute it feels more like just another thing I saw on the internet :)

HUDSON VINTAGE

It’s embellishing the story like somebody said earlier, like the farmer or the fisherman story on the one end of the world episode, same thing!

Killik

Honestly AJ, Heckle Fish; do what makes you the happiest. It’s never steered us wrong thus far! 🫶🏼🫵🏼

Dallas Campos

Honestly? I'd love to see some more of the science videos!! You only have the one, I believe?

Amy Marmon

Keep doing what you're doing. Tell the story....then fill in the blanks. You do what you do extremely well. Entertain and inform.

Ray Airship

What about covering the 5d

Amber Mahoney

Perfectly fine with "lieing" as long as it's revealed at the end. As you said, you are telling a story, and part of that is egging the viewer along as if everything you say initially is real, it's like an unvarnished telling from someone who hasn't looked for any critigues. We go on a ride with you and get our hopes up (or down as it may be), only to get a more clear picture in the end of what really happened or the holes in the alleged truth. So we already kind of know that the initial part of the video is kind of meant as part fantasy and it allows us to suspend our disbelief until the end when we get to hear the real deal. So as long as you mention that you threw something in yourself, I think it's totally fair. You are being up front with us, even if that is at the end. You've never provided critiques of every claim right after the claim.

Levi Wallach

For real tell us stories. I can only imagine yours would be the best anyway!

ZukMe

Lie! Adding a little here and there hurts nothing! It adds a little for excitement! We'll still get the truth in the end

Antonio Spearson

Man.... what a tough question. I think the most important aspect is the truth or as close as is possible/provable to it at the end (love an undebunkable though). I guess litterally EVERY story pertaining to the Why Files has already had elements added to it so go ahead, call it poetic licence. So long as the facts are laid out at the end then no harm no foul. Hope you're feeling better AJ ❤️

Scott 'Spooky' Madison

So.... One "tiny" lie leads to forgetting the story you're trying to tell. Preface the lie with something. Like, "we'd love if "this" happened" or "what if "this" happened?" Telling people you're goofing is better than lying as a practice. Even if it's a bulls... story, you'd be responsible for "facts" about it (which they will eventually be for some people). I think anyway. And that's all it is, is a thought.

Andrew Zeise

Once you start adding the lies, you lose credibility. Report the urban myth, investigate, debate, debunk. You're doing great, no need to add anything at all.

Blackadder

At first I thought don't lie but that's sort of how these urban legends start anyway. So if it's something that's going to get completely debunked at the end I definitely don't see a problem adding to it.

Bigteez420

At the core it is entertainment. It just requires passion. It’s your channel, just keep doing what you do and enjoy it. Don’t put yourself in a box.

Joni payne

Truth above all else. Weather it's at the end of the show or in small doses along the way throughout the show you should just stay honest

Justin Ford

I do feel happy that it looks like a majority are saying to not purposefully embellish. I get where that comes from and how innocent it can be but I enjoy how the show is now. I think there's very little that can be fully debunked.

Jennifer Collado

AJ, my opinion is to do what your heart tells you to do about a story…. you’re always fantastic at it!!!! We’ve watched every one of your episodes at least 3 times! But remember, if you add something that the trolls notice, you might get called out on it. Is that worth the risk? Only you can answer that. 😉🤗

Heidi Pfaff

Not your style unless you want to create a branch segment

Edward Barnes

Keep it real, AJ... Keep it real! 👍

JD

I vote for additional embellishment. There are some stories so lacking in context that filing in the gaps makes it all work. The AI apocalypse story is one of my favorites for how fantastic the storytelling gets as is progresses. Sometimes that little bit of spice brings the whole dish together!

shane gates

First I thought lie, since you debunk it anyway, but TWF searches for the truth. Even if the story end up dull

MedusaDzire

I think it depends on how it’s done. In my opinion, it’s ok to embellish some details to fluff the story up. I’d personally prefer stories that were based on truth though, or what people have perceived as the truth. An occasional fiction based story could be fun once and awhile.

JimmyJames

You always say that you just “want to know the truth”….. not that you are going to tell the truth😂…. Why not, on this one occasion, have some fun and “embellish” it to within an inch of its life…….

Nick

This is exactly how urban legends evolve over time. Do it, but don't over do it.

Ryder

The reason I chose to support the Why files is because they stuck with the original story. Too many videos on YouTube are full of lies and I feel deceived and that I wasted my time. I prefer to learn the story and then the truth. That’s what makes it interesting to me.

Kati

Embellish in the name of fiction!

Daryl Willsey

No lies. Be creative with the telling, but stay close to the available research. Lying would cheapen the channel and if someone only watches/listens to half an episode, they wouldn’t know of the admission of fabulation…and that wouldn’t be fair to them.

Brian Stanko

In the entertainment industry, you already know that we don't call it, "lying." We call it "creative license". It doesn't hurt if it helps move the story along.

Peter Christian

Isn't this exactly how urban legends evolve?? Like playing a game of telephone....

Sabine Jensen

AJ honestly all that's important is the delivery. I love a good conspiracy I can buy in to (cough cough... Rockefellers) but I also love a good garbage story. You've been involved in this so long you do a great job Also give Tartaria a shot lol

Joshua Folkers

Contribute to the legend! If you know it’s all hokum then add your own spin to the legend… I mean you could even do a disclaimer at the start like you’ve done with your more intense episodes. Something like - “The story you are about to see is the amalgam of tales, spins and here-say, so we added a touch of our own. Remember, I’m just a guy who talks to a fish. I’m here to entertain.” :). Love your work everyone and thank you for including us in this discussion!

Drew Lane

Our society has too much lying. Don't contribute to it.

Brad Mears

I would say fill in with your beliefs and thoughts based on how you see the evidence and story. I'm here to both learn and have a good time. If I just wanted facts- I could go (and I do go) conduct research on my own. It's also better to have see your vision of the story as it may be different than others are thinking of it and can provoke new thoughts on the subject

Jeff McDonald

Or could you combine a couple into an episode and call it listener tales or something to the effect?

BRIAN Balducci

BTW you already do that anyway but presenting the facts can end up being very enlightening.

William Kennison

People telling and retelling stories is exactly how urban legends grow and stay modern over the years. You filling in the gaps to create a more cohesive story is doing just that. Nothing wrong with that.

Matthew Wells

Just keep on trucking like you have from the beginning, AJ! 👍 Don't change a thing🙌

JD

Sorry. Had to say don’t lie. In truth I like the urban myths as they are, which you do a great job debunking as needed. For me, if the lying is ok, where does it end. Are all the episodes going to be made up. Of course, urban legends may be made up but that’s the thing, we don’t know if they are or not. That’s the mystery that is so intriguing.

Skinny Piglet

Small Lies are fine to fill plot holes. No bigee.

Damon Hill

Maybe you could do something with medical dentistry? Myths and legends hit home when you find out weird stuff is closer than we think (Mel's hole is just north 20 or 30 miles from me, that blows my mind). Heal fast, be well.

Darryl Carnell

You’re adding to the urban legend too.

talk is poison

In essence, making up details also counts as an urban legend evolving organically. It's just to a larger audience than someone telling their friends.

Trinity Shew

Always lie... Just like the politicians! 🤣

Ginger Jay

When dealing with the type of shit we are dealing with facts are just important as the lore. Add as much lore as you want AJ. We watch because we like what YOU do. Don’t worry about people pleasing, if you build it we will come. If you want to listen to feedback and adjust course of the ship according then that’s all you. So do you and if you get bad feedback then decide on what to do next. Don’t police the possible.

Onion.txo

Stick to the truth, but you can embellish a little bit. It makes it a little more enticing.

Steve Wilcox

Keep it honest, that’s what I love about the channel, you tell the story as it is out in the wild and then debunk what you can and leave the rest to us. Don’t ever change that.

Gregory Jones

If the story is based on truth but has been embellished over time. Present the story. But at the end separate facts from fiction and build on that.

William Kennison

I’ll get on that ride, as long as we’re told at the end. It’s all in good fun. Hope one day there’s a story with no debunking at the end of the video.

Sonia Flores

To me, it’s more interesting to have the original story. As for true stories, you never have to make anything up, because “truth is stranger than fiction”. Urban legends are usually added to over the years organically. Just my take on it, love what you do!

Michelle R. Miller

I vote no lies

Misti Moonshine

Lores do evolve over time, so why not be one of the ones that help perpetrate that?🤔

Lisa Holtzclaw

Don’t make stuff up. It would completely change the show. If I wanted to watch fiction I would.

RP

True or not it's pretty much story telling hours for all ages. As long as the ending covers fiction or not it's the best hour we can spend together.

Joshua Hanst

Appreciate the ask and considering us! You da best, AJ! Hope you’re feeling better! We need another update…nothing fancy just you chatting it up! ❤️

Tony Doyle

If I know it's purely for entertainment, go ahead and lie.

Alyx

Adding to the urban legend to connect the dots and revealing the truths at the end doesn’t seem harmful to me. But with a 50/50 split. It’s not worth taking the chance on losing those people that think it’s not right.

Ethan Dusharm

No lie! That’s what makes you different and entertaining!

M. Parrish

Mixed feelings. It really depends on how you deliver the deception. If it’s in a way that compliments the story, but doesn’t change it, then you should absolutely do it as long as it’s revealed in the end. However, changing urban lore isn’t what your channel is about, nor should it be, so if I had to choose: no.

First Last

I think you should let the legends grow on their own. A little is fine but it would take the fun out of it

Saina Xyne

Don't fix what's not broken. 🤩

Joanie Yannotti

I want to say “lie” to embellish the story, but I fear that road may lead to compromising the channel’s integrity. When does embellishing become pure fiction? I’m torn as to how to respond.

Matthew Myers

It's only a lie if you don't reveal it to be the truth at the end. Otherwise, it's all part of the narrative. An area I would absolutely not embellish on, is a first-hand account from a witness or a quote, etc.

Richard Bramlett (H Y B R I D)

Whatever you do, don't stifle "Lizzid People"! 🤣🤣

Jeff Alcorn

Truth, as best you can deliver it is my preference although I enjoy it all.

steve hughes

Say it as you see it. The story is only as good as the story teller.

Mac McGuckien

Give us a good story, bring us in, but be truthful and honest by the end we’re with you!!!

David Segura

I’d love to see a show on Haim Eshed and his galactic federation claims

Andre Holliday

Oh shit Fiddy Fiddy right now

He11fir3

This is too hard.

Arley Umphries

Nothing wrong with embellishing the truth! You have to tell a compelling story, right?

Eron ‘Mac’ Garcia

Definitely compromises the shows integrity

Hunter Mcbryear

Lie. Contribute to the urban legend because most urban legends involve multiple lies. It will be fun when it starts being passed around!

MikeD

It'd be fun to insert a lie and see if we find it

Derik Moore

Adding doesn’t hurt the spirit of the legend

Celios And Robin

Let’s move the urban legend along

Mike Robinson