Holland grew up surrounded by the rolling farmland of eastern South Dakota. Eternally curious, she dissected her Baby Alive doll at the tender age of five—results were inconclusive. She later earned her degree from the School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences at the University of Washington and spent a decade conducting fisheries research throughout the Pacific Northwest and Alaska.

As Ranae was preparing to study the ecological impact of beavers on an Oregon river she was approached for a scientific role of a very different type: co-hosting the Animal Planet TV show Finding Bigfoot as the resident Skeptical Scientist.

While she doesn’t believe Sasquatch is a biological, undiscovered species—earning her the nickname “the Ranaesayer” — Holland brought her scientific expertise, field skills, and love of the wilderness to investigate alleged sightings around the globe. It was through that experience she discovered her true mission: sharing the power of curiosity to inspire the next generation of naturalists and scientists.

Today, with over three decades of field experience across all fifty U.S. states, all ten Canadian provinces, and six continents, Holland is recognized as a respected leader in science communication and cryptozoology. Known for her analytical approach and extensive expertise in the study of elusive creatures, she blends scientific rigor with inclusive outreach and a deep respect for Indigenous cultures.

Her research emphasizes a collaborative, evidence-based approach to research, particularly her long-term investigation of activity patterns across private and Indigenous lands. Driven by curiosity and a firm commitment to advancing Citizen Science as a tool for meaningful discovery, Ranae integrates modern scientific methods, emerging technologies, and Traditional Ecological Knowledge to foster respectful engagement and broaden our understanding of unexplained phenomena.

A trusted voice in media, research, and science communication for decades, Holland frequently speaks at schools, universities, conferences, and both private and public events, encouraging audiences of all ages to think critically and curiously—challenging us all to keep our sense of wonder intact and to embrace belonging as a tool for communication and connection.