You’ve seen the comments. Every time a new Sam and Colby video drops, someone inevitably asks, "Where’s Nate?" It’s a valid question. For a long time, Nate Hardy was the unofficial third member of the XPLR crew, the grounded guy who didn't just scream at shadows but actually tried to understand the history of the haunts they visited.
He wasn't an influencer looking for clout. Honestly, that’s probably why he’s gone.
The Kansas Connection: How Nate, Sam and Colby Actually Met
Most people assume these guys met in Los Angeles at the height of the Trap House era. Wrong. The bond between Nate, Sam and Colby goes all the way back to their roots in Overland Park, Kansas. Colby Brock actually met Nate way back in preschool. Think about that for a second. They were friends before they even knew what a camera was.
Sam Golbach entered the picture a bit later, but the three of them grew up together, navigating high school and the early, awkward days of Vine. When Sam and Colby decided to move to LA to pursue social media full-time, Nate stayed back for a while to focus on his own path, but the friendship never flickered.
Why the dynamic worked so well
Unlike some of the later guests who felt like they were there just to boost their own subscriber counts, Nate brought a specific energy to the channel. He was the skeptic who wanted to believe. In classic videos like the Villisca Axe Murder House or the early explorations of the Queen Mary, Nate was often the one holding the camera or digging through local archives.
He had a way of grounding the chaos. While Sam and Colby were amping up the energy for the "XPLR" brand, Nate was just... Nate.
Where is Nate Hardy now?
Life happens. People grow up. It’s a boring answer, but it’s the truth. While Sam and Colby leaned 100% into the paranormal investigative lifestyle—traveling to the Conjuring House and filming "Hell Week" specials—Nate took a different route.
He’s currently living what most would call a "normal" life, though he’s still incredibly creative. According to recent social media updates and fan discussions in early 2026, Nate has leaned heavily into music and craftsmanship. He’s been involved in metal artwork and even furniture refurbishment.
- He got married. A huge milestone that naturally shifts your priorities away from sleeping in haunted basements.
- He’s a musician. Under the name Sol Hardy, he has released music that reflects a much more introspective side than the loud, jump-scare world of YouTube.
- He still talks to the boys. Just because he isn't on camera doesn't mean there was a "fallout."
The Skinwalker Ranch Movie: A Brief Reunion
If you think Nate completely vanished, you missed the theatrical release of the Sam and Colby: Skinwalker Ranch movie. This was a big deal for the core fanbase. For the first time in ages, the original trio—Nate, Sam and Colby—reunited for a massive investigation.
This project was a bit controversial. Some fans loved seeing the "OG" crew back together, while others criticized the heavy use of editing and cinematic flair. But for those who grew up watching their Kansas vlogs, seeing Nate back in the mix felt like a homecoming. It proved that the door is always open for him, even if he isn't a "series regular" anymore.
The shift in Sam and Colby's content strategy
Let’s be real. Sam and Colby’s channel has evolved into a massive production. They now collaborate with some of the biggest names on the internet, from the Sturniolo Triplets to Bella Poarch.
Bringing in Nate doesn't always "fit" the high-octane, influencer-heavy vibe they often go for now. Nate isn't there to do TikTok dances or react wildly for a thumbnail. He’s a guy who cares about the history and the genuine experience.
Is there beef between them?
No. Honestly, fans love to invent drama where there isn't any. In various podcasts, including "The Iced Coffee Hour," Sam and Colby have talked about the difficulties of running a business with friends. While they’ve had their ups and downs with various roommates over the years, Nate has always been treated with a level of respect that's different from the "Trap House" associates.
They are childhood friends. That’s a bond that survives YouTube algorithms.
What the "Nate Era" represented for XPLR
Looking back at the videos featuring Nate, Sam and Colby, there was a raw quality to them. They were just kids with a flashlight and a dream. Today, the videos are polished, expensive, and sometimes feel a bit like a reality TV show.
Nate represents the era of "Exploration" before it became "Paranormal Investigation." It was about the journey, the friendship, and the genuine fear of the unknown.
If you're looking for that old-school vibe, I'd suggest going back to the 2018-2020 archives. That's where the chemistry of this trio really shines. You can see the genuine fear in their eyes when they're stuck in a basement in the middle of nowhere.
Next Steps for Fans:
- Check out Nate's music under the name Sol Hardy on Spotify or YouTube to support his solo journey.
- Watch the Villisca Axe Murder House video if you want to see the trio at their absolute peak of chemistry.
- Keep an eye on the XPLR Club; Nate occasionally pops up in behind-the-scenes footage or exclusive cuts that don't make it to the main channel.