Dakota Spotlight: True Crime & Cold Case Investigations
James Wolner | Investigative Journalist & Creator of Dakota SpotlightDakota Spotlight is a true crime series investigating unsolved murders, cold cases, and missing persons in North Dakota and the Midwest. Hosted by investigative journalist James Wolner, each season takes a deep dive into one case, from rural crime and small town murders to decades-old disappearances. Through meticulous research, exclusive interviews, and on-the-ground reporting, Dakota Spotlight b... more
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 255 | Founded | 7 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | True CrimeDocumentarySociety & Culture | |||
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Latest Episodes
After the release of The Bagpiper and His Brother, listeners who knew Harold Pieper began reaching out. In this update episode, Harold's stepdaughters and granddaughter share memories that reveal a devoted husband, caretaker, and grandfather. Their s... more
Journalist and podcast creator Josh Dean joins Dakota Spotlight to discuss scams, deception, and the craft of narrative podcasting. Josh talks about the rise of fraud stories, producing investigative audio on a weekly schedule, and his upcoming book ... more
In September 1972, in Edina, Lloyd Brenna appears to have put the bombing behind him, until federal agents return with a new case. This time, it’s tax fraud, built around a fabricated identity and a scheme that begins to unravel in court. Faced with ... more
On a quiet night in 1971, in Huron, South Dakota Harold Pieper is asked to pick up a small case at the airport. Minutes later, it explodes. The investigation turns to Genevieve Johnson and her connection to Wallace Brenna, setting off a chain of even... more
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The best of the best true crime. Well told and the perfect voice which reels you in. My favourite podcast.
Podcast Addict55 months agoJonzsie- The best storytelling!
I love this podcast not only for the storytelling—though it’s the best—but the host’s care and respect for each person involved is exemplary. Well done. It’s by far my favorite!
Apple Podcasts5ShelP75
United States6 months ago - Master story teller
Great storytelling, goes deep into the victim’s and those who loved them lives.
Apple Podcasts5apht!United States6 months ago - Northern Thoughtfulness
Excellent true crime reporting with Upper Midwestern thoughtfulness.
Apple Podcasts5MomofmatteoUnited States6 months ago - Love!!!
Such a great storyteller!!!
Apple Podcasts5MrsGinaGioUnited States7 months ago
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Frequently Asked Questions About This Podcast
What is This Podcast about and what kind of topics does it cover?
Dakota Spotlight focuses on in-depth true crime reporting with a strong regional lens on North Dakota and the Midwest. Episodes blend archival material, family memories, and exclusive interviews to illuminate unsolved murders, cold cases, and missing persons, often weaving community history and local context into the narrative. Its strength lies in careful storytelling that foregrounds victims and families, while inviting expert analysis from law enforcement, legal professionals, journalists, and community insiders. The show regularly features cross-disciplinary guests and long-form investigations, offering listeners a respectful, well-researched approach to complex cases and a sense of place that resonates with regional audiences. A stando... more
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Which podcasts are similar to this podcast?
These podcasts share a similar audience with this podcast:
1. Midwest Murder
2. PRETEND
3. Nobody Should Believe Me
4. The Hand in the Window
5. Something About Cari
How many episodes of this podcast are there?
this podcast launched 7 years ago and published 255 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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What guests have appeared on this podcast?
Recent guests on this podcast include:
1. Alice Nato
2. Josh Dean
3. Derrik Dyka
4. Haley Fox
5. Betsy Shepherd
6. Mike Bauer
7. David Ridgen
8. Heather Keena
To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.