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 | Society & CultureTrue CrimeDocumentary | |||
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Latest Episodes
Leah Sottile joins Dakota Spotlight for a conversation about investigative journalism, the ethics of true crime storytelling, and the challenges of reporting on unresolved cases in overlooked rural communities. Leah discusses the making of Hush Seaso... more
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
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Reviews
- Decent
This podcast is thoroughly researched and presented well. James has a calm voice that is pleasant to listen to.
Please consider not doing interviews “on the spot” as these tend to ramble and are frustrating to listen to…perhaps script out the interviews or edit them as they are by far the weakest part of the podcasts…I usually skip through them.
Also, just stick to doing the podcasts and don’t get political, as you tend to divide your listeners with your opinions. You aren’t that important to p... more
Apple Podcasts3cakewalk33
United States20 days ago - Among the best
Great stories. Great writing. Great music. I cannot believe I only just discovered this amazing podcast. Great job!
Apple Podcasts5amb1968
Canada2 months ago The best of the best true crime. Well told and the perfect voice which reels you in. My favourite podcast.
Podcast Addict56 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 Podcasts5ShelP75United States6 months ago - Master story teller
Great storytelling, goes deep into the victim’s and those who loved them lives.
Apple Podcasts5apht!United 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. PRETEND
2. The Binge Crimes: The Poet
3. Midwest Murder
4. The Binge Cases: U R NEXT
5. Paper Ghosts: The Texas Teen Murders
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. Trish Jelani
2. Lois Bunce
3. Bridget Meilenberg
4. Alice Nato
5. Josh Dean
6. Derrik Dyka
7. Haley Fox
8. Betsy Shepherd
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