Dakota Spotlight
Dakota Spotlight isn't your average true crime podcast. Creator James Wolner delves headfirst into unsolved mysteries and forgotten cases of the Upper Midwest and beyond, meticulously researching every detail to deliver a gripping, heartfelt narrative. Wolner prioritizes ethical storytelling, ensuring the victims are treated with care and respect. Prepare to be both enthralled and moved as James brings renewed hope for answers while offering a compassionate and soothing voice to the voiceless.
1
Dead Cold Drop (5) - by James Wolner
With the story’s conclusion, Doug’s world tilts toward chaos as final choices are made and nothing goes quite as planned.
28 min
2
Dead Cold Drop (4) - by James Wolner
Doug follows through on the plan as pressure mounts, and each step forward brings new tension, risk, and doubt.
30 min
3
Introducing - Nobody Should Believe Me: Season 6
Season 6 of Nobody Should Believe Me covers the extraordinary and tragic saga of the McDaniel family, a real-life Southern Gothic tale of Munchausen by Proxy that spans decades and has left untold damage in its wake.
3 min
4
The Mysterious Disappearance of Keith Schmidt
Keith Schmidt vanished from Dickinson, North Dakota on May 20, 2024; this episode explores his final days and the people working to understand his disappearance.
35 min
5
Dead Cold Drop (3) - by James Wolner
Doug Rolfstad ventures further into unfamiliar territory as rising tension and uneasy discoveries test his instincts and trust.
28 min
6
Introducing - The Burden: Get the Money and Run
From 1989-1990, Joe Loya robbed over 30 banks across Southern California.
32 min
7
Dead Cold Drop (2) - by James Wolner
Doug puts their plan into motion, but rising tension hints that something darker may be unfolding.
30 min
8
North Dakota’s Coldest Case - Larry Jo Phebus
In 1962, 14-year-old Larry Jo Phebus vanished from Tioga, North Dakota. Months later, his body was found in a remote field.
13 min
9
Dead Cold Drop (1) - by James Wolner
Bismarck plumber Doug Rolfstad meets his daughter Mandy at a truck stop, where a mysterious envelope of cash sets off a troubling chain of events.
28 min
10
Introducing - You Probably Think This Story’s A...
You Probably Think This Story’s About You, created by Brittani Ard, is a raw, haunting, and deeply human podcast that explores the messy beauty of the connections we make and the secrets we finally set free.
33 min
11
The Ethics of True Crime: A Conversation with E...
Interview with Eric Carter-Landin, host of the True Consequences podcast.
32 min
12
Introducing - Slaycation
Slaycation is a darkly funny true crime podcast about vacations gone fatally wrong, hosted by Kim Davis, Adam “Tex” Davis, and Jerry Kolber.
24 min
13
Krissi's Search: The Murder of Wilma June Nissen
Krissi Haas never knew her mother—now she’s searching for the truth about Wilma June Nissen’s unsolved murder.
30 min
14
Introducing - Ice Cold Case
Ice Cold Case is the story of what happened to J.C. McGhee on July 11, 2002 according to police records — some of which may not be entirely accurate nor adequate. Twenty years later, the search for answers begins.
29 min
15
Park Like a Fargonian - by James Wolner
A Fargo banker’s night spirals as parking vigilantes turn a harmless social media group into something dangerously dark.
47 min
16
Introducing Friday Night Fiction - by James Wolner
Friday Night Fiction delivers original crime stories from North Dakota and the Upper Midwest—fiction for true crime fans.
9 min
17
Vanished in Vermillion: Interview with Lou Raguse
2 teenagers in rural South Dakota go for a drive and never come home.
28 min
18
The Murder of Joli Truelson - New developments,...
Who killed 16-year-old Joli Truelson of Minneapolis in 1972?
33 min
19
Poetic Justice Rebroadcast - Interview with Deo...
Deon Wiggett, creator of the podcast "My Only Story," was interviewed by Dakota Spotlight in 2021.
22 min
20
Moonlight Feels Right: A Valentine’s Conversati...
James Wolner chats with Bruce Blackman about the romance and nostalgia of Moonlight Feels Right.
28 min
21
Homicide at House of Bottles Postscript
This postscript revisits the Homicide at House of Bottles case with archival news audio and insights from Detective Bob Haas on the investigation and its aftermath.
27 min
22
Homicide at House of Bottles (6)
The final episode honors Robbie Rahrich’s legacy, shares Shawn Helmenstein’s reflections after 25 years in prison, and highlights Robbie’s loved ones' enduring pain and opposition to his parole.
35 min
23
Homicide at House of Bottles (5)
Episode 5 follows Shawn Helmenstein's confession, trial, and life sentence for Robbie Rahrich's murder, while highlighting the emotional toll on Robbie's family and friends in their pursuit of justice.
37 min
24
Homicide at House of Bottles (4)
Episode 4 delves into Robbie Rahrich's life and legacy through heartfelt memories while detectives close in on the primary suspect, Shawn Helmenstein, in Montana.
31 min
25
Mid-Season Update
Get a free preview of PLUS bonus material as we gear up for the second half.
5 min