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.

True Crime
Society & Culture
Documentary
26
Inside You Killed Chris with Mari Zoerb Hansen
Interview with Dakota Spotlight researcher Mari Zoerb Hansen, behind-the-scenes of You Killed Chris, and a walk around UW-Madison campus.
25 min
27
Revisiting a Mysterious Death: The Man From Un ...
Exiled Pakistani journalist and activist, both of whom fled Pakistan, were later found dead under suspicious circumstances, raising concerns of politically motivated killings.
64 min
28
Revisiting a Mysterious Death: The Man From Un ...
A Pakistani journalist in exile in Sweden after facing threats for his work on human rights abuses in Balochistan, went missing and was later found dead in the Fyris River.
51 min
29
Throwback: Season 5 - A Better Search for Barbara
A Better Search for Barbara is a deep, investigative dive into one of North Dakota's longest running cold cases.
45 min
30
Introducing - Ohio Mysteries
The Great Locomotive Chase Part 1
36 min
31
Introducing - Supernatural Circumstances
Paranormal researcher Morgan Knudsen and true crime writer Mike Browne sit down with journalist and author Matt Baglio.
87 min
32
Throwback: Season 3 - The House on Sweet and Se...
September 1998, a 17 year old girl named Aimee walked into the Police Department in Bismarck, ND and said she had a hunch that her boyfriend might have hurt his mother and father.
40 min
33
Message from James
A short message from the host of Dakota Spotlight.
1 min
34
Throwback: Commercialized Killings - Interview ...
In South Africa, a school teacher was assassinated in front of her class by hit-men.  Who would take out a contract on a school teacher? Interview with Paul McNally, host of the Alibi podcast.
25 min
35
Celebrating a Milestone
Dakota Spotlight reaches 10-season milestone, and it all began with Victor Newberry.
36 min
36
You Killed Chris (6)
Others reflect on Linda’s theories and determination, and we hear a phone conversation where a college student confronts Niels, accusing him of being Christine’s murderer and a serial killer.
57 min
37
Mid-Season Update
James previews the upcoming Spotlight PLUS Bonus Episode.
4 min
38
You Killed Chris (5)
Linda becomes an expert on Niels' family history and uncovers his many lies; she organizes a memorial for Christine, inviting Niels as the keynote speaker; Linda confronts Niels as the killer and learns of a friend who might have evidence.
29 min
39
You Killed Chris (4)
Police seek public help and interview Niels Jorgensen; Linda intensifies her focus on Niels, contacting hospital staff and his family; insights from colleagues and family reveal more about Niels.
38 min
40
You Killed Chris (3)
Christine's usual morning walk ends tragically with her body found in bushes near Sterling Hall; despite a police investigation, the case goes cold; Linda reports an older man who had been harassing Christine, whom she feared.
38 min
41
Mid-Season Update
James shares what it is like to be an independent podcaster and a preview of the upcoming Spotlight PLUS Bonus Episode with Mari Zoerb Hansen.
7 min
42
You Killed Chris (2)
Christine's friends recall life at Ann Emery Hall and her feelings about being at UW-Madison; The Dow Day protest is held on campus; Linda recounts learning of Christine's murder.
31 min
43
You Killed Chris (1)
18-year-old freshman Christine Rothschild was found brutally murdered outside Sterling Hall at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1968
44 min
44
Trailer - Season 10: You Killed Chris
Season 10 - You Killed Chris: A Friend's Fight for Justice - Full Trailer
3 min
45
Nowhere To Be Found: Interview with "The Disapp...
Interview with "The Disappearance of Belinda Van Lith" creator and host Trisha Taurinskas
45 min
46
Throwback: 105 Bruises - Interview with Jamie P...
Originally broadcast Summer 2021. Interview with Jamie Pultz, creator of Beenham Valley Road podcast. The tragic story of 27 year old Kirra McLoughlin who was killed July 2014.
24 min
47
Zeeland Rebroadcast (8) – Sebastian Speaks Out
Telephone interview with Sebastian Feist from federal prison.
32 min
48
Zeeland Rebroadcast (7) – Crossing the Street
The Feists and Huber before arriving in Zeeland; David Feist provides some answers; Mike Wald revisits Zeeland.
38 min
49
A Body in the Ditch: Interview with "Short Walk...
Interview with "Short Walk" host Lee Strubinger of SDPB
56 min
50
Zeeland Rebroadcast (6) – Flip a Coin
The boys face the consequences of their actions. Don Wald, son-in-law of Wade and Ellen, provide delightful insight into the kind of people the Zicks were. David Feist, from prison, corresponds with me by mail.
38 min