Dakota 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 brings forgotten crimes back into the public eye and gives voice to victims and their families. Alongside full investigative seasons, the show also features shorter standalone episodes that explore individual mysteries in a single sitting. If you are drawn to investigative journalism, small town true crime, and real crime stories based on actual events, Dakota Spotlight offers gripping and respectful storytelling you will not forget.
Dakota Spotlight
Claim This Podcastby James Wolner | Investigative Journalist & Creator of Dakota Spotlight
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Podcast Overview
Dakota 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 brings forgotten crimes back into the public eye and gives voice to victims and their families. Alongside full investigative seasons, the show also features shorter standalone episodes that explore individual mysteries in a single sitting. If you are drawn to investigative journalism, small town true crime, and real crime stories based on actual events, Dakota Spotlight offers gripping and respectful storytelling you will not forget.
Language
🇺🇲
Publishing Since
2/7/2019
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Recent Episodes
May 28, 2026
The Bagpiper and His Brother (4): The Delivery
James Wolner investigates a 1971 South Dakota bombing case involving brothers Wallace and Lloyd Brenna, revealing a complex web of jealousy and obsession.
May 21, 2026
The Bagpiper and His Brother (3): The Wiretap
James Wolner investigates a 1970 IRS agent shooting linked to Lloyd Brenna's hidden past and suspicious wiretap activities.
May 14, 2026
The Bagpiper and His Brother (2): Between Prison and Parole
James Wolner explores Lloyd Brenna's unpredictable journey between prison and parole, revealing his brother Wallace's own incarceration and a boy named Harold Pieper whose life will intersect.
338 total episodes available with 57 transcripts
Recent guests on Dakota Spotlight
Guests from recent episodes — sign up to see every guest that has ever appeared on this show.
Sergeant Suby
Guest
Melissa Jeltsen
Guest
Gina Barton
Guest
Harry
Guest
Edward Royal Reitan
Guest
Peter Hicks
Guest
Trisha Taurinskas
Guest
Mark Hendrickson
Guest
Michelle
Guest
Gary Hendrickson
Guest
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Frequently asked questions
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- What is Dakota Spotlight?
- How often does this podcast release new episodes?
This podcast updates daily.
- Where can I listen to this podcast?
This podcast is available on 10 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.
- Does this podcast accept guests?
Yes, this podcast regularly features guests.
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