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    True Crime

    Dakota Spotlight: True Crime & Cold Case Investigations

    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.

    Advertise

    Copyright: © 2022 Everything Midwestern LLC

    • Apple Podcasts
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    Latest Episodes:
    The Murder of Joli Truelson - New developments, interview with Trisha Taurinskas Mar 20, 2025
    Show notes

    On the evening of July 3, 1972, 16-year-old Joli Truelson stood hitchhiking in Uptown Minneapolis, MN. Just 15 hours later she was found deceased in Minnehaha Creek, four miles away. She died from blunt force trauma to the back of her head. In this episode, Dakota Spotlight interviews Trisha Taurinskas, journalst and host of a new podcast series about Joli's murder: Joli Truelson: Connecting the Dots.

    Trisha shares insights about this 53-year-old cold case and the exciting new developments taking place in 2025. Will Trisha's fresh work on this case assist in the Truelson family finally getting answers into what happened to Joli Truelson?

    Listen to Joli Truelson: Connecting the Dots on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or anywhere you get your podcasts.

    Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-vault/id1566136098

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3Y6sk7Jkm8P9ruuNMOfO6w

    Check out the full catalog and everything Dakota Spotlight: https://dakotaspotlight.com/

    Get all episodes early, ad-free, and more. Subscribe to Spotlight PLUS: https://dakotaspotlight.com/spotlight-plus/

    Sign up for the Dakota Spotlight newsletter: https://dakotaspotlight.com/newsletter/

    Email: dakotaspotlight@gmail.com

    Facebook: https://facebook.com/groups/dakotaspotlight

    X/Twitter: @dakotaspotlight

    Instagram: @dakotaspotlight

    TikTok: @dakotaspotlight

    Bluesky: @dakotaspotlight.bsky.social

    YouTube: @dakotaspotlightpodcast4800

    Proudly Produced by Six Horse Media: info@sixhorsemedia.com

    Advertise your podcast or brand in Dakota Spotlight episodes: info@sixhorsemedia.com

    All content in this podcast, including audio, interviews, and soundscapes, is the property of Six Horse Media. Any unauthorized use, reproduction, or rebroadcast of this material without the express written consent of Six Horse Media is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact info@sixhorsemedia.com

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Poetic Justice Rebroadcast - Interview with Deon Wiggett, creator of the podcast My Only Story Mar 13, 2025
    Show notes

    In 2017, Deon Wiggett confronted a repressed trauma: he had been sexually abused by a schoolteacher as a teenager. His response was to create "My Only Story," a podcast exploring justice, activism, and revenge. Dakota Spotlight interviewed Wiggett in August 2021 about the podcast and his experience.

    My Only Story podcast: https://www.myonlystory.org/

    Check out the full catalog and everything Dakota Spotlight: https://dakotaspotlight.com/

    Get all episodes early, ad-free, and more. Subscribe to Spotlight PLUS: https://dakotaspotlight.com/spotlight-plus/

    Sign up for the Dakota Spotlight newsletter: https://dakotaspotlight.com/newsletter/

    Email: dakotaspotlight@gmail.com

    Facebook: https://facebook.com/groups/dakotaspotlight

    X/Twitter: @dakotaspotlight

    Instagram: @dakotaspotlight

    TikTok: @dakotaspotlight

    Bluesky: @dakotaspotlight.bsky.social

    YouTube: @dakotaspotlightpodcast4800

    Proudly Produced by Six Horse Media: info@sixhorsemedia.com

    Advertise your podcast or brand in Dakota Spotlight episodes: info@sixhorsemedia.com

    All content in this podcast, including audio, interviews, and soundscapes, is the property of Six Horse Media. Any unauthorized use, reproduction, or rebroadcast of this material without the express written consent of Six Horse Media is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact info@sixhorsemedia.com

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Moonlight Feels Right: A Valentine’s Conversation with Bruce Blackman Feb 20, 2025
    Show notes

    Continuing a Dakota Spotlight Valentine’s tradition, this special episode features an interview with Bruce Blackman, the mastermind behind the 1976 hit Moonlight Feels Right by Starbuck. James chats with Bruce about the song’s romantic charm, its iconic marimba solo, and the stories behind its creation. Whether it’s part of your Valentine’s playlist or a nostalgic favorite, don’t miss this heartfelt conversation celebrating love, music, and the magic of the ’70s.

    Homicide at House of Bottles PLUS Bonus Material Free Preview https://dakotaspotlight.com/bottles/

    Season 3: The House on Sweet and Seventh https://bit.ly/dakotaspotlight-season3

    Check out the full catalog and everything Dakota Spotlight https://dakotaspotlight.com/

    Get all episodes early, ad-free, and more. Subscribe to Spotlight PLUS https://dakotaspotlight.com/spotlight-plus/

    Sign up for the Dakota Spotlight newsletter https://dakotaspotlight.com/newsletter/

    Email: dakotaspotlight@gmail.com

    Facebook: https://facebook.com/groups/dakotaspotlight

    X/Twitter: @dakotaspotlight

    Instagram: @dakotaspotlight

    TikTok: @dakotaspotlight

    Bluesky: @dakotaspotlight.bsky.social

    YouTube: @dakotaspotlightpodcast4800

    Proudly Produced by PorchLight Podcast Network: https://porchlightpodcast.network/

    Advertise your podcast or brand in Dakota Spotlight episodes: info@sixhorsemedia.com

    All content in this podcast, including audio, interviews, and soundscapes, is the property of PorchLight Podcast Network. Any unauthorized use, reproduction, or rebroadcast of this material without the express written consent of PorchLight Podcast Network is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact info@sixhorsemedia.com

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Homicide at House of Bottles (Postscript): The Bismarck Murder of Robbie Rahrich Feb 13, 2025
    Show notes

    In this postscript to Homicide at House of Bottles, we revisit key moments from the 1999 Bismarck murder of Robbie Rahrich through archival news reports recorded immediately after the homicide and following the arrest of a suspect. Former detective Bob Haas shares additional insights, reflections, and his perspective on the missing shell casing, offering listeners a deeper understanding of one of North Dakota’s most haunting murder cases.

    Videos of the original news coverage:

    News segment immediately after the crime

    News segment after a suspect was arrested

    Check out the full catalog and everything Dakota Spotlight https://dakotaspotlight.com/

    Get all episodes early, ad-free, and more. Subscribe to Spotlight PLUS https://dakotaspotlight.com/spotlight-plus/

    Sign up for the Dakota Spotlight newsletter https://dakotaspotlight.com/newsletter/

    Homicide at House of Bottles is a production of Dakota Spotlight and PorchLight Podcast Network. This season was written, produced, and sound-edited by James Wolner, who also serves as the host. Research and interview assistance by Mari Zoerb Hansen. Special thanks to Bob Haas, Lloyd Halvorson, and the Bismarck Police Department for their contributions to this season.

    Email: dakotaspotlight@gmail.com

    Facebook: https://facebook.com/groups/dakotaspotlight

    X/Twitter: @dakotaspotlight

    Instagram: @dakotaspotlight

    TikTok: @dakotaspotlight

    Bluesky: @dakotaspotlight.bsky.social

    YouTube: @dakotaspotlightpodcast4800

    Proudly Produced by PorchLight Podcast Network: https://porchlightpodcast.network/

    Advertise your podcast or brand in Dakota Spotlight episodes: info@sixhorsemedia.com

    All content in this podcast, including audio, interviews, and soundscapes, is the property of PorchLight Podcast Network. Any unauthorized use, reproduction, or rebroadcast of this material without the express written consent of PorchLight Podcast Network is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact info@sixhorsemedia.com

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Homicide at House of Bottles (6): The Bismarck Murder of Robbie Rahrich Feb 06, 2025
    Show notes

    In the final scheduled episode of Homicide at House of Bottles, we reflect on the profound impact of Robbie Rahrich’s life and death while exploring themes of justice, rehabilitation, and accountability. This episode features conversations with Shawn Helmenstein, who has spent 25 years in prison for the 1999 Bismarck murder. Helmenstein shares new insights about the missing shell casing, his evolving perspective on the crime, and his frustrations with the uncertainty of parole. Robbie’s family and friends express their enduring pain and strong opposition to Shawn’s efforts for early release. Most importantly, this episode celebrates Robbie’s kindness, energy, and the lasting influence he had on those who knew and loved him, even as his absence continues to shape their lives.

    Thank you for listening and for joining us in honoring Robbie’s life. Stay tuned for bonus episodes in the coming weeks.

    Check out the full catalog and everything Dakota Spotlight https://dakotaspotlight.com/

    Get all episodes early, ad-free, and more. Subscribe to Spotlight PLUS https://dakotaspotlight.com/spotlight-plus/

    Sign up for the Dakota Spotlight newsletter https://dakotaspotlight.com/newsletter/

    Homicide at House of Bottles is a production of Dakota Spotlight and PorchLight Podcast Network. This season was written, produced, and sound-edited by James Wolner, who also serves as the host. Research and interview assistance by Mari Zoerb Hansen. Special thanks to Bob Haas, Lloyd Halvorson, and the Bismarck Police Department for their contributions to this season.

    Email: dakotaspotlight@gmail.com

    Facebook: https://facebook.com/groups/dakotaspotlight

    X/Twitter: @dakotaspotlight

    Instagram: @dakotaspotlight

    TikTok: @dakotaspotlight

    Bluesky: @dakotaspotlight.bsky.social

    YouTube: @dakotaspotlightpodcast4800

    Proudly Produced by PorchLight Podcast Network: https://porchlightpodcast.network/

    Advertise your podcast or brand in Dakota Spotlight episodes: info@sixhorsemedia.com

    All content in this podcast, including audio, interviews, and soundscapes, is the property of PorchLight Podcast Network. Any unauthorized use, reproduction, or rebroadcast of this material without the express written consent of PorchLight Podcast Network is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact info@sixhorsemedia.com

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Homicide at House of Bottles (5): The Bismarck Murder of Robbie Rahrich Jan 30, 2025
    Show notes

    In Episode 5 of Homicide at House of Bottles, the case of Shawn Helmenstein moves toward resolution. After confessing to the 1999 murder of Robbie Rahrich, Helmenstein participates in a videotaped walkthrough of the crime scene, calmly recounting his actions in chilling contrast to the brutality of the homicide. At trial, prosecutors dismantle his defense of emotional duress with confessions, the murder weapon, and witness testimony, while the judge condemns the killing as premeditated and calculated, sentencing Helmenstein to life in prison with parole eligibility only after serving 85% of his life expectancy. Beyond the courtroom, Robbie’s family and friends share their pain and resilience, reflecting on the trial and their enduring pursuit of justice in this haunting Bismarck murder case.

    Check out the full catalog and everything Dakota Spotlight https://dakotaspotlight.com/

    Get all episodes early, ad-free, and more. Subscribe to Spotlight PLUS https://dakotaspotlight.com/spotlight-plus/

    Sign up for the Dakota Spotlight newsletter https://dakotaspotlight.com/newsletter/

    Homicide at House of Bottles is a production of Dakota Spotlight and PorchLight Podcast Network. This season was written, produced, and sound-edited by James Wolner, who also serves as the host. Research and interview assistance by Mari Zoerb Hansen. Special thanks to Bob Haas, Lloyd Halvorson, and the Bismarck Police Department for their contributions to this season.

    Email: dakotaspotlight@gmail.com

    Facebook: https://facebook.com/groups/dakotaspotlight

    X/Twitter: @dakotaspotlight

    Instagram: @dakotaspotlight

    TikTok: @dakotaspotlight

    Bluesky: @dakotaspotlight.bsky.social

    YouTube: @dakotaspotlightpodcast4800

    Proudly Produced by PorchLight Podcast Network: https://porchlightpodcast.network/

    Advertise your podcast or brand in Dakota Spotlight episodes: info@sixhorsemedia.com

    All content in this podcast, including audio, interviews, and soundscapes, is the property of PorchLight Podcast Network. Any unauthorized use, reproduction, or rebroadcast of this material without the express written consent of PorchLight Podcast Network is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact info@sixhorsemedia.com

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Homicide at House of Bottles (4): The Bismarck Murder of Robbie Rahrich Jan 23, 2025
    Show notes

    In Episode 4 of Homicide at House of Bottles, the story intertwines poignant memories with pivotal breakthroughs in the investigation of the 1999 Bismarck murder of Robbie Rahrich. In Clinton, Montana, Detectives Haas and Wooten close in on primary suspect Shawn Helmenstein, while interviews with Robbie’s sister Casey and friends Angie and Mike shed light on his humor, warmth, and generosity. Their recollections honor Robbie’s memory and reveal the devastating impact of his loss, even as investigators pursue justice in one of North Dakota’s most haunting homicide cases.

    Check out the full catalog and everything Dakota Spotlight https://dakotaspotlight.com/

    Get all episodes early, ad-free, and more. Subscribe to Spotlight PLUS https://dakotaspotlight.com/spotlight-plus/

    Sign up for the Dakota Spotlight newsletter https://dakotaspotlight.com/newsletter/

    Homicide at House of Bottles is a production of Dakota Spotlight and PorchLight Podcast Network. This season was written, produced, and sound-edited by James Wolner, who also serves as the host. Research and interview assistance by Mari Zoerb Hansen. Special thanks to Bob Haas, Lloyd Halvorson, and the Bismarck Police Department for their contributions to this season.

    Email: dakotaspotlight@gmail.com

    Facebook: https://facebook.com/groups/dakotaspotlight

    X/Twitter: @dakotaspotlight

    Instagram: @dakotaspotlight

    TikTok: @dakotaspotlight

    Bluesky: @dakotaspotlight.bsky.social

    YouTube: @dakotaspotlightpodcast4800

    Proudly Produced by PorchLight Podcast Network: https://porchlightpodcast.network/

    Advertise your podcast or brand in Dakota Spotlight episodes: info@sixhorsemedia.com

    All content in this podcast, including audio, interviews, and soundscapes, is the property of PorchLight Podcast Network. Any unauthorized use, reproduction, or rebroadcast of this material without the express written consent of PorchLight Podcast Network is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact info@sixhorsemedia.com

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Homicide at House of Bottles: Mid-Season Update and Spotlight PLUS Preview Jan 16, 2025
    Show notes

    In this special mid-season update, listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at Season 11, Homicide at House of Bottles. Along with reflections on the investigation so far, this episode includes a Spotlight PLUS preview with exclusive materials from Episodes 1 and 2, including photographs, videos, and bonus details that bring the case to life. You’ll also learn about the benefits of a Spotlight PLUS subscription, from ad-free binge listening to subscriber-only newsletters and bonus content. Get ready for the second half of the season and more insight into the 1999 Bismarck murder of Robbie Rahrich.

    Season 11 Spotlight PLUS Bonus Material Free Preview https://dakotaspotlight.com/bottles

    Get all episodes early, ad-free, and more. Subscribe to Spotlight PLUS https://dakotaspotlight.com/spotlight-plus/

    Check out the full catalog and everything Dakota Spotlight https://dakotaspotlight.com/

    Sign up for the Dakota Spotlight newsletter https://dakotaspotlight.com/newsletter/

    Homicide at House of Bottles is a production of Dakota Spotlight and PorchLight Podcast Network. This season was written, produced, and sound-edited by James Wolner, who also serves as the host. Research and interview assistance by Mari Zoerb Hansen. Special thanks to Bob Haas, Lloyd Halvorson, and the Bismarck Police Department for their contributions to this season.

    Email: dakotaspotlight@gmail.com

    Facebook: https://facebook.com/groups/dakotaspotlight

    X/Twitter: @dakotaspotlight

    Instagram: @dakotaspotlight

    TikTok: @dakotaspotlight

    Bluesky: @dakotaspotlight.bsky.social

    YouTube: @dakotaspotlightpodcast4800

    Proudly Produced by PorchLight Podcast Network: https://porchlightpodcast.network/

    Advertise your podcast or brand in Dakota Spotlight episodes: info@sixhorsemedia.com

    All content in this podcast, including audio, interviews, and soundscapes, is the property of PorchLight Podcast Network. Any unauthorized use, reproduction, or rebroadcast of this material without the express written consent of PorchLight Podcast Network is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact info@sixhorsemedia.com

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Homicide at House of Bottles (3): The Bismarck Murder of Robbie Rahrich Jan 09, 2025
    Show notes

    In Episode 3 of Homicide at House of Bottles, the investigation into the 1999 murder of Robbie Rahrich expands across North Dakota and Montana. Detectives pursue leads tied to the House of Bottles, including former employees with complicated histories, while a 9mm pistol known as the “Baby Eagle” emerges as a critical clue. Witnesses describe sightings of suspicious figures near the crime scene, including a man in a FUBU jacket, and attention turns to Shawn, Travis’ freeloading tenant who skipped town under questionable circumstances. With every new detail, investigators edge closer to answers in a Bismarck homicide that shattered Robbie Rahrich’s family and friends, leaving heartbreak that lingers decades later.

    Check out the full catalog and everything Dakota Spotlight https://dakotaspotlight.com/

    Get all episodes early, ad-free, and more. Subscribe to Spotlight PLUS https://dakotaspotlight.com/spotlight-plus/

    Sign up for the Dakota Spotlight newsletter https://dakotaspotlight.com/newsletter/

    Homicide at House of Bottles is a production of Dakota Spotlight and PorchLight Podcast Network. This season was written, produced, and sound-edited by James Wolner, who also serves as the host. Research and interview assistance by Mari Zoerb Hansen. Special thanks to Bob Haas, Lloyd Halvorson, and the Bismarck Police Department for their contributions to this season.

    Email: dakotaspotlight@gmail.com

    Facebook: https://facebook.com/groups/dakotaspotlight

    X/Twitter: @dakotaspotlight

    Instagram: @dakotaspotlight

    TikTok: @dakotaspotlight

    Bluesky: @dakotaspotlight.bsky.social

    YouTube: @dakotaspotlightpodcast4800

    Proudly Produced by PorchLight Podcast Network: https://porchlightpodcast.network/

    Advertise your podcast or brand in Dakota Spotlight episodes: info@sixhorsemedia.com

    All content in this podcast, including audio, interviews, and soundscapes, is the property of PorchLight Podcast Network. Any unauthorized use, reproduction, or rebroadcast of this material without the express written consent of PorchLight Podcast Network is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact info@sixhorsemedia.com

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Homicide at House of Bottles (2): The Bismarck Murder of Robbie Rahrich Jan 02, 2025
    Show notes

    In Episode 2 of Homicide at House of Bottles, the investigation into the 1999 murder of Robbie Rahrich intensifies. Detectives arrived at the liquor store crime scene in the early hours of February 21, processing evidence, interviewing witnesses, and confronting one puzzling detail — the missing shell casing. Through archival audio and present-day interviews with retired officers, we retrace their steps as they canvassed neighborhoods, tested friends of the victim for gunshot residue, and uncovered a link to a mysterious figure. The search for answers in this Bismarck homicide was only beginning.

    Trigger Warning: This episode includes content that may be disturbing, including a 911 call. Please listen with care.

    Check out the full catalog and everything Dakota Spotlight https://dakotaspotlight.com/

    Get all episodes early, ad-free, and more. Subscribe to Spotlight PLUS https://dakotaspotlight.com/spotlight-plus/

    Sign up for the Dakota Spotlight newsletter https://dakotaspotlight.com/newsletter/

    Homicide at House of Bottles is a production of Dakota Spotlight and PorchLight Podcast Network. This season was written, produced, and sound-edited by James Wolner, who also serves as the host. Research and interview assistance by Mari Zoerb Hansen. Special thanks to Bob Haas, Lloyd Halvorson, and the Bismarck Police Department for their contributions to this season.

    Email: dakotaspotlight@gmail.com

    Facebook: https://facebook.com/groups/dakotaspotlight

    X/Twitter: @dakotaspotlight

    Instagram: @dakotaspotlight

    TikTok: @dakotaspotlight

    Bluesky: @dakotaspotlight.bsky.social

    YouTube: @dakotaspotlightpodcast4800

    Proudly Produced by PorchLight Podcast Network: https://porchlightpodcast.network/

    Advertise your podcast or brand in Dakota Spotlight episodes: info@sixhorsemedia.com

    All content in this podcast, including audio, interviews, and soundscapes, is the property of PorchLight Podcast Network. Any unauthorized use, reproduction, or rebroadcast of this material without the express written consent of PorchLight Podcast Network is strictly prohibited. For permissions or inquiries, please contact info@sixhorsemedia.com

    Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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