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Navigating Advocacy — True Crime
Navigating Advocacy

Navigating Advocacy is a true crime podcast that seeks to use the power of storytelling to raise awareness about unsolved crimes and bring justice to victims and their families through action-oriented advocacy. Hosted by Melissa and Whitney, who themselves started as true crime enthusiasts and have since become passionate advocates, their podcast aims to inspire action and promote positive change in the criminal justice system.

Our mission is to provide a platform for victims and their families to share their stories and be heard while offering practical guidance on how listeners can make a difference in their communities. In each episode, we will explore a different unsolved case in depth, highlighting key details and potential leads in an effort to spark new interest and help advance the investigation.Through our work, we hope to create a community of like-minded individuals who are committed to making a real difference in the fight for justice.

Whether you are a seasoned true crime fan or a newcomer to the genre, we invite you to join us on this journey of discovery and advocacy.

Copyright: © Copyright 2020-2022. Nerdly Ninja LLC, Cults, Crimes & Cabernet

Latest Episodes:

UPDATE : Megan Trussell Oct 20, 2026

Show notes

Melissa and Whitney revisit the death of CU Boulder student Megan Trussell, a 19-year-old film major found in Boulder Canyon after leaving her dorm on February 9, 2025. Officials ruled her death a suicide, but her family and many others have unanswered questions and note the investigative gaps, including missing phone and purse, limited video footage, injuries, and evidence they say was not fully tested.
The CBI review requested under Colorado’s Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples law, which the family says upheld the original findings without addressing any concerns. Since recording this episode two forensic toxicologists have signed on to help Megan's family.
Please support the Trussell family’s ongoing independent investigation, consider donating to the GoFundMe. https://www.gofundme.com/f/justice-for-megan-trussell?attribution_id=sl:ed3ff838-b63d-465e-b082-251f4779f46f&lang=en_US&ts=1760155893&utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&utm_content=amp13_c-amp17_te&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link
Sign their petition: https://www.change.org/p/cu-boulder-fix-the-safety-failures-exposed-by-megan-trussell-s-disappearance?recruiter=1386078845&recruited_by_id=74b3bf90-82f9-11f0-a429-6babe8998bc0&utm_source=share_petition&utm_campaign=starter_onboarding_share_personal&utm_medium=mobileNativeShare&share_id=CxcHTzzhdG
Research for this episode was provided by Haley Gray Research.

New Jersey: Margaret Haddican-McEnroe Oct 10, 2026

Show notes

In October 2006, 29-year-old mom, volunteer firefighter, and Army veteran Margaret Haddican McEnroe vanished from her Warren Township, New Jersey home after a tense period in her marriage; her baby was left alone, and her car, wallet, and most belongings remained. For six days, her family wasn’t even told she was missing, and early assumptions delayed an urgent investigation. As questions grew around shifting timelines and an alleged domestic dispute, Margaret’s sister Adrienne pushed for accountability and renewed attention, stressing how advocacy can keep a missing loved one from being dismissed or forgotten.
If you have any information, contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or submit a tip at tips.fbi.gov, or call Somerset County Crime Stoppers at 1-888-577-TIPS or visit scpo.org.
Research for this episode was provided by Haley Gray Research.

Brandon Lawson: Still Waiting Apr 20, 2026

Show notes

Brandon Lawson disappeared off of the side of Highway 277 just outside of Bronte, Texas. After running out of gas, calling his brother, Kyle, and a chilling 911 call, Brandon remained missing for over 8 years.
January 15, 2022, Melissa and Whitney joined a 9-person volunteer search team that found evidence leading to the discovery of human remains. After extensive DNA testing, it was confirmed that the remains discovered were those of Brandon Lawson.
Now, over four years later, his family still has not been able to lay Brandon to rest.
Private Investigator, Jason Watts, joins Melissa and Whitney to talk about the discovery, challenges, and dispel all misinformation.

Navigating Advocacy with Crawlspace Media Mar 23, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of Navigating Advocacy, we’re joined by two well-known voices in true crime podcasting—Tim Pilleri and Lance Reenstierna of Crawlspace Media.
Tim and Lance have spent years helping shape the true crime podcasting landscape, and in this conversation, we dive into how the industry has evolved—from its early days to where it stands today. We talk about the responsibility that comes with storytelling, the shift toward ethical, victim-centered coverage, and how creators can use their platforms to make a real impact.
We also explore the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie, a case that continues to raise questions and deserves ongoing attention. Together, we discuss the importance of keeping cases like Nancy’s in the public eye and what advocacy can look like in real time.
This episode is an honest, insightful conversation about growth, responsibility, and the power of using your voice for good.
🎧 About Our Guests: Tim Pilleri and Lance Reenstierna are the creators and hosts behind Crawlspace Media, known for podcasts like Missing, Crawlspace, and The Missing Podcast. Their work focuses on in-depth storytelling, bringing awareness to unresolved cases, and amplifying the voices of families.
🔗 Where to Find Them:
Website: https://crawlspace-media.com Listen to their shows: Crawlspace, Missing, The Missing Podcast (available on all major platforms) Instagram: @crawlspacepodcast

Indiana : Alex VanDalsen Feb 11, 2026

Show notes

Alex VanDalsen was a free-spirited 21-year-old who disappeared on February 3, 2021, after leaving his home in Lafayette, Indiana. Days later, his body was found in suspicious circumstances, leading to questions about the initial investigation, which quickly ruled his death a suicide. Despite clear inconsistencies and a lack of thorough investigation, Alex's family continues to seek justice and answers for his mysterious death.
Anyone with information should email JusticeForAlexBlake@gmail.com
LISTEN TO THE AUDIO VERSION HERE
Apple Podcasts:
Spotify:
This episode was researched and produced by Whitney St. Andre and Melissa Leinweber.
Submit a story: info@navigatingadvocacy.com
SOCIAL
Instagram @ NavigatingAdvocacyPodcast
Facebook: @ NavigatingAdvocacyPodcast
https://navigatingadvocacy.com
ADVOCACYCON
YouTube: ⁨@advocacycon⁩
Instagram: @ advocacy_con
Facebook: @ Advocacy_Con
https://advocacycon.com
IMPACT ADVOCACY FOUNDATION
Instagram: @ ImpactAdvocacyFoundation
https://impactadvocacyfoundation.org
THE ADVOCACY BLUEPRINT
Instagram: @ TheAdvocacyBlueprint
Facebook: @ The Advocacy Blueprint by True Crime Research Training

Texas : Deanna Merryfield Nov 17, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Navigating Advocacy, hosts Melissa and Whitney explore the heartbreaking story of Deanna Merryfield, who vanished at age 13 from Killeen, Texas, in 1990. Deanna's troubled family background, including her mother's alcoholism and her stepfather's sexual abuse, is discussed in detail. The case, filled with investigative missteps and lack of attention, saw no progress for years until her sister Missie took charge, advocating relentlessly for answers. A renewed search effort and public advocacy continue as her family seeks closure. Listeners are urged to share Deanna's story and help in the search for answers.
Follow Deanna’s Story: findingdeanna.com
Social media: @findingdeanna
Team Texas K9s:
https://teamtexashrdtrackingk9s.org/

Oklahoma : April Kelly Reed Oct 27, 2025

Show notes

April Kelly Reed disappeared from Del City, Oklahoma in 2001 under mysterious circumstances. Raised amidst familial instability and trauma, April endured significant hardships, including being traded for a vehicle as a child and navigating life with schizophrenia. Her sister Kelsey, who uncovered April’s disappearance later in life through a Facebook post, is tirelessly seeking answers.
Kelsey's search has revealed conflicting reports, family secrets, and possible foul play. Despite a prolonged lack of evidence and official missteps, recent developments, including DNA contributions, give hope for breakthroughs in the case.
If you have any information, please get in touch with the Dell City Police Department at 405.677.2443.

New York : Stephen Spina Sep 17, 2025

Show notes

On September 17, 2007, 36-year-old Stephen Spina, a beloved father, postal worker, and longtime Little League umpire, was found stabbed to death in his Mamaroneck, NY apartment. With no signs of forced entry and nothing stolen, investigators believe Stephen knew his killer. He was last seen at 9:30 a.m. and discovered by his girlfriend three hours later.
Despite numerous leads, including slashed tires, past relationships, and community tips, no suspect has ever been named. Stephen’s murder devastated his family and shook the close-knit community.
His killer remains at large.
Learn more about Stephen: https://www.facebook.com/JusticeforStephenSpina

Colorado : Megan Trussell Aug 13, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Navigating Advocacy podcast, the story of Megan Piper Trussell, a bright and artistic 17-year-old from Boulder, Colorado, whose mysterious disappearance and death in February 2025 left her family and community searching for answers. Despite Megan’s promising future and close family bonds, her case was quickly ruled a suicide by authorities, even though evidence raised serious questions. The episode highlights the family’s relentless pursuit of justice, the shortcomings of the investigation, and the broader need for improved campus safety and victim advocacy. Listeners are encouraged to support Megan’s family, share her story, and help seek the truth behind her untimely death.
**$11,000 REWARD AVAILABLE**
Support Megan's Family by donating to her GoFundMe.
If you have any information about Megan, please send all tips to trusselltips@vigilante-pr.com
Support the podcast by leaving us a 5 star review on your favorite podcast platform.

Nevada : Camille Dardanes Dodson Jul 21, 2025

Show notes

Camille Dains Dodson, born in 1964 in Los Angeles, was a talented and driven woman who faced unexpected life challenges. She married Gary Dodson, the first person exonerated of rape by DNA evidence in the USA, but their relationship turned abusive. After leaving Gary, Camille moved to Las Vegas with her young daughter, Ashley, where she struggled with low-paying jobs and got entangled in dangerous relationships and activities. Camille disappeared on September 3, 1994, after being released from the Clark County Detention Center. Despite multiple theories about her disappearance, including possible ties to the mob and abusive partners, her case remains unsolved. Camille's daughter, Ashley, continues to seek justice and raise awareness about her mother's case.
If you have any information, please contact the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department.
For more information: findcamille.com
#CamilleDardanesDotson #GaryDotson #Nevada #LasVegasNevada

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