Dakota Spotlight

James Wolner
  • 4.8 (788)
  • TRUE CRIME
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Dakota Spotlight
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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. Poetic Justice Rebroadcast - Interview with Deon Wiggett, creator of the podcast My Only Story

    10H AGO

    Poetic Justice Rebroadcast - Interview with Deon Wiggett, creator of the podcast My Only Story

    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 podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    31 min
  2. You Might Also Like: On Purpose with Jay Shetty

    10H AGO · BONUS

    You Might Also Like: On Purpose with Jay Shetty

    Introducing ⁠Lewis Howes: The Scarcity Belief That’s Blocking You from Making Money & How to Feel Rich Even When You’re Broke from On Purpose with Jay Shetty. Follow the show: On Purpose with Jay Shetty Have you ever avoided looking at your finances? If money were a person, how would you describe your relationship with it? Today, Jay welcomes back his long time friend, Lewis Howes, a New York Times bestselling author, entrepreneur, keynote speaker, and former professional athlete. He is the host of The School of Greatness podcast, one of the top-ranked business and self-development shows in the world, where he interviews some of the most influential leaders in business, wellness, and personal growth. The conversation highlights key principles for transforming one's financial mindset, including the power of awareness, gratitude, and generosity. Jay and Lewis examine how early experiences with money influence current financial behaviors and emphasize the importance of developing a mindset of abundance rather than scarcity. By recognizing and reshaping these beliefs, financial opportunities can be approached with clarity and confidence. Lewis emphasizes on the distinction between making money easy and chasing easy money. While many seek quick financial success, they explore the pitfalls of short-term thinking and the long-term benefits of building sustainable wealth through skill development, strategic planning, and emotional resilience. The concept of mapping out financial goals is introduced as a way to create structure and direction in money management. In this interview, you'll learn: How to Identify and Change Your Money Beliefs How to Develop Awareness Around Your Financial Habits How to Shift from a Scarcity Mindset to an Abundance Mindset How to Invest in Yourself to Build Long-Term Financial Success How to Create a Clear Financial Plan for Stability and Growth How to Use Energy, Passion, and Curiosity as Valuable Currency Financial freedom isn’t just about earning more—it’s about breaking free from limiting beliefs, embracing abundance, and making intentional choices that align with long-term success.  With Love and Gratitude, Jay Shetty Join over 750,000 people to receive my most transformative wisdom directly in your inbox every single week with my free newsletter. Subscribe here. Join Jay for his first ever, On Purpose Live Tour! Tickets are on sale now. Hope to see you there! What We Discuss: 00:00 Intro 01:06 Awareness Around Money and Finances 06:23 How to Get Out of Debt 09:44 How to Attract Financial Abundance 14:28 Rewire Your Brain to Earn More Money 16:22 The Mindset Habit to Unlock Abundance 20:11 Create an Opportunity to Showcase Your Value 27:08 3 Skills to Create Valuable Connection 33:41 Building a Foundation for Your Dream Career 35:44 Can You Manifest Money? 41:01 What’s Your Relationship with Money? 48:32 Generosity Attracts Abundance 53:10 Lessons from Quick and Easy Money 57:55 Invest in Your Self Growth 01:00:51 Money Cant Solve All Problems Episode Resources: Lewis Howes | Website Lewis Howes | TikTok Lewis Howes | Instagram  Lewis Howes | Youtube Lewis Howes | Facebook  Lewis Howes | LinkedIn Lewis Howes | X Make Money Easy: Create Financial Freedom and Live a Richer Life See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to team@podroll.fm.

  3. Spotlight PLUS Bonus Episode - Inside Homicide at House of Bottles with Mari Zoerb Hansen

    FEB 21 · BONUS • SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

    Spotlight PLUS Bonus Episode - Inside Homicide at House of Bottles with Mari Zoerb Hansen

    Spoiler Alert: This episode contains details and revelations from Homicide at House of Bottles. If you haven’t finished the season, we recommend catching up first. In this Spotlight PLUS Bonus Episode, host James chats with Mari Zoerb Hansen, the research collaborator for Homicide at House of Bottles. Mari reflects on her role and shares insights from her fascinating conversations with Shawn Helmenstein. Join us for this exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the making of Dakota Spotlight’s latest season! 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: https://x.com/DakotaSpotlight Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dakotaspotlight/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dakotaspotlight Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/dakotaspotlight.bsky.social YouTube: https://youtube.com/@dakotaspotlightpodcast4800 Proudly Produced by PorchLight Podcast Network: https://porchlightpodcast.network/listen/ 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

    37 min
  4. Moonlight Feels Right: A Valentine’s Conversation with Bruce Blackman

    FEB 20

    Moonlight Feels Right: A Valentine’s Conversation with Bruce Blackman

    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 podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    37 min
  5. Homicide at House of Bottles Postscript

    FEB 13 · BONUS

    Homicide at House of Bottles Postscript

    In this postscript to Homicide at House of Bottles, we revisit key moments from the case through archival audio from local news reports—segments recorded immediately after the robbery-homicide and after a suspect was arrested. We also speak with Bob Haas, a detective who worked the case, as he shares additional insights, reflections, and his thoughts on what really happened with the missing shell casing. 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 podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    36 min
  6. Homicide at House of Bottles (6)

    FEB 6

    Homicide at House of Bottles (6)

    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 delving into themes of justice, rehabilitation, and accountability. This episode features conversations with Shawn Helmenstein, who has spent 25 years in prison for the murder. Shawn offers new insights, including what happened to the missing shell casing and his evolving perspective on the crime. He also expresses his frustration with the uncertainty of his potential parole date some day. Robbie’s friends and family express their enduring pain and opposition to Shawn’s attempts at early release. Most importantly, this episode celebrates Robbie Rahrich—his kindness, energy, and the lasting influence he had on those who knew and loved him. His friends share their memories and reflect on how 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 podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    44 min
  7. Homicide at House of Bottles (5)

    JAN 30

    Homicide at House of Bottles (5)

    In Episode 5, the case of Shawn Helmenstein moves toward resolution. After confessing to the murder of Robbie Rarich, Shawn participates in a videotaped walkthrough of the crime scene, calmly recounting his actions in stark contrast to the brutality of the crime. At trial, the prosecution systematically dismantles his defense of emotional duress, presenting his confessions, the murder weapon, and witness testimonies. The sentencing judge delivers a pointed verdict, describing the murder as premeditated and calculated. Shawn is sentenced to life in prison, with parole eligibility only after serving 85% of his life expectancy. The episode also brings us into the emotional heart of the story, as Robbie’s family and friends reflect on the pain of the trial and their enduring quest for justice. As we approach the series finale, we’ll delve into Shawn’s life behind bars, his efforts for sentence reduction, and a fuller portrait of Robbie Rarich as remembered by those who loved him. 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 podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    46 min
  8. Homicide at House of Bottles (4)

    JAN 23

    Homicide at House of Bottles (4)

    Episode 4: This episode intertwines poignant memories with pivotal investigative breakthroughs, pulling us deeper into a story marked by heartbreak, betrayal, and an unyielding quest for justice. In Clinton, Montana, Detectives Haas and Wooten close in on Shawn Helmenstein, the primary suspect in Robbie Rarich’s murder. We also step into the life of Robbie himself—a man whose vibrant energy, kindness, and big dreams left an indelible mark on those around him. Through touching interviews with his sister Casey and friends Angie and Mike, we gain insight into Robbie’s humor, warmth, and generosity. Their stories not only honor his memory but also reveal the devastating impact of his loss on those who loved him most. 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 podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    40 min
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Trailers

4.8
out of 5
788 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    James Wolner
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2025
  • Episodes
    181
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Six Horse Media LLC
  • Show Website
    Dakota Spotlight
  • Provider
    Six Horse Media LLC

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