Dateline NBC

Dateline NBC Podcast

Dateline NBC is a podcast production from NBC News that serves as an audio extension of the long-running American television newsmagazine. Since its transition into the digital audio space, the podcast has become a primary destination for listeners seeking long-form investigative journalism and true crime narratives. The feed consists of audio adaptations of televised episodes, alongside original, multi-part investigative series designed specifically for the podcast format.

The program is hosted by Lester Holt, with a veteran team of correspondents including Keith Morrison, Andrea Canning, Josh Mankiewicz, and Dennis Murphy. The reporting style is characterized by a narrative-driven structure that reconstructs criminal cases, legal mysteries, and significant news events. Each episode typically utilizes a combination of location recordings, archival audio, and primary interviews with law enforcement, legal experts, witnesses, and the individuals directly involved in the cases.

In addition to its standard weekly releases, the podcast frequently features limited-series spinoffs that provide an in-depth look at singular cases. These dedicated series, such as "The Thing About Pam," "Mortal Sin," and "The Girl in the Blue Mustang," allow for a more granular exploration of psychological profiles and judicial proceedings than the standard broadcast format. The content focuses heavily on the complexities of the American legal system, often highlighting cold cases, wrongful convictions, and high-profile criminal trials.

Managed under the NBC News editorial umbrella, the podcast adheres to established journalistic standards while employing a cinematic approach to audio storytelling. While the television broadcast remains a staple of American network news, the podcast adaptation has expanded the show’s reach to a global audience. The program also offers a subscription-based model, Dateline Premium, which provides subscribers with ad-free episodes and early access to new content. By repurposing its extensive archive and producing original investigative series, Dateline NBC maintains a consistent presence as a foundational title within the true crime genre.

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Episode's summary

In this episode of Talking Dateline, Andrea Canning and Blaine discuss the powerful 'Unmasking the Monster' episode, focusing on the profound mother-daughter bond between Dana and Andra following a brutal 1989 attack. The conversation explores the lasting impact of crime on families, the details of the perpetrator's interview, and how Andra's determination helped reignite the investigation. The hosts also address the legal hurdles such as statutes of limitations and the emotional weight of generational trauma. Additionally, Blaine and producer Brenda Bresslauer return to address viewer questions regarding the Dana case, discussing investigative challenges and highlighting an interactive database that tracks rape laws across different states.

Chapters

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Highlights

It's really the mother-daughter relationship that I ended up taking away, you know, mostly from this.

00:02:15 · Blaine explains that despite the horrific nature of the crime, the central takeaway from her episode was the strength of the bond between the victim and her daughter.

To live with that memory in your head for 30-plus years thereafter, it's a completely different kind of life, and it's a different type of struggle.

00:05:29 · Blaine reflects on the long-term psychological impact and the enduring struggle of surviving such a traumatic event.

This is just more proof that you can make a difference. You know, the fact that Andra started shaking trees again – and then they, you know, they, they test, they do the genealogy and all of that.

00:13:13 · Andrea emphasizes how the proactive efforts of family members can be a catalyst for reopening cold cases through modern investigative techniques.

As there is more ability to solve these crimes, why can't the law keep up with the pace of that ability?

00:19:00 · The speaker highlights the disconnect between advancing DNA technology and stagnant legal statutes.

And in Dana's case, they were able to go back to that box, retest some of the evidence, and that's what allowed them to do the investigative genealogy research.

00:33:16 · The availability of original evidence was crucial for using modern technology to solve the crime.

Episodes

1440-

Talking Dateline: Unmasking the Monster

In this episode of Talking Dateline, Andrea Canning and Blaine discuss the powerful 'Unmasking the Monster' episode, focusing on the profound mother-daughter bond between Dana and Andra following a brutal 1989 attack. The conversation explores the lasting impact of crime on families, the details of the perpetrator's interview, and how Andra's determination helped reignite the investigation. The hosts also address the legal hurdles such as statutes of limitations and the emotional weight of generational trauma. Additionally, Blaine and producer Brenda Bresslauer return to address viewer questions regarding the Dana case, discussing investigative challenges and highlighting an interactive database that tracks rape laws across different states.

Wed, 7 Oct 2026 09:00:00 +0000
1439-

Unmasking the Monster

This episode of Dateline, 'Unmasking the Monster,' investigates a brutal 1989 sexual assault in Cincinnati. After decades of dead ends and cleared suspects, the case is reopened through the determination of the victim's daughter, Andrea, who utilizes modern forensic genetic genealogy to identify Fred Tanzer as the perpetrator. Because the statute of limitations for the original crime had expired, investigators employed a high-stakes strategy, interviewing Tanzer under false pretenses to catch him lying to federal agents. The investigation ultimately led to Tanzer's arrest and conviction for making false statements, while also uncovering further allegations regarding his past behavior.

Tue, 6 Oct 2026 09:00:00 +0000
1438-

Preview: Rebecca Scofield on Before & After with Lester Holt

In this preview of the podcast Before and After, Lester Holt interviews history professor Rebecca Schofield regarding her experience being falsely accused by a TikTok influencer of masterminding the murders of four University of Idaho students. The episode explores the rapid escalation of digital rumors and the real-world consequences that occur when individuals are targeted by online misinformation. The segment also features promotional content for the documentary Kill Berry Print and an introduction to Craig Melvin's podcast, Glass Half Full, which focuses on personal triumphs and challenges.

Mon, 5 Oct 2026 09:00:00 +0000
1437-

Bombshell witness at American Idol murder trial. Lindsay Clancy back in court. Plus, Cornell lawsuit.

This episode of Dateline True Crime Weekly covers the verdict in the murder trial of former American Idol contestant Caleb Flynn, where the prosecution used an affair as motive. The show also explores the ongoing legal challenges and appeal process for Richard Allen in the Delphi double murder case. Additionally, the episode examines recent developments in the Lindsay Clancy murder case and a reopened investigation into alleged sexual assault at Cornell University. Finally, retired Sergeant Doug Roller discusses the specialized use of police canines and their ability to detect both scents and human emotions during investigations.

Thu, 1 Oct 2026 11:31:03 +0000
1436-

Talking Dateline: The Family Plot

In this episode of Talking Dateline, Keith Morrison and Josh Mankiewicz review the season premiere, 'The Family Plot,' examining a complex murder investigation driven by a manipulative matriarch whose attempt to frame a victim collapsed due to inconsistent evidence. The hosts also delve into the motivations behind the murder of Matt Rustelli, exploring themes of family dysfunction, control, and power. The discussion extends to analyzing interrogation transcripts and addressing listener questions regarding crime scene evidence and psychological trauma responses. The episode concludes with the hosts celebrating the 35th season of Dateline, expressing gratitude to their production crew and long-standing audience.

30 Sep 2026