Podcast Summary: The Unforgotten - Episode 18: The Crossover

Release Date: July 21, 2025

Introduction to The Crossover Episode

In Episode 18, titled "The Crossover," Free Range Productions brings together key figures from previous seasons of The Unforgotten to discuss the upcoming Season 3, "Finding Dolores Wolf." Hosted by Wes Ferguson and Carol Dawson, the episode serves as a bridge between the different narratives explored in earlier seasons, highlighting the interconnectedness of the stories and the production team's collaborative efforts.

Meeting the Creators of Season 3: Finding Dolores Wolf

Wes Ferguson and Carol Dawson introduce Adam Rittenberg and Kyle Bonagara, the creators behind Season 3, which delves into the mysterious disappearance of Dolores Wolf from Woodland, California, in 1979.

• Adam Rittenberg: A senior writer for college football at ESPN, Adam shares his initial encounter with the Dolores Wolf case through a Facebook post that revealed her identification 41 years after her disappearance. He emphasizes the depth and complexity of the story, stating, "We always felt this story was worthy of a narrative podcast." [00:57]

• Kyle Bonagara: Partnering with Adam, Kyle elaborates on the multifaceted nature of the story, highlighting the extensive interviews and research that peeled back layers of the Wolf family's history. He remarks, "It's like peeling back an onion. You get through one layer, and the next is even more interesting." [09:07]

The Story of Dolores Wolf and Her Family

Season 3 focuses on Dolores Wolf, a 45-year-old mother of four who vanished from her family home in Woodland, California. The investigation reveals deep-rooted family tensions and suspicions surrounding her husband, Carl Wolf, who had a history of threatening her.

• Dolores Wolf: Daughter of Portuguese immigrants, Dolores was beloved in her community and deeply devoted to her family. She worked as a secretary at a local high school and was known for her vibrant personality. Her disappearance left her family in anguish, searching for answers for over four decades.

• Carl Wolf: Dolores's husband, who was long suspected of involvement in her disappearance due to his repeated threats. The family's investigation into her vanishing revealed unsettling truths about their relationship and the community's role in the case.

• Paul Wolf: Their youngest son, who grew up to become a prominent football coach. His connection to the case adds a layer of complexity, intertwining the family's personal tragedy with his public persona in the sports world.

Notable Quote:

"Paul was the baby. Paul was her pride and joy." – Carol Dawson [10:26]

Production Insights and Story Development

Adam and Kyle discuss the evolution of their involvement in the story, transitioning from sports reporting to a deep exploration of a family's quest for truth and closure.

• Research and Discovery: The duo uncovered not just the details of Dolores's disappearance but also the broader social and cultural contexts, including connections to events like COVID-19, desegregation in Arkansas, and even pop culture references.

• Storytelling Approach: Emphasizing sensitivity and depth, Adam highlights the importance of balancing the tragic elements of the story with engaging narrative techniques. "We can't be too excited about it because this is a terrible thing that happened," he notes, underscoring the podcast's respectful treatment of the subject matter. [18:35]

• Personal Connections: Both hosts, originally from different backgrounds, find common ground in their shared experiences and the universal themes of family and perseverance. They also touch upon the challenges and rewards of transitioning from written reporting to podcast storytelling.

Cultural and Regional Influences

The episode delves into the cultural significance of Northern California and Texas, exploring how regional identities and languages, such as the Portuguese heritage of the Wolf family, shape the narrative.

• Immigrant Influence: Dolores's Portuguese background plays a crucial role in her family's dynamics and the community's perception of them. Carol Dawson, with her personal experience living in the Bay Area, connects with the story's setting, appreciating the area's diversity and immigrant-friendly environment.

• Texas Connection: Wes Ferguson shares his East Texas roots and how the production team brings together different regional perspectives, enriching the storytelling process. The exchange about adopting local vernaculars, like "y' all," adds authenticity to their collaborative efforts.

Notable Quote:

"The immigration through line between the two states is profound." – Carol Dawson [31:49]

Upcoming Season Teasers and Expectations

Adam and Kyle tease the depth and twists awaiting listeners in Season 3, promising a blend of true crime elements with heartfelt family narratives.

• Resolution and Closure: While maintaining suspense, they hint at the conclusion where Dolores's body is eventually found, offering the family a semblance of closure after four decades of uncertainty.

• Emotional Journey: The podcast promises to navigate the emotional landscapes of the Wolf family, highlighting their resilience and unwavering hope in the face of relentless adversity.

Notable Quote:

"This is a beautiful story of family and of one family that never gives up." – Wes Ferguson [34:13]

Conclusion and Anticipation

The episode wraps up with heartfelt thanks exchanged between hosts and creators, expressing mutual appreciation and excitement for the forthcoming season. Wes Ferguson shares his enthusiasm for the story's fit within The Unforgotten's mission to remember and honor forgotten individuals.

Listeners are left eagerly anticipating the release of "Finding Dolores Wolf" on August 4, 2025, poised to embark on a gripping journey of mystery, family, and perseverance.

Stay Tuned: Subscribe to The Unforgotten on your favorite podcast platform to catch Season 3: Finding Dolores Wolf upon its release on August 4th.