Episode 6 – In 1979, 18‑year‑old Michelle Martinko was found murdered in her family’s car outside Cedar Rapids’ Westdale Mall, a crime that stunned the city and baffled investigators for decades. This episode revisits one of Iowa’s most haunting cases: the evidence, the long investigation, and the fight to finally uncover the truth. Written, recorded, and produced by Cody Burk.

Episode 5 – In May of 1968 a massive tornado tore through Charles City, leveling homes, factories, and entire blocks in minutes. By the time the storm passed, the town was unrecognizable—and hundreds of lives had been changed forever. This episode traces one of Iowa’s most devastating natural disasters: the storm, the survivors, and the long shadow it cast over northern Iowa. Written, recorded, and produced by Cody Burk.

Back with an update for those who have stayed impossibly patient. 

We’re taking a short mid-season break to catch up and return with the quality The Black Dirt Tapes deserves. Hear why, what’s coming next, and how you can help shape the rest of the season.

Episode 4 - In 2001, seven bodies were found at two separate crime scenes in Sioux City, Iowa — all at the hands of a single man with a hammer. No motive. No mercy. This episode unpacks one of the most senseless and brutal murder sprees in Iowa history… and the silence that followed.

Episode 3 - The Flooding Of Red Rock

Episode 2 – The Beast of Van Meter

In this episode, we dig through the original reports, eyewitness accounts, and the uneasy silence that followed. Because the people of Van Meter never forgot what they saw.

And they were certain… it was watching them too.

Episode 1 - On a cold night in 1973, five teens went to Gitchie Manitou to hang out around a campfire. By morning, four were dead—and one would never be the same.