The Orsini Files: A Forgotten True Crime Saga

What happens when a NASCAR reporter accidentally discovers one of Arkansas's most notorious forgotten crimes? Daniel McFadin never expected to find himself immersed in a 40-year-old murder investigation, but that's exactly what happened when he stumbled across an envelope labeled "mysteries" in the Arkansas Democrat Gazette's archives.

The story that emerged was nothing short of extraordinary – a wealthy businessman murdered in 1981, his widow throwing a champagne party after avoiding indictment, a car bombing targeting a prominent attorney's wife, and eventually a second murder that would rock Little Rock to its core. McFadin describes it as "OJ before OJ" – a case that would have captured national attention had it happened a decade later, when cable news dominated the landscape.

What makes this podcast truly unique is McFadin's discovery of actual audio tapes from the investigation that had been sitting untouched for decades. "No one has heard these tapes ever," he explains, revealing how these primary sources allowed him to bring voices from the past directly to listeners. Through meticulous research and thoughtful storytelling, McFadin constructed a six-episode narrative that balances the shocking details with deep respect for the victims and their families.

Throughout our conversation, McFadin emphasizes his commitment to ethical true crime storytelling. "Make it as if the people who were involved and whose lives were affected are going to listen to it," he advises, noting that the families of both Ron Orsini and Alice McArthur ultimately approved of how their loved ones were portrayed. This approach stands in stark contrast to the sensationalism that often characterizes the true crime genre.

For creators in any medium, McFadin offers refreshingly straightforward advice: "Write the story that you would want to read or listen to." In an age dominated by algorithms and engagement metrics, his success with "The Orsini Tapes" demonstrates the enduring power of authentic, carefully crafted storytelling.

Discover this fascinating journey from sports journalism to true crime investigation, and hear how forgotten evidence brought a chilling Arkansas mystery back to life. Then check out "The Orsini Tapes" wherever you get your podcasts – you won't be disappointed.