The Fantasia Cold Case
Summary
Canada Labs fellow Callan Lyons investigates the 31-year disappearance of Katie Steele’s mother, Wendy Smith. After using DNA to identify her birth parents, Katie uncovers a cold case linking Wendy to the Robert Pickton farm and a mysterious Toronto strip club. The episode follows Katie’s emotional journey to find closure, culminating in a poignant visit to her mother’s favorite pub before it closes.
Topics discussed
Intro, ads, and sponsor messages
Callan Lyons introduces the story of Katie Steele
Fixing the jukebox at the Imperial Pub
Katie's life, adoption, and search for identity
DNA test reveals birth mother Wendy's name
Wendy linked to missing persons and Pickton farm
Meeting biological father Danny and his story
FOI records reveal last known location Fantasia
Investigating the abandoned Fantasia strip club
Crowdfinding campaign and journalist reflections
Street interview leads to a potential sighting
Receiving the jukebox record and emotional closure
Outro, credits, and final sponsor ads
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