LADONNA HUMPHREY
LaDonna Humphrey
LaDonna Humphrey is an award-winning writer, filmmaker, investigative journalist, nonprofit executive director, and national advocate for victims of crime.
For more than a decade, LaDonna has worked at the intersection of journalism, victim advocacy, and community development, with a focus on missing and murdered persons, survivors of violent crime, children in foster care, and women in recovery. Her work centers on giving voice to the overlooked, documenting unresolved cases, and building systems of support for individuals and families navigating trauma, addiction, and loss.
LaDonna is the co-founder of All the Lost Girls, a victim-advocacy and investigative storytelling platform dedicated to unsolved cases and missing persons. She is also the co-host of the Lost Girls Podcast and the Extinguished Podcast, where she explores issues of injustice, accountability, and the human impact of crime through long-form reporting and interviews.
In addition to her media work, LaDonna serves as the Executive Director of Oasis of Northwest Arkansas, a nonprofit organization providing recovery housing, family reunification services, and long-term stability programs for women and children. Under her leadership, Oasis has expanded its services across Northwest Arkansas, supporting hundreds of women and families in rebuilding their lives.
LaDonna’s advocacy is grounded in ethical journalism, transparency, and respect for the individuals and families whose stories she helps tell. She is committed to responsible reporting, factual documentation, and the belief that awareness and accountability are essential to justice.
LaDonna and her husband, Danny, are the parents of seven children and reside in Northwest Arkansas, where they remain deeply engaged in community outreach and service.
For more on LaDonna’s professional standards, ethics, and advocacy values, visit the Responsible Journalism and Advocacy Page.
More about LaDonna Humphrey
LaDonna Humphrey is an award-winning writer, filmmaker, investigative journalist, executive director of Oasis of Northwest Arkansas and an advocate for victims of crime. Her passions include advocating for missing adults, crime victims, children in foster care, and for women in recovery. LaDonna is the co-founder of All the Lost Girls and True Crime Fest NWA, as well as the co-host of the Deep Dark Secrets Podcast and the Extinguished Podcast. LaDonna and her husband, Danny, have seven children and they live in Northwest Arkansas.
Author and Filmmaker
LaDonna Humphrey has made significant contributions to the field of true crime literature. She has written three books: "The Girl I Never Knew", "Strangled", and "Connected by Fate. These works delve into the intricacies of crime investigation, offering readers a deep and insightful look into the world of crime-solving. In addition to her literary work, LaDonna directed a documentary titled "Uneven Ground: The Melissa Witt Story"¹⁵. This documentary, based on the unsolved murder of Melissa Witt, has won over 25 awards¹ and is a testament to LaDonna's dedication to seeking justice for victims of crime.
Lost Girls Podcast
LaDonna Humphrey is the co-host of the Lost Girls Podcast alongside Amy Smith. The show focuses on missing persons, unsolved cases, and crimes that disproportionately impact women and marginalized communities. Each episode combines investigative research with compassionate storytelling, working to bring overlooked cases out of the shadows and into the public consciousness.
The Lost Girls Podcast has been widely recognized for its thoughtful examination of domestic violence, homicide, and systemic failures within the criminal justice process. Through careful reporting and empathetic dialogue, LaDonna and Amy amplify the voices of victims and families while challenging listeners to confront the realities behind the headlines.
LaDonna’s approach on the show reflects her broader advocacy work — grounded in integrity, accountability, and a commitment to ensuring that no one’s story is forgotten.
Extinguishing the Unknown with the Extinguished Podcast
Alongside David McClam, LaDonna Humphrey hosts the Extinguished Podcast. This long-form podcast focuses on the murdered and missing, dedicating four weeks to each case. LaDonna's contributions to the podcast have been instrumental in shedding light on complex cases and advocating for justice. Her dedication to truth and her ability to articulate complex narratives have made the Extinguished Podcast a beacon for those seeking answers.
A Literary Journey into True Crime
LaDonna Humphrey is also an accomplished author. Her first book, "The Girl I Never Knew," is an edge-of-your-seat account of her passionate fight for justice in the decades-old murder case of a girl she never knew. This book showcases LaDonna's meticulous research skills and her ability to weave a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
Venturing into Fiction
LaDonna Humphrey's work isn't limited to true crime. She's also venturing into the realm of fiction and is set to release a fiction series soon. This new venture showcases her versatility as a writer and her ability to captivate audiences with different genres.
Beyond her professional life, LaDonna Humphrey and her husband are foster and adoptive parents, providing a loving home to children in need. Their commitment to providing care and support to children reflects their compassion and dedication to making a difference in the lives of others.
Faith plays a significant role in LaDonna Humphrey's life. Her work and personal life are guided by her strong beliefs and values. Her faith inspires her to pursue justice and advocate for those who are unable to do so for themselves.
LaDonna Humphrey was the co-founder of Let's Bring Them Home. This national nonprofit organization, established in 2005, focuses on safety education and provides resources to families with missing adults. Her work with this organization underscores her commitment to bringing missing persons home and providing support to their families.
LaDonna Humphrey is a big fan of Razorback Baseball and rarely misses a game. Her love for the sport adds another dimension to her multifaceted personality. Whether it's cheering on her team or analyzing game strategies, LaDonna's passion for baseball is evident.
Among her favorite books is "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe". This classic fantasy novel resonates with her, reflecting her appreciation for stories that blend imagination, adventure, and profound themes. The book's themes of courage, sacrifice, and hope align with LaDonna's own values and beliefs.
“If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor."
