This week we drink margaritas from Brazo's while Lynn tells us about the absolutely awful life of Elizabeth Bathory. Elizabeth was a Hungarian noblewoman and a purported serial killer. She and four of her servants faced accusations of torturing and murdering hundreds of girls and women between 1590 and 1610. Thank you to our sources! https://www.hi…

This week we drink enormous Dark ‘n Stormy’s while Rose tells us about a sweet family trying to live a quiet life on a farm in Mexico. But we all know that is NOT how it ends. Jayne Valseca went to hell and back trying to save her husband’s life while at the same time fighting for her own. And of course, she also had to take care of three kids and …

This week Lynn tells us about ANOTHER woman who took matters into her own hands. Told all the men what to do, played the role of father, mother, wife, husband, and caretaker. All while overseeing the building of this little bridge called the BROOKLYN BRIDGE! Yep you heard it right, a woman was behind the erection of that stunning bridge. Look how l…

In May 1973, after conquering Manaslu, the eighth-highest mountain, Hannelore Schmatz and her husband set their sights on a new challenge—Mount Everest. Tragically, exhaustion overcame Hannelore and American climber Ray Genet in the Death Zone. Despite sherpas advising them to press on, Genet chose to stay, leading to his death from hypothermia. Ha…

In an era when women faced societal restrictions in the legal field, Belva Lockwood emerged as a fearless advocate for justice and equality. Born in 1830, she overcame adversity to become the first woman to practice law before the U.S. Supreme Court. From a humble beginning in Royalton, New York, Belva lacked social status and riches. Widowed at 22…

In January 1988, Susan, an ER nurse, embarked on a journey to find love. Little did she know, her path would lead her through highs and lows, testing her strength and resilience. After a whirlwind romance, Susan and Michael's marriage took a dark turn. Facing financial conflicts, anger issues, and strained relationships, Susan bravely confronted th…

This week Lynn tells us about the haunting story of Dee Dee and Gypsy Rose Blanchard. Growing up in the shadow of family disdain, it became clear that Dee Dee, was a master manipulator and an alleged criminal. Dee Dee's journey into deception began when Gypsy was just three months old, with claims of sleep apnea. Her history of fraud and petty crim…

This week Lynn tells us about the remarkable life of Gloria Vanderbilt. From a tumultuous childhood and Hollywood glamour to artistic pursuits and motherhood, her journey was as complex as it was fascinating. A socialite, artist, and designer, she defied expectations and embraced life on her own terms. Her legacy lives on through her son, Anderson …

This week Rose tells us about a crazy love triangle. From a delayed airport arrival to a chilling encounter in the dark, the night took a bizarre turn for Colleen Shipman. Unbeknownst to her, a stranger in disguise trailed her every move. What started as a peculiar observation escalated into a harrowing pursuit, leaving Colleen shaken. The twist? T…

This week Lynn tells us about a remarkable woman. Alva Erskine Smith, born on January 17, 1853, in Mobile, Alabama was the seventh of nine children and stood out as the only surviving girl among her siblings. From a young age, she exhibited a fiery spirit, unafraid to challenge societal norms. Alva's upbringing in a wealthy family involved summers …

This week, Rose shares what might be our craziest story yet!! In the fall of 2012, a chance encounter at an auto body shop in Omaha sparked a connection between Dave Kroupa and Cari Farver. Little did they know, this would lead to a web of deception and a chilling murder mystery. As their casual relationship evolved, Cari's sudden disappearance lef…

This week Lynn tells us the crazy story of the Long Island Lolita. Amy Fisher's life story is a fascinating and captivating narrative that has captured the attention of millions over the years. From a notorious figure known as the "Long Island Lolita" to a woman who has sought redemption and turned her life around, her journey is both intriguing an…

Exciting News! We're thrilled to announce that Biz Velatini otherwise known as My Bizzy Kitchen (@mybizzykitchen) will be joining us as a special guest on this week's episode! Get ready to dive into the world of food blogging, social media shenanigans, and the life of an empty nester who will not tolerate bullying or BS on her platform. In this epi…

Join us for this spooky Halloween episode as we step back in time to the chilling winter of 1692 when the quaint Puritan village of Salem, Massachusetts was plagued by inexplicable events. 11-year-old Abigail Williams and 9-year-old Elizabeth Parris displayed eerie symptoms, sending the town into a frenzy of fear and paranoia. Witchcraft accusation…

Listen this week as Lynn manages to call the incredible artist and activist, Kathe Kollwitz, by everything but her actual name while Rose laughs uncontrollably. Kathe's work, often characterized by its raw emotional intensity, delves into themes of poverty, injustice, and the impact of war on everyday people. Her haunting prints and sculptures conv…

In the summer of 1942, when darkness cast its shadow, Marion Pritchard emerged as a beacon of hope. Marion became a lifeline for Jewish children, finding hiding places, providing fake documents, and delivering essential supplies. Her actions, including the daring rescue of a family with three children, showed incredible dedication. Marion's courage…

This week Lynn tells us about the sensational and enigmatic case of Alice Crimmins! This gripping story of crime, scandal, and a determined woman's fight for justice has captivated audiences for years. Alice's life was marked by controversy, from her tumultuous marriage to the tragic deaths of her children. The case raises questions about the role …

In the 1960s, Betty and Barney Hill's lives in Portsmouth, New Hampshire were a testament to their passion for civil rights. As an interracial couple, they were dedicated to advancing the movement, actively involved in their community and local organizations. Their love story and commitment to change were truly remarkable. One fateful night, they s…

This week Lynn tells us about the amazing life of Marcia Clark. Marcia, a trailblazing figure in the legal world, has left an indelible mark on the field of law. From her early days as a public defender to her pivotal role in the O.J. Simpson trial and her subsequent career as a writer and legal commentator, Marcia's journey is one of resilience, d…

This week Rose tells us the absolutely insane story of Lori Vallow. Lori's extreme religious beliefs began during her childhood in the LDS church. From her parents' interviews in the Netflix documentary "Sins of Our Mother," we glimpse the influence of faith on her life. Her dad's fervent religious devotion often bordered on the extreme, driving Lo…

This week Rose tells us all about the life of Taylor Swift! Born on December 13, 1989, in West Reading, Pennsylvania, Taylor Alison Swift's life story is a fascinating blend of determination, talent, and resilience. Taylor's parents, Andrea and Scott, married in 1988, and her unique name was chosen to keep her options open in a business world that …

Today, we're stepping into the past, journeying back to the early 1930s, to uncover an awe-inspiring tale of courage, curiosity, and breaking barriers. Meet Elzada Clover and Lois Jotter, two remarkable women who defied societal norms and challenged the impossible. Their passion for botany led them on an adventure that would reshape their lives and…

This week Rose tells us about the amazing Betty White!! Born as Betty Marion Ludden White on January 17, 1922, in Oak Park, Illinois, Betty White's legacy is etched in Hollywood history. From acting and activism to comedy and producing, she shone brightly for over seven remarkable decades. Betty's journey began as the only child of Christine Tess a…

This week Lynn tells us about the hysterically funny culinary genius, Julia Child! Julia's legacy in the culinary world is nothing short of revolutionary. Her unapologetic wit shaped her persona, making her relatable, approachable, and an empowering figure in the culinary world. With boundless passion for French cuisine, she transformed the way Ame…

This week Rose dives into the life of the amazing trailblazer Oprah Winfrey. Oprah's life story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit. Born into adversity, she overcame a difficult childhood marked by challenges that seemed insurmountable. From growing up in poverty on an isolated farm to enduring abuse and trauma, Oprah's early years …

Lynn takes us on an emotional journey as we dive into the extraordinary life of Ruth Coker Burks, the fearless woman who became a beacon of hope during the 1980s AIDS epidemic. With unparalleled courage and empathy, Ruth's love and cooking literally extended the lives of countless men who had been abandoned by their families and friends. Such an am…

On October 17, 2009, Morgan Harrington was all set for a Metallica concert – her dad bought the tickets, and they had been proudly displayed on the fridge for months. Morgan, described by her mom as "bubbly and cause for celebration," was the life of the party. In her third year of college, she was an aspiring teacher, and had a close bond with her…

Join us for a Q&A to kick off season two! Thank you for all the questions!By Rose Stein and Lynn Pontillo

This is our 40th episode and the end of season one of No Ordinary Women and Lynn takes us out with a bang! In this episode she tells us about the insane story of Natalia Grace whose adoptive parents accused her of being an adult and kicked her out of her house forcing the eight year old to live ON HER OWN! This is a crazy story with a lot of twists…

From a brothel to a pirate queen. Rose tells us about Zheng Yi Sao, the fearless woman who defied expectations and took control of the Red Flag Fleet. Her marriage to pirate lord Zheng Yi was just the beginning of her remarkable journey. She demanded equality, power, and a share of the loot, and thus became the force behind the confederation of fea…

Living Life the Dolly Way! Get ready to be dazzled as Lynn tells us about the incredible journey of the one and only Dolly Parton! From her humble beginnings to becoming an iconic singer-songwriter, philanthropist, and all-around inspiration, Dolly's life is a true rollercoaster of excitement, passion, and pure talent. Join us as we celebrate this …

This week Rose tells us all about the amazing Russian Empress, Catherine the Great. From a Prussian princess to the Empress of Russia, Catherine the Great's journey was filled with determination, ambition, and controversy. At just 15, she embarked on a path that would lead her to the Russian throne. Despite a tumultuous marriage to Grand Duke Peter…

From adversity to triumph, Tina Turner's life is an inspiration to us all. Her unwavering spirit, unmatched talent, and resilience have shaped her into an icon who defied the odds and conquered the world. This week, Lynn tells us all about the indomitable Queen of Rock 'n' Roll and her extraordinary journey of love, strength, and unforgettable musi…

The recent revelations of abuse within the National Women’s Soccer League have sparked a crucial conversation about player safety and well-being. Throughout the 2021 NWSL season, allegations of abuse surfaced in multiple teams across the league. The stories of Mana Shim and Sinead Farrelly shed light on the challenges faced by women in the NWSL. Th…

In this episode, we embark on a riveting journey through Eleanor Roosevelt's remarkable life, from her privileged upbringing to her influential role as First Lady of the United States. We uncover the challenges she faced, the battles she fought, and the resilience that defined her character. We delve into her groundbreaking initiatives and explore …

Prepare for a gripping tale that will leave you on the edge of your seat. This week, we dive into a captivating story that unfolded in Hope, Alaska. A young lady, hailing from New Orleans and chasing her dreams in the modeling world, finds herself at the center of a whirlwind. As the star dancer of the town's renowned strip club, she captures the a…

Charlene Gallego was a female serial killer who, along with her partner, Gerald Gallego, went on a killing spree in Sacramento, California from 1978 to 1980. Charlene had a troubled childhood and a tumultuous personal life before meeting Gerald, who had a history of abuse. Together, they kidnapped and killed at least 9 women and girls, leaving a tr…

In 2018, Lauren McCluskey was tragically killed by her ex-boyfriend Melvin Rowland. Despite her pleas for help, her concerns were ignored, and the University of Utah failed to take appropriate action to protect her. Lauren's death could have been prevented if only the police had listened to her and investigated her claims. It's heartbreaking to kno…

We made it to our 30th episode!! Check out this incredible woman who changed the world of education! Maria Montessori was born on August 31, 1870, in Italy, and was the first woman to graduate from the University of Rome's medical school. Despite facing discrimination and obstacles due to her gender, she persevered and revolutionized the field of e…

Rose tells us about the Highway of Tears which is a 725-kilometer stretch of highway in British Columbia, Canada, where many Indigenous women have gone missing or been murdered since 1970. The area is remote, and issues like poverty, drug abuse, and domestic violence make the situation worse. Many of these issues can be traced back to the residenti…

From poverty to power, Victoria Claflin was a force to be reckoned with. Born in 1838, she claimed to communicate with spirits and had clairvoyance abilities. She married young, but divorced her alcoholic and cheating husband to become an advocate for the free love movement. With her sister, she became a successful medium and caught the eye of Corn…

Listen to our firs Q&A. You asked questions and we answered!By Rose Stein and Lynn Pontillo

Blair Imani is an American author, historian, and activist. She identifies as , Black, bisexual and Muslim. She is a member of the Black Lives Matter movement, and is known for protesting the shooting of Alton Sterling and Executive Order 13769 (The Muslim ban). Rose tells us about the remarkable life and work of Jane Goodall. From an early age, Ja…

Nelly Bly was an American journalist, who was a pioneer in the field of journalism and launched a new kind of investigative journalism with an expose in which she worked undercover to report on a mental institution from within. But she didn't stop there! She was also widely known for her record-breaking trip around the world in 72 days among many o…

This one is off the rails!! Sorry for the bad audio, our sound tech (Rose) downloaded new software and as you can hear, it didn't work out. First, Lynn tells us about Betty Lou Beets. Betty Lou had a rough childhood. She lost her hearing at a young age and was forced to care for her very young siblings when she was just 12. She married at the age o…

Sacagawea was kidnapped from the Shoshone tribe at 12-years-old. Married and with a baby at 17, she helped Lewis and Clark explore the new land acquired in the Louisiana Purchase. They traveled thousands of miles from North Dakota to the Pacific Ocean and her skills as a translator were invaluable, as was her intimate knowledge of some difficult te…

Harriet Tubman was an American abolitionist and social activist who was born into slavery. She escaped but spent the next ten years rescuing approximately 70 enslaved people, including family and friends using the Underground Railroad. But because she is a badass woman, that is not all she did. During the Civil War, she served as an armed scout and…

Tarana Burke is best known for organizing the #MeToo movement in 2006 as an avenue for victims of sexual violence to share their experiences, thus forming an alliance among survivors. She was named Person of the Year by TIME magazine in 2017 and she has spent her life empowering women to share their stories and fight against sexual assault with the…

Claudette Colvin was arrested at age 15 in Montgomery, Alabama, for refusing to give up her seat to a white woman on a crowded, segregated bus just nine months before Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a bus. Claudette and Rosa knew each other very well. Was Claudette the inspiration for Rosa not giving up her seat? We think she just might b…

During the month of February, we will be honoring Black History Month by telling the stories of extraordinary black women. Lynn starts us out with the amazing Maya Angelou. After not speaking for most of her childhood, Maya Angelou blossomed into a phenomenal woman. She spoke 7 languages, was an author, poet, historian, songwriter, playwright, danc…