This week, Lavetta covers the notorious modern-day murderess, Becky O’Donnell; and Miriam covers the Victorian murderess, Mary Ann Cotton.

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In this episode, Lavetta introduces murderer Becky O'Donnell (American, born 1971), a close friend of former state senator Linda Collins Smith (American, 1962–2019). Collins Smith had been stabbed to death in her home, and O'Donnell was caught on backup video footage putting a bloody knife in her purse. The investigation revealed that the two had argued about a man Collins Smith was dating, and O'Donnell tried to frame other individuals for the murder. She pleaded not guilty and claimed she was being set up in a conspiracy, and was sentenced to 50 years in prison. Next, Miriam introduces 19th century serial killer Mary Ann Cotton (British, 1832–1873) who murdered multiple husbands, lovers, friends, her mother, and 11 children for financial gain. Cotton used her pregnancies as a means to collect life insurance payouts and would poison her victims with arsenic. Cotton was eventually caught and convicted of murder. She was executed by hanging in 1873.

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This week, Miriam covers the extraordinary life of sex therapist and talk show host, Dr. Ruth Westheimer; and Lavetta covers the extraordinary life of author and activist, Louise Meriwether.

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This week, Lavetta introduces the remarkable life of sex therapist and '80s and '90s media personality Dr. Ruth, or Ruth Westheimer (German and American, 1928–2024). Born in Germany, Westheimer was sent on the Kindertransport to Switzerland during WWII. She later immigrated to Palestine and joined the army as a scout and sniper. After being seriously wounded, she moved to Paris and the US, earned a degree in sociology and became a single mother. She was a pioneering sex therapist and hosted the popular radio show 'Sexually Speaking.' Westheimer passed away at the age of 96. Next, Miriam introduces prolific writer, editor, and activist Louise Meriwether (American, 1923–2023), who made significant contributions to literature and social activism. Meriwether was the first black woman to be hired as a story editor in Hollywood and was part of the influential Watts Writers Workshop. Her first novel Daddy Was a Number Runner (1970) became a classic, and she wrote biographies for children about historically important African Americans. Meriwether was involved in black causes and was an active member of the peace movement, receiving numerous awards and honors for her work. She passed away at the age of 100.

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This week, Lavetta covers the notorious second First Lady of the US, Abigail Adams; and Miriam covers the controversial trailblazing architect, Zaha Hadid.

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This week, Lavetta introduces the second First Lady of the United States, Abigail Adams (American, 1744–1818), who played a significant role in the founding of America. Despite being from a prominent family, she was not formally educated, but availed herself of the family's library to learn. She had a strong sense of civic duty and supported anti-slavery laws. Adams wrote a famous letter to her husband, John Adams, urging him to remember the rights of women and to protect them in the Constitution. And she is credited to have raised a son who would later become the sixth president of the United States. Next, Miriam introduces groundbreaking Zaha Hadid (British, 1950–2016), known for her innovative and futuristic designs. Hadid faced challenges and criticism throughout her career but continued to push boundaries and create iconic structures. Her work included the Guangzhou Opera House, Aquatics Centre for the London Olympics, and the Heydar Aliyev Center. Hadid's designs were often criticized for being expensive and impractical, but she remained dedicated to her vision.

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This week, Miriam covers the remarkable service of the Colonial heroine, Sybil Luddington; and Lavetta covers the dastardly deeds of Colonial scammer, Sarah Wilson.

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In this episode, Miriam introduces war icon Sybil Ludington (American, 1761–1839), a young woman who, after the burning of the town Danbury in Connecticut, rode through the night to warn the American militia of a British attack during the Revolutionary War. Next, Lavetta introduces scammer Sarah Wilson (English, 1745–1780). Wilson, a woman from a small village in England, used her wit and audacity to scam her way into the English court and even impersonated royalty. She became a maid to Lady Carolyn Vernon, a lady-in-waiting to Queen Charlotte. She took advantage of her position to steal jewelry and other items from the queen. When caught, she was sentenced to jail and later transported to the American colonies as an indentured servant. She escaped and adopted the persona of Princess Susanna Caroline Matilda of Mecklenburg Strelitz, claiming to be the sister of Queen Charlotte. Her scams continued into the homes of wealthy Virginians, posing as a genuine royal. She was eventually exposed as an imposter and captured. She later settled down in New York City and disappeared from history.

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This week, Lavetta covers the iconic life and career of the Queen of Salsa, Celia Cruz; and Miriam covers the extraordinary life and legacy of activist Ruth Ellis.

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In this episode, Lavetta introduces the Queen of Salsa, Celia Cruz (Cuban, 1925–2003). The hosts discuss her remarkable career in Cuba where she first gained popularity as the lead singer of the band La Sonora Matancera. Her criticism of the Castro regime led to her exile, but she eventually settled in the US and continued to tour, to perform solo, and to collaborate with other salsa superstars like Tito Puente and Willie Colon. Known for her energetic performances and flamboyant costumes, she brought Afro-Latina representation and Salsa to the forefront. Next, Miriam introduces lesbian activist Ruth Ellis (American, 1899–2000). African-American, Ellis came out as a lesbian in 1915, finding acceptance from her family. She started her own printing company, becoming the first woman-owned printing shop in Michigan. She lived a vibrant life, engaging in various artistic pursuits and supporting her community. In her later years, she became a prominent advocate for gay and lesbian rights, giving speeches across the country. Ellis passed away in 2000, leaving a lasting legacy through the Ruth Ellis Center, which supports homeless LGBTQ+ youth.

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This week, Miriam covers the unbelievably exciting life of pirate Queen, Anne Bonny; and Lavetta covers the extremely sexy career of dancehall Queen, Patra.

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In this episode, Miriam introduces pirate Anne Bonny (Irish, 1697–1721). Miriam describes Bonny's scandalous upbringing, in which her attorney father carried on an affair with her mother, and how Bonny, the illegitimate child, was raised as a boy. The hosts discuss how Bonny eventually fled to America with her mother and settled in Charleston, South Carolina, and describe her relationships with a sailor named James Bonny (whom she married but later left), a pirate captain Calico Jack, and fellow pirate Mary Read. Next, Lavetta introduces dancehall artist Patra (Jamaican, born 1972) and her rise to fame in the music industry in the 1990s with her unique blend of reggae and hip-hop. The hosts discuss Patra's crossover success and hit singles 'Think (About It)' and 'Work-A-Man,' her music 's fast rhythms and Jamaican patois, and how she took a break from the music industry but remains an iconic figure in dancehall music and continues to perform live shows.

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This week, Lavetta continues to honor Black Music Month by covering the career of the “Queen of Raunchy R&B” Millie Jackson; and Miriam honors Pride Month with the life of LGBTQ+ icon Sylvia Rivera.

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In this episode, Lavetta introduces the life and career of pioneering, provocative, and influential soul singer Millie Jackson (American, born 1944), known for her raunchy spoken word style. The conversation covers Jackson's early life, her persona, her entry into the music industry, her innovative approach to performance and songwriting, and her impact on the music industry. Next, Miriam introduces the life and advocacy of Sylvia Rivera (American, 1935–2011), highlighting her advocacy for trans rights, her involvement in the Stonewall riots, and her impact on the LGBTQ+ community. The hosts further touch on her personal struggles, as well as her independence and business acumen, her legacy, and the ongoing fight for equality and recognition.

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This week, the ladies are back from a much needed break to kick off Season 6 with a bang. Miriam takes us around the round with the fascinating life of reporter and all-around badass, Martha Gellhorn; and Lavetta takes us on a musical journey for Black Music Month with the amazing life of pop royalty, Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes.

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In this episode, Miriam introduces renowned journalist and war correspondent Martha Gellhorn (American, 1908–1998). The hosts' conversation highlights Gellhorn's fiery personality, her bravery, her travels to report on major events, and her relationships with notable figures including a tumultuous one with Ernest Hemingway. Next, Lavetta introduces rapper and singer Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes (American, 1971–2002). The hosts discuss Lopes' upbringing and her journey to becoming a member of the popular girl group TLC. They revisit her personal and professional struggles throughout her life, including her battle with alcoholism, and her unstable relationship with her boyfriend where she burned down his house. Despite these challenges, TLC achieved great success with their albums 'Crazy Sexy Cool' and 'Fan Mail.' Lopes also embarked on a solo career but faced creative frustrations and conflicts with her group members. Tragically, she died in a car accident in 2002 and leaves behind a legacy of charitable work and a lasting impact on the music industry.

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In this week’s season finale, in honor of the rap beef between Kendrick and Drake, Lavetta covers Chinese hip hop artist, Vava; and in honor of transformative filmmaking, Miriam covers British screenwriter, Janet Green.

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In this episode, Lavetta introduces hip-hop artist Viva (Chinese, born 1995), who incorporates traditional Chinese elements into her music. The hosts discuss her upbringing, musical influences, and career trajectory. Specifically, they discuss the controversy surrounding Viva's use of blackface during a performance. Next, Miriam introduces actress and screenwriter Janet Green (British, 1908–1993) known for her progressive screenplays, and how she tackled controversial topics such as racism and homosexuality in her films during a time when they were considered taboo. They discuss her work on the film Sapphire, which tackles racial tension in 1950s London, and which was groundbreaking for its unsentimental portrayal of the experiences of black people. They discuss another film Green wrote, Victim, which was the first mainstream examination of homosexuality and shed light on the persecution and unfair laws faced by gay men. The hosts discuss how despite the risks involved in addressing social issues and religious intolerance, Green's work was recognized and nominated for awards.

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This week, Miriam covers the original Hollywood “It Girl,” actress Clara Bow; and Lavetta covers the inspiration for the character Mariko-sama from the hit show “Shogun,” Hosokawa Tama.

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In this episode, Miriam introduces silent film actress Clara Bow (American, 1905–1965). The hosts discuss Bow's difficult childhood, her entry into the film industry, and her rise to fame as the embodiment of the flapper. An iconic Hollywood actress known for her roles in silent films, Bow faced challenges in her personal life, including controlling producers and tabloid scandals, but she remained true to herself and was a trailblazer in portraying strong, independent women on screen. Next, Lavetta introduces legendary noblewoman Hosokawa Tama (Japanese, 1563–1600), also known as Hosokawa Gracia and Tomoko Gracia. Not much is known about her early life. She was the daughter of a powerful daimyo, raised in a castle, and married into the influential Hosokawa family. After her husband's death, she was caught in the power struggle between rival factions and was ordered to be taken hostage. However, to preserve her honor and the honor of her family, she chose to take her own life instead. Her story has been the inspiration for numerous works of Japanese historical fiction, including the novel Shogun.

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This week, Lavetta covers the fascinating life of producer and philanthropist, Camille Cosby; and Miriam covers the little known exploits of warrior and total badass, Khutulun.

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In this episode, Lavetta introduces philanthropist Camille Cosby (American, born 1944), also known as the wife of comedian Bill Cosby. The hosts discuss her origin of an upper-class upbringing with expectations to marry well. Cosby dropped out of college to marry a struggling comedian, and then supported his career and managed their finances. His wandering eye resulted in a child, and Cosby moved the family to Massachusetts to shield them from his toxic behavior. She returned to school and earned a doctorate, and played a crucial role in helping him pivot to clean, family-friendly comedy, including the creation and success of The Cosby Show, which portrayed a middle-class black family and challenged stereotypes. Despite the allegations of his infidelity and sexual assault, Cosby remained loyal and defended her husband publicly. Next, Miriam introduces warrior princess and wrestler Khutulun (Mongolian, 1260–1306), daughter of Kaidu, the most powerful ruler of Central Asia, and niece of Kublai Khan, first Mongol ruler of China. The hosts discuss her strategic role in Mongol military campaigns and her male relatives' efforts to prevent her from succeeding her father.

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This week, Miriam covers the career of Belgian-American psychotherapist and author who wants us to connect more, Esther Perel; and Lavetta covers the marriages of American socialite and Nazi sympathizer who stole the heart of the King of England, Wallis Simpson.

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In this episode, Miriam introduces the life and work of renowned therapist and author Esther Perel (Belgian-American, born 1958), who is the daughter of Polish Jewish Holocaust survivors. The hosts explore topics most associated with Perel, such as community, monogamy, and the impact of virtual interactions on human connection. The conversation touches on issues of race and identity, highlighting the need for understanding and empathy in a diverse society. Next, Lavetta introduces Wallis Simpson (American, 1896–1986), a socialite who sought to marry into wealth and social status. Her first husband was US Navy pilot Earl Winfield Spencer Jr., followed by her second husband, Anglo-American shipping executive Ernest Simpson. During this time, Simpson became involved with the future King of England, Edward VII, then Prince of Wales, and they had a long affair. She captured his heart and led him to abdicate the throne. Their affair and subsequent marriage were met with controversy and disapproval from the British royal family and society. Simpson was seen as a gold digger and Nazi sympathizer. After Edward abdicated, they lived a luxurious yet nomadic life, supported by the British government. They eventually settled in France.

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This week, Lavetta covers the surprising background of adult film star turned presidential nemesis, Stormy Daniels; and Miriam covers the controversial life of social worker turned birth control activist, Margaret Sanger.

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In this episode, Lavetta introduces pornographic film actress, director and former stripper Stormy Daniels (American, born 1979). Lavetta describes Daniels' early life growing up in a low-income household and experiencing abuse. The hosts discuss Daniels' entry into the adult entertainment industry and her success as a performer and director. She gained notoriety for her alleged affair with Trump and the subsequent legal battles that followed. Despite the challenges, she has become a symbol of resilience and has used her platform to advocate for women's rights and speak out against abuse of power. Next, Miriam introduces birth control activist, sex educator, writer, nurse, and the founder of Planned Parenthood, Margaret Sanger (American 1879–1966). Sanger's work in promoting birth control and challenging anti-contraception laws paved the way for the legalization of birth control in the US. She opened the first birth control clinic in the country and founded organizations that continue to advocate for women's health and reproductive rights today. Miriam explains how while Sanger advocated for women's reproductive rights and fought against censorship, she held problematic views on eugenics.

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This week, Miriam tells the story of the first black woman to gain major commercial success in country music, Linda Martell; and Lavetta covers the life of mega star, Beyoncé, including her new chart topping album release, "Cowboy Carter."

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In this episode, Miriam first introduces country music artist Linda Martell (American, born 1941), the first black woman to have commercial success in country music. The hosts discuss the challenges she faced in a predominantly white industry and the impact of racism on her career. Martell started her career as part of the singing group the Anglos and later became a solo artist. She signed with Plantation Records, a controversial name for a record label, and released several singles that gained moderate success on the country music charts. She faced taunting and racial slurs from white audiences while performing, but continued to persevere, and dealt with a lawsuit from her manager and limited promotion from her record label. Despite these obstacles, Martell made history as the first black female artist to perform on the Grand Ole Opry radio broadcast.

Next, Lavetta introduces singer, songwriter, actress and businesswoman Beyoncé (American, born 1981). The hosts discuss her upbringing in a musical family, her early performances, and the formation of the group Girl's Tyme, which later became Destiny's Child. They touch on the struggles the group faced and the eventual success they achieved. Led by Beyoncé, the group faced internal conflict and legal turmoil as they navigated their rise to fame. Beyoncé embarked on a solo career, and she ventured into acting. After a hiatus, she returned with the critically acclaimed self-titled album 'Beyoncé' and later formed her own company. Beyoncé's impact extends beyond music, as she has used her platform to advocate for social justice and empower marginalized communities.

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This week, Lavetta covers the recent rise of legal journalist reporter, Meghann Cuniff aka Meghann Thee Reporter; and Miriam covers the legacy of media icon, Oprah Winfrey aka Still A Dime Piece.

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In this episode, Lavetta introduces Southern California-based legal affairs journalist and reporter Meghann Cuniff (American, born 1984). The hosts discuss her background and career, including her coverage of high-profile trials such as the Vanessa Bryant lawsuit and the Tory Lanez trial. Cuniff's reporting on the Tory Lanez trial gained her notoriety and highlighted the need for factual and unbiased journalism in the age of social media. And as part of the conversation, the hosts discuss the misogyny surrounding the Megan Thee Stallion trial and the hip-hop inspired trials covered by Cuniff. Next, Miriam introduces producer, actress, and media executive Oprah Winfrey (American, born 1954). The hosts explore her early life, childhood, and early career. They touch on Oprah's relationships and personal struggles, and her rise to fame and success. They explore Winfrey's impact on talk shows, her relatability, and her cultural influence. They discuss her unconventional success, her impact on difficult conversations, and her philanthropy. They touch on misconceptions surrounding Oprah, and her ability to address mistakes publicly and her legacy as a trailblazer in the media industry.

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This week, Miriam covers the problematic yet fascinating life of ice cream pioneer and inventor, Nancy Johnson; and Lavetta tackles all things surrounding the recent chatter around the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton.

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In this episode, Miriam introduces the life and achievements of the inventor of the hand-cranked ice cream churn, Nancy Johnson (American, 1794–1890). The hosts explore the controversy surrounding her "technology-disrupting" patent and the role of Augustus Jackson (American, 1808–1852), an enslaved chef, in the development of American-style ice cream. Next, Lavetta introduces Kate Middleton (British, born 1982), and discusses her background and association with the British Royal Family. Middleton, now known as Catherine, Princess of Wales, comes from a background that combines aristocratic and working-class roots, and she met Prince William while studying at the University of St. Andrews. They married in 2011 and have three children. The hosts discuss the recent speculation and controversy surrounding Kate's apparent disappearance and hospitalization for abdominal surgery, the security breach involving Kate's medical records, and Middleton's release of a video explaining her health condition and treatment.

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This week, Miriam and Lavetta sit down to talk with the delightful actress, activist, podcast host and quadruple threat friend, Daniella Rabbani. Check out Daniella on her very own show, the Mom Curious Podcast.

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This week, Lavetta and Miriam welcome another special guest! Multi-talented actress, director, singer, and podcast host, the very funny Danielle Rabbani (American, born 1984) joins the Notorious Women hosts to discuss her background, professional path, and of course, among podcast hosts, Rabbani's wildly successful podcast Mom Curious, a safe space for moms to have candid conversations about parenthood. The hosts talk about Rabbani's experience in Yiddish theater, growing up Jewish in New York City (vs. anywhere else in America), and generational trauma. The talk about the age-old question, "Are Jewish people white?" and last but definitely not least, hope.

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This week, Lavetta tells the story of Hollywood icon and problematic sexual poster girl, Marilyn Monroe; and Miriam tells the story of footballer and faʻafafine trailblazer, Jaiyah Saelua.

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In this episode, Lavetta introduces the life and legacy of actress, model, and '50s and early '60s sex symbol Marilyn Monroe (American, 1926–1962). The hosts discuss the challenges with Monroe's mother Gladys and the unknown identity of his father. They look into her marriage at a young age, her work at the Radio Plane Company and her successful modeling career. Norma Jeane (her birth name) faced the pressures of early Hollywood, underwent a transformation into the iconic Marilyn Monroe, and dedicated herself to becoming a better actor. Lastly, the hosts describe her financial struggles, her relationships, and her popularity and the effects of her sex symbol persona on her legacy. And they discuss her untimely death. Next, Miriam introduces trailblazing footballer Jaiyah Saelua (American Samoan, born 1988) who played for the American Samoa national team, who overcame challenges and achieved success in the sport. Saelua is fa'afafine, which is a third gender present in Polynesian society, and she was the first openly transgender footballer qualified to appear in a FIFA's World match, and she continues to be a FIFA ambassador for equality and LGBT athletes.

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This week, Miriam and Lavetta talk and laugh it up with Indian-American writer, comedian and performer, Fizaa Dosani.

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This week, Lavetta and Miriam welcome another special guest! Stand-up comedian and actress Fizaa Dosani (Indian-American) joins the Notorious Women hosts to discuss her background, experiences in stand-up comedy, and challenges in the entertainment industry. Dosani talks about growing up in Florida and the prevalence of Confederate flags. She shares her journey in stand-up comedy, from early interest to finding her voice. She discusses the stereotypes she has faced as an Indian American actress and the importance of representation. They highlight the creation of Facial Recognition Comedy, a platform for diverse comedians who challenge the confusion and tokenism faced by South Asian women in the comedy industry. She shares her experiences of being mistaken for other South Asian comedians, the frustration that led her to create the platform, and the challenges of representation and diversity in Hollywood, including the prevalence of colorism.

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This week, Miriam covers the remarkable and sometimes hilarious life of tennis great, Althea Gibson; and Lavetta covers one of the most interesting bad girls in history and who the New Orleans Gilded Age press called the “Notorious Negress,” Lulu White.

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In this episode, Miriam introduces the life and achievements of Althea Gibson (American, 1927–2003), a trailblazing African-American tennis player who crossed the color line of international tennis. The hosts cover Gibson's early life and introduction to tennis, her rise in the sport, her financial struggles, her historic achievements, international success, and retirement. Gibson had an enormous impact on the tennis world and leaves a legacy as a pioneer for black athletes. Next, Lavetta introduces Lulu White (American, 1868–1931), a notorious figure in New Orleans during the Storyville period. Known as the Diamond Queen due to her extravagant lifestyle and wealth, the hosts discuss her background, her business ventures, and the luxurious brothel she owned called Mahogany Hall, which featured photographs and biographies of the women who worked there. White's reputation, violent offenses, and legal troubles are also examined, along with her failed business ventures. They look at White's decline and demise, as well as her legacy and references in popular culture.

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