Episodes
Thursday Feb 29, 2024
S2 E28: Elizabeth Bathory
Thursday Feb 29, 2024
Thursday Feb 29, 2024
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.history.com/this-day-in-history/bathorys-torturous-escapades-are-exposed
https://www.historyhit.com/the-blood-countess-facts-about-elizabeth-bathory/
https://serialkillershistory.wordpress.com/2017/12/20/the-true-story-of-elizabeth-bathory-the-blood-countess-2/
Photos:
Čachtice Castle https://www.historyhit.com/app/uploads/2021/09/C%CC%8Cachtice-Castle.jpg
Thursday Feb 15, 2024
S2 E27: Jayne Valseca
Thursday Feb 15, 2024
Thursday Feb 15, 2024
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 run a ranch. Like a boss!
Thank you to our sources!
https://www.oxygen.com/dateline-unforgettable/crime-news/eduardo-valseca-wife-jayne-mexico-kidnapping
https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/obituaries/jayne-rager-whose-husband-was-kidnapped-in-mexico-dies-at-45/2012/05/07/gIQASKy08T_story.html
https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna35781197
Thursday Feb 08, 2024
S2 E26: Emily Roebling
Thursday Feb 08, 2024
Thursday Feb 08, 2024
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 long it’s lasted…why do we continue to doubt the capability of women?
Thank you to our sources!!
https://www.asce.org/about-civil-engineering/history-and-heritage/notable-civil-engineers/emily-warren-roebling
https://www.britannica.com/biography/Emily-Warren-Roebling
https://theglindafactor.com/emily-warren-roebling/
https://www.magnificentwomen.co.uk/engineer-of-the-week/83-emily-roebling
https://wams.nyhistory.org/industry-and-empire/labor-and-industry/emily-warren-roebling/#teaching
https://guides.archives.rpi.edu/agents/people/146
https://www.womenhistoryblog.com/2014/06/emily-warren-roebling.html
Photos:
https://www.bkwaterfronthistory.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/7/unsung_builders_5-634x960.jpg
https://assets.editorial.aetnd.com/uploads/2009/11/brooklyn-bridge-gettyimages-90002294.jpg?width=828&%3Bheight=400&%3Bcrop=2%3A1&quality=75&auto=webp
https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/80/Brooklyn_Museum_-_Portrait_of_Emily_Warren_Roebling_-_Charles-%C3%89mile-Auguste_Carolus-Duran.jpg
https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2023/12/10/13/78481631-12815103-Emily_Roebling_right_pictured_next_to_her_husband_Washington_Roe-a-112_1702215945515.jpg
https://willplumb.com/wp-content/uploads/Emily-Roebling.jpg
Thursday Feb 01, 2024
S2 E25: Hannelore Schmatz
Thursday Feb 01, 2024
Thursday Feb 01, 2024
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. Hannelore's descent continued but ended in her passing at 39, becoming the first woman and German to die on Everest.
Her lifeless body, eerily well-preserved, remained on Everest, known as the "German Woman." In 1984, an attempt to recover her body ended in more tragedy. Finally, a gust of wind sent her body over the Kangshung Face, lost forever.
Hannelore's story sheds light on the challenges of Everest, where fatigue, harsh conditions, and risky decisions can lead to tragedy. With over 200 bodies on the mountain, it serves as a stark warning to those daring to venture into the Death Zone.
Thank you to our sources!!
https://allthatsinteresting.com/hannelore-schmatz
https://www.tranquilkilimanjaro.com/about-hannelore-schmatz-the-first-german-and-first-woman-to-die-on-mount-everest/
https://thoughtnova.com/hannelore-schmatz-the-first-woman-to-die-on-everest-and-the-dead-bodies-on-mount-everest
http://www.mounteverest.net/expguide/permit.htm
https://www.nationalgeographic.com/adventure/article/climbing-mount-everest-1
https://www.businessinsider.com/dead-bodies-on-mount-everest-are-hard-to-get-down-2019-5
https://basecampmagazine.com/2020/01/18/requirements-climbing-mount-everest/
https://www.globaladventurechallenges.com/journal/mind-blowing-facts-about-mount-everest
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/12-extreme-facts-about-mount-everest/CAX46UUCXLFBWBUVKLK7RHTHHU/
Thursday Jan 25, 2024
S2 E24: Belva Lockwood
Thursday Jan 25, 2024
Thursday Jan 25, 2024
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 with a toddler, she fought for education and persuaded Genesee College to admit her. Despite societal norms, she became a prominent lawyer, challenging gender stereotypes.
Belva's vibrant household in downtown Washington became a legal hub. She fearlessly commuted on her bike, challenging societal norms. Her legal career saw notable cases, including being the first woman to argue before the U.S. Supreme Court in Kaiser v. Stickney.
In her 70s and 80s, Belva continued her legal career, advocating for peace and representing the Eastern Cherokee in a successful Supreme Court case. An advocate for women's suffrage, she marched for the cause until her passing in 1917 at 86.
Belva Lockwood's legacy lives on as a pioneer for women in law and politics.
Thank you to our sources!!
https://www.womenofthehall.org/inductee/belva-lockwood/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belva_Ann_Lockwood
https://awpc.cattcenter.iastate.edu/directory/belva-lockwood/
https://postalmuseum.si.edu/exhibition/women-on-stamps-part-1-political-firsts/belva-ann-lockwood
https://www.archives.gov/publications/prologue/2005/spring/belva-lockwood-1
https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nys/buffalo/news/2023/03/22/niagara-county-pioneer-belva-lockwood-first-to-shatter-glass-ceiling
https://nwculaw.edu/belva-ann-lockwood-biography
PHOTOS:
https://tpsteachersnetwork.org/images/tps/images/116095cae06490f5c23.89344126.jpg
https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcT_fm02HfrLuqIXxbg4yjPX3-e4HoC3UJMoEg&usqp=CAU
https://i0.wp.com/nursingclio.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Belva-Lockwood-1915-LOC.jpg?ssl=1
Thursday Jan 18, 2024
S2 E23: Susan Kuhnhausen
Thursday Jan 18, 2024
Thursday Jan 18, 2024
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 the challenges head-on. Her decision for a trial separation marked the beginning of a life-altering event.
Fast forward to September 6, 2006 – a night that would redefine Susan's strength. A brutal attack in her own home by a man named Ed Haffey, linked to a haunting past of conspiracy and murder. In a gripping 14-minute struggle, Susan fought for her life, emerging victorious against all odds.
The aftermath revealed a sinister plot involving her ex-husband, Michael, offering money for Susan's murder. The weight of the evidence led to Michael's conviction, yet he never acknowledged guilt until his passing.
Susan's resilience shines through as she took precautions against potential threats, sought justice through legal means, and became an advocate for crime victims. Her journey is a testament to the human spirit's capacity to endure, overcome, and inspire.
Thank you to our sources!
https://www.wweek.com/news/2016/08/17/a-hit-man-came-to-kill-susan-kuhnhausen-she-survived-he-didnt/
https://www.oregonlive.com/breakingnews/2008/03/woman_who_strangles_attacker_w.html
https://www.oregonlive.com/politics/2014/06/portlander_who_hired_hitman_to.html
https://original.newsbreak.com/@true-crime-mysteries-megan-1588233/2807116309578-man-sends-a-hitman-to-kill-his-wife-but-she-strangled-her-attacker
https://www.wweek.com/news/2016/08/17/a-hit-man-came-to-kill-susan-kuhnhausen-she-survived-he-didnt/
https://blurredbylines.com/articles/susan-kuhnhausen-walters-survivor-hitman-portland/
Thursday Jan 11, 2024
S2 E22: Dee Dee and Gypsy Rose Blanchard
Thursday Jan 11, 2024
Thursday Jan 11, 2024
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 crimes extended to falsely diagnosing Gypsy with numerous illnesses, using her past as a nurse's aide to deceive doctors. With a deep understanding of medical terminology, she fabricated conditions and subjected Gypsy to surgeries, including the removal of salivary glands.
The illusion of Gypsy's illnesses persisted until her teenage years, as Dee Dee kept her out of school and continued to play the role of a devoted caregiver. The public, unaware of the deception, showered the Blanchard’s with sympathy and support.
Gypsy's escape attempts, including a secret online romance with Nicholas Godejohn, led to the shocking murder of Dee Dee. The truth unraveled, exposing Gypsy's years of abuse and unnecessary medical treatments. Gypsy pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, receiving a 10-year sentence, while Godejohn was sentenced to life in prison. Recently released, Gypsy maintains remorse for her actions and seeks a fresh start, leaving behind the twisted legacy of Munchausen syndrome by proxy.
Thank you to our sources!!
https://www.aetv.com/tags/dee-dee-blanchard
https://www.investigationdiscovery.com/crimefeed/crime-history/5-disturbing-bizarre-facts-about-dee-dee-blanchard-gypsy-rose
https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/who-is-nicholas-godejohn-what-to-know-about-the-man-who-killed-gypsy-rose-blanchards-mom/3313667/
https://www.oxygen.com/crime-news/the-gypsy-rose-blanchard-murder-case-everything-to-know
https://www.biography.com/crime/gypsy-rose-blanchard-mother-dee-dee-murder
Podcast: Mystery and Murder Analysis by Dr. Phil; Season 1, Episodes 1-5
PHOTOS:
https://people.com/thmb/odoqnFJdv9voqzZgqk_Yi-JWVIk=/750x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(943x192:945x194):format(webp)/gypsy-rose-blancharde-1-4db9f6b24eaa4df6988ba3aa2a890c26.jpg
https://people.com/thmb/Lb60sqaK-15U3OjYOkmy9_CM1FE=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(539x0:541x2):format(webp)/gypsy-rose-blanchard-010424-310bc9ef39c94de29ec77e2b6a9946b8.jpg
https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/the-act-hulu-gypsy-rose-1553033713.jpg?crop=0.564xw:1.00xh;0.224xw,0&resize=1200:*
https://www.usatoday.com/gcdn/authoring/authoring-images/2023/12/27/USAT/72038494007-xxx-img-mommy-dead-and-deare-3-1-4-ric-0-t-9-m.JPG?width=660&height=372&fit=crop&format=pjpg&auto=webp
https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-560w,f_auto,q_auto:best/rockcms/2023-12/231228-Gypsy-Rose-Blanchard-al-0757-01ff79-8fb05c.jpg
Thursday Jan 04, 2024
S2 E21: Gloria Vanderbilt
Thursday Jan 04, 2024
Thursday Jan 04, 2024
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 Cooper, and her impact on art and fashion.
Thank you to our sources!!
Sources:
https://www.townandcountrymag.com/society/tradition/a28067965/gloria-vanderbilt-children-family/
https://flashbackdallas.com/2019/06/19/gloria-vanderbilts-4-husbands-and-their-dallas-connections/
https://www.biography.com/celebrities/gloria-vanderbilt
https://people.com/tv/who-is-gloria-vanderbilt-anderson-cooper-mom/
https://www.britannica.com/biography/Gloria-Vanderbilt
Photos:
Gloria as a baby:
https://people.com/thmb/uBChFxeZcExscgqQ4uCaPjgPOvw=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999x0:1001x2):format(webp)/gloria-vanderbilt-1-25c07c7e79f7476096b40749c4880db5.jpg
10 year old Gloria:
https://media.womanmagazine.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/b0aad93009b2b7565d439053c8b2ae2cd918c968-1285x1600-1-822x1024-1.png?strip=all&lossy=1&quality=88&webp=85&sharp=1&w=1920&ssl=1
1st Husband: https://people.com/thmb/PZv3eM9_7WgIQmNLBfDCt25IQLk=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999x0:1001x2):format(webp)/gloria-vanderbilt-3-d5d4aa65d2b940f2a17201edab1bdd8c.jpg
2nd Husband: https://flashbackdallas.files.wordpress.com/2019/06/stokowski_vanderbilt_1950_pinterest.jpg
3rd Husband:
https://flashbackdallas.files.wordpress.com/2019/06/lumet-sidney_vanderbilt_wedding_w-mag.jpg?w=274
4th Husband:
https://flashbackdallas.files.wordpress.com/2019/06/gloria-vanderbilt_wyatt-cooper_wikipedia_ebay-photo_101170.jpg?w=227
Gloria:
https://people.com/thmb/xzy_zMM0SGUHOUibrlcR2oUsIbs=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(999x0:1001x2):format(webp)/gloria-vanderbilt-4-6fc5af139c9f44279461b69f7fc9289f.jpg
Gloria, Anderson & Carter:
https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/swiss-born-socialite-gloria-vanderbilt-poses-with-her-two-news-photo-52694489-1560804606.jpg?crop=0.679xw:1.00xh;0.163xw,0&resize=1200:*
Gloria & Anderson:
https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/journalist-anderson-cooper-and-artist-gloria-vanderbilt-news-photo-519146800-1560803670.jpg?resize=980:*
Thursday Nov 30, 2023
S2 E20: Lisa Nowak
Thursday Nov 30, 2023
Thursday Nov 30, 2023
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? The pursuer was none other than Lisa Nowak, an astronaut entangled in a love triangle that led to a shocking incident at an Orlando parking lot.
Thank you to our sources!!
https://www.texasmonthly.com/true-crime/lust-in-space/
https://www.cnn.com/2009/CRIME/11/10/florida.astronaut.trial/
Thursday Nov 23, 2023
S2 E19: Alva Vanderbilt
Thursday Nov 23, 2023
Thursday Nov 23, 2023
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 in Rhode Island, where she bonded with high-ranking socialites like Consuelo Yznaga. The aftermath of the Civil War prompted her family's move to England and later France, exposing Alva to diverse cultural experiences.
Known for her love of conflict, Alva confronted gender constraints, despising the limitations imposed on women. Her unconventional childhood included beating up boys who teased her and nearly taking a life over such taunts. Alva, described as "homely" in a world valuing beauty and wealth, defied expectations with her cunning and ambition.
Alva's marriage to Willie Vanderbilt faced challenges, marked by infidelity and a public divorce in 1895. Her revenge against Willie resulted in a temporary social exile. Undeterred, Alva orchestrated her daughter Consuelo's marriage to the Duke of Marlborough, a union built on financial considerations rather than love.
Alva’s journey, marked by highs and lows, reflects a relentless pursuit of justice and equality for women.
Thank you to our sources!!
Sources:
https://www.vanderbiltmuseum.org/mansion/moments-in-vanderbilt-history/
https://www.npr.org/2006/02/01/5159494/consuelo-and-alva-an-early-story-of-celebrity
https://encyclopediaofalabama.org/article/alva-vanderbilt-belmont/
https://www.dontdiewondering.com/alva-vanderbilt-the-it-girl-of-the-gilded-age/
Photoshttps://epqkkxb65h3.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/m-9853.jpg?strip=all&lossy=1&w=259&ssl=1
https://www.factinate.com/storage/app/media/factinate/2023/04/Alava_E_Belmont.jpg
https://www.factinate.com/storage/app/media/factinate/2023/04/Mrs._O.H.P._Alva_Belmont_Cropped-1024x754.jpg
https://backend.dontdiewondering.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/alva-mansion-.jpg