Women of War

Women of War is a raw, resonant podcast series that dives into the duality of battle—both seen and unseen. This isn’t just about combat; it’s about every kind of war women face. From the front lines of military service to the emotional trenches of trauma, healing, caregiving, and resilience, this series is a tribute to the women who’ve worn the uniform, carried the burden, and kept fighting. Hosted by Olivia Nunn, a combat-tested veteran and mental health advocate, Women of War shares the deeply personal, often untold stories of female veterans, nurses, law enforcement officers, and everyday women whose lives have been shaped by conflict, loss, love, and reinvention. This is more than a podcast—it’s a space to break the silence, rewrite the narrative, and stand in the power of shared truth. Each episode explores the strength, complexity, and courage of women who have battled both the war outside and the war within—and survived to tell their story.

  1. Feb 24

    The Legacy Keeper: Edna Cummings and the Fight to Honor the 6888th Ep. 13

    Some women make history. Others make sure it’s never forgotten. In this unforgettable episode of Women of War, we sit down with Edna Cummings, a trailblazing Army colonel (Ret.) and national advocate who has spent the last several years ensuring that the legacy of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion—the first and only all-Black, all-female unit deployed overseas during World War II—receives the honor it long deserved. From her own distinguished military career to her tireless work behind the scenes pushing Congress to award the Congressional Gold Medal to the “Six Triple Eight,” Edna opens up about what it means to carry the torch for justice, representation, and historical truth. Her journey is one of legacy, leadership, and love for those who served in silence. In this episode, you’ll hear: The untold story of the 6888th and how Edna helped bring it to national attention What drives her advocacy for women and African American veterans Her reflections on leadership as a Black woman officer in the U.S. Army How preserving history is an act of service and empowerment for future generations Edna’s voice is calm, clear, and deeply courageous. Her life’s work proves that honoring the past can shape the future—and that no contribution to our freedom should ever be forgotten. 🎧 Now streaming on Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9e628d8f-bf2f-4ab9-bc07-5417ab7df602/women-of-wariHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-women-of-war-313063924/YouTube: https://m.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6Fq25gdNK0MJGhlpa5T_NG5vIFOh9ID0Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Pu5zHeFiNYL7jH8cviDHv?si=qNrhDzo1S7WY9TTDSiUEDA Apple: https://apple.co/454tXpW 📢 This episode is proudly sponsored by MilMentor, an organization committed to empowering military-connected leaders across all ranks, roles, and walks of life. For more on Edna: https://ednacummings.com/ For more on Olivia: https://www.olivianunn.com To be a guest, email Olivia at olivia@olivianunn.com To schedule a call with Olivia https://calendly.com/olivianunn

    44 min
  2. Feb 17

    SLAY to Success: Reclaiming Power, Purpose, and Possibility with Rochelle Hemingway Ep. 12

    From military boots to bold leadership boots, Rochelle Hemingway’s story is one of transformation, tenacity, and triumph. In this episode of Women of War, we sit down with the trailblazing CEO and Founder of SLAY to Success®, LLC—a woman who shattered ceilings throughout her 30+ year career in the United States Air Force, culminating in her role as the highest enlisted leader on a base of over 8,000 personnel. Rochelle shares how growing up in a military family shaped her worldview, and how she developed a leadership style rooted in authenticity, resilience, and purpose. We dive deep into her evolution from airman to strategic leader to published author, speaker, and motivator—and how her signature mantra, “SLAY: Strong. Limitless. Authentic. You.”, became both a personal creed and a rallying cry for others to rise. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Her transition from service to civilian success The emotional and mental hurdles of identity, confidence, and reinvention What it means to lead with heart, especially in rooms where you’re the “only one” How health, fitness, and spiritual growth anchor her leadership Rochelle doesn’t just talk about empowerment—she lives it, and she challenges all of us to tap into our unapologetic truth and own our power. 🔊 Listen now on Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9e628d8f-bf2f-4ab9-bc07-5417ab7df602/women-of-war iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-women-of-war-313063924/ YouTube: https://m.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6Fq25gdNK0MJGhlpa5T_NG5vIFOh9ID0 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Pu5zHeFiNYL7jH8cviDHv?si=qNrhDzo1S7WY9TTDSiUEDA Apple: https://apple.co/454tXpW 📢 Proudly sponsored by MilMentor, an organization that champions mentorship and professional development across the entire military-connected community. For more on Rochelle: https://www.slaytosuccess.com/ For more on Olivia: https://www.olivianunn.com To be a guest, email Olivia at olivia@olivianunn.com To schedule a call with Olivia https://calendly.com/olivianunn

    54 min
  3. Feb 10

    From Convoy to Camera: Michelle Horn’s Journey Through War, Words, and Legacy Ep. 11

    In this powerful episode of Women of War, we sit down with Michelle Horn, a retired U.S. Army veteran whose 21-year career spanned battlefields, briefing rooms, and broadcast stations. Michelle opens up about her extraordinary journey—beginning as a transportation officer commanding convoys through Kuwait and Iraq, and later transitioning into a public affairs officer whose voice carried the stories of our servicemembers to global platforms. We talk about grit, adaptability, and storytelling as a form of service. Michelle shares what it was like navigating high-stakes media relations at the Pentagon as the spokesperson for the Office of the Secretary of Defense and leading operations for American Forces Network Europe. But beyond her resume, Michelle reveals the humanity behind the uniform—the sacrifices, the resilience, and the unwavering dedication to amplifying the voices of others. This episode explores what it means to lead through communication, how the military shapes narrative strategy, and why family legacy and community continue to drive Michelle’s post-service mission to support veterans and their families. 💥 It’s a conversation about finding your voice, using it for good, and owning every chapter of your service story. 🔊 Available now on Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9e628d8f-bf2f-4ab9-bc07-5417ab7df602/women-of-war iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-women-of-war-313063924/ YouTube: https://m.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6Fq25gdNK0MJGhlpa5T_NG5vIFOh9ID0 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Pu5zHeFiNYL7jH8cviDHv?si=qNrhDzo1S7WY9TTDSiUEDA Apple: https://apple.co/454tXpW 📢 Sponsored by MilMentor, a national initiative empowering military-connected professionals across leadership, education, and entrepreneurship. For more Michelle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellelynnehorn/ For more on Olivia: https://www.olivianunn.com To be a guest, email Olivia at olivia@olivianunn.com To schedule a call with Olivia https://calendly.com/olivianunn

    49 min
  4. Jan 27

    The Longest March: Legacy, Leadership, and the Unseen Strength of a Warrant Officer with Wendy Wayman Ep. 9

    After over 40 years of active duty, Wendy Wayman retired as the longest continually serving active-duty warrant officer in the United States Army. But this isn’t just a story of longevity — it’s a masterclass in resilience, technical mastery, and breaking barriers in some of the Army’s most specialized and misunderstood ranks. In this episode, Wendy shares what it means to serve with unwavering commitment across decades of military transformation — from the Cold War to Operation Iraqi Freedom. As a signals intelligence and electronic warfare expert, Wendy didn’t just operate in the shadows — she became the connective tissue between commanders and soldiers, the mentor who helped shape 34 future warrant officers, and the calm voice in chaotic moments of war. We talk about: Her unlikely start in uniform at 17. The myth and reality of the warrant officer role. What it felt like to serve in combat zones alongside her own children — pinning their ranks on during deployment. How her personal mantra, “No is just the first step to yes,” became a tool to dismantle roadblocks for others. And why retirement is just the beginning — as she now leads Whiskey Squared LLC, inspiring the next generation of technical leaders and changemakers. Wendy’s story is one of depth, grit, and profound legacy — a reminder that behind every great system is a human force keeping it together. 🎧 Listen now on Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/9e628d8f-bf2f-4ab9-bc07-5417ab7df602/women-of-war iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-women-of-war-313063924/ YouTube: https://m.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6Fq25gdNK0MJGhlpa5T_NG5vIFOh9ID0 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Pu5zHeFiNYL7jH8cviDHv?si=qNrhDzo1S7WY9TTDSiUEDA Apple: https://apple.co/454tXpW 🫡 Sponsored by MilMentor — building powerful communities across the military-connected landscape. For more on Wendy: https://whiskeysquaredllc.com/ For more on Olivia: https://www.olivianunn.com To be a guest, email Olivia at olivia@olivianunn.com To schedule a call with Olivia https://calendly.com/olivianunn

    36 min
  5. Jan 21

    The Mission Behind the Message: Kathleen Turner on Power, Perception, and Purpose Ep. 8

    What happens when the war isn't just on the battlefield, but in the battle for narrative and truth? In this gripping episode of Women of War, we sit down with Kathleen Turner, a powerhouse public affairs strategist who’s shaped how the world sees the United States Army—at home and abroad. From leading communications at the Pentagon to deploying in Iraq and Europe, Kathleen has spent her career crafting messages during moments of crisis, change, and historic transformation. But behind the camera flashes and press briefings lies a story of grit, grace, and leadership under pressure. We dive into: What it’s like to serve as the voice of the Army’s top generals The tension between image and authenticity as a woman in uniform Her philosophy on mentoring the next generation of military storytellers 🎧 This episode is a masterclass in narrative warfare, ethical leadership, and the untold struggles of women who operate behind the scenes—but lead from the front. 🛡️ Sponsored by MilMentor — the largest on-demand mentorship network for the military community. Whether you're navigating transition, launching a business, or looking for your next mission, MilMentor connects you with those who’ve been there. 🔗 Listen now on Spotify, iTunes, YouTube, Amazon Music, and iHeartRadio. For more on Kathy: https://www.awfdn.org/leadership/kathleen-turner/ For more on Olivia: https://www.olivianunn.com To be a guest, email Olivia at olivia@olivianunn.com To schedule a call with Olivia https://calendly.com/olivianunn

    48 min
  6. Jan 13

    Unstoppable Force: How Melissa Washington Built a Movement for Women Veterans Ep. 7

    When Melissa Washington raised her hand to serve in the U.S. Navy at 18, she wasn’t just stepping into a uniform—she was stepping into her future as a visionary changemaker. In this compelling episode of the Women of War Podcast, we dive into the extraordinary journey of Melissa A. Washington—Navy veteran, award-winning entrepreneur, public speaker, and founder of Women Veterans Alliance, Women Veterans Giving, and Women Veterans Magazine. Melissa’s story is one of boldness, clarity of mission, and relentless commitment to uplifting others. Her experiences in the military, corporate America, and entrepreneurship all led to one undeniable truth: Women veterans deserve more visibility, resources, and support. And she made it her mission to deliver just that. 🔥 In this episode: Discover how Melissa turned meetups into a national movement The challenges and triumphs of carving space for women veterans in a male-dominated system Why purpose-driven leadership is a force multiplier for impact Her powerful advice for those navigating transitions and reinvention Whether you're a service member, spouse, advocate, or ally—this episode will challenge you to think bigger, lead boldly, and never underestimate the power of showing up for others. 🛡️ Sponsored by MilMentor — supporting military-connected leaders at every level with mentorship, professional development, and a powerful community network for growth, opportunity, and resilience. Tag a woman veteran who needs this inspiration. Share this episode. Subscribe to the Women of War Podcast and be part of a movement that amplifies HER story. For more about Melissa: https://www.womenveteransalliance.com/melissa-washington/?srsltid=AfmBOoqYyeoDcJHIy1UnFfTezKoBqtwUc2fhqnm34-WAS_By8gahOK_- For more on Olivia: https://www.olivianunn.com To be a guest, email Olivia at olivia@olivianunn.com To schedule a call with Olivia https://calendly.com/olivianunn

    46 min
  7. Jan 6

    The Honor of the Mission: Leading When Lives Depend on It- Maureen Farrell Ep. 6

    In this powerful episode of Women of War, we sit down with Maureen Farrell—a retired Air Force leader, healthcare strategist, and executive coach—whose life has been defined by leadership in the most critical environments imaginable. From the sacred duty at Dover Air Force Base in the aftermath of 9/11 to commanding public health operations across the globe, Maureen offers hard-earned insight into what it truly means to lead under pressure. We dive deep into her legacy within the military healthcare system, her role in shaping enterprise-level reforms, and the human side of high-stakes decision-making. We discuss: The weight and reverence of missions involving our fallen heroes Leading 1,200+ professionals across global military health operations Transforming systems from the inside out to deliver real, lasting impact What leadership looks like in crisis zones like Operation Allies Relief Coaching today’s executives on calm, precise, people-first leadership Now, through her company Greater Heights Coaching & Consulting, Maureen helps mission-driven leaders sharpen their decision-making, reduce burnout, and build cultures of trust and execution. 🔊 This episode is essential listening for leaders navigating high-pressure environments—and anyone striving to lead with courage and clarity. 🎙️ Listen now on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, Amazon Music, and iHeartRadio. 🛡️ This episode is proudly sponsored by MilMentor—an inclusive community platform that equips military-connected individuals with mentorship, tools, and a powerful network to thrive in leadership, entrepreneurship, and service across all walks of life. For more on Maureen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maureen-farrell-coach/ For more on Olivia: https://www.olivianunn.com To be a guest, email Olivia at olivia@olivianunn.com To schedule a call with Olivia https://calendly.com/olivianunn

    42 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Women of War is a raw, resonant podcast series that dives into the duality of battle—both seen and unseen. This isn’t just about combat; it’s about every kind of war women face. From the front lines of military service to the emotional trenches of trauma, healing, caregiving, and resilience, this series is a tribute to the women who’ve worn the uniform, carried the burden, and kept fighting. Hosted by Olivia Nunn, a combat-tested veteran and mental health advocate, Women of War shares the deeply personal, often untold stories of female veterans, nurses, law enforcement officers, and everyday women whose lives have been shaped by conflict, loss, love, and reinvention. This is more than a podcast—it’s a space to break the silence, rewrite the narrative, and stand in the power of shared truth. Each episode explores the strength, complexity, and courage of women who have battled both the war outside and the war within—and survived to tell their story.

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