I really like Kathy Smith. She has a great helpful personality, she always stays on top of the latest exercise research and doesn't pass on old workout myths, she emphasises correct FORM (no flinging weights around!), and her workouts are generally pretty fun.
I would highly recommend that you pick up one of videos -- she has a series called Lift Weights to Lose Weight. Either the original video or the more recent Vol 2 will give you all the info you need to get started. The only equipment you'll need to buy are 2 pairs of cheap iron dumbells -- probably a pair of 3 lbs and a pair of 5lbs. Get one or both of the videos and watch them, then decide what you need to get. You can buy the videos on Amazon, ebay, etc. and a lot of stores are carrying the second one too.
She also has a new more comprehensive program called Project: You that combines weights and cardio and is really varied. You can get that from her web site
www.kathysmith.com.