In this heartfelt episode of The Bloom and Grow Show, I’m joined by my dear friend Jessica Turner—author of I Thought It Would Be Better Than This. We’re diving into her personal journey and how she found the strength to rebuild her life after disappointment. From navigating unexpected grief to embracing new beginnings, Jessica’s story is full of hope, honesty, and healing.

The Power Of Sharing Our Stories

Jessica and I have known each other for nearly two decades, and it’s been beautiful to watch our lives and businesses evolve in parallel. In this episode, we talk about the ups and downs we’ve both experienced—growing families, shifting careers, and learning to cope with life not turning out as we expected. Jessica shares openly about the heartbreak she faced when her marriage ended during the pandemic, after her husband came out as gay. What could have broken her became the starting point for rediscovering who she is and how to rebuild a life after deep personal disappointment.

Facing Disappointment Head-On

In her book I Thought It Would Be Better Than This, Jessica opens up about what it really felt like to start over—balancing motherhood, running a business, and processing the emotional weight of divorce. Her story will resonate with anyone who’s ever had to grieve the life they thought they’d have. She invites us to honor our losses while also seeing the potential in what comes next—to rebuild not just for survival, but for joy and purpose.

Healing Through Therapy and Movement

One of the most powerful practices Jessica shares is the role that therapy and physical movement have played in her healing journey. For the first time, Jessica sought therapy during this challenging time, and it made all the difference in helping her process grief and gain clarity. Additionally, she embraced strength training, particularly after purchasing a Peloton bike during the pandemic. The combination of mental and physical wellness practices has not only helped her through her healing process but has also empowered her to show up as the best version of herself.

Finding the Courage To Tell Your Story

One of the biggest takeaways from this episode is the importance of sharing our stories—especially when we’re going through tough times. Jessica talks about the importance of having a support system that can hold space for your grief without judgment. She shares how telling her story publicly—despite the fear and vulnerability—has been incredibly freeing for her. It’s a powerful reminder that when we open up and let others in, we’re not only helping ourselves, but we’re helping others feel less alone in their own struggles.

Building Resilience and Embracing New Beginnings

Jessica’s book I Thought It Would Be Better Than This is more than just a memoir; it’s a guide to help others navigate their own disappointments and create a life they love. She talks about how resilience is built over time, especially when we embrace life’s “hidden seasons”—the times when we’re working through challenges behind the scenes. These seasons aren’t wasted; they’re building the foundation for what’s next. Jessica’s story is a testament to the fact that we are capable of handling more than we think and that sometimes the best things come after life’s toughest moments.

Key Takeaways from Our Conversation

• Disappointment is universal: Everyone has something they thought life would be different in, and it’s okay to grieve that.
• Therapy and movement are key to healing: Consistent therapy and physical movement (like strength training) can drastically improve mental and emotional well-being.
• Sharing your story is freeing: Vulnerability and telling your story can open up new opportunities for connection and healing.
• Slow growth is valuable: Rebuilding your life and embracing new beginnings takes time, but the process builds resilience and strength.

I hope you found Jessica’s story as inspiring as I did. Her journey is a powerful reminder that even in the midst of life’s most difficult moments, there’s always room for new beginnings and a life that’s worth celebrating.

Listen to this episode of the Bloom & Grow Show: