Podcast Summary: "Minisode: An Interview with 'I Thought It Would Be Better Than This' Author Jessica N. Turner"

Currently Reading hosts Meredith Monday Schwartz and Kaytee Cobb engage in a heartfelt and insightful conversation with author Jessica N. Turner in this compelling minisode released on April 11, 2025. The episode delves deep into Jessica's latest work, personal experiences, and the profound impact of friendship and vulnerability in navigating life's adversities.

1. Introduction and Welcome

The episode opens with host Katie expressing her excitement to welcome back Jessica Turner, a long-time friend and previous guest on the podcast. At [00:00], Katie warmly greets Jessica, setting a tone of camaraderie and anticipation for the engaging discussion ahead.

2. Guest Introduction: Jessica Turner

At [00:43], Jessica introduces herself, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing her online presence with the middle initial "N" to avoid confusion with a similarly named site. She outlines her role as an influencer dedicated to assisting busy women in overcoming decision fatigue and navigating life's challenges. This foundation leads into her discussion about her new book.

3. Book Overview: "I Thought It Would Be Better Than This"

Jessica introduces her latest book at [01:03], titled I Thought It Would Be Better Than This: Rise from Disappointment, Regain Control and Rebuild a Life You Love. Described as a blend of memoir and self-help, the book chronicles the end of her 16-year marriage when her husband came out as gay, leaving her to rebuild her life amidst profound personal upheaval.

Jessica Turner [02:10]: "This is a book for you. I think you'll feel seen and understood, and also you'll feel really motivated to do something with where you are that it doesn't have to be the end of your story."

4. Personal Connections: Katie's Divorce and Jessica's Support

Katie shares a vulnerable moment at [03:12], revealing her own ongoing divorce and how Jessica's openness provided a safe space for her during this tumultuous time. Jessica reflects on the reciprocal nature of their friendship and the broader impact of sharing personal struggles.

Katie [03:12]: "I have chills and goosebumps and I'm, like, a little bit sweaty...seeing you on the other side...is really inspiring."

5. Writing Process and Vulnerability

The conversation turns to the emotional challenges Jessica faced while writing her book. At [06:34], she discusses the delicate process of sharing her story without turning it into a mere divorce narrative, aiming instead to resonate with anyone experiencing various forms of disappointment.

Jessica Turner [05:31]: "Whether it is learning how to bake bread or it's learning how to go on your first date after being with someone for 15, 20 years... there's hope that that gives us."

6. Post-Divorce Relationship with Matthew

Jessica delves into her relationship with her ex-husband Matthew post-divorce. At [09:00], she explains the complexities of maintaining a civil relationship, especially when both are public figures, and the emotional weight of sharing their intertwined lives in her writing.

Jessica Turner [09:00]: "He cried the whole weekend. It brought up a lot of stuff."

7. Growth as a Writer and Memoir Focus

Discussing her evolution as an author at [12:37], Jessica contrasts her current memoir-style writing with her previous practical guides. She highlights her increased comfort with vulnerability and the importance of intimate storytelling in building trust and courage.

Jessica Turner [13:01]: "I've become a better writer. I've also become more comfortable in speaking vulnerably..."

8. New Relationship with John

At [15:22], Jessica introduces her new partner, John, sharing how their relationship blossomed shortly after completing her book. She describes the supportive dynamic they share, especially regarding her writing and personal growth.

Jessica Turner [16:38]: "John is a reader primer. He read it right away...He's really proud of it."

9. Impact and Reception of the Book

Jessica discusses the broader reception of her book, noting its potential to help a wide audience beyond those experiencing divorce. She emphasizes the universal nature of disappointment and the lack of educational resources to navigate it.

Jessica Turner [24:31]: "I do think that this book is a book for everyone... have to be okay in some capacity with a public facing person."

10. Book Recommendations

In the Currently Reading segment, Jessica shares her recent literary favorites:

• "The Berry Pickers" by Amanda Peters: A poignant story about an indigenous family from Canada facing adversity in Maine, blending cultural commentary with personal loss.

  Jessica Turner [29:31]: "It is phenomenal, and I have not stopped thinking about it for probably two and a half months."

• "Molokai" and "Daughter of Molokai": While she praises Molokai for its gripping portrayal of life on a leprosy colony in Hawaii, she expresses a less enthusiastic reception to its sequel.

  Jessica Turner [29:26]: "Molokai is about a woman who is on an island... Daughter of Molokai just did not hit me in the same way."

11. Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Katie reflects on the profound themes of friendship and mutual support highlighted in both the podcast and Jessica's book. She emphasizes the importance of being present for one another during challenging times, a core message that resonates throughout their conversation.

Katie [27:07]: "It's about coming alongside... to be with them. There's withness in this book that is so essential to a society that feels very disconnected."

12. Additional Information and Sign Off

The episode concludes with information on where listeners can find the hosts and Jessica online, as well as acknowledgments of the podcast's production team. Katie encourages listeners to engage with the podcast’s additional content available on Patreon.

Notable Quotes:

• Jessica Turner [01:03]: "I was very conscious that I did not want to write a divorce book or a divorce help book."

• Katie [03:12]: "Seeing you on the other side...is really inspiring."

• Jessica Turner [05:31]: "There’s a million examples of just seeing somebody a little further down the road and the hope that that gives us."

• Jessica Turner [13:01]: "I've become a better writer. I've also become more comfortable in speaking vulnerably..."

• Jessica Turner [24:31]: "I do think that this book is a book for everyone..."

This episode of Currently Reading offers a nuanced exploration of personal loss, resilience, and the power of storytelling. Jessica N. Turner’s candid discussion provides listeners with both solace and practical insights, affirming that even in the darkest times, rebuilding and finding joy is possible.