In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Arden Cartrette is joined by psychologist and award-winning author Jessica Zucker to discuss her new book, Normalize It: Upending the Silence, Stigma, and Shame That Shape Women’s Lives. Known for her groundbreaking work and viral movement I Had a Miscarriage, Jessica shares the story behind her 16-week pregnancy loss and how it transformed her personal and professional life.

Together, Arden and Jessica explore the many layers of womanhood that are too often silenced—grief, periods, reproductive health, friendships, sexual assault, and more. They talk about the emotional complexity of these experiences and the societal pressure to "move on" quietly. This conversation is a call to action: to remove shame, embrace vulnerability, and normalize the full range of emotions that come with being human.

Jessica offers her therapist’s insight, personal experiences, and compassionate advocacy, reminding listeners that their stories matter—and that healing begins with speaking out.

Topics Discussed:

• The story behind I Had a Miscarriage

• Writing Normalize It and the process of telling hard stories

• Grief and pregnancy loss at 16 weeks

• The cultural stigma surrounding miscarriage and menstruation

• The importance of vulnerability and storytelling

• Navigating family dynamics and identity after loss

• Creating space for emotional healing and self-advocacy

• How support groups foster community and connection

Connect with Jessica Zucker:

Instagram: @ihadamiscarriage

Follow Arden & Miscarriage Stories:
Instagram: @themiscarriagedoula
Website: https://www.themiscarriagedoula.co
Subscribe to the Miscarriage Stories podcast wherever you listen.

Keywords: Miscarriage, Women's Health, Mental Health, Grief, Reproductive Health, Shame, Stigma, Identity, Vulnerability, Support Groups, Storytelling, Self-Advocacy