Burnt Pancakes: Momversations | Conversations for Imperfect Moms, Chats About Mom Life & Interviews with Real Mamas

Certified financial planner and inspiring mom of two, Veronica Karas, joins me to share her expertise on teaching kids the fundamentals of financial literacy.  Drawing from her experiences, Veronica opens up about the importance of guiding the younger generation in understanding the value of money and making informed financial decisions. From budgeting basics to instilling positive financial value...

When I first returned to work after my maternity leave, I was caught in a whirlwind of emotions—exhaustion, anxiety, and guilt all mixed together. In this episode, I sit down with Christy Gamir, a licensed mental health counselor and coach for moms, who bravely shares her own journey of stepping into a management role while adjusting to life as a new mother. We unpack the societal and familial exp...

Parenting isn’t for the faint of heart—and sometimes, it’s not for the totally honest either! In this episode, I dive into the hilarious world of the little white lies moms tell to survive another day in the trenches. From convincing your kids the park is closed to “saving” the last slice of cake for yourself, these fibs aren’t just funny—they’re lifesavers. Tune in as I share the classic lies eve...

Ever wondered how a background in biochemistry could revolutionize your baking game? Join me as I sit down with Hetal Vasaveda, the mind behind the Milk and Cardamom blog, who transformed her career from healthcare to baking stardom. With a scientific approach to recipe development, Hetal promises to enhance your holiday baking skills with precise measurement techniques and insights into the chemi...

Alison Beder-Solway's journey to motherhood is nothing short of inspiring. After facing the heartbreak of infertility and the challenges of surrogacy, she transformed her experiences into the memoir "The Miles We Run," offering hope and encouragement to others on similar paths. Alison's story is not only about becoming a mother but also about discovering the resilience and stre...

The holiday season is here, and while it’s magical, it can also be downright overwhelming—especially for moms. Between planning, shopping, and keeping the family traditions alive, it’s easy to forget about taking care of yourself . In this episode I'm talking all about realistic self-care for moms during the holidays. Spoiler alert: it’s not about perfection; it’s about finding little ways to...

Join me as I explore the remarkable journey of Caroline Kalicki, a mother of two young daughters and a life coach dedicated to supporting moms. Caroline shares her experiences of navigating motherhood during the pandemic, highlighting the challenges of socializing her children in these unique times.  Listen in as she opens up about her path to motherhood, including the trials of undergoing IVF, an...

In this episode I'm diving into the fascinating history and skyrocketing popularity of the Stanley tumbler. Once a rugged essential for outdoorsmen, this trusty tumbler has transformed into a must-have accessory for busy moms, style-savvy teenagers, and everyone in between. Join me as we uncover: The humble beginnings of the Stanley brand back in 1913. How the Adventure Quencher became a vira...

Remember the days of lugging around a stroller on every family walk? Those days are behind us, and I've found a newfound sense of freedom in the simple joys of motherhood.  Join me as I reminisce about the delightful chaos of chaperoning my son Maverick's pumpkin patch field trip, which brought back a flood of memories from his toddler years. With milestones like no longer needing a stro...

 In this solo episode, I, Katie Fenske, offer an inside look at the whirlwind of life as a mom to three energetic boys. Join me as I recount the typical chaos of a weekday in the Fenske household, starting with the early morning hours I carve out for myself. This precious "me time" is spent indulging in my latest fitness obsession, Legree classes, where I embrace the challenge of megaref...

Joined by the remarkable Christina Struckmeyer and Claire Strong from the Momversation Club podcast, this episode offers a comforting blend of humor and heart as we share our distinct journeys through motherhood. Christina paints a vivid picture of farm life in Northern California, raising her kids among rice and walnut fields, while Claire opens up about her move from England to San Diego and the...

Ever wondered how to balance the chaos of motherhood with personal goals and self-care? Join me for a candid conversation with Tanya Valentine, a mom of three, and podcast host, who opens up about her incredible journey through early motherhood.  Tanya shares the raw reality of managing kids aged six, four, and two, offering heartfelt insights into the transitions between having one, two, and thre...

How can understanding the fourth trimester transform your postpartum experience? I welcome Dr. Sonal Patel to the Burnt Pancakes podcast, where she unpacks the often-overlooked weeks following childbirth. From personal stories to professional insights, Dr. Patel sheds light on the physiological changes mothers endure, the imperative need for sleep, and how to navigate these tumultuous times. Delve...

When Elizabeth Pearson-Garr decided to step away from her career in journalism to become a stay-at-home mom, she wasn't prepared for the rollercoaster that awaited.  In my latest episode, Elizabeth shares her deeply personal journey of finding balance between motherhood and reigniting her professional life. She opens up about the bittersweet moments of watching her children grow up, the rewar...

I sit down with Brenda Ridgely, an author and podcast host, to discuss reclaiming individuality and fostering deep, meaningful friendships amidst the demands of motherhood and professional life. Brenda shares her personal journey through midlife discontent and offers valuable insights on how to overcome the silent epidemic of losing one's sense of self. Together, we explore the importance of...

Join me, Katie Fenske, on this solo episode of the Burnt Pancakes Podcast as I open up about some lesser-known aspects of my life. I kick things off by sharing my unexpected journey as a member of the crew team during my college years at Chapman University. The episode then transitions into my professional journey as a teacher, detailing my experiences across public, private, and independent study...

When MC Underwood received her breast cancer diagnosis in 2021, she couldn't have imagined how her life would change. Facing the reality that she could no longer have children due to hormone treatments, her best friend Alexis stepped up in a moment that would redefine their bond. Join us on this heartwarming episode of the Burnt Pancakes Podcast as MC and Alexis share their remarkable journey...

Join me this week on Burnt Pancakes as I return from a rejuvenating summer hiatus to share the emotional rollercoaster as my youngest, my baby, starts school. Hear my candid thoughts on the developmental differences and the internal debates I faced about early academics, and why, despite my reservations, we ultimately decided this was the best move for our family. With all my kids now in school, I...

Ever wondered how a simple pair of yoga pants became a game-changer for busy moms? In this episode, I take you on a  journey through the invention of yoga pants by Chip Wilson and the rise of Lululemon in 1998. From my first pair of Lululemons back in my early twenties to exploring the many brands available today, you'll hear why these pants have become an indispensable part of my wardrobe an...

In this solo episode  I share my personal journey with VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean). I recount the unexpected news that my first child, Ronin, was breech and the emotional rollercoaster that followed the recommendation for a C-section.  Listen in as I navigate through the trials and triumphs of attempting to flip Ronin with the help of a chiropractor and prenatal yoga, all in the hopes of a...

In this episode, I share the unique experiences and unexpected challenges of raising three energetic boys. Listen in as I recount personal anecdotes about our summer adventures with older kids and the near-impossible task of balancing podcast recording with parenting. From the omnipresence of Legos in every corner of the house to the creative benefits they bring, you'll hear all about the joy...

Sponsor Alert: The Mothering Journal - Get it HERE Ever thought about what it’s like to trade your home for a boat and sail the open waters? Kimberly Ward did just that with her family, and she’s here to share every captivating detail. Inspired by a friend's adventure and driven by a desire to create lasting memories, Kimberly, her husband, and their 10-year-old daughter embarked on a two-yea...

Sponsor Alert: The Mothering Journal - Get it HERE Ever thought about what it’s like to trade your home for a boat and sail the open waters? Kimberly Ward did just that with her family, and she’s here to share every captivating detail. Inspired by a friend's adventure and driven by a desire to create lasting memories, Kimberly, her husband, and their 10-year-old daughter embarked on a two-yea...

Ever wondered how a mom of five navigates the tumultuous waves of raising kids while launching a magazine that speaks to the heart of motherhood? Sarah Lorente, the creative force behind The Mothering Journal, brings her unique perspective and a treasure trove of wisdom to our latest Burnt Pancakes Podcast episode. Together, we unravel the myths surrounding the teen years, the shift from mom guilt...

Struggling to shed those stubborn pounds after entering the fabulous 40s, or finding yourself lost in the maze of health advice post-motherhood? Today, weight loss coach Esther Avant joins me to unravel the secret to sustainable weight loss that doesn't hinge on an all-or-nothing approach. Together, we're debunking diet myths and honing in on the mindset shifts that make all the differen...