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

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 expectations that can weigh heavily on us, especially when we have to make tough decisions like utilizing daycare for the first time. Christy opens up about her struggle with the limited maternity leave policy and the balancing act between professional duties and those precious moments with her newborn.

We then shift gears and talk about the intricacies of breastfeeding while managing work commitments. Christy and I dive into the challenges of establishing sleep patterns and feeding routines that align with our work schedules. The pressure to breastfeed and the logistics of pumping at work can feel overwhelming, yet each mother's journey is unique. We share candid experiences about when supplementing with formula became a practical choice for us and how crucial workplace support is in navigating these early motherhood challenges.

Finally, we tackle the notorious "mom guilt" and the importance of setting boundaries. From turning off work email notifications to having open discussions with our partners, Christy and I explore strategies for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Communication emerges as a key theme, not just in managing expectations at work but also in nurturing our relationships at home. Christy also offers valuable resources for career-driven moms, including her supportive Facebook group and website, where mothers can find a community that understands the dual demands of work and family life. Join us as we offer practical insights and support for mothers striving to thrive amidst these challenges.

Connect with Christi:
www.christigmyrcoaching.com
Facebook Group: Thrive As A Career-Driven Mom
IG: career_driven_moms

📺 Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOpw5ui4uxJHx0tLFVtpnfSkpObfc4d-K

You can find Katie at:
website: burntpancakes.com
YouTube: @burnt.pancakes
Instagram: @burntpancakeswithkatie
Email: [email protected]

🚽 Did you know Katie is also a Certified Potty Trainer? 🚽

☎️ Schedule a 1:1 chat today: Schedule Here
💻 Digital Potty Training Course HERE
📖  Potty Training E-Book HERE
🆓  FREE potty training resources HERE
Instagram: @itspottytime
Tiktok: @itspottytime_

Some episodes include affiliate links at no cost to you. 

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 every parent has told, listener-submitted gems, and my own personal favorites. Plus, we’ll talk about why these lies might not be as bad as they seem and how to transition to honesty as your kids get older (because the Wi-Fi can’t be “broken” forever).

Whether you’re looking for a laugh, some new material, or just validation that you’re not alone, this episode is for you.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• Why parents tell little white lies—and why it’s totally okay
• The funniest, most creative fibs from listeners
• My top 5 all-time favorite parenting lies
• When to ease up on the lies and focus on honesty
• A reminder that surviving parenthood sometimes takes a little creativity

Share Your Stories!
Have a parenting fib you’re proud of? Share it with me on social media or via email—I might feature it in a future episode! [email protected]

📺 Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOpw5ui4uxJHx0tLFVtpnfSkpObfc4d-K

You can find Katie at:
website: burntpancakes.com
YouTube: @burnt.pancakes
Instagram: @burntpancakeswithkatie
Email: [email protected]

🚽 Did you know Katie is also a Certified Potty Trainer? 🚽

☎️ Schedule a 1:1 chat today: Schedule Here
💻 Digital Potty Training Course HERE
📖  Potty Training E-Book HERE
🆓  FREE potty training resources HERE
Instagram: @itspottytime
Tiktok: @itspottytime_

Some episodes include affiliate links at no cost to you. 

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 chemistry of baking ingredients like baking soda and baking powder. Say goodbye to flat cookies and hello to perfection with Hetal's expert advice.

Hetal opens up about her journey from being an organic chemist and healthcare consultant to becoming a celebrated food writer and cookbook author. Inspired by her experience on MasterChef, she embraced new culinary opportunities and turned her passion into a fulfilling career. Learn about the challenges and triumphs she faced while creating her cookbook, and how she artfully balances family life with her vibrant photography and food styling work. It's a story of transformation and success that can inspire anyone looking to pivot their career.

Explore the colorful world of DIY baking with influences from Indian arts and textiles, as Hetal shares her creative decorating techniques and family-favorite recipes. From lemon cardamom snickerdoodles to passion fruit shortbread cookies, discover the joy of baking with loved ones and the cherished traditions that accompany them.

Hetal shares also shares about her collaboration with Challenge Butter and Cookies 4 Kids, an organization raising money for pediatric cancer research.

Connect with Hetal:
Her Blog: https://milkandcardamom.com/
Her Books: Desi Bakes and Milk and Cardamom
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/milkandcardamom/

📺 Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOpw5ui4uxJHx0tLFVtpnfSkpObfc4d-K

You can find Katie at:
website: burntpancakes.com
YouTube: @burnt.pancakes
Instagram: @burntpancakeswithkatie
Email: [email protected]

🚽 Did you know Katie is also a Certified Potty Trainer? 🚽

☎️ Schedule a 1:1 chat today: Schedule Here
💻 Digital Potty Training Course HERE
📖  Potty Training E-Book HERE
🆓  FREE potty training resources HERE
Instagram: @itspottytime
Tiktok: @itspottytime_

Some episodes include affiliate links at no cost to you. 

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 strength she never knew she had. Her commitment to her dream of a large family, even when faced with life-threatening circumstances, is a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of hope and determination.

Alison's narrative takes on a new dimension when she decides to run a marathon at 50, drawing profound parallels between the discipline of marathon training and the emotional journey of surrogacy. Her marathon story is filled with the camaraderie of training alongside her siblings, and the mental toughness required to push through grueling race conditions. This shared experience with her family becomes a metaphor for the strength and adaptability needed in the face of life’s unpredictable challenges, emphasizing the triumph of the human spirit.

Reflecting on her transition to an empty nest, Alison provides heartfelt advice for mothers navigating this new phase of life. She emphasizes the importance of rediscovering personal passions and investing in oneself, encouraging others to embrace new beginnings with grace and introspection. Her insights offer a roadmap for mothers looking to redefine their identities and savor the next chapter of their lives. Join us for this compelling conversation that explores motherhood, endurance, and the transformative power of resilience.

(00:09) - Empty Nest Communication

(10:26) - Journey to Motherhood through Surragacy

(27:41) - Marathon Training and Mental Toughness

(31:34) - Journey of Writing and Marathon Running

(38:50) - Path to Parenthood and Perseverance

Connect with Alison Beder Solway
Get her book: The Miles We Run
Website - www.themileswerun.com
IG - @themileswerun

📺 Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOpw5ui4uxJHx0tLFVtpnfSkpObfc4d-K

You can find Katie at:
website: burntpancakes.com
YouTube: @burnt.pancakes
Instagram: @burntpancakeswithkatie
Email: [email protected]

🚽 Did you know Katie is also a Certified Potty Trainer? 🚽

☎️ Schedule a 1:1 chat today: Schedule Here
💻 Digital Potty Training Course HERE
📖  Potty Training E-Book HERE
🆓  FREE potty training resources HERE
Instagram: @itspottytime
Tiktok: @itspottytime_

Some episodes include affiliate links at no cost to you. 

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 recharge so you can actually enjoy the season.

I cover:

• Letting go of the “perfect holiday” myth and focusing on what truly matters.
• How to squeeze in micro-moments of self-care, even on your busiest days.
• Setting boundaries with a bow (and saying "no" without the guilt).
• Finding laughter in the inevitable holiday fails.
• Asking for help and embracing shortcuts to keep your sanity.

If you’ve been feeling like the holiday magic is turning into holiday madness, this episode is here to help you slow down, breathe, and remember that you deserve some holiday cheer, too.

🎁 What You’ll Learn:

• Simple, manageable self-care tips that fit into a busy mom’s life.
• How to prioritize the traditions and events that matter most.
• Practical scripts for setting boundaries with family, friends, and yourself.
• Why it’s okay (and necessary!) to ask for help and let go of “doing it all.”
• The power of laughter to turn holiday chaos into joyful memories.

📺 Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOpw5ui4uxJHx0tLFVtpnfSkpObfc4d-K

You can find Katie at:
website: burntpancakes.com
YouTube: @burnt.pancakes
Instagram: @burntpancakeswithkatie
Email: [email protected]

🚽 Did you know Katie is also a Certified Potty Trainer? 🚽

☎️ Schedule a 1:1 chat today: Schedule Here
💻 Digital Potty Training Course HERE
📖  Potty Training E-Book HERE
🆓  FREE potty training resources HERE
Instagram: @itspottytime
Tiktok: @itspottytime_

Some episodes include affiliate links at no cost to you. 

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, and the significant impact the global shutdown had on her postpartum journey. We also discuss the broader topic of anxiety levels in children, a crucial concern during these unprecedented times.

Caroline also sheds light on the importance of finding mom groups and fostering a supportive community. We explore the Mom Walk Collective, an inspiring organization that connects mothers through shared experiences and mutual support. Caroline emphasizes the value of positive affirmations and steering clear of negative self-talk to promote a healthy self-image in children. Together, we reflect on those "burnt pancake moments" in motherhood, where quick reactions can be challenging but ultimately provide opportunities for growth and learning.

In our conversation, Caroline shares her inspiring transition from a corporate wellness career to becoming a postpartum and motherhood coach. We discuss the initial experiences of educating large groups and the realization of missing personal connections. Caroline's personal story of being laid off during the pandemic and starting her own coaching practice is both relatable and inspiring. She highlights the need for support in postpartum life, focusing on self-care and the societal pressures to quickly return to normalcy after childbirth. Through her journey, Caroline aims to make a significant impact in the lives of mothers, emphasizing the importance of community and support during the motherhood journey.

Connect with Caroline:
Her Website: https://www.motherhencoaching.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/motherhencoaching/

📺 Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOpw5ui4uxJHx0tLFVtpnfSkpObfc4d-K

You can find Katie at:
website: burntpancakes.com
YouTube: @burnt.pancakes
Instagram: @burntpancakeswithkatie
Email: [email protected]

🚽 Did you know Katie is also a Certified Potty Trainer? 🚽

☎️ Schedule a 1:1 chat today: Schedule Here
💻 Digital Potty Training Course HERE
📖  Potty Training E-Book HERE
🆓  FREE potty training resources HERE
Instagram: @itspottytime
Tiktok: @itspottytime_

Some episodes include affiliate links at no cost to you. 

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 viral sensation.
• Why moms everywhere have adopted the Stanley tumbler as their hydration hero.
• The surprising reasons behind its newfound popularity among teenage girls.
• How other brands have jumped on the trend to flood the market with lookalikes.

Whether you’re sipping from your Stanley, considering buying one, or just curious about how a water tumbler became a cultural phenomenon, this episode has something for you.

📺 Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOpw5ui4uxJHx0tLFVtpnfSkpObfc4d-K

You can find Katie at:
website: burntpancakes.com
YouTube: @burnt.pancakes
Instagram: @burntpancakeswithkatie
Email: [email protected]

🚽 Did you know Katie is also a Certified Potty Trainer? 🚽

☎️ Schedule a 1:1 chat today: Schedule Here
💻 Digital Potty Training Course HERE
📖  Potty Training E-Book HERE
🆓  FREE potty training resources HERE
Instagram: @itspottytime
Tiktok: @itspottytime_

Some episodes include affiliate links at no cost to you. 

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 stroller and the surprising ease of daylight saving time this year, I've been reflecting on how motherhood is constantly evolving.

As my boys edge closer to their teenage years, I've been pondering the big and small transitions we're facing. The anticipation of new experiences and milestones is both thrilling and a little daunting, as we adjust to changing family routines. Whether it's savoring a shower after a beach trip or navigating the school pickup line, these moments are a reminder that we are all on this journey of motherhood together. Tune in for a heartfelt exploration of these transitions and the joy that comes with each new phase of family life.

📺 Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOpw5ui4uxJHx0tLFVtpnfSkpObfc4d-K

You can find Katie at:
website: burntpancakes.com
YouTube: @burnt.pancakes
Instagram: @burntpancakeswithkatie
Email: [email protected]

🚽 Did you know Katie is also a Certified Potty Trainer? 🚽

☎️ Schedule a 1:1 chat today: Schedule Here
💻 Digital Potty Training Course HERE
📖  Potty Training E-Book HERE
🆓  FREE potty training resources HERE
Instagram: @itspottytime
Tiktok: @itspottytime_

Some episodes include affiliate links at no cost to you. 

 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 megareformer machines. I share the ups and downs of returning to a workout routine after having my youngest, Maverick, and how this journey has differed from my experiences with my other pregnancies. 

As the sun rises, so does the hustle of the morning routine with my boys, who seem to have a knack for sleeping in on school days but waking up bright and early on weekends. Our mornings are filled with wake-ups,  breakfast, from cereal to the occasional pancakes. 

 The bustling mornings transition into school drop-offs and my workday, which is a balancing act of producing this podcast, coordinating guests, and managing social media, all while nurturing my side business of potty training consultations.

As the day unfolds, I explore the evening chaos that comes with juggling homework, sports, and family time.  Football practice dominates our schedule, with quick dinners. Bedtime becomes a streamlined affair, with audiobooks aiding Ronin's school quizzes, offering a brief respite before Jake and I finally unwind.

 Throughout this episode, I invite you to embrace the joy in the ordinary, sharing relatable moments that remind us of the beauty in our shared, albeit hectic, lives.

📺 Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOpw5ui4uxJHx0tLFVtpnfSkpObfc4d-K

You can find Katie at:
website: burntpancakes.com
YouTube: @burnt.pancakes
Instagram: @burntpancakeswithkatie
Email: [email protected]

🚽 Did you know Katie is also a Certified Potty Trainer? 🚽

☎️ Schedule a 1:1 chat today: Schedule Here
💻 Digital Potty Training Course HERE
📖  Potty Training E-Book HERE
🆓  FREE potty training resources HERE
Instagram: @itspottytime
Tiktok: @itspottytime_

Some episodes include affiliate links at no cost to you. 

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 unique hurdles of parenting teenagers in a new country without family nearby.

In a world where modern mothers often feel adrift, finding a supportive community is like discovering an oasis. Christina and Claire bring to light the profound impact of creating a "village" through podcasts and social media, where sharing experiences nurtures solidarity and understanding. I recount my own transition from teaching to podcasting, driven by the encouragement from a Moms of Preschoolers group, and how these platforms have become lifelines for countless mothers. Together, we celebrate the spirit of collaboration within the mom podcasting community, where uplifting one another is a shared mission in helping mothers feel less alone.

As our conversation unfolds, we dive into the turbulent waters of raising teenagers in today’s digital landscape. With insights from the documentary "Anxious Nation," we confront the escalating anxiety faced by teens and the crucial role parents play in modeling emotional intelligence. Christina, Claire, and I share personal stories, reflecting on parenting "burnt pancakes" and the myth of easier girl-raising. It's a candid, empathetic discussion aiming to shine a light on the mental health challenges impacting both teenagers and parents, stressing the importance of awareness and proactive support. 

You can find the Momversation Club Podcast and connect with Christina and Claire:
website: https://momversationclub.com/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4RMhSVTy8mBkD9ZXdoj4By?si=b1a3ad27866d4a2a
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momversationclub/

📺 Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOpw5ui4uxJHx0tLFVtpnfSkpObfc4d-K

You can find Katie at:
website: burntpancakes.com
YouTube: @burnt.pancakes
Instagram: @burntpancakeswithkatie
Email: [email protected]

🚽 Did you know Katie is also a Certified Potty Trainer? 🚽

☎️ Schedule a 1:1 chat today: Schedule Here
💻 Digital Potty Training Course HERE
📖  Potty Training E-Book HERE
🆓  FREE potty training resources HERE
Instagram: @itspottytime
Tiktok: @itspottytime_

Some episodes include affiliate links at no cost to you.