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

In this episode, I’m joined by two incredible women who’ve shaped the world of sports media while raising families and breaking barriers, Jenn Hildreth, Emmy-winning ESPN broadcaster, and Aimee Leone, VP of Talent Relations at Fox Sports and a longtime NBC alum.

Together, they co-authored Tough as a Mother, a powerful collection of essays from iconic athletes and broadcasters like Alex Morgan, Becky Lynch, Hannah Storm, and more, sharing the often messy, emotional, and inspiring truth about working motherhood.

🔥 What You’ll Hear In This Episode:

• The behind-the-scenes reality of being a mom in high-stakes sports media
• How they’ve handled mom guilt, road trips, and missed bedtimes
• How motherhood has actually made them better at their jobs
• What still needs to change for working moms in male-dominated industries
• Why telling these stories out loud matters—for us and for the next generation

Whether you're a sports fan or just love a good motherhood story, this episode is packed with honesty, humor, and heart.

📚 Resources & Links:

• Get your copy of Tough as a Mother: https://amzn.to/4lbsT97
• Connect with them on Instagram: @toughasamother_book

📺 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 sit down with Wendy Snyder, a positive parenting educator, family life coach, and founder of the Fresh Start Family program. Wendy shares her journey from feeling stuck in reactive parenting patterns like yelling, threats, and overwhelm, to creating a home rooted in peace, connection, and firm, loving boundaries.

Together, we dive into what it actually looks like to parent with empathy and strength, why ditching punishment doesn't mean raising permissive kids, and how breaking generational cycles can start with one small “yes.”

If you're craving less yelling and more cooperation in your home, this episode is packed with actionable tools and honest encouragement to help you lead with integrity, joy, and purpose.

In this episode, we cover:

• How to discipline without fear, threats, or punishment
• What “related, reasonable, and respectful” discipline actually looks like
• The power of logical consequences that connect, not divide
• How to parent strong-willed “cactus kids” with confidence and compassion
• The first steps to breaking painful generational parenting cycles
• How self-awareness and self-acceptance change everything

Connect with Wendy Snyder:

Website: https://freshstartfamilyonline.com/

Podcast show URL: https://freshstartfamilyonline.com/show/

Social Handles: (DM the word "Pancakes")

Instagram: @freshstartwendy / https://www.instagram.com/freshstartwendy/ YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@wendysnyder-freshstartfamily
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/freshstartfamily
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-snyder-freshstartonline

Learning Resources:

• FREE Quick Start Learning Bundle: 3 Secrets to Thriving with Strong-Willed Kids! (includes downloadable learning guide & interactive online workshop) https://freshstartfamilyonline.com/power
• Grab Wendy’s signature Firm and Kind Parenting Blueprint for setting firm and kind limits with your kids.  https://freshstartfamilyonline.com/firm-kind-blueprint

📺 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. 

This is a throwback to an episode that originally aired on April 28, 2023

Today I am sitting down with Mary Henricks from The Very Mary Life Podcast. We had  a momversation about what it's like when your baby turns 1, what to say when people ask, "When are you going to have another?", how to know when you are done having kids, and why motherhood often feels lonely.

You can follow Mary on social media @theverymarylife,  listen to her podcast The Very Mary Life Podcast or visit her blog The Very Mary 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. 

Parenting teens can feel like navigating an emotional obstacle course—with eye rolls, slammed doors, and the constant question: “Am I doing this right?” In this episode of Burnt Pancakes: Momversations, I’m joined by the creators of Cultivateen Roots, a course designed to help parents understand their teens, build stronger communication, and foster independence without losing connection.

We talk about what’s really going on in the teen brain, why your teen might be pushing you away, and how to set boundaries that actually bring you closer together. Whether your teen is full of sass, silence, or both—this episode offers practical tools and fresh encouragement for the parenting trenches.

In this episode, we cover:

• The #1 mindset shift that helps you connect with your teen
• How to reopen communication when your teen shuts you out
• What’s happening in the adolescent brain (and why it matters!)
• Tips for setting boundaries while supporting independence
• How to stay calm when your teen is anything but
• Encouragement for parents who feel like it’s “too late” to reconnect

Connect with Cultivateen Roots:
Instagram: @cultivateenroots 
Tiktok: @cultivateenroots 
website: www.cultivateenroots.com. 
Podcast listeners can you use the code PANCAKES for 20% off our course

📺 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 of Burnt Pancakes: Momversations, I’m joined by Shelby Merrill, mom of two and founder of the Car Seat Scrub Club. Shelby turned a super relatable pain point (hello, sticky, snack-filled car seats!) into a business that helps busy parents breathe easier. She picks up dirty car seats, deep cleans them at her home, and delivers them fresh and spotless the next day.

We chat about how Shelby started her business, the not-so-glamorous side of cleaning up after other people’s kids, which car seat brands are easiest (or hardest!) to deal with, and how she balances her business with motherhood. This episode is packed with inspiration for any mom with an idea, a hustle, or a pile of crushed crackers in the back seat.

🎧 What You’ll Hear:

• How Shelby came up with the Car Seat Scrub Club
• The real condition of most car seats (you’ll cringe!)
• Why some car seat manufacturers make cleaning extra hard
• Shelby’s journey from idea to full-blown business
• The challenges—and funny moments—of working from home as a mom
• Encouragement for moms thinking about launching a biz of their own

🔗 Connect with Shelby:
Instagram: @carseatscrubclub
Tiktok: shelbymerrill_
Website for courses- www.carseatscrubclub.com/scrubclubcourse

📺 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. 

We’re bringing back one of our all-time favorite episodes of The Burnt Pancakes Podcast! If you’re expecting a baby, dreaming up future kid names, or just obsessed with baby name meanings and trends, you’ll love this fun and insightful conversation.

In this re-aired momversation, I chat with Amber—the one and only Name Fairy—a professional baby name consultant who helps families find names that feel just right.

✨ Whether you’re searching for unique baby names, timeless classics, or want to avoid the top 10 most popular names of the year, Amber has you covered with expert advice and intuitive guidance.

In this episode, we cover:

👶 How to Choose the Perfect Baby Name – Amber breaks down how to find a name that fits your family’s personality, heritage, and values.
📊 Most Popular Baby Names – Hear the names that topped the charts and why they’re trending.
🔮 Predictions for Future Baby Name Trends – From nature-inspired to nostalgic throwbacks, find out what names are on the rise.
💫 Magical, Personalized Name Suggestions – Even though I'm not planning on growing my family, Amber created name ideas that reflect our family’s vibe—and they were so good.

So if you’re in the baby name brainstorming stage, curious about current naming trends, or just want to hear from a real-life name whisperer, this episode is the perfect listen.

🎧 Hit play and enjoy this encore of one of our most-loved episodes!

📱Follow Amber for more name inspo on Instagram and TikTok: @thenamefairy

📺 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. 

As a mom, I've watched my kids become seemingly mesmerized by their screens, and it's a struggle I know many parents face today. 

Join me, Katie Fenske, on this magical journey as I welcome Susie Spikol, a naturalist and the author of "Forest Magic for Kids," to the Burnt Pancakes Podcast. 

We share heartfelt stories and practical advice on how to rekindle your child's connection to nature amidst the overwhelming allure of technology. This episode is packed with inspiration and tools to help you encourage outdoor play that nurtures creativity, resilience, and a lifelong love for the natural world.

Together with Susie, we explore the incredible benefits of outdoor adventures, from climbing trees to hiking, all while balancing those ever-present parental safety concerns. 

Connect with Susie Spikol:
Her Book: https://amzn.to/4mDRJR2
Website: https://susiespikol.com
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susie-spikol-53500a238/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susiespikol/reels/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susie.spikolfaber/

📺 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 today’s episode of Burnt Pancakes: Momversations, we’re throwing out the overwhelm and getting back to the heart of what your newborn actually needs: you. Host Katie sits down with neonatologist, lactation consultant, and author Dr. Joanna Parga-Belinkie to talk about The Baby Bonding Book—a science-backed, judgment-free guide to connecting with your baby in the most important ways.

We cover:

Why emotional bonding is more powerful than any baby gadget

How delivery choices and early routines affect attachment

What to do if you don’t feel that instant connection

Everyday moments that help build long-term emotional security

How to quiet the noise and tune into your instincts

The #1 thing new parents actually need to focus on

Dr. Parga-Belinkie’s advice is warm, real, and backed by science—perfect for moms who are tired of being told they’re doing it wrong. Whether you’re in the thick of newborn life or just prepping for it, this episode is a breath of fresh air.

Resources & Mentions:
📘 The Baby Bonding Book – https://amzn.to/44KDUcX
🎧 Dr. Joanna Parga-Belinkie is also co-host of Pediatrics on Call podcast
📱 Website: https://www.jpbelinkiemd.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jopargalinkiemd/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-parga-57133923/

📺 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. 

School’s out, the kids are home, and moms everywhere are wondering… how are we going to survive summer?

In this fun and honest BONUS episode, I am joined by fellow mom and podcast host Tanya Valentine to talk all things summer break: the excitement, the overwhelm, the snacks, the screen time, and the pressure to make memories (while just trying to stay sane).

We’re sharing what summer feels like in our homes right now, what we’ve learned the hard way, and how we’re lowering the bar in all the best ways.

Plus, we’re inviting you to join us for something brand new:
 👉 Mom Camp: Your Summer Survival Guide
A free weekly newsletter full of real talk, practical tips, and support from moms who get it, plus optional live virtual meetups every Thursday to connect and vent in real time.

🔥 In This Episode We Talk About:

• How we really feel about summer break as moms
• Childhood summer memories vs. summer mom reality
• The pressure to be “fun moms” and why we’re over it
• What we’re letting go of this year
• How to reimagine summer in a way that feels good for you
• A fun round of “Would You Rather: Summer Mom Edition”
• Why we created Mom Camp—and how you can join us

📩 Join Mom Camp: Your Summer Survival Guide

You don’t have to do summer alone.
 Sign up for Mom Camp, a free weekly newsletter that brings you encouragement, practical tips, and a place to connect.
You’ll also get the invite to our Real Talk Meet-Up virtual hangouts.

👉 Join here: https://mailchi.mp/burntpancakes/mom-camp

📺 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. 

Starting solids is one of the most exciting—and overwhelming—milestones of early parenthood. From figuring out when to start, to worrying about choking hazards, allergies, and whether you’re doing it “right,” it’s easy to feel lost in a sea of conflicting advice.

In this episode of Burnt Pancakes, I’m joined by Cinthia Scott—registered dietitian, lactation consultant, mom, and co-author of the upcoming American Academy of Pediatrics book Baby Leads the Way. Together with pediatrician Dr. Krupa Playforth, Cinthia has created a research-backed, approachable guide to help parents introduce solid foods with confidence and calm.

We talk about:

The signs your baby is truly ready for solids

How to safely let babies self-feed

Combining purees and baby-led feeding without confusion

Early allergen introduction and what the science says

Preventing picky eating by building adventurous habits early

Real-life tips for handling messy meals and skeptical relatives

Cinthia’s 6-pillar approach to raising healthy, intuitive eaters

Whether you're gearing up to start solids or you're deep in the spaghetti-on-the-walls stage, this episode is packed with practical tips and reassurance to help you feel confident—and maybe even laugh a little—along the way.

Connect with Cinthia
Book:  Baby Leads the Way https://amzn.to/4jc3hHY
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.baby.dietitian/
https://www.instagram.com/101beforeone/

📺 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.