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

Katie Fenske - Mom of 3 | Potty Training Coach | Former Teacher | Mama Mentor | Boy Mom | Imperfect Mom | Lover of Mom Chats
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The Burnt Pancakes Podcast is here to remind you that in motherhood, EVERYONE BURNS THEIR FIRST PANCAKE. I’m Katie Fenske, a (not so perfect) mom of 3, and I’m inviting you to join in on my conversations with other moms as we talk about all things motherhood; the good, the bad and everything in between. We're flipping our motherhood mistakes into successes and learning how to just keep flipping. MOTHERHOOD TOPICS I DISCUSS:Child Birth and Postpartum RecoveryAdjusting to MotherhoodRaising BoysToddler Mom TipsBeing a Teen MomSelf Care in MotherhoodManaging Kid Sports and a Busy Family ScheduleEpic Mom FailsPotty Training WoesSurviving Summer VacationAND SO MUCH MORE!To see more of Katie, you can find her... Instagram @burntpancakeswithkatieYouTube: @burnt-pancakesWebsite: burntpancakes.comemail: katie@burntpancakes.com

  1. DEC 19 · BONUS

    THROWBACK: From Christmas Trees to Santa Claus: The History Behind My Favorite Christmas Traditions

    Get ready to embark on a fascinating journey as I explore the origins and customs of some of our favorite Christmas traditions. Ever wondered why we decorate an evergreen tree, hang giant socks on our fireplace, or plant a mistletoe over our doorways? Or how about the stories behind Santa Claus and his reindeer, or the popularity of candy canes? This episode is packed with facts and stories that reveal the ancient roots and evolution of these beloved holiday symbols and rituals. This week, I'm also taking a closer look at Christmas cards, and sharing our love for this warm and personal way of connecting during the festive season. Whether you're sending them out or receiving them, they're a reminder to pause and reflect amidst the holiday rush. And remember, everyone makes mistakes, even during the holidays - yes, you might burn your first pancake, but that's all part of the festive fun. So, gather around the fireplace, sip on some hot cocoa, and join me for this  episode on Christmas traditions. We promise, it'll add an extra sprinkle of magic to your holiday season. See our Christmas Cards: click HERE Sources: https://www.history.com/news/christmas-traditions-history https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christmas_stocking https://www.history.com/news/candy-canes-invented-germany https://www.whychristmas.com/customs/christmas-cards#:~:text=The%20custom%20of%20sending%20Christmas,1843%20by%20Sir%20Henry%20Cole. https://www.whychristmas.com/customs/santa-claus https://www.whychristmas.com/customs/nutcrackers 📺 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: katie@burntpancakes.com 🚽 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.

    25 min

  2. DEC 12

    129: Surviving the Holidays With Teens: Five Strategies That Actually Help

    In today’s episode of Burnt Pancakes: Momversations, I'm diving into the world of holiday parenting, but not the toddler nap-time meltdown era. I'm talking about the teen and tween years, where emotions run high, expectations get complicated, and the holiday season suddenly feels like unfamiliar territory. I’m sharing insights inspired by an incredible guide from CultivaTeen Roots called Holiday Harmony: A Parent Quick Guide for the Teen Years. If you’ve ever thought, “Wow… this stage is a whole different ballgame,” you’re not alone. Holidays with big kids require new strategies, new communication, and a whole lot of connection, and this episode breaks down five practical ways to support your tween or teen through the season. In this episode, I cover: Why holiday stress looks different for teens and tweensHow giving them space can prevent overwhelm and conflictThe importance of setting clear expectations before eventsPractical tools to help them manage sensory overloadHow to stay calm and not take their reactions personallyChoosing one meaningful thing to honor their holiday experienceSimple conversation starters for the drive homeMy own experience shifting from “little kid holidays” to “teen territory”Links Mentioned: Check out CultivaTeen Roots and their course Making AdoleSenseHoliday Harmony: A Parent Quick Guide for the Teen YearsWhy this episode matters: Holidays can be a beautiful time of connection but they can also bring stress, overstimulation, and power struggles, especially with older kids who are still figuring themselves out. This episode gives you tools to create more harmony and support your teen or tween with empathy, clarity, and confidence. Perfect for you if: You’re parenting a tween or teenYou feel like holidays are more complicated than they used to beYou want fewer meltdowns and more meaningful momentsYou’re craving practical, real-life strategiesYou want to build deeper connection with your big kid this season 📺 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: katie@burntpancakes.com 🚽 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.

    28 min

  3. DEC 5

    128. Navigating Your Child’s Rare Disease with Nikki McIntosh

    In this episode of Burnt Pancakes: Momversations, I had the honor of talking with Nikki McIntosh, author of Rare Mamas: Empowering Strategies for Navigating Your Child’s Rare Disease and the incredible woman behind the Rare Mamas community. Nikki’s story begins when her youngest son, Miles, was diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy and everything in her world shifted. She left her 18-year marketing career and stepped fully into caregiving, advocacy, and creating a place for other rare moms to feel seen and supported. During our conversation, we dive into: ✨ What those first days after a rare disease diagnosis actually feel like ✨ How Nikki found purpose, community, and strength in the middle of fear and uncertainty ✨ The emotional and mental load of caring for a child with a rare or complex condition ✨ Why humor and storytelling matter so much during hard seasons ✨ Practical tools from her book for navigating medical systems, advocating for your child, and protecting your own well-being ✨ The message Nikki hopes every lost or overwhelmed rare mama hears today Even if you’re not walking through a rare disease journey, this conversation is full of encouragement for any mom who’s ever felt exhausted, stretched thin, or alone. Nikki’s honesty and heart are such a gift, and I know so many moms will feel less isolated after listening. Resources I Mentioned: – Her book: Rare Mamas by Nikki McIntosh – The Rare Mamas community + podcast - HERE – Instagram: @rare_mamas If this episode touched you, please share it with a friend who might need the reminder that she’s not the only one, and that hope can live right alongside the hard. 📺 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: katie@burntpancakes.com 🚽 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.

    26 min

  4. NOV 28

    127. How We Do Santa in Our House

    In today’s episode, I’m spilling the hot cocoa on how we do Santa in our house — the traditions, the magic, and yes… the moment my oldest started to figure it all out. I’m sharing how my parents did Santa when I was growing up, why my husband and I decided to keep the tradition alive with our kids (even though some people say it’s “lying”), and what we’ve done over the years to keep the magic going without being caught red-handed. You’ll also hear the story of when Ronin started asking questions, how we handled “the talk,” and how we’re now bringing him in on the fun for his little brothers.  It’s sweet, it’s sentimental, and a little bit funny — basically a true momversation about growing up, letting go, and keeping the joy of Christmas alive in a new way. If you’ve ever wondered how other families handle Santa — or you’re just trying to figure out how to navigate that “Is Santa real?” conversation — this one’s for you. In This Episode: The Santa traditions I grew up withWhy we decided to continue the Santa magic in our familyHow we balanced Santa with the real meaning of ChristmasThe moment my son started putting the pieces togetherHow we had “the talk” (and why it made me a little sad)What we’re doing now to keep the magic alive for his brothersGET MY SANTA TAGS: https://burntpancakesshop.etsy.com/listing/1129506604 📺 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: katie@burntpancakes.com 🚽 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.

    23 min

  5. NOV 21 · BONUS

    THROWBACK: How to Get the Perfect Family Photo

    This is a throwback episode from 2023. Today I sit down with Bethany, from Bethany Jean Photography to talk all about family photos. She is not only an incredibly talented photographer with over 6 years experience, but she is also a mom to 4 kiddos. She knows what it is like to be on both sides of the camera lens. She's got all the tricks on how to get the perfect family photo even if your family is not so perfect (trust me, she has photographed my crazy boys multiple times). Bethany gives us tips on how to choose the right photographer, when to book a photographer, what to wear, how to prepare for the shoot and what to do when your kids or partner aren't as cooperative as you hoped. You will love this momversation! You can find Bethany: website: bethanyjeanphotography.com Instagram: @bethanyjeanphotography Bethany Pinterest Boards for Palette Inspiration Bethany's Styling Tips 📺 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: katie@burntpancakes.com 🚽 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.

    46 min

  6. NOV 14

    126. Why 80s and 90s Kids Had the Best Childhoods (and the Best TV Shows)

    If you grew up in the 80s or 90s, this episode is basically a warm hug made of slap bracelets, Lisa Frank stickers, and the smell of a Blockbuster on a Friday night. In this episode, I’m taking a little trip down memory lane to celebrate the absolute best childhood decades — the 80s and 90s. Back when we played outside until the streetlights came on, drank from the garden hose, and somehow survived toys that were equal parts fun and dangerous. Remember when TGIF was the highlight of the week? Family Matters, Full House, Boy Meets World — I can still sing every single theme song. And Saturday morning cartoons? That was the best for kids. We woke up early on purpose, poured a giant bowl of cereal, and watched hours of pure joy. We didn’t have iPads or streaming — we had patience, creativity, and boredom, and honestly, it made us awesome. So today, I’m laughing my way through all the reasons growing up in the 80s and 90s was simply the best — and how I’m trying to bring some of that freedom and simplicity into motherhood today. ☀️ In This Episode, I Chat About: Why being a free-range kid was the best kind of childhoodThe weird, wonderful, slightly dangerous toys that shaped usThe glory days of TGIF (and why Danny Tanner > YouTube families)Saturday morning cartoons and sugary cereal magicThe struggle of dial-up internet and the art of the mixtapeHow we can give our kids a taste of that 90s-style simplicity🧃 This Episode Is For You If: You can still sing every word to the Full House theme song, think kids today are missing out on boredom, and occasionally miss the thrill of renting a VHS tape on a Friday night. 📺 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: katie@burntpancakes.com 🚽 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.

    16 min

  7. NOV 7

    125. Parenting Tips, Wine Sips, and Laughs with Danielle Frank

    Parenting is hard — but you know what helps? Humor… and maybe a glass (or bottle) of something full-bodied. 🍷 In this laugh-out-loud episode of Burnt Pancakes: Momversations, I chat with Danielle Frank, author of A Wine Lover’s Guide to Parenting — a satirical rhyming storybook that pairs wine wisdom with the wild world of raising kids. Danielle spent over two decades in the wine and spirits industry before writing her debut book, blending (pun intended) her knowledge of wine with the realities of parenting she’s witnessed as an aunt and friend. From “letting things breathe” to finding the right “balance and structure,” her witty take on life’s messiest moments reminds parents everywhere that sometimes, the best pairing for a tantrum is a sense of humor. In this episode, Katie and Danielle talk about:  🍷 How the idea for A Wine Lover’s Guide to Parenting came to life 😂 Why laughter is an underrated parenting survival skill 👶 The surprising similarities between wine tasting and toddler tantrums 📚 How Danielle’s background in wine shaped her playful perspective on parenting 🥂 The best “wine pairings” for every stage of parenthood — from newborn nights to teen drama Whether you’re a mom who loves wine, needs a laugh, or just wants to feel seen — this episode is your perfect pour. Connect with Danielle Frank: 📖 A Wine Lover’s Guide to Parenting — https://amzn.to/3JB65To 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/createagreatstory/ 📺 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: katie@burntpancakes.com 🚽 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.

    26 min

  8. OCT 31

    124. Generations of Parenting: How Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z Are Raising the Future

    In today’s episode of Burnt Pancakes: Momversations, we’re taking a time-traveling trip through parenting history, from the days of “Because I said so!” to the era of “Let’s name our feelings.” After a funny moment when my husband sounded exactly like his dad, we started wondering… Are we really parenting differently than the generations before us? Or have we just rebranded the same rules with softer language and better snacks? We break down generational parenting styles including: Boomer parenting (1946–1964): Structure, discipline, and responsibilityGen X parenting (1965–1980): Independence and problem-solvingMillennial parenting (1981–1996): Emotional intelligence and gentle guidanceGen Z parenting (1997–2012): Vulnerability and mental health awarenessGen Alpha (2013–present): Screen-savvy, emotionally aware, and always looking for the iPad chargerYou’ll hear:  ✅ What each generation brought to parenting  ✅ The benefits each generation passed down  ✅ How every era shapes the next  ✅ Why every parent thinks their kids might not survive adulthood  ✅ A humorous look at Gen Alpha kids and their “skibidi” slang The big takeaway?  No generation nailed this whole parenting thing — but every generation moved us forward in some way. We may cringe when we hear ourselves say the things our parents said… but maybe they were on to something after all. 📺 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: katie@burntpancakes.com 🚽 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.

    24 min
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About

The Burnt Pancakes Podcast is here to remind you that in motherhood, EVERYONE BURNS THEIR FIRST PANCAKE. I’m Katie Fenske, a (not so perfect) mom of 3, and I’m inviting you to join in on my conversations with other moms as we talk about all things motherhood; the good, the bad and everything in between. We're flipping our motherhood mistakes into successes and learning how to just keep flipping. MOTHERHOOD TOPICS I DISCUSS:Child Birth and Postpartum RecoveryAdjusting to MotherhoodRaising BoysToddler Mom TipsBeing a Teen MomSelf Care in MotherhoodManaging Kid Sports and a Busy Family ScheduleEpic Mom FailsPotty Training WoesSurviving Summer VacationAND SO MUCH MORE!To see more of Katie, you can find her... Instagram @burntpancakeswithkatieYouTube: @burnt-pancakesWebsite: burntpancakes.comemail: katie@burntpancakes.com

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