Janel Schermerhorn is the producer and host of Mom’s Secret Fort Podcast, a series that explores the small shifts in routine and mindset that helped her navigate life in Berlin during the coronavirus lockdown.

With a blend of humor, honesty, and reflection, Janel shares personal stories that resonate with parents, expats, and anyone seeking light in uncertain times.
Podcast Producer and Host
As a podcast producer and host, Janel Schermerhorn embraces storytelling as a tool for engagement and understanding. Mom’s Secret Fort Podcast began as a way to document the experience of raising a family during a global crisis, but it has since evolved into a heartfelt reflection on parenting, resilience, and adaptation.
Podcasting allows Janel to combine her love for storytelling, community-building, and creative expression. Through each episode, she invites listeners into her world, offering both insight and humor on the challenges of family life, cultural differences, and personal growth.
About Mom’s Secret Fort Podcast

Mom’s Secret Fort Podcast provides a much-needed dose of hope and humor during a time of collective anxiety. Through personal anecdotes, Janel discusses topics such as:
- Her kids returning to education after lockdown
- Everyday life and routines in Berlin
- German language and culture from an expat perspective
- Parenting and family dynamics
- The importance of small moments of joy and perspective shifts
The podcast was featured on the Coronavirus Chronicle from Common Ground Berlin, highlighting Janel’s reflections on creating a space of comfort and resilience during the pandemic. Read more here.
Where to Listen
You can listen to Mom’s Secret Fort Podcast on multiple platforms:
- Spotify: Listen here
- Apple Podcasts: Listen here
- Libsyn: Listen here
- Podnews: Listen here
Whether you’re a parent, a podcast lover, or simply looking for a fresh perspective, Mom’s Secret Fort Podcast offers a relatable and uplifting listen. Tune in and join Janel Schermerhorn on this journey of storytelling and resilience.