Finding trustworthy childcare can feel impossible — but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, Lori sits down with Sarah, founder of Olive You Nanny and creator of The Nanny Playbook, to talk about what really goes into finding the right nanny for your family.
Sarah shares two decades of experience helping families and nannies form lasting, healthy relationships — including what questions to ask, how to handle contracts and pay, and the biggest mistakes parents make when hiring childcare. You’ll learn how to find a nanny you can truly trust, set your relationship up for success, and take the stress out of the search.
If you’ve ever wondered whether a nanny is right for your family — or you’re just overwhelmed by childcare decisions — this episode is a must-listen.
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Rather read? Check out the show notes and episode content right here!
Show Notes: Expert Childcare Tips for Busy Moms
Hey, hey friend! Welcome to Episode #261 of The Secrets of Supermom Show!
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to find reliable childcare, you’re not alone. In this week’s episode of The Secrets of Supermom Show, host Lori Oberbroeckling sits down with Sarah, founder of Olive You Nanny, a 20-year-old nanny agency helping families find their perfect match. Sarah shares insider tips on what to look for in a nanny, how to navigate costs and contracts, and why the relationship between a nanny and a family is unlike any other.
The Story Behind Olive You Nanny
Before starting her agency, Sarah worked as a nanny in Chicago and saw firsthand how difficult it was for families to find quality caregivers. At just 24, she launched Olive You Nanny, a full-service nanny placement agency focused on one key principle: the right match matters most.
“It’s not just about a resume or hourly rate. It’s about finding a match — a relationship built on trust and communication,” Sarah explains.
Now based in Austin, Texas, Sarah’s agency has supported countless families nationwide, pairing them with nannies who not only meet their logistical needs but fit seamlessly into their family dynamic.
Why a Nanny Is More Than Just Childcare
Sarah describes the nanny-family relationship as deeply personal — even “like a marriage.” Nannies are often there through life’s ups and downs, from milestones to family challenges. That’s why finding someone you can trust, communicate with, and rely on is crucial.
Nannies aren’t just helping with day-to-day logistics — they’re part of your support system. They notice developmental changes, offer emotional stability, and often become extended family.
Top Challenges Parents Face When Finding a Nanny
Sarah says the biggest challenge for parents is simply not knowing where to start. Many families feel stuck between daycare, home daycare, or hiring a nanny. Her advice?
- Define your family’s needs first. Consider your schedule, flexibility, and number of children.
- Understand the cost. Nannies are typically more expensive but offer more flexibility and individualized care.
- Know your local market. Rates and benefits vary by region, so ask other families or agencies about typical pay ranges.
“Families often don’t realize that a nanny is a professional employee — not a babysitter,” Sarah says. “They deserve contracts, paid vacation, and clear expectations.”
The Importance of Communication and Contracts
One of Sarah’s biggest pieces of advice is to start the relationship with clarity. She recommends:
- Creating a detailed contract outlining pay, hours, holidays, and expectations.
- Scheduling monthly check-ins with your nanny to discuss what’s working and what’s not.
- Treating your nanny like the professional they are — because that mutual respect leads to longevity and better care for your kids.
Without clear agreements, misunderstandings can build up over time, leading to frustration on both sides. A written contract and open dialogue can prevent most conflicts before they start.
How the Nanny Industry Has Changed Since COVID
The childcare market has shifted dramatically over the past few years. During the pandemic, nannies were in extremely high demand — and pay rates reflected that. Post-pandemic, rates have started to normalize, but many caregivers still expect pre-2023 wages.
Sarah notes that both families and nannies are adjusting, and understanding market trends helps everyone enter the relationship with realistic expectations.
The Nanny Playbook: A DIY Resource for Families
Not every family needs or can afford full-service placement — and Sarah gets that. That’s why she created The Nanny Playbook, a comprehensive guide that helps parents confidently conduct their own search.
Inside, families get:
- Industry-standard pay guidance
- Interview questions
- Background check tips
- Contract templates
- Reference call scripts
“I wanted to take what I know and make it accessible for families who want to do it right — even if they’re doing it on their own,” Sarah says.
You can find it at NannyPlaybook.com.
Sarah’s Advice for Stressed-Out Parents
If you’re in the thick of childcare stress, Sarah offers a few comforting words:
“It’s going to be okay. The more knowledge you have, the better you’ll feel. Do your research, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to reach out for help.”
She also reminds parents to start early when possible — preparation and patience go a long way.
Where to Find Sarah
The Nanny Playbook: www.nannyplaybook.com
Olive You Nanny: www.oliveyounanny.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oliveyounanny/
About Our Guest: Sarah Davis
Sarah Davis has dedicated over 25 years to the childcare industry, beginning her career as a nanny and going on to help thousands of families find dependable, high-quality care. In 2005, she founded Olive You Nanny, a boutique agency that now serves families in Chicago (where it’s headquartered), Atlanta, and Austin. Her personalized approach ensures that every nanny-family placement is thoughtfully tailored to the unique dynamics of each household.
Recognizing that not every family lives in a city with access to a high-touch agency, Sarah launched The Nanny Playbook – a comprehensive, step-by-step guide designed to make her expertise accessible to parents everywhere. This invaluable resource walks families through the entire process of hiring and maintaining a successful relationship with a nanny, providing tools, templates, and insider knowledge gained from decades in the industry.
A trusted voice in childcare, Sarah has spoken at events for Bump Club and Neighborhood Parents Network (NPN) and is regularly featured in parenting publications. Whether through her agency or The Nanny Playbook, Sarah’s mission remains the same: to foster long-lasting, trust-based relationships between families and nannies
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About the Host: Lori Oberbroeckling
Lori Whitney Oberbroeckling is a mom of four, corporate leader, podcaster, productivity expert, and author of the book Secrets of Supermom: How Extraordinary Moms Succeed at Work and Home & How You Can Too!
She is passionate about helping parents who want fulfilling careers–or side hustles or passion projects–while also wanting to feel present and connected to their families.
