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Our team is what makes us special.
At Triangle Nannies, we envision a future where every family has access to exceptional care that supports their well-being and enhances their quality of life.
The process of helping our clients decide on a caregiver for their most treasured humans is an intricate one and one we take very seriously. Our team brings to the table a blend of talent, intuition, intention, experience, thoroughness, education, and heightened, finely tuned awareness. We’ve been in business 12 years and have combined industry experience of over 30 years spread out among us. Are you curious about our team’s individual backgrounds and strengths? Check them out below!
Meet Austin
Energetic connector, thoughtful leader,
Founder Extraordinaire.
Austin founded our beloved Triangle Nannies, formerly My Girl Friday, in 2012. With an extensive background in entrepreneurship, start-up business management and growth strategy, Austin brings an insider perspective and incredible work ethic to the company. As a former nanny, now successful CEO, she continues to develop innovative resources and improved systems for our growing industry.
Alongside her team, Austin has confidently bolstered Triangle Nannies into the Leading Nanny Agency in the region—and growing strong. As the CEO, she manages a bustling multi-disciplinary team, yet always finds the time to make genuine personal connections. An avid speaker, connector and supporter of families and nannies, Austin continually drives the mission of Triangle Nannies & Household Staffing forward— to connect vibrant families with extraordinary caregivers in any community we support. Our agency is built on her eye for perfection, trust issues, and strong ability to weave vetting systems that ensure a great match with each family and caregiver we support.
Austin is a Co-Founder of the Nanny Relief Fund, a non-profit that brings added stability to the lives of nannies everywhere. This mission was launched in 2020 and has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for nannies in need. She sits as the current Treasurer of this non-profit and is the former Secretary of the International Nanny Association as well!
Austin is an adventurer who loves hiking, playing with her dogs Arlo and Tuna Mae, hosting friends & family, traveling, thrifting and checking out new restaurants. She also loves leading her amazing team and meeting awesome families and nannies in the Triangle region. She and her partner, Adrian Larrea, also own Tribucha Kombucha and partner on Clarity Strategic Investments. They are expecting their first child in May of 2024!
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Meet Our
Incredible Team
Jeremy Zhang
Meet Jeremy, the Chief Financial Officer at Triangle Nannies. With his current role as a Senior Principal Strategy Consultant at Red Hat, Jeremy brings a wealth of expertise in corporate development and strategic projects. His background includes significant achievements as a management consultant within Red Hat's Corporate Strategy team, where he provided invaluable advice on strategic planning and M&A transactions. Jeremy's deep knowledge in venture capital, software markets, financial strategy, and corporate development has been a tremendous asset to our operations at Triangle Nannies.
At the helm of financial matters, Jeremy ensures that everything from numbers to contracts flows seamlessly, benefitting both our cherished clients and caregivers. He is also a trusted advisor to our CEO, Austin, guiding the strategic direction of the company.
Outside of his professional life, Jeremy is passionate about supporting high-potential startups, including ventures like Tribucha Kombucha. A culinary enthusiast, he enjoys crafting elaborate meals for friends and embraces the vibrant 'downtowner' lifestyle. A musician at heart, Jeremy has been honing his skills on the piano and guitar since the age of three. He's also a dedicated fan of the St. Louis Cardinals.
Jeremy's academic journey led him to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Finance from Washington University in St. Louis, followed by an MBA from the University of Notre Dame. His combination of financial acumen and strategic insight makes him an integral part of the Triangle Nannies team.
MBA from the University of Notre Dame
Bachelor’s in Computer Science and Finance from Washington University in St. Louis
Courtney Creed
Courtney, our remarkable Placement Director, carries the warmth of her Texas origins into the vibrant community of Raleigh. Her academic journey, crowned by a BFA from Stephen F. Austin State University and further enriched by a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University, subtly underpins her approach in our firm where she provides a nuanced perspective in understanding family dynamics.
Her professional path, woven through roles as a counselor and director at a summer camp in East Texas, and her enriching experience in the Disney College Program, has equipped her with a unique blend of event planning skills, creativity, and an acute understanding of exceptional customer service. Courtney's own experience as a nanny with a family for seven years has given her a firsthand understanding of the trust, respect, and openness essential in the nanny-family relationship, guiding her in facilitating perfect matches between nannies and families.
While Courtney's background in mental health may not overtly be at the forefront of her role, it lends her an intuitive edge. This foundation allows her to perceive and address the intricate layers within the nanny and family dynamics with empathy and insight.
In her personal time, Courtney enjoys exploring the outdoors with her dog Belle, spending time with her friends and family in the area, dabbling in a variety of crafts and hobbies, and immersing herself in books. She’s lived in Raleigh for almost a decade now and can’t imagine herself anywhere else. Her active involvement in her community and her pursuit of new learning experiences bring an additional depth to her role at Triangle Nannies and Household Staffing, enhancing her ability to connect with diverse individuals and understand their unique needs.
Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University
Bachelor of Fine Arts from Stephen F. Austin State University
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Tonia Richardson
Tonia brings a wealth of expertise and a heart full of passion to our team. Her successful background in management and recruitment, especially in the sensitive and demanding field of eldercare companions, positions her as an invaluable asset to our agency. Tonia’s experience in hospitality shines through in her exceptional ability to build and nurture relationships, amplifying the high-caliber talent that sets Triangle Nannies apart in the industry.
Deeply rooted in her occupational therapy training, Tonia skillfully fosters strong, cohesive teams and forges solid partnerships. Her insight into therapeutic practices greatly enhances our approach to caregiving, ensuring a blend of professional excellence and compassionate care.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Tonia is an experienced yoga instructor, specializing in both adult and pediatric practices. Her dedication to yoga extends beyond the mat, as she integrates the principles of movement and meditation into her daily life. This holistic approach enriches not only her personal well-being but also brings a unique, wellness-focused perspective to our team.
A true lover of the outdoors, Tonia finds her joy and rejuvenation in nature. Whether she's basking in the tranquility of the beach, exploring new trails on a hike, or deepening her yoga and wellness practices, she embraces every moment with enthusiasm and mindfulness.
Tonia’s multifaceted expertise, from therapy and recruitment to yoga and wellness, makes her more than just a team member; she’s a guiding light in our commitment to providing exceptional care and support to the families and nannies we serve.
Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from Winston-Salem State University
Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington
Associate of Science in Occupational Therapy from Grossmont College in San Diego
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Kara Szust
Kara, the heart and soul of our recruitment at Triangle Nannies, is not only a connector of families and caregivers but also a beacon of educational expertise. Her journey began in the sunny climes of Florida, where she not only earned her Bachelor’s degree in Education at the University of Central Florida but also enriched her teaching credentials with ESOL and reading endorsements. This academic foundation reflects her deep commitment to inclusive and comprehensive education.
Her passion doesn’t stop there; Kara is deeply inspired by the Montessori and Reggio pedagogies, philosophies that resonate with her innate belief in nurturing each child’s unique potential in a respectful and encouraging environment. This philosophy seamlessly translates into her role, where she weaves a tapestry of meaningful connections between empathetic caregivers and families who value comfort, growth, and a nurturing home atmosphere.
With over a decade of experience as an educator, Kara has touched the lives of children and families in diverse settings. Her experiences have fine-tuned her ability to identify and respond to the unique needs of each family. She is dedicated to finding reliable, inspiring role models who can join your family’s journey, ensuring a harmonious and enriching experience.
Now settled in Raleigh, captivated by its enchanting four seasons, Kara is joyfully navigating life with her two adorable daughters, her loving husband Nick, and Reece, their playful new puppy. Together, they cherish their family time, whether it’s engaging in after-school activities or exploring new places around the world.
Associates of Arts degree from Valencia Community College in Orlando, FL
Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education with ESOL and Reading Endorsements from the University of Central Florida
Maggie Hohne
Maggie Hohne is the core and essence behind the seamless operations at Triangle Nannies. As our Steamrolling Operations Manager, she's the mastermind of organization, ensuring every day runs smoothly for our caregivers, families, and team. Not just a wizard with systems and spreadsheets, Maggie also brings her creative flair as our content and brand creator, infusing everything she touches with aesthetic and efficiency. Embodying the dynamic spirit of a zillennial and an enneagram type 3w2, she's our go-to for adding that special sparkle to our projects.
Outside of her professional arena, Maggie's life is a whirlwind of joy and activity. A proud mom, devoted wife, and enthusiastic dog mama, she's deeply rooted in her community. From leading her local book club to teaching dance and engaging in volunteer work with her family, Maggie's passion for life extends well beyond her work.
Originally from Nashville, Tennessee, Maggie embraced the charm of a small town in North Carolina in 2017 and has been a vibrant part of it ever since. With 8 years of rich experience in nanny and agency staffing, she's not just skilled at her job; she's a natural at building relationships, nurturing safe spaces, and always remembering to send a birthday card. Maggie's unique blend of professional acumen and personal warmth makes her an invaluable asset to the Triangle Nannies team.
Associate's Degree in Entrepreneurship, Montlow State Community College
Claire Cooper
Claire’s extensive experience in teaching, directing, customer service, and community outreach greatly helps families and nannies find their fit. When running a hire through Triangle Nannies, Claire assists in the back-end operations of the agency. You’ll seldom see her in your inbox but she’s keeping a watchful eye on the process.
When she’s not at work, Claire is a talented freelance opera singer and vocal coach. She’s an avid fan of horror movies, yoga, bubble baths, a dry joke, Lord of the Rings, and music. Her top three favorite things are her slightly cross-eyed Siamese cat Aria, her spotted rescue pup Charlie, and her incredible husband (in that order).
Bachelor’s Degree in Music at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Master’s Degree in Vocal Performance at The Peabody Institute at Johns Hopkins.
Sarah Brady
Sarah Brady, the People and Culture Manager at Triangle Nannies, is a beacon of connection and the architect of meaningful communication. Her role is pivotal in providing unwavering support to our internal team, caregivers, and families, ensuring a seamless flow of work, open and fruitful communication, and enduring professional relationships.
Armed with a degree in psychology from George Mason University and enriched by her experiences as a nanny and postpartum doula, Sarah possesses a deep and nuanced understanding of the dynamics within families, children, and small teams. Her expertise, particularly in the nanny industry and non-profits, is instrumental in fortifying the bonds within our team, enhancing our operational systems, innovating new solutions, and refining our processes for greater efficiency.
Sarah is adept in a variety of personality assessment tools including Jungian (MBTI and Socionics), Enneagram, DiSC, and Clifton Strengths. She utilizes these frameworks to provide our teams with the insights and skills necessary to achieve their fullest potential. Her leadership experience is further highlighted by her previous roles as Chairperson and Board Member of the North Carolina Professional Association of Nannies (NCPAN) and as a Recruitment Specialist with Triangle Nannies in 2021.
Before her tenure at Triangle Nannies, Sarah’s career was marked by her significant contributions as a grassroots trainer. In this role, she united community organizers and activists under common goals and principles. Her dedication to fostering community spirit and collaboration also shone through her organization of local training for International Nanny Training Day, echoing her commitment to enhancing connection, communication, and education within the Triangle Nannies Network.
Residing in the quaint setting of Smithfield, North Carolina, Sarah’s life is enriched by the joyous company of her amazing children, her partner, and their cherished pets. Her personal life mirrors the vibrancy of her professional journey, filled with the delights of family life, the comfort of close relationships, and the heartwarming presence of her animal companions.
Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, George Mason University
Noelle Whittington
As the vetting coordinator, Noelle brings compassion, communication, intuition, and an unparalleled connection into the Triangle Nannies vetting process. She keeps a keen eye on details through the interviewing and vetting procedures to ensure a top-tier experience for families.
Noelle’s background is quite varied including hospitality, textiles and working in Manhattan— to a decade of leading and mentoring in Kunga Yoga. She has led 12 international retreats, raising more than $100,000 for nonprofit organizations, including the Homes of Hope India and the Farm Sanctuary.
Noelle studies and teaches Vedic Wisdom, Sanskrit Mantra, and Harmonium. She likes to sing, dance, travel and play in several bands in her hometown of Wilmington NC.
North Carolina State University
Danielle Clark
Danielle’s main role at Triangle Nannies is to make sure you find exactly who you are looking for—this goes for both caregivers and families. She works diligently to make sure everyone stays on track as we work towards a high retention placement.
Danielle brings over 21 years of experience to Triangle Nannies– having worked in public and private preschools, as well as serving as Director at 2 Reggio-inspired schools in the Triangle area. She is deeply rooted in Reggio-inspired pedagogy and is inspired by children’s imaginations, creativity, and intellect. This impacts her work with dynamic families, nannies, private educators, family assistants, and Newborn Care Specialists.
Danielle is raising her two children alongside her husband and partner in life, Will. She enjoys hiking, reading, and exploring the Triangle with her family. She has two energetic and very talkative Jack Russells (who you may occasionally hear on a call).
Psychology at UNC Chapel Hill
MEd in Early Childhood and Special Education from the Bank Street School of Education.
Igor De Lima
Triangle Nannie's Tech Whisperer and family man. At the heart of our digital innovation, Igor melds cutting-edge tech with a deep-rooted belief in tailoring childhood development to individual strengths. As a father to two dynamic kids and partner to his remarkable wife, he's on the front lines of parenting, juggling soccer matches, academic celebrations, and the quest for balanced family life.
His drive? To simplify the search for stellar childcare, so parents can flourish professionally and personally. Igor's not just part of our team; he's living proof of our mission to blend work, play, and family growth seamlessly—powered by technology, driven by heart.
Bachelors of Communications and Design, Dallas Baptist University
Top-rated by parents, kiddos, and nannies.
Jeff Turpin
Morgan Camu
Dr. George Dignan
Christy Zigler, Ph.D.
Katie Simons Pahner
Martha Newport
In addition to providing us with this amazing resource/family member, they have been more than willing to offer advice and guidance whenever we have had questions about how to handle various situations, like nanny compensation, COVID, etc.
Amazing search firm and resource! Love, love, love!
Jenny Zador
Brittany Speer
This nanny agency isn’t like others. They do an in depth background check on every nanny, no matter what. They work with your schedule on interviews, not the other way around. They provide great support on how to structure your agreement. They check in on you after the nanny has been placed. It’s a full service company!
Thank you My Girl Friday! I feel confident with my nanny and you made the process streamlined and so much easier than expected.
Christmas Abbott
Kathy Colby
Live local, love local
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My Girl Friday is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We celebrate our employees’ differences. Different makes us better.
We believe in the power of connection.
And we are definitely out and about in our community. We've been known to host International Nanny Training Day in Raleigh-Durham and we’ve been immensely involved in Nannypalooza.
We present at key industry conferences like the annual International Nanny Association conference and the annual Association of Premier Nanny Agencies conference.
We stay connected and involved because we love what we do.
Community & Education
