LAUNE x Stephanie Kiser
Meet Stephanie Kiser, author of Wanted: Toddler’s Personal Assistant. With reviews from DeuxMoi to being an 2024 Amazon Editor’s Pick, Stephanie’s book sheds light on her experience nannying in New York. In this memoir, she provides insight on how the top 1% live and lessons about income inequality in the U.S. Below, Stephanie and I chat her book, perfect day in New York, and Hillary Clinton.
1. Tell me about yourself. Where are you originally from and what brought you to New York?
I grew up in North Providence, Rhode Island and really hadn’t spent any time in cities. I didn’t even see New York until I was twenty. But once I moved to Boston for college I knew I was a city girl at heart. So I came to New York and arrived like every twenty-two year old: excited, inspired, and wildly naive!
2. What is your LAUNE (mood)?
Hopeful
3. Tell me about Wanted: Toddler’s Personal Assistant. What prompted you to begin nannying and write this book?
I fell into nannying by accident. I was just looking for a way to afford living in New York City while also paying some pretty significant student debt down. I was working an entry level job at a PR firm having trouble making ends meet when I found out that you can make six figures as a nanny in Manhattan. While I ended up genuinely loving the kids that were in my care for the next seven years, I also began noticing the clear advantages these kids had because of the wealth they were born into. When I decided to write Wanted my goal was to tell the story of two very different classes in America in a way that could create understanding between the two without vilifying either.
4. What lessons did nannying and writing this book teach you? What did you learn about income inequality more broadly?
That being born into wealth doesn’t guarantee anything. Money can’t buy you talent or intelligence or athleticism. But what it can do is give you a head start, a safety net, and a network that most people just don’t get. I certainly didn’t have those things. But I was very lucky in other ways. I’m more successful than I would have ever imagined I’d be at age eight or twelve but the truth is that I had a lot of help getting here. There’s nothing wrong with being born into wealth but I think what you do with that privilege and power is important. I’ve been very fortunate to have been lifted up by people in positions of privilege who could help make my life better.
5. What inspires you?
People who are fighting for a fair and equal world.
6. Describe your perfect day in New York.
If I’m on Fifth Ave at nighttime in December life is very good! I love New York all the time but Christmas in New York is so magical and I have a lot of traditions with friends around that time. Last year we did tea at the Plaza. This year we’re seeing The Rockettes. There’s lot of snacks and drinks before and after the main event. My best friend and I also always have one dedicated Christmas shopping day. We hit all of the holiday markets, have a leisurely lunch, and I usually suggest one too many stops for hot chocolate. That’s probably my favorite day of the year.
7. What do you love about New York?
New York really is the ultimate melting pot. There’s no misfits here and I think that’s what makes it so special. No matter what your age, interests, class - you can find your people here. New Yorkers have a reputation for being mean but I disagree. I think New York is the most accepting place you could ever find yourself. I feel beyond grateful every day that I get to call it home.
8. What’s next for you?
That’s a great question! I’m working on a second book and in a perfect world I would love to write full time one day but for now I split passion with my day job. I definitely want to move into something mission based - ideally something around solving for inequality- but I’m still trying to find a balance between earning enough to pay off these student loans while also doing work that I love.
1. Describe your style in three words.
Whatever my besties say is in
2. Early mornings or sleeping in?
Morning
3. AM or PM skincare?
PM
4. Favorite book?
5. Favorite place?
London
6. Favorite drinks spot in New York?
7. Favorite restaurant in New York?
Oh so hard! But Taverna Kyclades, Keens, Bubby’s to name a few.
8. Favorite style icon?
Hillary Clinton. I don’t care what anyone says, those pant suits are power. (EM: I couldn’t agree more!)
9. Favorite movie?
Remember Me
10. What are you loving right now?
Gilmore girls reruns, good meals with friends, and planning my next trip!
