How to deal with gossip about MB

[Anonymous]

I just started nannying for a family and I've met their former nanny at the park with my charge. She came up to me and introduced herself. I see her fairly often with her new charge. Thought she was super friendly at first. She and my MB are friends, and she was their nanny for quite a while. I don't know if something happened between them, but it seems like she openly resents MB by the comments she makes. She portrays MB in a nasty light. I've never asked her, she just tells me, and to be honest, it makes me super uncomfortable. She even tries to acquire info from me (ie. if I am happy, if I get the same perks, etc.). She's really nosy, and seems to love gossip, and I try to avoid her but it's a small tight knit community. It's the only park that is walking distance from us. My question is do I tell MB or just leave it alone? I had told MB that I met her at the park, so she's aware that I've met her. I like my bosses, and wouldn't want to jeopardize our working relationship.

[Anonymous]

No need to say anything to MB. Just when she brings up your perks or your new MB, say "Oh, I don't want to gossip - that's awkward." Then change the subject to Bravo shows or Ray Rice or books, or whatever.

[Anonymous]

I agree with the poster above. If I were you I wouldn't give her any info, some women have the tendency to take your words and turn them around. The next thing you know things will come back like you've said x y or z. You don't even have to exchange words with her, she looks like she loves gossip and trouble.

[Anonymous]

I agree w/ the others. Don't bring it up w/ your MB. Tell the former nanny that you'd rather not hear the stories, or feel uncomfortable talking about your employer.

If she persists say something like "well, I'm sorry it wasn't a great fit for you but I'm really happy so far and would really rather not hear about the things you disliked."

Also, I'd just steer clear of her - she sounds like trouble.

[Anonymous]

She sounds like the type of two-faced person that would tell other nannies that you said bad things about your employers. Don't even nod if she starts talking crap about them.