About Us
The Austin Kid’s Directory is a monthly resource directory dedicated to helping parents in our area identify businesses that can be of benefit to their families. In our publication you will find information about schools, camps, childcares, products & services for children, retail stores, lessons, after school activities, family friendly events & restaurants, birthday party planning, and so much more! One look at our directory will remind you of how blessed we are to live in the Austin area!
Debbie Tye, Publisher
Debbie is a “hands-on” owner and publisher. From sales to invoicing to distribution to coordination with press to social media and everything in-between, she is actively involved. We know the small business owners we work with can relate! Debbie went to work for the Austin Kid’s Directory in 2005 and purchased the business from the original owner (and a wonderful business mentor) Bart Stephens in 2009. She loves the Austin area and the sense of community she and her family have as a result of her job. She feels fortunate to get to be the Publisher and work with such a great team and so many amazing small businesses!
Liz Banner, Art Director
Liz joined the Austin Kid’s Directory team soon after its first edition so has been with the publication for over 25 years. Her expertise is evident in all of the visual elements related to our directory… beautiful covers, logos, social media and website art, newsletters, and the many ads she has created for clients over the years. She has two adult kids, two dogs, and loves to dance.
Lorrie Townsend, Administration
Lorrie joined us 13 years ago. As a former small business owner Lorrie brings a great deal of experience to what we do. She understands first-hand many of the challenges as well as the joys of small business ownership in our area. She manages administrative details such as invoicing, mailing lists, email lists, website entries, and more. She is also our social media coordinator (no small job!) managing Facebook posts, writing blog posts, making on-line calendar entries as well as coordinating contests & events. She is the mother of three adult kids and took on the new title of Meme when she became a grandmother in 2023. She stays busy between work, spending time with family, and actively volunteering in the community.
Brad Jander, Distribution​
Brad works diligently with his team every month to help get our directory in over 900 locations in a timely manner. Our distribution could not be in better hands. Brad is the parent of two young kids and enjoys the outdoors and spending time with his family.
Ethan Banner, Graphic Designer
Ethan, an Austin native, has been with us for the past 10 years, designing ads, covers, logos, newsletters, web art and our annual publications. He brings us his artistic eye and experience as a designer for local businesses and other Hidden Values publications. We are grateful to have him on our team, especially during our busy deadlines. He enjoys playing ultimate frisbee and hanging out with his dog in his free time.