Explain It to Me Explain It to Me

The end of etiquette

Sep 27, 2026 · 30m

Summary

Host John Glyn Hill explores the decline of public manners with etiquette expert Lizzie Post and sociologist Kirstie Sedgman. They discuss the erosion of the social contract, addressing specific grievances like phone etiquette, airplane seat reclining, and generational workplace conflicts. The episode argues that while rules evolve, clear communication and explicit norms are essential for maintaining civility in shared spaces.

Topics discussed

Apple Watch Series 12 heart rate features Starbucks fall menu announcement Host's rant on public rudeness and lost manners Introduction to Kirstie Sedgman and the social contract Historical complaints about declining etiquette Individualism vs. community on public transport Navigating boundaries and performing compliance Transition to phone etiquette discussion Sponsor: Granola AI meeting notes Starbucks fall menu announcement Introduction to Lizzie Post and the Emily Post Institute Etiquette as evolving social norms, not rigid rules Phone etiquette: speakerphone and public distractions When and how to politely correct others' phone use Proper phone use in shared spaces and at dinner Responsiveness expectations for text messages Sponsors: Instagram teen accounts and Anthropic Generational conflicts in workplace culture The cost of poor workplace manners and explicit norms Resolving workplace conflict through direct communication Show outro, credits, and Vox membership promo Sponsors: Starbucks and Edward Jones
Listen ad-free on Castria