Manners and Other Matters
Do you find modern social and business etiquette dilemmas challenging, would you like to live your life with an elegant style, communicating confidently and entertaining with flair? Please join me, Louise Percy, every two weeks, as I discuss these topics, answer your questions and chat with fellow experts about the arts, fashion, jewellery, home décor, entertaining, travel and more. Regarded as an expert in my field for 32 years, I aim to inspire you in every episode to embrace etiquette and elegance as a positive personality choice. Offering real life examples, questions and opinions, you won’t want to miss an ep...
77. Paws and Poise: Manners for our Pets
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Dogs are more involved in our social lives than ever before. They join us at cafés, visit friends' homes, accompany us on holidays and, quite rightly, are often considered members of the family. But has the way we teach our dogs good manners changed too?
In this episode of Manners and Other Matters, Louise explores the shift from traditional obedience training towards everyday dog manners and considers eight very modern dilemmas.
What should we do about the enthusiastic dog who jumps on every visitor? Is a little dog a...
76. "Can I eat that with my fingers?" Contemporary table manners explained
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What do you do with an olive pip? Should spaghetti be eaten with a spoon? Is it acceptable to ask for a fork if you cannot use chopsticks, and when is eating with your fingers actually the correct thing to do?
In this episode of Manners and Other Matters, Louise Percy explores the small dining dilemmas that can make even a confident person suddenly wonder, “What do I do with that?”
From finger foods, skewers and fork-only dining to spaghetti, soup, bread and chopsticks, Louise shares practical contemporary table mann...
75. Jewellery with a Story, Estate Jewellery, Heirlooms and the Return of the Brooch
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What makes a piece of jewellery truly valuable? Is it the stone, the craftsmanship, the name attached to it, or the story it carries?
In this episode of Manners and Other Matters, Louise welcomes back her friend Adrian Dickens, one of Australia’s leading jewellery historians, a personal jeweller and specialist in antique, estate and remodelled jewellery.
Drawing on more than four decades in the jewellery world, Adrian shares how an early fascination with Garrard, the Crown Jewellers in London, began a lifelong appreciation of beautiful objects, exceptional craftsmanship and th...
74. The 10 Modern Etiquette Dilemmas Everyone Secretly Wonders About
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When did good manners become so complicated?
In today's world, we're less likely to wonder which fork to use and far more likely to ask questions such as: Is it rude to leave someone on "read"? How do I politely decline an invitation? Should everyone split the bill equally? Is ghosting ever acceptable?
In this episode of Manners and Other Matters, Louise Percy explores ten of the most common social dilemmas facing adults today. With her signature blend of warmth, practical advice and contemporary etiquette, Louise shares thoughtful guidance...
73. Modern Funeral Etiquette, Honouring a Life with Grace and Elegance
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Death is one of life's few certainties, yet many of us feel uncertain about what is expected when someone dies. Should you attend the funeral? What should you wear? Is a text message enough, or should you send a handwritten condolence card? And what exactly is the difference between a traditional funeral and a celebration of life?
In this episode Louise explores the etiquette surrounding funerals and memorial services in today's world. From dress codes and condolence messages to social media announcements, wakes and supporting grieving families, Louise offers thoughtful guidance...
72. Decoding Dress Codes with Confidence
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Have you ever opened a beautiful invitation and felt that little flutter of anxiety at the words printed at the bottom? "Cocktail attire." "Smart casual." "Resort elegant." If so, this episode of Manners and Other Matters is made entirely for you.
In this episode, etiquette and protocol expert, Louise Percy, decodes the full spectrum of dress codes you are most likely to encounter, from the formal grandeur of White Tie and Black Tie through to the deceptively tricky territory of Smart Casual and Business Casual.
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71. Little Habits That Create an Elegant Life
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In this episode of Manners and Other Matters, Louise Percy explores the true meaning of elegance and why it has little to do with designer labels, glamorous lifestyles or outward appearances.
Drawing on decades of teaching etiquette and personal development through The Art of an Elegant Life Masterclass, Louise shares how elegance begins with self-respect, kindness and the small rituals that bring beauty and calm to everyday life.
From morning routines and mindful transitions to evening reflections and the importance of dining well, this episode is an invitation to...
70. Hotel, Resort and Luxury Travel Etiquette for the Confident and Considerate Traveller
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In this episode, Louise Percy explores the etiquette of hotel and resort stays, covering every stage of the guest experience from arrival to departure, and the many nuanced interactions in between.
Show notes: https://thepercyinstitute.com/episode-70-hotel-resort-and-luxury-travel-etiquette-for-the-confident-and-considerate-traveller/
I'd love to hear from you. Please leave your comments, or ask me any questions here: https://thepercyinstitute.com/contact/
Join Louise in the pursuit of a more elegant life, and be sure to visit her website thepercyinstitute.com for more ideas and inspiration. Follow @thepercyinstitute on In...
69. Ink Over Emoji… The Timeless Elegance of Handwritten Letters, Thank You Notes and Gracious Correspondence
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In an age of instant messages and digital noise, the handwritten note has quietly become one of the most powerful and elegant gestures we can offer one another. In this episode of Manners and Other Matters, Louise Percy explores the timeless art of handwritten correspondence, and why it matters more than ever.
Louise shares the occasions that always call for pen and paper, the four essential elements of a perfectly written thank you note, how to navigate the deeply personal challenge of writing a sympathy card, and what your choice...
68. Ask Louise… The Elegance of Everyday Living
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What does elegance really look like in everyday life?
In this episode Louise answers listener questions about the quiet yet powerful habits that shape grace, confidence and modern elegance.
From saying no without guilt, to receiving compliments gracefully, cultivating personal rituals, expressing gratitude, and strengthening presence through non-verbal communication, this episode explores how everyday elegance is often found in the smallest gestures.
Louise shares practical reflections and refined guidance for those who want to live with greater intention, composure and warmth.
Because elegance is not...
67. Home Away from Home. The Art of Homestay Etiquette
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Homestays, such as Airbnb have transformed the way we travel, offering comfort, character, and a sense of living like a local. And with this opportunity comes a quiet responsibility, which sits somewhere between being a guest in a private home and a customer in a commercial space.
In this episode of Manners and Other Matters, Louise explores the etiquette of Airbnb living, from both the guest and host perspective. With practical insights and elegant reminders, she shares how small, thoughtful behaviours can elevate the entire experience.
From...
66. Through Their Eyes, Children on Modern Manners
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In this heartfelt and refreshingly honest episode of Manners and Other Matters, Louise is joined by two very special guests, her grandchildren, aged 10 and 12.
Together, they explore what modern manners look like through the eyes of children. From everyday kindness at school to digital etiquette, and from saying “please” and “thank you” to how adults should treat children, this conversation offers surprising insight, gentle humour, and meaningful reflection.
What unfolds is a powerful reminder that manners are not simply taught, they are observed, experienced, and shared.
This episode...
65. Concert Etiquette Today. From Stadiums to Symphony Halls
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Live music is one of life’s great pleasures, yet many people quietly wonder how to behave as audiences move between vastly different performance spaces. What feels appropriate at a stadium concert can feel jarring in a concert hall, and silence that feels reverent in one setting can feel awkward in another.
In this episode of Manners and Other Matters, Louise explores modern concert etiquette across four key settings, large stadium concerts, intimate contemporary venues, traditional orchestral performances, and ballet. With warmth and clarity, she explains when to applaud, when to re...
64. Elegant Boundaries: Saying No and Having Difficult Conversations
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In today’s episode two of the most essential, yet often overlooked, skills in modern etiquette: how to say “no” with grace and how to navigate difficult conversations with tact.
Many of us struggle with these moments. We fear disappointing others, appearing unkind, or creating tension. Yet true elegance is revealed not when life is easy, but when situations feel delicate.
I'd love to hear from you. Please leave your comments, or ask me any questions here: https://thepercyinstitute.com/contact/
Join Louise in the pursuit of a more...
63. The Etiquette Come Back We Didn’t Know We Needed
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In this episode of Manners and Other Matters, Louise reflects on the long-lost etiquette traditions that once shaped how we connected with one another and why many of them deserve a thoughtful revival in 2026.
From the art of the handwritten note to the grace of a proper introduction, Louise explores how good manners were never about rigid rules, but about making others feel comfortable, seen, and respected. In a fast, digital world, these small courtesies are more relevant than ever.
This episode is a gentle reminder that the traditions...
62. The Etiquette of Care: When Words Matter Most
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When someone we love is facing a serious illness, our instincts often collide with uncertainty. What do we say? What should we avoid? How do we support without overwhelming, intruding, or disappearing altogether?
In this heartfelt episode of Manners and Other Matters, Louise explores the etiquette of care, friendship, and compassion when a loved one seriously ill.This is not about rules, but about presence, sensitivity, and the quiet manners that matter most during life’s hardest seasons.
A gentle guide for anyone who wants to show up with ki...
61. What Style Really is… Travel, Culture and Intention
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What is style, really? Is it about trends, or is it something far more personal?
In this episode of Manners and Other Matters, Louise is joined by her dear friend Chrissie, a print designer whose life has taken her across many countries and cultures. Together, they explore the idea of style as something lived and experienced, rather than something dictated by fashion cycles.
Drawing on Chrissie’s time living abroa, particularly in Indonesia, the conversation reflects on how travel, culture, craftsmanship, and intention quietly shape the way we dress, de...
60. New Year, New Professional Presence: Modern Business Etiquette
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As a new year begins, many women find themselves exploring new roles, new businesses, or a renewed desire to feel confident and professional at work.
In this episode Louise explores modern business etiquette for today’s woman. This is not about old-fashioned rules, but about contemporary manners that build confidence, clarity, and professional presence.
From communication and boundaries to returning to work or managing your own business, Louise shares practical guidance to help you begin the year feeling poised, prepared, and assured, wherever your professional path may be leading.
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59. The New Year Resolution No One Is Talking About
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January often encourages dramatic change and bold promises.
In this episode of Manners and Other Matters, Louise explores a quieter, more refined approach to New Year’s resolutions.
Rather than focusing on fitness, food or self-reinvention, Louise reframes confidence as something built through manners, etiquette and thoughtful communication. She answers the real questions women ask when they hesitate at the idea of a “manners course”, addressing misconceptions with warmth, clarity and modern relevance.
This episode is for people who manage well on the outside but seek greate...
58. From Panic to Poise, Hosting with Confidence
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If the thought of hosting fills you with anxiety rather than anticipation, this episode is for you.
In From Panic to Poise, Hosting with Confidence, Louise Percy gently unpacks why entertaining so often feels overwhelming and how, with thoughtful planning and a shift in mindset, it can once again become a joy.
Drawing on her own experience hosting a milestone birthday luncheon for forty guests, Louise shares practical wisdom, elegant reassurance and a failsafe event planning checklist developed over more than 30 years.
This episode is an invitation...
57. A Guide to Contemporary Festive Gift-Giving
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In this festive-season episode of Manners and Other Matters, Louise is joined by her dear friend Christine for an elegant and contemporary conversation about gift-giving, while they eachh sip o Together, they explore the modern etiquette of Christmas and holiday gifts, from whether families still need to give gifts to every relative, to the rise of Secret Santa, group gifting, and thoughtful alternatives when families become large or budgets tight. Louise and Christine also discuss the do’s and don’ts of re-gifting, the art of wrapping, how to respond graciously when someone give...
56. Festive Gatherings: Etiquette Across Cultures
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Across the world, the festive season brings joy, celebration, and at times, a few dilemmas. From Christmas and Hanukkah and other festive celebrations, each tradition invites opportunities to express warmth, generosity, and inclusion.
In this episode of Manners and Other Matters, etiquette and lifestyle expert Louise Percy explores the art of celebrating with grace across cultures and faiths. Discover how to navigate greetings and gift-giving, handle dietary restrictions and family tensions, and include those who may be alone during the holidays, all with elegance and empathy.
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55. Networking with Confidence and Etiquette: Small Talk, Smart Talk, and Poise
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As the year draws to a close, so too comes the season of office parties, client events, and festive gatherings, occasions that test our networking skills as much as our social confidence. In this episode of Manners and Other Matters, etiquette and lifestyle coach Louise Percy shares elegant, practical strategies for making genuine connections during the end-of-year party season.
From starting conversations with confidence, remembering names, and joining groups gracefully, to knowing when and how to make an elegant exit, Louise offers thoughtful advice to help you s...
54. Ask Louise: Everyday Etiquette Dilemmas Answered
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From managing late friends to mastering graceful exits, this episode of Manners and Other Matters explores the everyday moments that test our social finesse.
Join etiquette and elegant lifestyle consultant Louise Percy as she answers real questions from listeners in 90 countries, women and men seeking calm, confident guidance through modern social dilemmas. Whether it’s how to decline an invitation politely, handle a phone-addicted friend, or graciously accept a compliment, Louise shares timeless principles for living with thoughtfulness and poise in today’s world.
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53. Spring Style with Substance: Elegance, Trends, and True Confidence with Stylist Belinda Sutherland
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In this vibrant episode of Manners and Other Matters, Louise Percy welcomes renowned stylist Belinda Sutherland from the Department of Style to discuss the art of dressing gracefully through the changing seasons. As spring blossoms in Australia, Louise and Belinda discuss the essentials of self-auditing your wardrobe, exploring the balance between elegance and current trends. Discover how to embrace your personal style, understand your body shape, and choose colours that enhance your natural beauty. From core wardrobe staples to the power of accessories, this conversation is packed with practical tips for women navigating...
52. The Elegant Self Audit. A Yearly Ritual for Living with Intention
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In this episode of Manners and Other Matters, Louise Percy invites you into her personal ritual of a yearly “self-audit”, a practice of thoughtful reflection, renewal, and refinement. From her sunlit garden in Perth to the carefully curated wardrobes and welcoming homes she nurtures, Louise shares how intentional choices in clothing, surroundings, friendships, and daily habits shape a more elegant and fulfilling life. More than a seasonal tidy-up, this practice is about cultivating clarity, kindness, and the confidence to let go of what no longer serves us. Whether you’re inspired by the first...
51. From Playdates to Politeness... Everyday Manners for Families
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In this heart-warming episode, Louise is joined by friend, Laura McRae, to discuss how everyday manners shape confident, curious children. Fresh from a family trip abroad, Laura shares the simple practices that helped her daughters (ages 7 and 10) move from “shy at the table” to ordering for themselves, conversing with adults, and even reminding Mum where the napkin belongs. Beyond knives and forks, Louise shows why conversation, courtesy, and cultural awareness are confidence builders for life; and how small rituals like phones-off dinners create big impact. You’ll hear practical tips for parents, candid reflec...
50. From Tradition to TikTok: How manners, respect, and kindness still matter ...even online.
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Milestones invite reflection. As I recorded the 50th episode of Manners and Other Matters, I found myself pausing to consider not only the journey so far, but the deeper question that continues to come from listeners and clients alike: do manners still matter in today’s unconventional and fast-changing world?
It’s a fair question. After all, we live in an era where artificial intelligence can mimic human conversation, misinformation spreads faster than truth, and traditional social structures feel increasingly unanchored. In such a climate, it may seem tempting to dismiss etiq...
49. From Champagne to Shanghai Dumplings...The Art of Lasting Friendship. 25 Years of Laughter, Loyalty and Life Lessons
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This episode of Manners and Other Matters is a heartfelt celebration of one of life’s greatest treasures — enduring friendship.
I’m joined by my best friend, Christine Simmonds, as we reflect on over 25 years of shared adventures, business ventures, and unwavering support through life’s highs and lows.
From the joy of chance encounters to the wisdom of listening before speaking, we explore what it takes to keep a friendship strong across decades, cultures, and continents.
Whether you’re nurturing lifelong bonds or creating new ones, this warm a...
48. From Boomers to Zoomers...Etiquette Evolution in the Multigenerational Workplace
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In this episode of Manners and Other Matters, Louise Percy explores the fascinating differences in communication and etiquette across the generations and addresses the evolving standards around workplace professionalism, RSVPs, punctuality, social courtesies, and what constitutes politeness in the modern era.
Whether it’s a blunt email or a missed invitation reply, understanding these shifting norms is key to bridging the etiquette divide. Louise welcomes her school friend and renowned HR executive, Hacy Tobias, to the podcast. Together, they discuss the evolving landscape of workplace communication across generations. With warmth, wisdom an...
47. The Truth About Living Elegantly... Poise, Not Products
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In this elegant and thought-provoking episode, Louise Percy unpacks the modern tension between true personal elegance and the stylised, curated version of “elegance” popularised by social media. Drawing on her decades of experience, Louise explores what elegance really means from presence, poise and deportment to emotional regulation, dignity, and intention. Whether you’re seeking a more refined presence or questioning the allure of online aesthetics, this episode offers clarity, encouragement, and a grounded reminder that true elegance is a lived experience, not a luxury item.
I'd love to hear from you. Please...
46. Graceful Grit: Motherhood, Business and the Art of Starting Again
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In this episode of Manners and Other Matters, Louise Percy is joined by the inspiring Natalie Love, a single mother of three and founder of a heart-led business designed to support women in creating lives they truly love. Together, they explore what it means to transition gracefully—from overwhelm to empowerment—and how resilience, rituals, and refined systems can transform daily chaos into confident, elegant action. With candid reflections, practical insights, and a heartfelt tone, this episode is a celebration of modern womanhood, elegant reinvention, and the power of starting again.
I'd...
45. Ghosted, Texted, and Still Polite: Social Etiquette in a Digital Age
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In this episode of Manners and Other Matters, Louise Percy explores the evolving—and often perplexing—landscape of social etiquette for people aged from their 20s. From the nuances of texting and dating app interactions to more complex issues like ghosting, sexting, and catfishing, I take a considered and compassionate look at how good manners can still shine through in the fast-paced, often impersonal world of modern communication. With her signature elegance and warmth, Louise unpacks the "new normal" of connection, and offers thoughtful advice on how to uphold grace, clarity, and kindness in an...
44. The Language of Leadership: Business Etiquette Through Communication with David Price
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In this episode of Manners and Other Matters, Louise Percy is joined by business communication coach and meeting specialist, David Julian Price, to explore how professional etiquette is deeply intertwined with the way we communicate—whether in meetings or informal moments at work. Together, they discuss the vital role that tone, timing, structure, and courtesy play in establishing a respectful and high-functioning business culture.
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43. Business Etiquette and Professional Presence. What’s Expected Now?
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In this thought-provoking episode of Manners and Other Matters, host Louise Percy discusses the evolving landscape of corporate etiquette, a topic that has gained new relevance in the wake of recent global changes. As workplaces adapt to remote work and digital communication, the traditional rules of professional conduct are being redefined. Louise offers invaluable insights and practical advice on maintaining professionalism while fostering respectful interactions in today's corporate world.
From the nuances of virtual meeting decorum to the art of providing constructive feedback, this episode addresses the pressing questions faced...
42. Beauty Beyond Skin Deep. The Intersection of Elegance and Wellness
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In this enriching episode of Manners and Other Matters, Louise Percy is joined by the remarkable Dr. Fernanda de Silva Tatley—a molecular microbiologist, artist, and founder of a pioneering botanical skincare company based in New Zealand. Together, they explore the deeper meaning of elegance, the emotional and energetic power of skincare, and how self-care can become an intentional act of wellbeing and gratitude.
This conversation invites listeners to reframe skincare not as a superficial beauty ritual, but as a daily opportunity to nurture body, mind, and spirit. Dr. Tatley shares th...
41. Mastering Modern Manners: Your Invitation to a More Confident and Elegant Life.
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Discover the life-changing potential of modern etiquette in today’s episode of Manners and Other Matters. Host Louise Percy offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpse into her acclaimed one-day Modern Etiquette and Manners Course, designed for individuals of all backgrounds seeking greater confidence, poise, and elegant living. Whether you are stepping into new social circles, re-entering the professional world, or simply refining your personal presence, this course promises practical skills, warm connection, and lasting transformation. Join Louise as she shares how contemporary etiquette is less about perfection and more about authenticity, kindness, and confidence.
...40. Cultivating Courtesy at 30,000 feet. In-Flight Etiquette
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In this insightful episode Louise Percy delves into the often-overlooked world of in-flight etiquette, inspired by her recent journey from Perth to Sydney on Qantas. Drawing from her observations, she highlights the importance of kindness and cooperation among passengers, while also addressing the less desirable behaviours that can arise in the confined space of an aircraft.
Louise shares heartwarming anecdotes of fellow travellers assisting one another, as well as candid discussions with cabin crew about their experiences managing passenger interactions. From the significance of making eye contact during meal service to...
39. The Art of Entertaining with Joseph Marini: Timeless Elegance at Home
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In this captivating episode of Manners and Other Matters, Louise Percy welcomes renowned entertaining expert, author, and event designer Joseph Marini. Together, they explore the essence of gracious hospitality, the beauty of intimate gatherings, and how authentic entertaining fosters deep connections. From the charm of French-style hosting to the importance of thoughtful details, Joseph shares invaluable insights from his book Mastering the Art of Entertaining. Whether you’re hosting a grand dinner or a simple meal for two, this episode will inspire you to create meaningful moments through the art of entertaining.
38. Say It With Confidence. Reviving Your Conversational Skills
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Since the pandemic, have you noticed that in-person conversations feel… different? Awkward pauses, small talk struggles, and even a fear of making a simple phone call have become common concerns. In this episode of Manners and Other Matters, I explore how digital communication has reshaped our social confidence and share practical strategies to help you regain ease in face-to-face and phone conversations. From mastering active listening to navigating networking events with poise, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you feel more confident and connected in the modern world. Tune in to...
