Dr. Decorum: The Highest Degree of Etiquette

9 Episodes
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By: Charlene Sims, Ph.D.

Listeners who appreciate the art of proper etiquette will love this podcast’s fresh take on manners beyond the dining room. If you value knowing the right thing to say, how to conduct yourself with poise, and the social graces that set you apart, then this podcast is for you. It’s etiquette expertise for a space we all navigate but rarely discuss—combining the timeless principles of courtesy, respect, and decorum with practical guidance for real-world situations. For those who believe manners matter everywhere, this is your next essential listen.

Your Etiquette Minute - Episode 3: The Gift of Undivided Attention
#3
Last Wednesday at 3:15 PM

In our age of constant distraction, your complete attention has become one of the most valuable gifts you can offer. Discover five ways to cultivate presence, resist the urgency illusion, and honor others through the radical act of being fully present.


How to Be a Good Guest - The Art of Gracious Receiving
#5
03/26/2026

Master the often-overlooked art of being a gracious guest in this essential guide to reciprocal hospitality. From responding to invitations promptly and arriving on time to engaging meaningfully with other guests and knowing when to leave, discover how thoughtful guest behavior honors your host and strengthens relationships. Learn the etiquette of hostess gifts, navigating overnight stays, handling special situations, and expressing genuine gratitude. Whether attending a casual barbecue, an elegant dinner party, or a professional event, this episode reveals that being a good guest is about more than following rules—it’s about recognizing the gift of hospitality and resp...


Your Etiquette Minute - Episode 2: Active Listening In Action
#2
03/21/2026

Master the transformative skill of active listening with seven practical steps that make others feel genuinely heard. Learn how eliminating distractions, asking clarifying questions, and resisting the urge to problem-solve immediately can deepen every relationship and make you truly memorable.


Your Etiquette Minute-Episode 1: The Power of Remembering Names
#1
03/18/2026

Discover why remembering someone’s name is one of the most powerful tools in your etiquette arsenal. Learn five practical techniques to improve your name recall and understand how this simple act communicates profound respect and value in every interaction.


Hosting With Grace - Etiquette Tips For Events, Dinners, & Gatherings
#4
03/14/2026

Discover the art of gracious hospitality in this comprehensive guide to hosting with confidence and joy. From planning your guest list and preparing your space to welcoming guests and facilitating meaningful connections, learn how to create memorable gatherings that make everyone feel valued and comfortable. Explore menu planning, table settings, managing the unexpected, and knowing when to let go of perfection. Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner party, a holiday celebration, or a professional event, this episode reveals that great hosting isn’t about impressing people—it’s about creating an atmosphere of warmth, generosity, and genuine welcome that str...


Workplace Etiquette - Professionalism, Networking, and Office Decorum
#3
03/12/2026

Master the unwritten rules of professional success in this comprehensive guide to workplace etiquette. From making powerful first impressions and communicating effectively to navigating office relationships and handling difficult situations with grace, discover how professionalism extends far beyond technical skills. Learn networking strategies, meeting etiquette, dress code navigation, and the daily behaviors that build your reputation. Whether you’re new to the workforce or a seasoned professional, this episode reveals how workplace decorum creates opportunities, builds trust, and sets you apart as someone others want to work with and promote.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​


Navigating Digital Etiquette: Social Media Conduct & Professional Manners Today
#2
02/27/2026

In our hyperconnected world, knowing how to communicate with grace online is more important than ever. This episode tackles the etiquette challenges of the digital age—from email protocols and text messaging boundaries to social media conduct and video call professionalism. Learn when to reply all (and when not to), how to maintain professional boundaries online, and how to apply timeless principles of respect and consideration to modern technology. Whether you’re navigating work emails or social media posts, discover practical guidance for showing up online with confidence and courtesy. 


Navigating Digital Etiquette: Social Media Conduct & Professional Manners Today
#2
02/27/2026

In our hyperconnected world, knowing how to communicate with grace online is more important than ever. This episode tackles the etiquette challenges of the digital age—from email protocols and text messaging boundaries to social media conduct and video call professionalism. Learn when to reply all (and when not to), how to maintain professional boundaries online, and how to apply timeless principles of respect and consideration to modern technology. Whether you’re navigating work emails or social media posts, discover practical guidance for showing up online with confidence and courtesy.


The History of Etiquette: How Manners Have Evolved Through Time
#1
02/19/2026

Journey through centuries of social customs as we explore how etiquette has transformed from ancient civilizations to the digital age. Discover why the fork was once controversial, how the Victorian era became the pinnacle of elaborate manners, and what the evolution of social norms reveals about our values and society. From medieval courtesy to modern-day protocols, learn how the rules of proper behavior have constantly adapted while the core principle of respect remains timeless.