What Happened to Good Manners? (Why Modern Society Has Lost Its Etiquette)

Does it feel like basic manners, customer service, and human consideration have completely disappeared in recent years? In Episode 11 of Smartish Convos, hosts Kimberly Ryan and Reagan Nickelson explore the decline of modern etiquette and ask the big question: What actually happened to good manners? Together, they break down the formal definition of manners (respect, courtesy, and consideration for others) and examine how a "microwave society," online keyboard warriors, and massive generational shifts across seven coexisting generations have reshaped how we treat one another. From holding doors for struggling parents and highway merging etiquette to the "Gen Z stare" and why companies like Chick-fil-A and In-N-Out still get customer service right, Kimberly and Reagan share practical ways to bring intentional kindness back into your daily routine. 💡 Key Takeaways & Topics Covered: ✅ The Definition of Manners: Why true etiquette is rooted in showing consideration and empathy for the feelings and comfort of others. ✅ Screen Shields & Keyboard Warriors: How digital communication removes body language feedback and makes people feel comfortable being rude. ✅ The 7 Coexisting Generations: How silent generation traditions, millennial trust funds, and Gen Z speed expectations clash in modern public spaces. ✅ Customer Service Case Studies: Why brands like Chick-fil-A and In-N-Out successfully train young workers to deliver high-level courtesy and "My Pleasure" responses. ✅ The Daily Kindness Challenge: How performing one small, intentional act of courtesy triggers a natural dopamine hit and improves your own mindset. 💬 Join the Conversation: Do you think good manners are gone forever, or can we retrain society to be courteous again? Drop a comment below with your thoughts! CHAPTERS 00:00 Welcome Back to Smartish Convos! 01:23 What Happened to Good Manners & Customer Service? 04:15 Generational Differences in Raising & Disciplining Kids 07:00 The 7 Generations Currently Living on the Planet 10:48 Keyboard Warriors: Why People Hide Behind Screens 12:44 The Official Definition of Manners & Everyday Courtesy 15:38 Self-Centeredness & The Microwave Society 20:00 The "Gen Z Stare" & Fast Food Expectations 22:20 Dr. Spock's Raising Philosophy & The History of Discipline 28:45 Why "No" Is the Ultimate Pivot in Life & Coaching 31:48 In-N-Out & Chick-fil-A: How Great Brands Still Train Manners 35:38 Retraining Kindness: How Doing Good Gives You a Dopamine Hit 38:39 Practical Challenge: Do One Intentional Act of Kindness Today