The Side-Hug Showdown: When Did We Stop Touching Each Other?
from The Manners Lab
In this episode of The Manners Lab, James and Diane tackle one of the most awkward moments in modern social life: the greeting. From the double-cheek air kiss to the lingering handshake, the side-hug to the full embrace, we explore how physical contact has become a minefield of unspoken rules. Traditional etiquette once dictated precise greetings based on formality and familiarity, but today we're navigating a world where consent, comfort, and cultural differences collide. James argues that some warmth has been lost in our fear of overstepping, while Diane pushes back, asking whether the side-hug is actually a thoughtful adaptation that respects personal boundaries. Together, they break down the signals, the misreads, and the horror stories, then offer a practical framework for greeting anyone with confidence and kindness. If you've ever hesitated before hugging a friend, shaken a hand for too long, or been caught in the dreaded lean-in kiss mix-up, this episode is your survival guide to the first five seconds of every interaction.
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