Old Money isn’t always old harmony. In this episode of the Awkward Etiquette podcast, your host Kiki Astor, aka Auntie Kiki, begins by delving into a famous Astor family feud that led to the creation of the Waldorf-Astoria hotel. Using this dramatic historical anectote full of rivalry, egos, and its unlikely legacy as a jumping-off point, Kiki explores the dynamics of old money family feuds and uncovers why even the most "refined" families can find themselves at odds. With the holiday season approaching—a time when family tensions often come to a head—this episode provides actionable advice on how to manage your own family disputes with poise and elegance. Drawing from both etiquette principles and psychological insights, we’ll show you how to navigate tricky relationships, set boundaries, and find peace without losing your cool. Whether you’re sparring over a seating arrangement or something far more serious, this episode is your guide to handling family drama with the grace of old money—and maybe even turning conflict into a legacy of your very own.

Ask this episode

“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

Transcript

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