What's in a Name? Our moniker might be our most important attribute, influencing how we succeed and how we are perceived. In this episode of Awkward Etiquette, Kiki Astor dives into the delightful—and sometimes awkward—world of names. Starting with the hottest naming trends for 2025, sourced from Nameberry, Kiki explores how some baby names go in and out of style and why certain ones are making a comeback. Next, we go on a fascinating journey through the history and anthropology of naming, from ancestral customs to “old money” traditions that add an air of distinction (or occasional pretension) to family names. As Kiki shares her top tips for selecting the perfect name for a child, you’ll get insight into her curated list of timeless, old-money-approved names that evoke classic sophistication. Next, Kiki tackles the social minefield of name etiquette: what to do when you can’t remember someone’s name, how to handle "name poaching" from a close friend or family member, and whether it’s appropriate to name your dog after a friend. And for those of us with four-legged friends whose names overlap with our human companions, Kiki provides a cheeky yet respectful approach to those situations. Tune in for a fun, informative, and etiquette-savvy discussion on all things names and naming!

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

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