Were You Raised By Wolves?

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Editors’ Notes: “I want to give everybody the tools to solve their own etiquette problems,” says Nick Leighton, cohost and producer of Were You Raised by Wolves?, a weekly podcast in which he and cohost Leah Bonnema look into the many sticky social situations we all face. “With each of the questions that we get, from the bonkers to the ordinary, I always try to take a step back and ask, ‘What are the bigger principles here?’ I'm always looking for topics that help us make a larger point.” In each episode, Leighton, a two-time Emmy Award-winning journalist, and Bonnema, a comic/writer, share practical advice on how to navigate a wide range of situations, from the serious to the whimsical—whether they tackle interrupting excessive talkers, establishing healthy boundaries with coworkers, or the proper way to eat Cheetos.When they developed the show in 2019, Leighton and Bonnema had one goal in mind: to have empathy for other people. Their informal conversations tackle a mix of personal topics, viewer questions, and the occasional historical fact with warmth and positivity and humor. Leighton views this approach as an antidote to a lot of the negativity he sees in the online world, while Bonnema thinks the show’s premise is a natural fit for her situational style of comedy. “A lot of my comedy is about events where I’m like, ‘What just happened here?’ or where I embarrass myself,” she says. “And, ironically, all of these fall under the guise of etiquette, where you either feel aggrieved or you feel like you committed some sort of social crime. I just loved the topic.”Leighton and Bonnema credit the show’s ongoing success to their work ethic. They haven’t missed a single week since they launched the show, which recently hit a new milestone: 100 episodes. But what they value the most, above all else, is how they've built a community of listeners from all backgrounds. “We have conservative grandmothers in Tallahassee to nonbinary chefs in Seattle and everybody in between,” he says. “Because who among us has not experienced an etiquette crime? This is universal.”---Etiquette, manners, and beyond! Join Emmy® Award-winning journalist Nick Leighton and acclaimed comedian Leah Bonnema ("Late Show with Stephen Colbert"), the perfect odd couple, as they try to make the world a nicer, more polite place and offer up practical advice to help you smoothly glide through any situation. Please listen and follow! (We'd send you a hand-written thank you note if we could.)

Recent Episodes
  • Handling Stray Hairs, Backing out of Dinner Parties, Tipping for Strangers, and More
    Nov 4, 2024 – 29:39
  • Sitting on Suitcases, Going on Ghost Tours, Being Disappointed by Mahi-Mahi, and More
    Oct 28, 2024 – 49:32
  • Picking People's Brains, Dividing Group Gifts Fairly, Whittling Excessive Guest Lists, and More
    Oct 21, 2024 – 36:42
  • Holiday Break: Squeezing Grapefruits, Paying for Damaged Pans, Photographing Great Danes, and More
    Oct 14, 2024 – 43:38
  • Savoring Soufflés, Responding to Condolence Notes, Keeping Cutlery at Buffets, and More
    Oct 7, 2024 – 50:57
  • Avoiding Dance Videos, Roaming Around in Robes, Enforcing Coaster Usage, and More
    Sep 30, 2024 – 27:05
  • Crossing the Equator, Going Apple Picking, Deciphering Bathroom Signs, and More
    Sep 23, 2024 – 43:04
  • Passing Along Discounts, Letting Toilets Mellow, Avoiding Wearing Black Tie, and More
    Sep 16, 2024 – 36:31
  • Managing Multiple Chopsticks, Behaving at Baggage Claims, Whining About Wedding Menus, and More
    Sep 9, 2024 – 42:43
  • Holiday Break: Feeling Obligated to Babysit, Serving Sliced Lemons, Fixing Friends' Typos, and More
    Sep 2, 2024 – 28:36
  • Holiday Break: Verifying Wedding RSVPs, Hogging Restaurant Gift Certificates, Using Hosts' Expensive Bath Products, and More
    Aug 26, 2024 – 30:09
  • Getting Passive-Aggressive with Tissues, Tossing Spoiled Food, Calling Out Rudeness, and More
    Aug 19, 2024 – 31:24
  • Spitting Watermelon Seeds, Behaving While Bowling, Throwing Spoons on Airplanes, and More
    Aug 12, 2024 – 54:18
  • Demanding Gift Cards, Meeting up With Childhood Friends, Sticking Fingers in Wine Glasses, and More
    Aug 5, 2024 – 34:05
  • Experiencing Finnish Saunas, Leaving Long Voice Notes, Raining on People's Parades, and More
    Jul 29, 2024 – 44:34
  • Knocking on Doors, Handling Overbearing Mothers-In-Law, Cleaning Supermarket Floors, and Much More
    Jul 22, 2024 – 28:08
  • Summer Break: Wearing Hats, Behaving on Boats, Remembering Song Lyrics, and More
    Jul 15, 2024 – 45:31
  • Summer Break: Telling Cooks They're Terrible, Leaving Cash on Tables, Handling Wet Laundry, and More
    Jul 8, 2024 – 34:59
  • Sequencing Cream and Jam on Scones, Glancing at Smartwatches, Scowling at Strangers, and More
    Jul 1, 2024 – 35:04
  • Saying "You're Welcome" Unprompted, Cleaning up After Squirrels, Asking Wedding Guests to Bring Ice, and More
    Jun 24, 2024 – 32:36
  • Stealing Parking Spaces, Closing Bathroom Doors, Arriving Late to Classes, and More
    Jun 17, 2024 – 41:27
  • Escaping Unwanted Potlucks, Avoiding Teenaged Guests, Opting Out of Thank You Notes, and More
    Jun 10, 2024 – 27:10
  • Using Bouillon Cups, Surviving Book Clubs, Changing Plans on Guests, and More
    Jun 3, 2024 – 41:24
  • Memorial Day Break: Sending Wedding Cards to Exes, Being Polite to Smart Speakers, Asking People for Favors, and More
    May 27, 2024 – 40:53
  • Faking Wedding Start Times, Asking for Gifts Back, Clipping Nails in Church, and More
    May 20, 2024 – 26:08
  • Getting Things Monogrammed, Behaving at Brunch, Requesting Graduation Money, and More
    May 13, 2024 – 43:07
  • Removing Shoes on Airplanes, Exiting Weddings Early, Welcoming Guests In, and More
    May 6, 2024 – 25:39
  • Enjoying Petit Fours, Visiting New York City, Tracking Down Perishable Gifts, and More
    Apr 29, 2024 – 44:55
  • Stealing Hotel Rooms, Escaping Dinner Parties, Grabbing Costco Canapés, and More
    Apr 22, 2024 – 30:43
  • Discovering Letitia Baldrige, Handling Airport Pickups, Brushing Teeth at the Office, and More
    Apr 15, 2024 – 44:08
  • Cordially Invited: Sara Jane Ho
    Apr 11, 2024 – 21:49
  • Spring Break: Passing Salt and Pepper, Asking for Pickles, Running Into Acquaintances, and More
    Apr 8, 2024 – 50:04
  • Cordially Invited: William Hanson
    Apr 4, 2024 – 32:09
  • Sharing Burgers in Restaurants, Splitting AirBNBs Fairly, Inquiring About Lip Filler, and More
    Apr 1, 2024 – 26:55
  • Eating Baguettes in France, Spitting Wine at Tastings, Returning Gifts to Guests, and More
    Mar 25, 2024 – 43:07
  • Loitering Around Toasters, Being Embarrassed by Employees, Picking Strangers' Teeth, and More
    Mar 18, 2024 – 32:16
  • Identifying Salt and Pepper Shakers, Using AI for Thank You Notes, Walking Up Escalators, and More
    Mar 11, 2024 – 50:23
  • Taking Flowers From Funerals, Giving Guests Plastic Cutlery, Asking About People's Weight, and More
    Mar 4, 2024 – 29:00
  • Eating Soft Boiled Eggs, Getting A Professional Massage, Being Judgy at Airports, and More
    Feb 26, 2024 – 44:44
  • President's Day Break: Commandeering Televisions, RSVPing to Facebook Events, Returning Shopping Carts, and More
    Feb 19, 2024 – 33:20
  • Dressing Your Personality at Weddings, Helping People Who Trip, Giving Money to Cashiers, and More
    Feb 12, 2024 – 26:51
  • Thanking Emperors for Tea, Traveling With Pets, Stealing Wipes at the Gym, and More
    Feb 5, 2024 – 46:12
  • Using Squeegees in Showers, Stopping Judgy Comments, Asking Strangers for Wedding Cash, and More
    Jan 29, 2024 – 29:06
  • Numbering Floors, Making Others Uncomfortable, Picking Teeth in Public, and More
    Jan 22, 2024 – 48:32
  • Objecting to Marriages, Watching Strangers' Luggage, Asking for More Chairs, and More
    Jan 15, 2024 – 29:21
  • Eating Napoleons, Using Annoying Email Phrases, Looking Nice on Subways, and More
    Jan 8, 2024 – 52:18
  • Holiday Break: Following Dress Codes, Copying Roommates' Décor, Clearing Plates, and More
    Jan 1, 2024 – 41:39
  • Holiday Break: Grabbing Fresher Milk, Escaping Unwanted Reunions, Returning Bad Sangria, and More
    Dec 25, 2023 – 28:24
  • Inviting Dogs Into Your Home, Lowering Gift-Giving Anxiety, Crashing Birthday Parties, and More
    Dec 18, 2023 – 41:23
  • Watching Kalle Anka, Receiving Compliments, Bringing Empty Containers to Restaurants, and More
    Dec 11, 2023 – 44:21
Recent Reviews
  • Blackberry hedges
    Love this podcast.❤️
    I am only 10 and this has got to be my favorite podcast ❤️❤️.
  • Lizette Brilliante
    Amazing! This is a must.
    I just finished listening to all of these great and funny episodes for the second time. Even though I remembered a lot of the episodes, I still fell on the floor laughing at the great puns that Leah provides, and I still get so mad at the mysterious Lisa that does things that should not be done. Thank you Leah and Nick for this wonderful podcast that makes my day!
  • Pizza bomb
    Happiness!
    Happy! That’s how feel when I listen every single time 🥰. Sad. That’s how I feel when it’s over.😫 I only wish there were more episodes each week. I truly think Nick and Leah are my personal friends. Great advice and just fun! Highlight of my week. ❤️
  • Ellieh723
    Great podcast
    I’ve shared this podcast with many friends. It’s so funny but also so real and helpful.
  • Catwhisperer001
    Love this show
    I always enjoy listening to this show. I love how they break down questions.
  • FanofManaging
    Play it Forward
    I love Nick and Leah’s insight and advice! I find myself quoting them in conversations and getting others talking. I’m playing it forward since many of these people listen to the show now!
  • betelgeuse29
    My opinion
    I really liked this show but had to stop listening. Nick’s advice, knowledge on etiquette rules, and suggestions are so great and on-point. However, I started to tune Leah out—sometimes her advice was way out there, too complex, passive aggressive, or just not polite at all. A letter writer would pose a question and Nick would answer succinctly, but then Leah weighs in with a convoluted response and suggestion. I think Nick is better suited for a show on manners and etiquette, and Leah is best suited for a relationship advice podcast.
  • OliviaKel
    Love This Podcast and the Hosts!
    I hope the people who were raised by wolves, or just choose to behave as such, are listening! Leah and Nick are fabulous. ❤️❤️
  • Stany2401k
    No, I Was Not Raised By Wolves, But….
    So many others apparently were! I look forward to listening to Nick and Leah reinforce my need for a well-mannered world each week. Thanks!!
  • Fluffster Normalpaws
    Nail clipping
    Re nail clipping in church- That poor man probably has early stage dementia or some other mental challenge. He’s clearly not in his right mind, for whatever reason. Let us please have mercy on some people who might be physically or mentally compromised in some way. As long as he’s not hurting or scaring anyone, let’s cover it with a mantle of charity. We might be in his predicament someday, and we might need a little tolerance and understanding. People like this actually help us, because they are an opportunity for us to be of service and learn compassion. Maybe this is God’s way of reaching out to this church, to alert them that this man needs assistance or friendship. Not everyone has loved ones to take care of them. God help him.
  • Wheel of death 44
    Thorny social situations and their possible solutions
    The hosts are thoughtful, grounded, and post-Emily-Post. Also quite funny, in two distinct fashions. I’m honing my social skills and laughing at both myself and the situations equally. Give it a try!!!
  • Candylamd
    Delightful!
    I reference your show often and recommend it to everyone looking for something light, fun, and informative. And now I must repent for an etiquette faux pas …
  • lanalibrarian
    Required listening
    The world would be such a better place if everyone listened to this podcast. So smart, funny, informative, and polite! Etiquette is sexy.
  • Jelly111613
    Informative and Funny
    Nick and Leah are like the Johnny Weir and Tara Lapinsky of manners, you need them in your life!
  • Matt85gfgyh
    Episode 211
    Best Episode Yet. I have enjoyed every episode for years. I even have the podcast t-shirt. Episode 211 is Leah’s best episode. Several lol moments.
  • coolgirl🤩
    Best Podcast Ever!!
    I absolutely love this podcast!! I have to constantly go back and listen to old episodes because there are not enough!! I am trying to come up with an etiquette problem to reach out to you about!! Overall great podcast!
  • Cat2128
    My go to on Mondays
    This is what I look forward to on Mondays. Great way to start the week. This duo is the perfect match. Not only do they supply great information about etichette but they are hysterical! This is by far my favorite podcast. Thank you Nick and Lisa for all the you do. Much appreciation
  • shrimpscampi12
    The best thing on the internet
    This podcast is everything—insightful, hysterical, educational, heartwarming. I’ve listened to every episode, oh, maybe a dozen times over, and it still hasn’t gotten old. Thanks, Nick and Leah, for making us all better citizens of the world!
  • Angie Kristine
    Awooooo!
    I so appreciate this podcast. I love how interactive it is, and I’m always so curious to hear how Leah and Nick will solve the world’s etiquette crimes. I learn something every time, and it inspired me to purchase personalized stationery! I’m so excited!
  • Joani H
    Artichokes and gift opening parties
    First of all, I enjoy listening to this podcast so much. I often laugh out loud as I’m listening. I just finished the episode about artichokes and also recently finished watching the episode of the untouchables starring Robert Stack on YouTube called the artichoke King. It’s based on the story you told. It’s so interesting. In regard to the wedding gift opening party, we actually did that. I got married in 1989, moved from the Midwest to the north east, and my husband‘s family insisted that this was the thing to do. They did wait until we return from the honeymoon but we were expected to invite his whole family over, host them, serve lunch, and open our gifts in front of them. I do not recommend it. It was uncomfortable to open the gifts and react with a crowd in front of us and we didn’t get to take the time to really enjoy each gift, and think about the people who gave them to us. We just had to get through them all in one sitting. I was young and naïve, and in a strange land. Ha ha.
  • Joe’sJams
    Howling !
    This is such a phenomenal podcast. I started listening in late 22. Well, I just completed my 11th trek across the US and my partner and I binged about 90 episodes during our 6 day drive - we completed all episodes. This pod and the hosts are so engaging that by the end we were still singing & seat-dancing along to the theme, laughing, screaming and howling along! I will not get the image of Nick suggesting eating cotton candy on a zoom or Leah saying “What is happening!?!?” out of my head. Thanks times a million! XO!! JOE
  • gosh CD ax
    Glitter
    I want glitter in my house Also this is a great podcast thank you guys so much!!
  • LindaTH101
    Such a fun listen!
    I love listening to these two! Their guidance on matters of etiquette are is spot on but I think they could make talking about the weather fun!
  • Elysssssa
    The very best podcast out there
    I have recently binge-listened to the entire 200+ episodes of this show! I have never been a podcast person, but Nick and Leah have fully converted me. I love the blend of knowledge and humor and have recommended this show to anyone I’ve talked to in the past month or so. I love that it’s upbeat and a great distraction from everyday stressors. I cannot recommend this show enough!
  • Nurse Lizbeth
    This show is invaluable!
    I can’t tell you how much I enjoy this show! I strive to be conscientious of etiquette and it can be challenging so I really appreciate your scripting advise! Congratulations on the first 200 episodes, I can’t wait to hear the next 200 episodes.
  • gilletja
    Fun and so needed
    Love that you’re straight up honest about etiquette. So many basic manners are missed opportunities for building trust. Your wit and playful approach is a joy to listen to.
  • Tkd_Gal
    Congratulations on #200
    I love this show so much and I’m looking forward to the next 200+. Thank you both for attempting to create a more polite society. 😂
  • T.Vigus
    Awesome!
    These two are so straightforward and TRUE! Love listening for a 'pick me up'. I would love to be at a party with the hosts.
  • Syd Listens
    Good ear company
    Short of a handwritten thank you note, I’ll write this review. I’ve enjoyed many an episode while going for a walk, doing chores, or riding the subway. Plus it makes for a great soother on sick days. Keep the banter, history/culture lessons and advice coming!
  • bittersweet1199
    A Most Winsome Podcast
    The world would be a much kinder place if we all listened to this winsome podcast and followed the advice of Nick and Leah. After the last few years I’d forgotten some of these etiquette rules and love having this refresher. These two are thoughtful, clever, FUN and just a joy to listen to on a Monday morning.
  • svens101
    Light, charming, and informative
    RBW is exactly what I want to listen to… it brings up food for thought about many relatable (and some BONKERS) etiquette situations and makes me want to talk about each scenario with a friend. The hosts are oh so likable… I could listen for hours!
  • liaakaleah
    Sound advice
    Not only is advice sensible, both hosts have melodious voices that are so pleasant to listen to.
  • Raising Helene
    Listen and share
    And together, we’ll make the world a better place…🤗 Love the chemistry and the content. A great listen every time. No notes!
  • jennymalanbarton
    Love it
    I listen to this in the car with kids so hopefully they grow into self aware adults
  • eao613
    A Lifesaver!
    I don’t remember how I found this podcast but, OMG, I am so glad I did! After a year full of nothing but bad news and dire predictions, this thirtyish minute break in my day has been a lifesaver! My only concern now is what will I do when I am caught up with all the back episodes and only have one a week to depend on! Maybe the world will have calmed down by then. Thank you for this silly and yet sophisticated respite of entertaining information! Proud to be a wild pup!
  • Bekahhaz
    Everything you want in a podcast!
    Nick and Leah are SO fun and have such great tips to share. They are comical, practical, and educational. I love listening to their take on all things etiquette. My sister shared this podcast with me and I’ve sent it to all my friends! It’s way too easy to binge. I think “what would Nick and Leah do?” roughly 10 times a day.
  • lindseybein
    Must listen
    Wow! I binged the whole series in about 3 weeks. No one makes etiquette more entertaining or engaging than Nick & Leah You know when you finish a great book/show/podcast and think, “man, I want more like this,” and struggle to find it? THIS IS IT.
  • Fasting PTA mom
    Best etiquette podcast ever!
    I absolutely love your podcast, I can truly say I’ve learned so many useful things listening to you both. One example, my local coffee shop has a sign out front “Fika time” I never knew what it meant until now!!
  • FleeceActress
    Intelligent and humorous analysis of contemporary etiquette
    Nick
  • xoIndigo
    Immaculate in every way possible
    This is the epitome of podcasts. Every episode is wonderfully crafted and clearly Nick and Leah care so much about their listeners and the quality of this incredible podcast. Thanks for providing a great experience with great banter and wit while also being informative.
  • Cherokee1934?$&
    Podcast
    Educational and a fun way to learn about etiquette
  • Lofi Digital Monk
    Keeps on getting better!
    Move over “Mrs. Manners”. The 1-2 Punch that is the “Bonnema-Leighton” Powerhouse is an absolute delight. And they say etiquette is dead. 6 stars outta 5.
  • Kzoller
    Delightful!
    Love this podcast! Nick and Leah are perfect counterparts. The podcast balances specific etiquette rules (where do you put your hands when dining in France?) with the every day, practical advice we should all follow (stop talking in elevators, please!). WYRBW is a delightful yet informative show that I look forward to each week.
  • Vern
    I look forward to this every Monday morning!
    I just want to leave a quick note to thank you for the wonderful, informative show. It’s funny and educational and very enjoyable. Thank you Nick and Leah for making Monday’s a bit better.
  • 11262020
    We’re you raised by wolves
    This is an amazing podcast that promotes civil behavior. Great advice with great interaction between the hosts. Thank you
  • MOMONAD
    So excited to find your podcast!
    I have just found your podcast, and have probably listened to 50 episodes in the last 2 weeks. It’s so rare for a podcast to be clean, entertaining, and educational all at the same time! In a society that is slowly disintegrating, you are a shining light of morality and decency. Continue the great work! Thank you!
  • lllllalss
    Hi I love this
    Hi! I love your podcast! I listen to it every night, and it is beautiful. A master peace of craftsmanship, and not even Picasso could produce a better wrk of art. But please, please, let Leah read the questions for just one episode. Love your show, thank you.
  • Etiquette lover
    My favorite podcast
    This is my favorite podcast, and therefore makes Mondays my favorite day of the week. Nick and Leah solve every problem with humor and panache, and they are delightful, engaging and just the right amount of sassy. I am stressed about the day in the future when I’ve listened to every episode and have no more in reserve. Thank you Nick and Leah, for making the world a brighter place.
  • kathym8604
    Hilarious and Informative
    I look forward to this podcast every week. Not only are Nick and Leah hysterical together, but I learn a lot as well! As a fellow rule-follower, I love sharing in their determination to know the proper way to handle almost every social situation, and their horror at the bad behavior their listeners write in about. An absolute delight!
  • CourtneyWasHere
    I binged this hard
    These host are just freaking hilarious together. If I sat near them at brunch I’d forget to drink my mimosa because I’d be listening to them too intently. And I freakin’ love mimosas.
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