What happens when politeness becomes a barrier to truth?

In Midwest Nice, Dr. Laura Janusik explores the cultural communication patterns that define America’s heartland, where kindness is expected, confrontation is avoided, and saying what you really mean can feel… impolite.

Drawing from interdisciplinary research, including in listening and communication, and interviews with those who have lived experience, Laura unpacks the hidden costs of always being “nice.” And, she’ll help you understand how important it is to be “Midwest Kind” instead of “Midwest Nice” with practical strategies you can implement immediately.

This book is for anyone who’s ever bitten their tongue to keep the peace, struggled to set boundaries with loved ones, or wondered why a simple “no” can feel so hard to say.

Midwest Nice is equal parts lived experience…mine and many others that I’ve interviewed, and manual. It’s an invitation to shift from surface-level politeness to real, authentic connection without losing compassion along the way.