Happy Valentines Day!

Join Renee and an ever-reluctant Dan on Time Tellers as they unbox the rich, intricate tapestry that is Valentine's Day in America. This episode takes listeners on a time-traveling journey from ancient Roman rituals to medieval courtships, through the rise of commercialism spearheaded by visionary entrepreneurs like Esther Howland, to today's diverse celebrations that embrace both love and friendship.

Uncover the layers of history hidden behind the heart-shaped chocolates and floral bouquets, as the podcast delves into the traditions that shaped a holiday marked by joy, extravagance, and heartfelt gestures. Explore how Valentine's Day transformed from a fertility festival into a love-centric fervor fueled by capitalism, while still retaining nuggets of its emotional core through centuries.

Listen in as they pull at the threads of commercialization and ponder the holiday's significance beyond societal pressures, revealing Valentine's Day as a day of universal appreciation and love in all forms – a holiday that, whether adored or disdained, continues to rewrite its own narrative across generations.