The holidays feel magical for shoppers… but for retail workers, December often feels like a marathon you never trained for.
In Part 1 of this two-episode series, we’re taking a step back — way back — to uncover how holiday retail schedules were built over the last 100 years.
From the glamorous department store palaces of the 1920s…
to the bustling mall culture of the 80s…
to the big-box boom of the 90s…
We’re exploring how long hours, blackout dates, and mandatory holiday availability became the norm — and why December still carries so much emotional weight for the people who work behind the counter.
If you’ve ever wondered, “Why does holiday retail feel like THIS?” — this episode is your answer.
Part history lesson, part retail time-travel, and all heart.
Next week: Part 2 — how COVID, corporate decisions, and modern retail culture reshaped today’s holiday schedules, and what it means for workers now.
💋Have a discontinued favorite or retail story? Share it with Hilary here!
If you enjoyed this episode, please follow Sorry, It’s Discontinued on your favorite podcast app, and leave a quick rating or review—it really helps our retail family and fellow customers find the show.
You can also connect with me on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook @sorryitsdiscontinued. And if you have your own behind-the-counter story, discontinued product heartbreak, or beauty industry confession, send it my way—your story might be featured in a future episode.
This podcast is independently produced and is not affiliated with any brands or companies mentioned. All stories and opinions shared are personal, reflecting the real-life experiences of those who’ve worked in this industry with heart and hustle.
Thank you for being here 💄
the website: www.sorryitsdiscontinued.com
Connect with me:
Instagram & TikTok: @sorryitsdiscontinued
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Want to share your story or suggest a topic?
Visit www.sorryitsdiscontinued.com and scroll to "Tell Me Your Story"
New episodes every Thursday
#SorryItsDiscontinued #BeautyPodcast #RetailLife
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