Ever found yourself puzzled at the end of a meal, hovering over the tip field on a digital payment system? Join us, your hosts Michelle and Julee, as we dissect the complicated world of tipping culture in the United States, tracing its roots all the way back to the Roman Empire and Medieval Europe. We delve into the nuances of tipping in various service industries, from coffee shops to hotels, and even spill some insider secrets from our own time in the service industry trenches.

As we venture further, we address the elephant in the room - the impact of the pandemic on tipping culture. Suddenly, tipping isn't just about acknowledging exceptional service but a lifeline for many service industry professionals grappling with a higher cost of living and stagnant wages. We navigate the murky waters of electronic tipping systems and the puzzling societal expectations of how much to tip for which service. And hold on, because we dive right into the generational differences in tipping customs - it's quite a ride!

Weaving in personal anecdotes and drawing from a Bankrate poll that reveals a majority of Americans have a negative view on tipping, we try to make sense of this 'tipping fatigue.' From your favorite barista to the street musician adding rhythm to your commute, we question the appropriateness of tipping in various situations. The conversation culminates in an impassioned plea to appreciate and support service workers, especially in these trying times. So hop on board for this foray into the intricacies, expectations, and controversies of the tipping culture. It's sure to be an enlightening and thought-provoking journey.