Have we entered a new era of retail interest in the stock market?

Have we entered a new era of retail interest in the market or has it always been like this? The past few months in particular have been to levels I have never seen before, or I have been oblivious to the subject my entire life. I can't get away from retail stock market discussion. It seems like everywhere I go, the stock market is talked about. I have coworkers who openly talk about their investment account performance in the office on a daily basis. I have friends who are beyond addicted to gambling and options, like at a concerning level. I go to completely non related stock market subs like videogame subs and somehow there is always a discussion around stocks. I listen to a ton of podcasts and the stock market somehow always comes into the conversation. I am not sure if it's signs of a euphoria stage, or if it's easier access to information that is sparking conversations, or if I am just paying more attention to the subject, or whatever it is. I am just curious what others are seeing and how you to read it.