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Hidden Gems on PBS and Public Television
Trivia: What type of creature is a "sugar glider"?
RetireHub
May 28, 2025
Rise and shine, RetireHub community! ☀️ Your Wednesday newsletter is here!
Today we’re sharing the greatest hidden gems on PBS and public television, along with the best deals, fun trivia, and more!
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💵 $22 OFF – Aursear Slim RFID Leather Wallet with Money Clip
Keep it sleek and secure with this genuine leather wallet, featuring RFID blocking, a minimalist profile, and an integrated money clip. A stylish and functional gift idea, it’s perfect for staying organized without the bulk.
What We’re Reading
Get these e-book deals before they’re gone.
 | By: Mary Miller Can you survive a Cat. 5? Trouble always seems to find her. Join Johnnie Devine, environmental activist by day and private investigator by default, as she tangles with murder in the middle of a hurricane. Explore exotic Real Florida and threats of treachery and intrigue. Hurricane Blues is a Snack Size Florida Story best enjoyed in one sitting. |
On this day in 1983, the US Festival kicked off in Southern California, drawing massive crowds to Glen Helen Regional Park. Organized by Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, the festival aimed to blend music, technology, and community spirit. The event featured performances by iconic artists such as David Bowie, U2, and Van Halen, and attracted hundreds of thousands of fans over the Memorial Day weekend. The US Festival remains a memorable moment in music history, symbolizing the fusion of rock culture and technological innovation.
Hidden Gems on PBS and Public Television: Stories Worth Savoring
Public television has long been a treasure chest of thoughtful, educational, and soul-nourishing content. While household names like Masterpiece and Antiques Roadshow get plenty of well-deserved love, there’s a whole world of hidden gems tucked into PBS and local station programming that deserve a standing ovation of their own.
Take Craft in America, for example—a beautifully filmed documentary series that explores the rich tradition of handmade artistry across the country. Whether it’s weaving, woodworking, or ceramics, this series invites viewers into the studios (and hearts) of American artists, celebrating creativity at every age. It’s both calming and inspiring—a perfect companion with a cup of tea.
Another under-the-radar delight is A Chef’s Life, starring the charming and down-to-earth chef Vivian Howard. Set in rural North Carolina, this series is part cooking show, part heartfelt slice-of-life storytelling. Viewers follow Vivian as she digs into local food traditions, unearthing recipes and stories passed down through generations. It’s a celebration of Southern cuisine with a generous dash of humor, warmth, and community.
For those who enjoy travel but prefer to stay cozy at home, Rick Steves’ Europe continues to be a gentle adventure. But there’s also Samantha Brown’s Places to Love, which offers a fresh and friendly take on exploring lesser-known destinations, always with an eye toward local flavor and human connection.
Public television also shines when it comes to music and performance. Austin City Limits may be one of the longest-running music shows on TV, but it still feels like an intimate backyard concert. From folk to jazz to indie rock, the performances are heartfelt, raw, and always refreshingly real.
And don’t forget the rich archive of documentaries available through American Experience and Independent Lens. These series dive deep into stories of ordinary people who’ve done extraordinary things—from civil rights heroes to unsung inventors—many of whom never made the history books.
In a world of flashy streaming platforms and never-ending choices, PBS and public television offer a slower, richer kind of viewing—programming that invites us to linger, learn, and connect. So next time you’re flipping channels, take a detour into this quiet corner of the TV universe. You just might find your new favorite show.
Yesterday’s Poll Results: How do you enjoy your audiobooks most?
Looks like the classics still have our hearts—over 30% of you said you still prefer reading books the old-fashioned way (we get it, there's nothing like turning real pages!). But curiosity is on the rise, with nearly 21% saying you're open to giving audiobooks a try. Road trips and errands came in third, proving that a good story makes even a traffic jam feel like an adventure. Whether you're cooking, walking, or winding down at bedtime, it's clear: there's no wrong way to enjoy a great story.
TOP COMMENTS
“I fall asleep with the audiobook with the timer set to 30 minutes so I know where to go back to when I wake up. Driving, chores, dog walks, bike rides, cooking, I listen to audiobooks all the time! Voice does matter. Many authors kill their listeners with reading their own books. Voice actors make the best audiobooks.”
“I prefer reading on my Kindle. I'm an avid reader and love books, but the Kindle allows me to adjust the font, and lighting. This makes reading so much more enjoyable.”
“Lots of ways besides just doing chores. When I am sewing or knitting. When I am walking or exercising. When I am in the car by myself. Love audiobooks and Libby.”
Breaking the Silence: Why It’s Important to Talk About Life’s Taboos
Some of life’s most common experiences—like death, loneliness, and sexuality in later years—are still rarely discussed openly. Avoiding these conversations can lead to confusion and isolation, especially when planning for end-of-life care or coping with feelings of loneliness. Talking about death can ease the burden on loved ones and honor personal wishes, while naming loneliness helps build connection instead of suffering in silence. And yes, sexuality matters at any age—breaking the silence allows for continued joy and fulfillment. Opening up about these “taboos” isn’t about dwelling on difficulties; it’s about embracing the full experience of aging with honesty and compassion. When we talk, we create understanding and support—for ourselves and those around us.
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Slang Phrase of the Day
Phrase: Swerve
Meaning: To go out of one’s way to avoid someone.
In a sentence: “When I see my neighbor coming with her endless garden advice, I just swerve down the other sidewalk—gotta save my energy for more important things, like my afternoon nap!”
Good News of the Day
Sneaker Revival: Warriors Host Youth Clinic to Refresh Old Kicks
In a vibrant community event, the NBA’s Golden State Warriors are teaching young sneakerheads the art of sneaker repair and customization. This unique clinic goes beyond style—showing kids how to breathe new life into their worn-out shoes while learning valuable skills in creativity and care. It’s a fresh way to blend sports, culture, and hands-on learning, inspiring the next generation to treasure what they have and step forward with confidence.
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RetireHub Trivia
Want more trivia? Play our “Nostalgia Trivia Game” on our site! We add fresh questions daily, so there’s always something new to test your knowledge.
Not into trivia? No worries! We’ve got plenty of other fun games to enjoy, like:
Which classic movie features the quote, “Here’s looking at you, kid”? |
What type of creature is a "sugar glider"? |
What musical instrument has 47 strings and seven pedals? |
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