- RetireHub
- Posts
- Quality Television for History Buffs
Quality Television for History Buffs
Trivia: Which inventor famously cut a hoisting rope at the 1854 New York exhibition to prove his new safety device worked?
RetireHub
September 10, 2025
In partnership with
Rise and shine, RetireHub community! ☀️ Your Wednesday newsletter is here!
Today we’re sharing great tips on quality television for history buffs, along with the best deals, fun trivia, and more!
Top Deals From Around The Web
We find the best daily online deals so you don’t have to!
🚪 57% OFF – Certified Refurbished Ring Video Doorbell Pro
Upgrade your home security with this sleek, wired video doorbell that lets you see, hear, and speak to visitors from anywhere. With advanced motion detection, crisp HD video, and a slim design, it’s a smart and affordable way to protect your front door.
💤 23% OFF – OLLY Sleep Recovery Gummies (60 Count, Melatonin + Vitamins)
Wind down naturally with these berry-flavored gummies formulated with melatonin, L-theanine, and essential vitamins to support restful sleep and overnight recovery. Perfect for seniors and busy adults looking to recharge with a gentle, non-habit-forming option.
🔇 32% OFF – Flents Quiet Contour Ear Plugs (50 Pairs, Reusable Foam)
Block out noise in comfort with these soft, contoured ear plugs designed to fit securely without pressure. Whether for sleeping, travel, or quiet time, this bulk pack ensures you always have reliable hearing protection on hand.
What We’re Reading
Get these e-book deals before they’re gone.
 | By: Barbara Cool Lee Hallie Reed, determined to play it safe after past heartbreak, is pulled into a mystery when her friend vanishes from a quirky seaside amusement park. As she uncovers the tragic history of the Madrigal family and their fire-ravaged boardwalk, Hallie finds herself drawn into their world of secrets and loss. In helping Kyle Madrigal face his family’s painful legacy, Hallie may also rediscover the courage to chase her own long-buried dreams. |
Dear Joanne
Your questions, her wisdom — Joanne’s here with thoughtful advice, warm humor, and a listening ear for whatever’s on your mind.
Happy Wednesday Everyone! My first line of business today is to correct an error from last week’s column. Near the end of that column, I quoted a famous movie line (“Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”). I said that the quote was from a 1996 movie. Mary M. emailed and reminded me that the movie in question was from 1986 (Ferris Bueller’s Day Off). Mary certainly was correct, and I apologize for the typo!
In addition, many of you emailed me your favorite movies and what they mean to you. I loved the back stories you included as to why those movies were your favorite selections! I’ve noted a number of those suggestions to put on my watch list, and I guarantee I will remember your individual stories as I watch. Also, many of your suggestions brought back memories of watching those movies years ago. Thank you for bringing those memories to the forefront of my mind. Top favorite movies which were listed in multiple emails included:
The Notebook
Tora, Tora, Tora
Top Gun
Gone With The Wind
Forrest Gump
Singin’ In The Rain
I also asked readers to send me some topics they would like to discuss in this forum. This week, many readers shared not only about movies but also about the meaningful ways they spend their time. For recent retirees, the newly founded time which is now available needs to have some fulfillment. One theme that shines through, especially among retirees who I talk to, is the incredible impact of volunteering within the community. Retirement, after all, is not just a chance to relax but an opportunity to give back—to lend wisdom, time, and energy to causes that matter.
Whether it’s mentoring young people, helping at the local library, lending a hand at food banks, or organizing neighborhood gatherings, retirees bring a wealth of experience and compassion to every endeavor. I’ve heard from readers who have found new purpose and lasting friendships through volunteering, and their stories are nothing short of inspiring. Many say that serving others has added richness and joy to their golden years, and in some cases, has given them a second wind.
My husband retired last year (for the third time, I might add). He took a few months fiddling around the house, doing some projects he had wanted to complete. I then created a “honey-do” list for his focus. I’m sure he’ll get to that eventually. One year later, he is now busier than ever. He decided to go back to playing golf regularly and joined a league (or two). He also started volunteering by becoming a member at our local Knights of Columbus. He is now busier than ever. Meetings, dinners, fundraisers, golf almost daily, helping our sons with their household projects and emergencies, Teams meetings, phone calls and texts. I’m wondering when he ever had time to work! But I see how his new volunteer responsibilities have invigorated his personality. Retirees certainly have a purpose and can easily be valuable to family and community in a new way that they may have never thought possible.
If you’ve recently retired or have been retired and are considering your next chapter, I encourage you to explore the volunteer opportunities in your area. Not only will you be making a difference in the lives of others, but you may find yourself transformed in the process.
Don’t forget to write! Send your emails to [email protected]. Let me know how YOU spend your time since retiring. Sharing your contributions could be so valuable to those that are struggling to find their new place in life.
Until next time, where every goodbye is just a promise of a new hello,
Joanne
How are you keeping busy since retirement? |
On this day in 2008, the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN, the world’s most powerful particle accelerator, was powered up for the very first time. Located near Geneva, Switzerland, the LHC was built to smash particles together at near light-speed, helping scientists unlock the secrets of the universe. Its experiments later led to the 2012 discovery of the Higgs boson, a particle that explains how matter gets its mass.
How 433 Investors Unlocked 400X Return Potential
Institutional investors back startups to unlock outsized returns. Regular investors have to wait. But not anymore. Thanks to regulatory updates, some companies are doing things differently.
Take Revolut. In 2016, 433 regular people invested an average of $2,730. Today? They got a 400X buyout offer from the company, as Revolut’s valuation increased 89,900% in the same timeframe.
Founded by a former Zillow exec, Pacaso’s co-ownership tech reshapes the $1.3T vacation home market. They’ve earned $110M+ in gross profit to date, including 41% YoY growth in 2024 alone. They even reserved the Nasdaq ticker PCSO.
The same institutional investors behind Uber, Venmo, and eBay backed Pacaso. And you can join them. But not for long. Pacaso’s investment opportunity ends September 18.
Paid advertisement for Pacaso’s Regulation A offering. Read the offering circular at invest.pacaso.com. Reserving a ticker symbol is not a guarantee that the company will go public. Listing on the NASDAQ is subject to approvals.
Quality Television for History Buffs
Television isn’t just for entertainment—it can also be a gateway to the past. For history buffs, there’s a wealth of high-quality programming that brings old events, figures, and cultures vividly to life. Whether you’re fascinated by ancient civilizations, world wars, or the people who shaped nations, the right shows can make history both engaging and accessible.
Documentaries that Inform and Inspire
Some of the most reliable options come from trusted sources like PBS, BBC, and The History Channel. Programs such as The Civil War by Ken Burns or BBC’s World at War remain classics, blending archival footage with thoughtful narration to provide both facts and human perspective. More recent offerings like Netflix’s Our Planet and The Last Czars combine dramatic reenactments with documentary-style storytelling, offering both education and immersion.
Dramas that Bring History Alive
For those who enjoy a good story, historical dramas can add color and humanity to the facts. Series like The Crown, The Tudors, and Victoria delve into the lives of royals and leaders, highlighting the personal decisions that shaped empires. While these shows may take artistic liberties, they also spark curiosity—often encouraging viewers to dig deeper into the true stories behind the drama.
Hidden Gems and Niche Stories
Beyond the mainstream, streaming platforms now offer countless smaller productions that highlight specific eras or untold stories. Shows like Medici: Masters of Florence or American Experience explore unique moments and influential figures that aren’t always found in traditional textbooks. These programs often uncover the overlooked or forgotten, giving viewers a broader appreciation of history’s complexity.
The Joy of Watching Together
History-based television isn’t just about individual enjoyment—it can also be a way to connect with family and friends. Watching a series together may spark conversation, debates, or even a little reminiscing for those who lived through more recent historical events. It’s a reminder that history isn’t only about dates and battles; it’s about people, stories, and connections.
Final Thoughts
For those with a passion for the past, television offers an accessible and enjoyable way to keep learning. Whether through a gripping documentary, a lavish drama, or a niche production on a favorite era, today’s programming ensures there’s something for every type of history lover. So, grab your remote, settle in, and let the stories of yesterday enrich your today.
Yesterday’s Poll Results: Which Video Chat App Do You Use Most Often?
FaceTime takes the lead by a wide margin, with nearly half of respondents (46%) naming it their go-to video chat app. Zoom and Facebook Messenger also hold solid ground, showing that many still rely on familiar platforms for staying connected. Interestingly, over 12% haven’t tried video chatting at all yet—proof that while tech has advanced, there’s still plenty of room for newcomers to explore these tools.
TOP COMMENTS
“Visits with grandkids go great with FaceTime”
“My 38 year old son has an android and I use Google Meet with him. My daughters, age 27 & 29 have iPhones like mine and I use FaceTime with them! So convenient to use and I love “visiting” with them and knowing they are safe.”
“Not interested.. just plain chat without the video, thanks”
Thinking About a Divorce? Smart Planning Today Protects Tomorrow
Facing the end of a marriage can stir fear, confusion, or even relief—but one certainty rings true: divorce deserves careful planning. Before emotions take the wheel, consider consulting a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA) and a trusted lawyer. These professionals help you understand your legal rights and set realistic expectations.
Next, take stock of your financial life—collecting bank statements, mortgage records, retirement accounts, and even photos of valuables you own. Make sure you gather important documents like tax returns, credit reports, safe-deposit key copies, and pay stubs—for both you and your spouse—so you’re fully prepared if the process becomes contentious.
Finally, be sure to secure access to cash. Divorce costs money, and having funds readily available—outside the shared household—can ease the transition. With thoughtful preparation and a clear strategy, you position yourself not just to survive this chapter—but to emerge with clarity, dignity, and a foundation for what comes next.
Follow us on Social Media!
Join an online community thriving in retirement! Find us on:
Every day we post retirement tips, highlights from our newsletter so you can comment and discuss in the community, and some fun retirement-themed motivation!
Slang Phrase of the Day
Phrase: Grin Fuel
Meaning: Grin fuel — the little things, big or small, that spark joy, laughter, or contentment and keep your spirits lifted. It’s the emotional “fuel” that powers your smile through the day.
In a sentence: “Between my morning coffee, the grandkids’ phone call, and our Wednesday card game, I’ve got plenty of grin fuel to keep me going all week.”
Good News of the Day
From Industrial Gloom to Swim Contest Boom: Chicago River’s Clean Revolution
Once known as a polluted eyesore, the Chicago River has been quietly undergoing a remarkable transformation. Anchored by environmental protections like the 1972 Clean Water Act and decades of action from groups like Friends of the Chicago River, the river has become a vibrant, biodiverse ecosystem—home to fish, turtles, beavers, and more.
Now, in a moment of public celebration—and scientific validation—the river will host an official open-water swim for the first time in nearly a century. Set for September 21, 2025, 500 qualified swimmers will take on either a one- or two-mile course under the city’s iconic bridges. The event isn’t just about courage—it’s about community. It will raise funds for ALS research and youth swim education, while showcasing how far Chicago’s river restoration efforts have come.
Other Publications We Like
Check out these other email newsletters we think you’ll enjoy!
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 inventor famously cut a hoisting rope at the 1854 New York exhibition to prove his new safety device worked? |
Which metal melts at about 29.8°C (85.6°F) and can liquefy in your hand? |
Which is the only surviving Wonder of the ancient “Seven Wonders”? |
A QUICK ASK: First off, thank you for reading RetireHub every day. It fills our cup that so many thousands of people get joy from our little publication.
As you know, good content costs money. In order to continue supporting ourselves and to continue delivering the content you enjoy every day, we need to pay our writers. If you can, we ask you to subscribe to our paid account (for $5/month - less than a cup of coffee!) below.
If you choose to purchase a paid subscription, please know you’re supporting not only our publication, but tens of thousands of other 50+ year old Americans that get joy, entertainment, financial tips, and more from RetireHub every single day.
If you don’t join the paid plan (or can’t), no worries at all. We know times are tough. Thank you for being a part of our tiny, joyful part of the Internet.
- Jay
**RetireHub may receive affiliate compensation for links clicked within this newsletter.
***RetireHub may share poll results with advertisers.