When I think back to my childhood, a vivid image comes to mind: sitting cross-legged on the living room floor, eyes glued to the television, eagerly soaking in a world of knowledge and wonder. Back then, the television wasn’t just a source of entertainment; it was a gateway to understanding the world. Educational shows like Sesame Street taught me the basics of numbers and letters, while Newton’s Apple and James Burke’s Connections opened my eyes to the intricacies of science, history, and the universe’s interconnectedness. For a curious kid, these shows were pure magic.
PBS, with its lineup of thoughtful, educational programming, became my after-school companion. Shows like The Woodwright’s Shop and This Old House didn’t just teach practical skills; they showcased the artistry and craftsmanship behind the everyday things we often take for granted. The gentle rhythm of these programs sparked my lifelong interest in creating things with my hands—whether in the kitchen, the workshop, or even through software development.
But it wasn’t just PBS that captivated me. National broadcast TV offered its own gems, from Saturday morning specials to shows that explored art, culture, and the mysteries of nature. Each program seemed to say, “The world is vast and full of things to discover.”
Fast forward to today, and the screens I engage with have changed, but the thirst for knowledge hasn’t. Instead of waiting for scheduled programming, I now turn to YouTube, where an endless array of topics is just a search bar away. Whether it’s science channels breaking down quantum physics, creators deep-diving into history, or practical how-to videos for mastering new skills, YouTube offers a level of accessibility and depth that younger me could only dream about.
The connection between those formative TV years and my current YouTube habits feels seamless. Shows like Connections laid the groundwork for the way I love to explore ideas today—seeing how seemingly unrelated concepts are intricately tied together. Watching This Old House likely planted the seed for my DIY projects and interest in woodworking. Even Newton’s Apple might explain why I still find joy in the “Aha!” moments that science YouTubers create so well.
What’s remarkable is how the spirit of curiosity has stayed the same while the medium has evolved. Instead of being a passive viewer, YouTube allows me to engage more actively with content. I can pause, rewind, comment, and even follow up with creators directly. The accessibility of this medium has also broadened my horizons; I can explore niche topics and discover creators with expertise I would never have encountered on traditional TV.
In many ways, YouTube is today’s PBS, offering free educational content for anyone with an internet connection. But it’s also more. It’s a space where creators—amateurs and professionals alike—experiment with storytelling, connect with global audiences, and inspire viewers to take on their own projects or explore new fields of interest.
Looking back, I realize how much those childhood hours in front of the TV shaped who I am today. They instilled a curiosity that continues to drive me, whether I’m tackling a DIY project, experimenting in the kitchen, or diving into a new coding challenge. And while the tools have changed—from rabbit ears and channel knobs to streaming apps and YouTube subscriptions—the purpose remains the same: to learn, grow, and marvel at the world’s endless possibilities.
What about you? What were your favorite shows growing up, and how have they shaped the way you learn and explore the world today? Let me know by sharing on X (Twitter) or Instagram —I’d love to hear your story.