Television entertainment really does ebb and flow with shows that fit into categories like prime time drama, reality TV and sitcoms. One thing that never changes, though, is the educational aspect. For a lot of us, it all started with Sesame Street and as we’ve gotten older, we’ve always had a soft spot for shows that set out to expand our minds and show us things in our world that we may never have a chance to experience ourselves. This brings us to… The Discovery Channel. Over and over again, Discovery Channel impresses, shows us that there is a wonderful world beyond our front yards and gives us a glimpse into the amazing lives of others. It’s time to waste this weekend with Discovery Channel.

For The Adrenaline Junkie – Deadliest Catch

Deadliest Catch is probably one of the best reality series’ on TV right now.

It doesn’t deal with makeovers, the lives of celebrities or rich housewives; Deadliest Catch is real, dangerous and shows human flaw. Following the captains of five fishing boats off the coasts of North America, the show gives viewers a glimpse into the difficult lives of modern day fisherman. With story lines that follow the tides and conflict that involves things like sleep deprivation, stealing and how fisherman deal with living on a boat for an extended period of time, Deadliest Catch is a great way to learn about how that king crab made it from the ocean to your dinner plate.

For The Science Junkie – Mythbusters

Mythbusters has been entertaining us for a while now, but the show really took a turn for the better when they started to implement genre based episodes. Hosts Jaime Hyneman and Adam Savage give TV watchers a look into what is scientifically possible when it comes to things like ancient war stories and urban legends. I am a big fan of their movie myth based episodes where they determine whether or not people can actually outrun giant boulders (Indiana Jones), shoot two guns at the same time while diving through the air (The Matrix) or smash through a plate glass window and walk away unscathed (virtually every action movie ever). If you’re looking for a great way to waste your weekend full of comedic entertainment and scientific knowledge, Mythbusters is a great choice.

For The Game Show Knowledge Junkie – Cash Cab

When you hear the genre of game show, it is difficult to watch more than one episode in one sitting, but Cash Cab is different. The concept is simple; random NYC cab patrons board the Cash Cab and depending on how many questions they can answer, they have the opportunity to win cash. If they get too many wrong answers, they have to get out and find another ride. The questions range from extremely easy, to nearly impossible, but in NYC you never know who will board the Cash Cab and be able to take it all the across town. Follow host/driver Adam Growe as he picks up random people and gives them the opportunity to win some cash and get where they are going.