These Extremely Niche Magnolia Network Shows Soothe My Brain

Published on 5/31/2023 at 6:00 AM

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Yes, I love prestige TV, especially anything that gets me so excited that I go down online theory rabbit holes. But, sometimes (ahem, a lot of the time) my brain just can't handle intricate plot lines. Whether I've spent a long day working on my computer and am feeling burnt out or, IDK, I'm just trying to really chill, low-stakes TV is clutch. You know what I'm talking about: those shows that can be on in the background, where if you miss something it's not going to ruin the viewing experience. For me, that usually means something in the cooking or home decor categories — basically anything on the Magnolia Network. While "Fixer Upper" might get all the glory, there are a couple lesser-known shows that I always turn to when I want a smooth brain. Keep reading for my four favorite calming shows on the Magnolia Network, which you can find on MAX.

Maine Cabin Masters

Let me start by saying that my parents live in coastal Maine, and it's one of my favorite places on the planet. There's something about hearing true Mainers (that accent!) that just soothes my soul — and believe me, the team of five that makes up the cast of "Maine Cabin Masters" are about as Maine as you can get. Here, Chase, Ashley, Ryan, Matt, and Jared zhuzh up cabins while contending with things like seasonal weather, tide patterns, and tricky layouts. It's everything I want in background TV.

The Lost Kitchen

Are you seeing a trend here with the Maine-centric content? Sorry not sorry. "The Lost Kitchen" is legit one of my favorite shows in general — snagging a reservation at the restaurant is a very real bucket-list item for me (which is tough, since they only take reservations via a select number of postcards each season). The show follows owner Erin French and her team as they create new weekly menus for the restaurant based on in-season Maine ingredients. It's got low-level drama, wholesome diner stories, and absolutely drool-worthy food. 10/10.

Where We Call Home

Restoring a run-down midcentury property is one of my life dreams, and "Where We Call Home" showcases a bunch of these super cool conversions. Each 10-ish minute episode dives into how homeowners and designers took a commercial property or an unconventional space and turned them into modern homes. You'll find things like a salvaged school bus and treehouse in Hawaii, a Chicago church turned ultra-mod home, a sprawling Pennsylvania car dealership, and a midcentury Alabama gas station — all of which have been transformed into incredible living spaces. Prepare to spend a lot of time on Zillow after (or while) watching this show.

Big Sky Kitchen

In "Big Sky Kitchen" chef Eduardo Garcia cooks for his family from his kitchen in Bozeman, Montana. He uses tons of fresh ingredients that he forages on his land and cooks meals like flautas, flan, and the perfect Reuben sandwich. Let me count the reasons why I love Garcia: first, his silky AF voice. I could listen to this man talk about active dry yeast for days. Second, his attitude. After a hunting accident, Garcia lost his left forearm — the ways he uses his prosthetic arm and hand are truly remarkable and cool to see in action. Finally, I'm obsessed with Montana, and the setting is just gorgeous. It's the perfect show for leisurely watching.