From Streaming to Simplicity: My 90 Free TV Channels

Living small taught me that less tech can mean more freedom.

I’ve spent decades working in technology. I love what it can do — how it connects us, simplifies tasks, and opens doors we never imagined. But sometimes, stepping back from certain technologies can add more value than piling on the latest and greatest.

Recently, I decided to cancel my TV streaming service. Not because I dislike technology, but because I realized this particular technology was no longer serving me.

The Shift
For years, streaming was how I watched TV. But I realized I was spending more energy scrolling through menus than actually watching anything. Too often I’d end up on news channels, where the programming was a steady loop of all the terrible things happening in the world. That wasn’t how I wanted to spend my time.

​Then my old 32” television stopped working. That became my incentive to downsize even further. Instead of replacing it with something bigger or smarter, I took the opportunity to simplify.

Back to basics
I bought a 24” television — intentionally small, intentionally simple. The first thing I did was disable the “smart” features. No apps, no tracking, no never-ending suggestions. Just a screen that turns on and shows what’s available.

Then I ran an antenna channel search. To my surprise, I discovered 90 over-the-air channels in my area. News, local programming, weather, public broadcasting, and classic shows — plenty to enjoy without being overwhelmed.

​Sports have been another adjustment. If my favorite teams aren’t televised on the channels I get, that’s okay. I can often listen on the radio (remember the radio?) or catch the highlights later. My watching isn’t going to change the outcome — but it could affect my mood and maybe even my blood pressure… lol.
And I’ve kept it simple: no recording devices. If I miss something, I miss it. TV has its place, but it no longer dictates my time.

The Benefits
​This change wasn’t about saving money — it was about living differently. Here’s what I’ve gained:

• Mental clarity. Without 24-hour news or the pressure to watch every sports game, my days feel lighter. I can catch up on news or highlights in my own time, without letting negativity or outcomes I can’t control dictate my mood (or my blood pressure).
• Freedom from control. No algorithms nudging me toward “what’s next,” no recording devices keeping me tied to a schedule.
• Room for better habits. Instead of defaulting to streaming, I listen to podcasts, music or sit in quiet reflection — each far more rewarding than another night of scrolling.

A lesson in less.
After decades in technology, I still believe deeply in its potential. But this experience has reminded me that progress isn’t always about adding more. Sometimes the smartest move is subtracting what no longer adds value.
By canceling streaming and simplifying my setup, I’ve found a balance that feels modern, intentional, and refreshing. It also aligns with the way I try to live every day — a simpler lifestyle that values clarity, quiet, and space over constant noise and distraction.
In a world of upgrades and subscriptions, it turns out simplicity is the best upgrade of all.