Following a decade of trashy reality shows, no one would expect an MTV program this wholesome or inspirational.

“The Buried Life,” a new reality show that first aired in January 2010, offers a fresh and sincere glimpse into the lives of four friends trying to complete a list of 100 things to do before they die. They travel all across North America in a tour bus, visiting cities that will help them accomplish items on their list. In return, the boys help random strangers accomplish something on their lists.

In the most recent episode, Ben, Dave, Duncan and Jonnie visit San Luis Obispo to tackle No. 85: throw the most “badass” party. Although they meet resistance from the police and some locals, they find a venue and plenty of college students willing to attend.

The party is a success, but the real heart of the episode lies in an adopted college kid named Jamie, who has never met his biological father. The guys track down Jamie’s father and set up a meeting between them.

Not only is their reunion genuine and heartfelt, it’s also everything MTV has strayed from in the last decade.

As far as reality shows go, this is as simple and creative as it gets. Almost everyone on earth has a bucket list, a compilation of things to do or people you want to see before your time is up. A lot of people die without following their dreams, and to see four 20-something kids doing exactly that is liberating. Not only are they helping each other fulfill their goals, they’re also creating new opportunities and second chances for strangers.

Who knew MTV could actually be educational?