Ep 22. The Mentor

Raymond, the middle child in the Barone family, must deal with his overbearing parents, Marie and Frank, who live next door, as well as his jealous older brother, Robert, who is also a police officer. In this episode, titled "The Mentor," Raymond's profession as a sportswriter takes center stage as he takes on a mentee, a young journalist named Danny.

Danny desperately wants to be a successful sportswriter, and he's convinced Raymond is the key to getting to the top. Raymond is understandably hesitant. After all, he's not done with his own career yet. But Danny is persistent, and Raymond finally agrees to take him under his wing and show him the ropes.

The mentorship starts out smoothly enough, but Raymond finds himself growing increasingly frustrated with his new charge. Danny lacks the experience and understanding necessary to excel, and Raymond struggles to teach him the things he needs in order to be successful. Meanwhile, Danny's eagerness to impress Raymond starts to grate on him.

As the relationship between Raymond and Danny continues to deteriorate, Robert gets involved. Robert, in his classic "tough love" style, encourages Raymond to be harder on Danny, insisting that will be the only way for him to succeed. Raymond is hesitant to take Robert's advice, but ultimately decides to try it out.

But things don't go as planned. Just as Raymond is starting to get through to Danny, he makes a major mistake – one that could cost him his budding career. Raymond is forced to confront the reality of his own mistakes in dealing with Danny, and he realizes that he's pushed him too hard and too fast.

In the end, Raymond makes a difficult decision – one that will have huge implications for both him and Danny. It's a tough, heart-wrenching moment for both men, but it's also a reminder of the importance of mentorship, and of how it can shape not only a person's career, but also their life.

"The Mentor" is a poignant, touching episode of Everybody Loves Raymond that explores the complexities of mentorship, and the ways in which it can both help and hinder those involved. With standout performances from all involved, it's a must-watch episode for fans of the show and newcomers alike.