Ep 14. Titleist/New Era Baseball Caps/Slinky

John Ratzenberger's Made in America is a fascinating show that celebrates the best of American manufacturing. In season 1 episode 14, viewers will get a chance to explore the stories behind some of America's most iconic products: Titleist golf balls, New Era baseball caps, and the Slinky toy.

The episode kicks off with a visit to Titleist's golf ball factory in Massachusetts. John Ratzenberger meets with Bob Vokey, a master craftsman who has designed some of the most famous golf clubs in the world. Vokey explains the skills needed to design and manufacture high-quality golf balls. Viewers will follow the process of making Titleist golf balls, from the initial design to the final touches. Along the way, we learn about the technical aspects of golf ball design and the techniques used to ensure that every ball is of the highest quality.

Next up, it's time to head to New Era's headquarters in Buffalo, New York, where we learn about the art of making baseball caps. John Ratzenberger meets with the company's executive team to learn how they have managed to remain competitive in a crowded market. We also meet some of the workers who are responsible for creating the iconic headwear that has become synonymous with America's national pastime. Viewers will learn about the history of the baseball cap and how New Era has adapted to changing trends over time.

Finally, it's off to Pennsylvania to learn about the Slinky, a beloved toy that has been entertaining children (and adults) for over 70 years. At the Slinky factory, John Ratzenberger meets with Betty James, the widow of Richard James, who invented the toy back in 1945. We learn about the process of creating the spiral-shaped toy and how it became so popular. This segment also explores the role that American manufacturing has played in the evolution of the toy industry and how companies such as Slinky have managed to adapt to changing market conditions.

Throughout the episode, John Ratzenberger's enthusiasm for American manufacturing is infectious. His passion for the subject matter is evident in every scene, and his love for the people who make the products is clear. The show is beautifully shot, with close-ups of the manufacturing process that will fascinate viewers who love to see how things are made. The interviews with key players in the manufacturing process are insightful and informative, providing a deep understanding of the challenges and rewards of American manufacturing.

Overall, John Ratzenberger's Made in America season 1 episode 14 is a must-watch for anyone who loves American manufacturing, baseball, golf, or classic toys. It's a celebration of the people and products that make America great and a reminder that there is still a vibrant culture of manufacturing in the United States.