Ep 5. Cat Shelves

The Henry Ford's Innovation Nation is back with an all-new season, and the latest episode, Cat Shelves, showcases some of the most innovative and creative inventions and ideas from around the world. Hosted by Mo Rocca, who is known for his wit and humor, the show takes viewers on a journey through time, featuring stories of innovation and invention that have changed the way we live our lives.

In this particular episode, Mo takes a look at a unique and creative solution for cat owners who love their pets but don't want to sacrifice their living space. The solution comes in the form of Cat Shelves, a clever and innovative shelving system that allows cats to climb, play, and rest while using the shelf space as well.

The Cat Shelves were invented by an artist and designer named Lisa Mahar, who came up with the idea while living in a small New York apartment with her cat, Ziggy. Lisa wanted to give Ziggy a way to climb and play, but she also wanted to preserve her living space and keep it clutter-free. So, she decided to create a shelving system that could do both.

Mo visits Lisa in her studio and gets a first-hand look at the Cat Shelves. He marvels at their beauty and functionality and learns how they are made. Lisa uses eco-friendly materials to create the shelves, like bamboo and recycled aluminum, making them not only beautiful but also sustainable and environmentally friendly.

Mo also meets with some satisfied customers, who show him how their cats love the shelves and how they have become an integral part of their lives. They talk about how the Cat Shelves allow their cats to explore and play, keeping them active and healthy, while also giving them their own space to relax and sleep.

In addition to the Cat Shelves, this episode features a range of other innovative ideas and inventions, including a new type of bike lock that uses GPS and an app to keep your bike safe; a device that can detect the presence of microplastics in water; and an app that helps farmers know when to water their crops.

Mo also visits a company that is using virtual reality to train people in dangerous jobs, like firefighters and soldiers. He tries out the VR headset himself and sees firsthand how it simulates realistic scenarios and gives trainees a chance to practice their skills in a safe and controlled environment.

Throughout the episode, Mo emphasizes the importance of innovation and the role it plays in shaping our world. He highlights how each of these inventions and ideas is making a positive impact on our lives and the world around us.

Overall, Cat Shelves is an episode that showcases the best of human innovation and creativity. It's a must-watch for anyone who loves cats, design, and innovative thinking.