Ep 14. Peddling PPE, Secondary Sports, Viola Davis

Peddling PPE, Secondary Sports, Viola Davis - 60 Minutes season 53 episode 14 explores three different stories centered around protecting one's self and others from harm in the face of COVID-19, questioning the value of certain sports in the US education system, and celebrating the work of a legendary, trailblazing actress.

The first segment, "Peddling PPE," delves into the murky world of medical supply scammers who took advantage of the pandemic to sell cheap or counterfeit personal protective equipment (PPE) to hospitals and government agencies desperate for resources. Correspondent Bill Whitaker interviews victims of the scam who received faulty masks and other equipment, as well as a whistleblower who tried to raise the alarm about the fraudulent activities of a company that was awarded a $34.9 million contract by the California government. The report raises important questions about the need for better oversight of the supply chain and the ethics of profiting from public health crises.

In the second segment, "Secondary Sports," correspondent Jon Wertheim investigates the growing trend of high school and college athletes abandoning traditional team sports like football, basketball, and baseball for individual pursuits like surfing, skateboarding, and esports. Wertheim talks to students, coaches, and experts who argue that these "secondary" sports offer unique benefits to young people, from physical fitness and mental health to creativity and self-expression. However, the report also highlights the challenges that come with promoting non-traditional sports in a culture that values conformity and achievement in the mainstream.

Finally, "Viola Davis" profiles the Oscar-winning actress known for her powerful performances in films like "Fences" and "The Help," as well as her groundbreaking work on television in shows like "How To Get Away With Murder" and "The United States Vs. Billie Holiday." Correspondent Anderson Cooper interviews Davis about her childhood in poverty, her struggles with discrimination in Hollywood, and her activism for racial and gender equality. The report celebrates Davis for her talent, her generosity, and her impact on the industry and on society as a whole.

Taken together, these three stories offer a diverse and engaging look at some of the most pressing issues facing America today, from public health and education to representation and social justice.