Ep 22. The Hot List

The Weekly season 1 episode 22, titled "The Hot List," follows New York Times reporters as they investigate the harsh living conditions of workers in the warehouse industry. The episode begins with a scene showcasing the bustling activity inside an Amazon warehouse in Texas, where workers are working tirelessly to fulfill orders.

The reporters delve into the challenges faced by warehouse workers, who have been working under difficult conditions for long periods. The team uncovers how the company policies, from algorithm-driven performance targets to short breaks, are taking a toll on staff morale and physical well-being. They investigate how the workers have to balance the expectations of the company with their own health and well-being.

The report shows how an increasing number of workers suffer from musculoskeletal disorders, with some claiming that even existing health conditions were worsened by the working environment. The show also highlights how time was key to success in these warehouses. The company's optimization algorithms require workers to complete certain tasks within a given time frame, else they're penalized. The workers are pushed to the edge, with many going without breaks, just to meet the quotas required of them.

"The Hot List" further explores how even a minor slip-up, such as picking the wrong box or package, could result in a worker losing their job. The team talks to several workers who share that they were fired for making incorrect selections or failing to meet the quotas. They face an uphill battle to regain their jobs as there's an excess supply of labor in these warehouses.

Through this episode, The Weekly team also takes a closer look at the global situation. They explore the impact of the US-China trade war on the warehouse industry and how that, in turn, affects workers in the industry worldwide.

As the episode draws to a close, the reporters confront Amazon executives, but they are met with a wall of silence. Despite that, the show brings attention to the working conditions of the warehouse industry, and how companies like Amazon must address the concerns of the workers who contribute to their success.

Overall, "The Hot List" presents an insightful report that raises questions about corporate responsibility and workers' rights. It raises several issues and shows how companies like Amazon are prioritizing profit over people. The episode is a compelling must-watch for anyone interested in the implications of the e-commerce boom.