Amazon challenged by COVID-19, and its own workers

Here’s what we’re talking about this week on the GeekWire Podcast.

Amazon is under pressure as workers in dozens of its warehouses test positive for the coronavirus, and an Amazon exec makes a major blunder in employee relations. Amid the gloomy COVID-19 news, there are some stories that fill us with hope. And it was never a dull moment with John Legere as CEO of T-Mobile. As the company merges with Sprint and he departs, we remember a leader who is as colorful as his wardrobe.

Among this week's events: There are encouraging signs that social distancing is helping to flatten the virus curve in Washington. Governor Jay Inslee says the state will get tough with businesses that don't honor his stay-at-home order. And Bill Gates outlines three steps he thinks the U.S. must take to control this outbreak.

Amazon's power and resilience could leave it in a dominant position once the coronavirus outbreak is over. But can it keep its workers safe?

• Amazon faces unprecedented challenges as dozens of its warehouses grapple with COVID-19 outbreaks

Follow our live blog for up-to-date news: Coronavirus Live Updates: The latest COVID-19 developments in Seattle and the world of tech

More from the podcast: Even in these grim times, there are stories that give us hope. Here are a few.

• With high school’s 3D printers in his house, student runs mask production line for Seattle-area hospitals
• Maker Mask launches in Seattle using 3D-printing technology to produce protective gear
• Whale experts launch free, virtual marine biology camp to entertain and inform kids
• High school student near Seattle builds website to serve as a leading place for coronavirus information

John Legere has departed as CEO of T-Mobile. We look back at his colorful career with an epic highlight from his 2014 appearance at the GeekWire Summit.

• T-Mobile completes $26.5B Sprint merger, capping two-year struggle to create new wireless giant

With GeekWire’s Todd Bishop, Taylor Soper, Monica Nickelsburg and Kurt Schlosser. Our podcast producer is Curt Milton. Our theme music is by Daniel L.K. Caldwell.

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