The coronavirus pandemic has introduced New York City’s citizens to one of the most emotionally draining times in modern American history. On the first episode of Sick Empire, Branden Janese talks to essential workers throughout New York City about what it looks and feels like to work on the front lines in this global pandemic. Branden interviews two supermarket crew members, an Amazon Warehouse whistleblower, a Harlem-based restaurant owner, and a public servant running for a congressional seat. This episode gives voice to the people who risk it all for the work they are proud to do. New episodes every Monday for 8 weeks.