We're prepared to do whatever it takes to close this deal

On the strength of our unit’s solidarity, we were able to negotiate a final deal that addressed our highest priorities. Thank you to every reader, viewer, listener, and follower who showed their support and amplified our messages along the way!

On Artificial Intelligence: The company can’t use AI to recreate employees’ voice or likeness without their permission. Pods translated into other languages using AI will receive disclaimers upon request. Employees can decline bylines on content with substantial AI contributions.

In an industry hit so hard and so often by job cuts, we also increased severance in the event of layoffs—up to 26 weeks for long-tenured employees, with a minimum of 11 weeks for our newest members.

We secured over $300,000 for members in Year 1 raises. That includes at least $4,500 for everyone under $110K, or an average 6.4% raise for those employees. The new minimum for union employees is $65,000—a big win for our lowest-paid members.

We’re thrilled to share that The Ringer Union has ratified our new contract with 100% yes votes. Here are some highlights from the new deal:

WE HAVE A DEAL!!!! Through the hard work and tenacity of our members we have reached a tentative agreement with @Spotify that now goes to our full unit for a ratification vote. We can’t wait to share what we’ve won! Thank you for all your support! ✊

WE HAVE A DEAL!!! Through the solidarity we’ve built in our union and the support you’ve shown, we reached a tentative agreement that now goes to our full unit for a ratification vote. We can’t wait to share what we’ve won after ratification!

Spotify, you're out of time. The workers at Gimlet, The Ringer and Parcast deserve a fair deal with meaningful, family-sustaining pay, protections against A.I., dignity and respect. #FairContractNow #WakeUpSpotify

Ringer Union and @GimletUnion’s contracts expired on Feb 29, but @spotify is still dragging their feet. Fair contracts NOW!

We provided management with comprehensive but fair AI language on the first day of bargaining, Dec. 14. We did not hear a meaningful counter that acknowledged any of the union’s most urgent concerns until Feb. 28, the day before our contract expired.

For example, Spotify wants to translate podcasts into other languages (in host’s voices). We believe the consent of the host must be obtained, and a disclaimer outlining the use of AI must be present. Spotify isn’t committing. Our members should control their own voices, period.

We’ve made common sense proposals to protect peoples’ work, images and likenesses from being recreated or altered using AI without their consent—and if AI is used, we want distinct, obvious disclaimers. We want transparency around the work you consume and love.

UPDATE: We still do not have an agreement because Spotify will not commit to key safeguards against the creep of AI into our work. Our members have fought hard for a fair contract, yet we’re being forced to wait longer on an issue that Spotify dragged their feet on for months.

Time is running out… ⏰ @Spotify

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