Digital Writers Union | Gimlet Media Union

As Spotify’s reported $230 million acquisition of Gimlet makes clear, however, Gimlet is no longer the small, scrappy operation memorably documented on the first season of StartUp. Our union is an expression of passion for what we do, and a proactive effort to work with management to shape the future of the company. It’s important for us to solidify the things that make Gimlet a great place to work, and to address whatever issues may arise.

Through collective bargaining, we will work toward a contract that includes, but is not limited to:

• Consistent and transparent job descriptions and salary bands
• Straightforward processes for advancement and promotion
• Clear and fair policies around contractor employment
• Concrete and ambitious diversity initiatives
• Equitable processes for protecting employees’ intellectual property
• Clear disciplinary, termination, and resignation policies
• Employee input in company decision-making

To address these issues and make Gimlet Media the best workplace possible, we have formed a union with the Writers Guild of America, East. In addition to their long history of standing up for writers and creative professionals, the WGAE’s more recent work organizing digital media workers makes them our best partner in navigating this rapidly changing sector. Together with management, we hope to establish a precedent for the podcasting world, and to negotiate a contract that protects workers, while maintaining Gimlet’s position as an industry leader. We are asking Gimlet Media to voluntarily recognize our union, and we are excited to begin the bargaining process.