The Ringer

The Ringer is a sports and pop culture website and podcast network known for its in‐depth coverage of sports narratives, entertainment, and pop culture commentary. It was acquired by Spotify, which expanded its portfolio of digital media and podcast networks.

CCI Score

26.85

-0.01% April 18

Latest Event

The Ringer Union Secures AI Protections in New Contract

The Ringer's union ratified a new contract with Spotify on March 14, 2024, which includes key protections regarding generative AI. Notably, the contract mandates that Spotify obtain employee consent before cloning their voices, protecting workers against the risks of AI-driven replication. However, the agreement permits the use of AI for translating podcasts into other languages, provided a disclosure is added.

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DISSENTER

The Ringer is currently rated as a Dissenter.

+25 to +44 CCI Score

These companies are vocal in their opposition to authoritarian regimes. They publicly criticize oppressive policies and engage in advocacy efforts to promote accountability and transparency, even if their actions aren’t as extensive as those of Moral Leaders.

Latest Events

MAR

14

2024

The Ringer Union Secures AI Protections in New Contract
62.72

The Ringer's union ratified a new contract with Spotify on March 14, 2024, which includes key protections regarding generative AI. Notably, the contract mandates that Spotify obtain employee consent before cloning their voices, protecting workers against the risks of AI-driven replication. However, the agreement permits the use of AI for translating podcasts into other languages, provided a disclosure is added.
+70

Labor Relations and Human Rights Practices

March 28

The union successfully negotiated contract provisions that require employee consent for the cloning of their voices via generative AI, thereby safeguarding labor rights and protecting workers against potential job displacement. Although the union conceded on the requirement for consent for AI-powered translations (opting instead for disclosure), the overall result is a significant win for labor rights and worker protection.

The Ringer union wins key AI protections in new contract - The Verge
FEB

13

2024

The Ringer Union Highlights Employee Pay Inequities
-62.21

During ongoing collective bargaining negotiations, The Ringer Union reported that over 30 full-time union members, including long-serving employees, were paid less than interns, highlighting serious issues in wage fairness and labor practices.
-70

Labor Relations and Human Rights Practices

March 28

The report that over 30 full-time employees were paid less than interns indicates a clear disparity in wage practices, underscoring exploitation and poor labor relations. Such practices are indicative of unethical treatment of workers and raise concerns about the company’s commitment to fair labor practices.

The Ringer union says 30 employees were paid less than interns
APR

07

2021

The Ringer Ratifies Collective Bargaining Agreement
53.44

The Ringer has ratified a three‐year collective bargaining agreement with its unionized workforce that establishes improved wages, overtime provisions, and diversity measures. The agreement sets a $57,000 minimum salary (plus overtime) for many workers and includes provisions that support fair labor practices and diversity enhancements.
+80

Labor Relations and Human Rights Practices

March 28

The ratification of the collective bargaining agreement at The Ringer marks a significant positive step in supporting workers' rights. By securing higher minimum salaries, providing overtime protections, establishing labor and diversity committees, and ensuring fair treatment in hiring practices, the company reinforces anti-authoritarian, pro-worker values and helps counter corporate practices that may otherwise sideline marginalized voices.

The Ringer, Gimlet Media Ratify First Collective Bargaining Agreements With Spotify
APR

07

2021

Union Ratifies Collective Bargaining Agreement at The Ringer
53.44

The Ringer Union has ratified a comprehensive collective bargaining agreement with Spotify's corporate management. The deal includes significant improvements for workers such as increased salary minimums ($57,000 plus overtime), new senior titles, protections for contractors, guaranteed annual raises, elimination of non-compete clauses for lower-earning employees, funding for Diversity Committees, and other robust labor safeguards.
+80

Labor Relations and Human Rights Practices

March 28

The ratified collective bargaining agreement demonstrates progressive labor practices by securing higher wages, enhanced benefits, and broad protections for workers. The inclusion of measures such as DEI funding and limitations on contractor use reflects a strong commitment to ethical business practices and worker rights, aligning with anti-authoritarian and anti-fascist goals.

The Ringer Union ratifies collective bargaining agreement with Spotify