Once a week, we gather stories about the media business, journalism, writing, communications, and freelancing—with a Canadian focus—and share them in Off the Wire. Who needs a water cooler?

From Canada:

• Where is the disability beat in Canada? [Canadaland]
• Vice reporter loses final bid to block RCMP demand for background material [CTV]
• How to extend your contract [Gig.gd]

From The U.S. and beyond:

• School's out for summer! How to work in a full house [Freelancers Union]
• This is an non-obnoxious way to follow up on a cold email [Fast Company]
• How to turn negative self talk into positive action [Freelancers Union]
• Successful launch of the legal action fund [National Writers Union]
• How to Spot and Stop Burnout Before You Give Up On Freelancing [The Freelancer]
• Why freelancers should consider leaving megacities [Work Notes]
• Why younger generations are embracing labour unions [Rewire]
• Tip of the day: Become an expert note taker [Journalism.co.uk]

Recently on Story Board:

• The 5-Minute Freelancer Q&A #41 -- Ayesha Barmania:  Ayesha Barmania is an independent journalist, radio producer, audio artist and podcast consultant based in Peterborough. They’re the co-host and co-producer of the Peterborough Currents podcast, which was recently nominated for a 2019 Digital Publishing Award...
• Worker Rights in the Gig Economy: With employment activists working in communities to build better jobs and workers in several app-based jobs voting to unionize, precarious workers in Ontario are developing a better awareness of their situation and working together to change it...

Spot a story you think we should include in next week's Off the Wire? Email the link to editor@thestoryboard.ca or tweet us at @storyboard_ca.