Spill’s Second Anniversary: Celebrating Growth and Commitment to Inclusion
Alphonzo Terrell Uncorks Champagne, Reflects on Spill’s Journey
One year ago, Alphonzo Terrell, the former global head of editorial at Twitter, toasted the one-year anniversary of his layoff from the social media giant by uncorking a fancy bottle of Champagne. At that time, he had much to celebrate: His social media platform, Spill, had just raised a $2 million seed extension and had grown to around 200,000 users.
Celebrating Two Years of Spill
Fast forward to today, as the second anniversary of Spill rolls around, Terrell has something new to celebrate: Emmy-winning actress Kerry Washington has made an investment in his app. This investment is not just about capital; it’s a statement about Washington’s commitment to Spill’s mission and values.
Kerry Washington Joins the Spill Community
Washington isn’t just a member of the cap table; she’s been actively engaged within the Spill community, hosting Tea Parties – Spill’s name for live video conversations – and having one-on-one conversations with users about registering to vote. Her involvement is a testament to her commitment to creating safer spaces for marginalized communities.
"She’s incredibly accessible and knowledgeable, especially around these topics," Terrell said in an interview with TechCrunch. "She’s not scared in any way, shape, or form about really engaging with people directly." This kind of engagement is exactly what Spill aims to cultivate: a space where users feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and opinions.
Spades and User Retention
One of the biggest surprises for Terrell this year has been the launch of a live, multiplayer Spades game. Initially, it was a suggestion from the community, inspired by family gatherings and Black barbecues. However, what started as a casual idea has become one of the platform’s most successful features.
The Spades game has contributed significantly to user retention, with many users returning to the platform daily to engage in the virtual tournament. This is a testament to Terrell’s commitment to creating engaging content that resonates with his audience.
Commitment to Inclusion
Spill’s growth and success are not just about numbers; they’re also about the values that drive the platform. Terrell has consistently emphasized the importance of inclusion, particularly in the context of social media. Spill aims to create a space where everyone feels welcome and valued, regardless of their background or identity.
The investment from Kerry Washington is a significant milestone for Spill, not just because of her celebrity status but also because of her commitment to social justice. Her involvement sends a powerful message about the importance of creating inclusive spaces online.
Looking Ahead
As Spill celebrates its second anniversary, it’s clear that the platform has come a long way since its inception. With Washington’s investment and continued engagement from the community, Terrell is optimistic about the future.
"We’re not just building a social media platform," he said. "We’re creating a space where people can connect, share their thoughts, and feel heard." This vision is more important now than ever, as social media continues to evolve and shape our online experiences.
Spill’s commitment to inclusion and user engagement is a beacon of hope in an increasingly complex digital landscape. As the platform looks ahead to its next chapter, one thing is clear: Spill is here to stay, and it’s making a difference.
About Amanda Silberling
Amanda Silberling is a senior writer at TechCrunch covering the intersection of technology and culture. She has also written for publications like Polygon, MTV, the Kenyon Review, NPR, and Business Insider. Her work often explores the social implications of emerging technologies and their impact on society.
Follow her on Signal: (929) 593-0227 or email amanda@techcrunch.com
