Introducing Tussle: The Black Woman-Owned Creator-Friendly Alternative To TikTok Live
Created by fintech professional Viola Carmona, Tussle is the new livestream platform taking on TikTok’s Live feature with better revenue terms and fewer restrictions.
Carmona’s Journey To Tussle
TikTok first introduced its Live feature in 2019, enabling creators to earn through virtual gifts. However, according to AFROTECH, Carmona’s friends and creators experienced the platform’s 50/50 revenue split firsthand after often conducting near 24-hour livestreams only to receive a fraction of their due earnings.
“Some of my creator friends that I built a community with, they found a lot of problems with TikTiok,” Carmona told AFROTECH.
“There was also a lot of bans… So not only the money they earned on the app, but they would lose the ability to make money because they would get banned for long periods of time for like the silliest things.”
Carmona’s solution, Tussle, currently in its beta phase with 8,000 users, was inspired from these frustrations and limitations.
What Are The Features Of Tussle?
Tussle offers a more creator-friendly 60/40 revenue split, working more so in the favour of creators.
In addition, the platform introduces a ranking system based on livestream hours, rewarding creators with additional earnings for their dedication.
Tussle’s approach also allows supporters to buy tokens to gift creators with special names like “The Lion” or “The Kraken.”
Regarding the algorithm, the platform amplifies all content every 15 minutes, and users’ access is also extended to mental health resources.
“Our ‘for you’ page is bias-free, where we push everyone out every 15 minutes,” said Carmona.
“So you stand on the strength of your content, not on the color of your skin… It’s really important for us to make sure that we create access for minority communities.”
All users can receive up to three months of support from providers, who can be found through a network gathered by Tussle’s chief clinical officer, Dr. Micaela Reece.
Tussle shared on LinkedIn that after 45 days in beta, they are shy of $100,000 in revenue.
Tussle will officially launch on April 12, 2024, and Carmona’s goal is to achieve a $5 million milestone by the end of the year and attract 10 million users.
