Ev Gave Away $500,000, and We Are Still Talking About It

Summary

Ev Williams, co-founder of Medium, gave away $500,000 to the platform's writers, an act that has been widely discussed and appreciated, particularly by smaller creators who received the funds.

Abstract

In a generous promotional move reminiscent of Oprah Winfrey's famous car giveaway, Ev Williams, the co-founder of Medium, distributed $500,000 among the platform's writers. This unexpected gift, which the author of the article received, was a significant boon, helping to pay their rent for the month. The article contrasts Medium's approach with other social media platforms, noting that Medium's distribution seemed more inclusive and less biased towards high-profile influencers. The author expresses gratitude for the bonus, which they equate to finding a "Golden Ticket," and dismisses any skepticism about the motives behind Medium's giveaway, choosing instead to celebrate the platform's support for writers. The article also humorously speculates on what else Ev Williams could have purchased with the money, such as a studio apartment in New York or a rare baseball card, but concludes that the impact of the gift on the writers' community is far more valuable.

Opinions

The author is grateful for the $500 bonus received from Medium, acknowledging it as a significant help in their life.
Medium's giveaway is seen as a fair and inclusive gesture compared to other social media platforms that typically favor big stars and influencers.
The author rejects the idea of conspiracy theories surrounding the giveaway, preferring to view Medium's action positively.
There is a comparison made between Ev Williams' generosity and historical promotional stunts like Oprah's car giveaway, suggesting the Medium event is similarly memorable.
The article suggests that the impact of the money on the writers' lives is more important than what the money could have been spent on otherwise, such as luxury goods or real estate.
The author appreciates the sense of community and support among Medium writers, emphasizing the value of the platform beyond monetary benefits.

Besides, I googled what Ev Williams could have bought for $500K?

Studio coop apartment in New York — $ $430,000 FULLY RENOVATED HUDSON YARDS STUDIO! Just bring your toothbrush to this fully renovated South facing studio that features a renovated kitchen and bath, refinished oak parquet floors, new baseboards and crown moldings, and storage systems in all closets.

or this,

2. The most expensive item on Amazon is actually a baseball card. — $409,422.59

As of March 2021, the most expensive item listed on Amazon with a set price is a legendary piece of baseball history. A Christy Mathewson HOF portrait baseball card posted at $409,422.59, the card has been on Amazon since March 30, 2019, and has garnered significant attention amongst those who came across it since being posted. — Distractify

or this,

3. Two tickets to space.

How much does a ticket to space cost through Virgin Galactic? Originally, the company charged $250,000 to early buyers.

I am a person who refuses gifts. I always thought I don’t deserve any gifts until an ex-boyfriend told me when he gifted me with a mobile phone, and I refused it, that I should accept and say, Thank you.

Ev Gave Away $500,000, and We Are Still Talking About It

It was fun to get $500, especially for someone who is struggling, and I’m grateful to Medium and to Ev Williams

Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory and the Golden Ticket!

$500 Bonus — The unexpected gift from Willy Wonka himself

Besides, I googled what Ev Williams could have bought for $500K?

430 W 34th St Apt 9J, New York, NY, 10001 | realtor.com®

FULLY RENOVATED HUDSON YARDS STUDIO! Just bring your toothbrush to this fully renovated South facing studio that…

So today, I say Thank you, Ev Williams, Thank you, Medium.