Former Gamecock Star Debo Williams Launches “SpendHer Hotline” — A Real-Life Social Network Built on Connection, Not Algorithms
Former South Carolina linebacker Debo Williams is taking on the world of social media with his new venture — a people-first communication platform designed to connect users in real time.
The 23-year-old athlete-turned-entrepreneur has officially launched SpendHer Hotline, a mobile platform built around one simple idea: giving people a space to talk, share, and learn — from real humans, not search engines or AI.
“People can call or write in to talk about anything — cars, mattresses, working at McDonald’s — and the service pairs them with someone who’s actually an expert in that field,” Williams explained. “It’s like a real-life Google or Reddit.”
A Platform With Purpose
Williams said the concept was born out of a desire to reconnect people in a world that feels increasingly digital and disconnected.
“People see how others live online, and it’s fake,” he told Outsports. “They start comparing themselves and getting depressed because they’re not where they think they should be. But it can also motivate them to go harder. It’s a double-edged sword.”
With SpendHer Hotline, Williams wants to replace that artificial comparison culture with genuine, human conversations. Unlike traditional hotlines — which are often tied to crisis situations — his platform is meant to build community and support through shared experiences.
Supporting All Communities
Although Williams isn’t part of the LGBTQ+ community, he emphasized that SpendHer is designed to provide a safe and inclusive environment.
“[SpendHer offers] peer support and lived experience,” he said. “If the creators have lived experience in LGBTQ+ or athlete mental health issues, they can offer users empathy, understanding, and real-life guidance. It helps people feel seen and less isolated — which is huge for mental health.”
His timing couldn’t be more significant. As funding for mental health and LGBTQ+ hotlines faces cuts nationwide, SpendHer aims to fill a widening gap by offering human connection and understanding — something Williams believes technology often overlooks.
Inspired by His Own Journey
After a standout career at South Carolina and brief stints with the Carolina Panthers and Pittsburgh Steelers, Williams used his journalism background and communication skills to create a platform that blends empathy with practicality.
“Mental health is real — let me start that off by saying that,” Williams said. “In pro sports, you don’t have time to worry about your feelings because you have to produce. You have a bad game, and fans are on you. The outside world doesn’t matter — if you don’t perform, you lose your job.”
His experiences both on and off the field inspired him to build something that gives others the chance to express themselves without judgment.
Looking Ahead
Though SpendHer Hotline is still in its early stages, Williams believes it could revolutionize how people connect in an increasingly AI-driven world.
“They’ll be able to speak with people who can relate,” he said. “They’ll be able to talk to people who truly care and are willing to help — and that’s what’s going to make it powerful.”
Williams isn’t shy about his vision for the future: “It’s going to be the biggest platform in the world.
