Spotlight: Kristin Jackson
Shaping the Future of Search & Information Access
KC continues to attract bold thinkers and change makers, and Kristin Jackson is no exception. As the co-founder and CEO of Freespoke, a search engine competitor to Google, Kristin is redefining how we access information—prioritizing privacy, transparency and digital safety for families.
The Journey Back to KC
Though Kristin’s career launched on the East Coast after earning her graduate degree from Georgetown University, her roots are firmly planted in Missouri. She spent middle and high school in Chillicothe, MO, and after nearly two decades away, she’s excited to return—bringing with her a wealth of experience and relationships to strengthen Kansas City’s business landscape.
“I’m thrilled to be back, combining my experience with the Midwest sensibility that sets this region apart. The energy and pride in KC are truly special, and I see endless opportunities that come naturally from this unique environment.”
Freespoke: A Search Engine with a Mission
In a world where information is curated and filtered, Freespoke stands out by offering unbiased search results and protecting user privacy. Kristin and her team are leveraging cultural shifts, AI advancements, and the growing demand for Google alternatives to create an impactful change in how we find and interact with information online.
No Echo Chambers: Users see an array of perspectives—both traditional and new media—so they can form their own opinions.
Privacy Protection: Searches are anonymous, and personal data isn’t tracked or sold.
Family-Friendly: Freespoke is pornography-free, ensuring a safer digital experience for kids.
Kristin is also deeply invested in protecting children online. She’s actively engaging with organizations like Herzog Foundation and Screen Sanity to explore partnerships that safeguard children from harmful online content.
“We’re waking up to the reality that online platforms are exposing children to damaging content at younger ages. We’re working to create a better, safer internet.”
From Policy to Entrepreneurship: A Unique Perspective
Kristin’s career has been shaped by diverse experiences—from working in communities across Venezuela and Chicago to crafting policy solutions in U.S. Congress. Her ability to blend community engagement, policy expertise, and an entrepreneurial mindset makes her an asset to Kansas City’s growing innovation scene.
She’s eager to apply this multi-faceted approach to help KC thrive by fostering collaboration between community leaders, policymakers, and startups. Can you support? Let’s get Kristin better connected to the people she needs to grow her impact here!
Plugging into KC’s Community
Though she’s only been back a short time, Kristin is already connecting with local innovators and leaders.
New2KC Meetups – “Jessica Powell has been a game changer! The group she brings together is dynamic and doing impressive work.”
Exploring Ways to Give Back – Kristin is passionate about reducing crime through economic empowerment, believing that people willing to work hard deserve opportunities to contribute meaningfully to their community.
Looking Ahead
Kristin is focused on scaling Freespoke, forging impactful partnerships, and investing in the Kansas City community. And on a personal note?
“Find my husband!” she laughs. We think she can have it all right from her downtown KC apartment to her beautiful 60-acre plot of land. This is an innovative, dynamic founder who will undoubtedly impact our community!
Incredibly grateful to have Kristin in our community!
Advice for Newcomers to KC
“Kansas City offers the best of both worlds—a thriving business community and a grounded, purpose-driven culture. If you’re thinking of making the move, jump in, get involved, and start building your network. You won’t regret it.”
How to Connect with Kristin
Website: www.freespoke.com
LinkedIn: Kristin Jackson
Email: kristin@freespoke.com
Stay tuned for next week’s New2KC Spotlight featuring Jeremiah Wright!
Together, these stories celebrate the innovators driving KC’s transformation into a premier hub for technology and entrepreneurship.
Do you have a New2KC connection to celebrate and help welcome to KC? Tell us more: https://forms.gle/3fbV4q6Kb8ehdJFA7