An interview with Kahoots Founder Joni McNeal by Shannon Magrane
When Joni McNeal became a full-time freelancer in 2022, she knew how to edit. After more than 20 years in the editorial world, the work itself wasn’t the question. But running a freelance business? That was a different story.
She had questions about everything from invoicing systems to quarterly estimated taxes. And she figured she couldn’t be the only freelancer trying to learn the business side of being in business.
That idea became Kahoots Collective.
Five years later, Kahoots has grown from a quietly active Facebook group into a thriving community with regular events, Collaborative Coworking sessions, a planning committee, and a growing network of creative freelancers across the Seacoast.
We sat down with Joni to talk about where Kahoots started, how it has evolved, and the people who helped shape it along the way.
Shannon: Let’s go back to the beginning. Why did you start Kahoots?
Joni: When I became a full-time freelancer, I realized that knowing how to do my job was only half the equation. I knew how to be a book editor, but I had so many questions about actually running a business. What invoicing system should I use? How do I pay quarterly estimated taxes? Do I need an LLC? There were so many things I suddenly needed to figure out.
I remember thinking, “I cannot possibly be the only person who has these questions.”
So I started Kahoots as a place where freelancers could connect, share what they knew, and learn from each other.
Shannon: And originally, it was just a Facebook group, right?
Joni: It was! The group was there, but it was pretty passively active. Then, you joined.
Shannon: As the freelance-curious person!
Joni: Exactly. And you brought a whole new energy to it. We started talking about what Kahoots could actually become instead of just being a Facebook group.
Shannon: We worked on the branding together, moved things over to Eventbrite, and started talking seriously about a website.
Joni: And that was a huge turning point. We also formed a planning committee, which helped us stay accountable and keep moving forward. Having other people invested in the group made such a difference.
Shannon: What are some of the biggest changes you’ve seen since those early days?
Joni: We’ve gone from one online group to an actual community. We have regular events where people can meet in person, including our Brunch & Learn sessions, Happy Hours, and Collaborative Coworking. The coworking sessions have been especially fun because they’re such a simple idea: Bring your work, sit with other freelancers, and get stuff done together.
And I think the biggest change is that Kahoots has become bigger than me. It’s not just my group anymore. It belongs to the people who show up, share their knowledge, make connections, and help shape what comes next.
Shannon: And now Kahoots has even been nominated for a Rising Star Award through Stay Work Play.
Joni: Which is pretty incredible. Honestly, that nomination would not have happened without you. You helped me take this little idea and turn it into something real.
Shannon: I think that’s the whole point of Kahoots, though. None of us has to build our freelance career alone.
Joni: Exactly. That’s still what Kahoots is all about. Freelance life can be lonely, especially when you’re trying to figure everything out yourself. Kahoots is a reminder that there are other people out there who get it and are willing to help.
Five years in, we’re still learning, still growing, and still figuring out what Kahoots can become. And I’m pretty excited to see what comes next.
Want to be part of what’s next?
Join us at an upcoming Kahoots event and meet the creative freelancers who make this community what it is.
