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Hannah contributes to book, raising money for Women’s Aid

Photo of Hannah Freeman, client services director at Plain Speaking PR with a quote from her essay, published in 'More Things I Wish I'd Known'

Our client services director Hannah has contributed to a new book, published on International Women’s Day (8 March 2025).

‘More Things I Wish I’d Known’ is a collection of personal essays, stories and viewpoints from women.

Each author has shared some of the lessons they’ve learnt along life’s journey, covering topics from menopause, to grief, self-confidence to personal values and knowing when to say sorry.

Hannah’s piece is titled ‘If it matters to you, it matters’ and reflects on her teenage years, and why it’s important to pay attention to what really brings you happiness. A piece written with her two daughters in mind.

Michelle Gant, who lives in Norfolk, is the editor of the book, and says; “I have been absolutely blown away by the response to this latest collection from women who have been keen to share their personal experiences, thoughts, and ideas to support and inspire other women.

“The result is this collection of personal essays which is insightful and moving. I hope that readers will find something that interests, inspires, or connects with them within the words, just as I have.

“I am really grateful to everyone who has lent their voice to this new book – I do not underestimate what a thing it is to share of yourself so vulnerably and openly.

It’s the second time Hannah has contributed to one of Michelle’s projects, previously writing an essay for ‘When The World Paused; What a pandemic taught us about living.’ a project that raised money for NHS charities.

More Things I Wish I’d Known is out now, priced £7.99, with royalties donated to Women’s Aid UK, the national charity working to end domestic abuse against women and children.

You can buy a copy here.

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Stephanie Callen, PR Expert

Steph began her career in communications almost 20 years ago as a journalist on local newspapers in Suffolk and Norfolk.

Every day involved meeting new people and writing about a diverse mix of topics, which gave Steph a real appreciation for the issues that affect people across the region and honed her ability to build trusted relationships.

When she left journalism to pursue roles in PR, Steph took her news instincts with her and has achieved valuable media coverage for organisations from a varied range of industries, including healthcare, education, housing and animal welfare.

Steph, a member of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations, now brings her eclectic experience to Plain Speaking PR as a freelance consultant, supporting clients with bespoke copywriting, research and media pitching.

Outside of work, Steph enjoys family days out with her young daughter, cuddles with her rescue cat Clarence, a good thriller on the telly, and the – albeit occasional – run.

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Hannah Freeman, Client Services Director

Hannah is our client services director and has been with the business since 2018. Pippa’s right-hand woman, she’s responsible for overseeing accounts, managing client agency relationships, and making sure we’re delivering a professional PR service that delivers real value, contributing to objectives and goals.

Working in PR and communications since graduating (let’s not count the years!) Hannah has worked in PR for 15+ years, mostly spent agency side, advising clients in a diverse range of sectors, spanning tourism, hospitality, B2B services, waste and recycling, public sector, retail, and charities. She completed the CIPR Diploma in 2010.

Hannah brings in-house experience too, having worked as a PR and communications officer for one of the UK’s largest social housing groups for 18 months. She gets what it’s like to be the client, understanding the challenges and demands of this role.

Outside of work, Hannah walks, lifts weights, occasionally paddleboards, tries to keep plants alive and watches Schitt’s Creek on repeat. Mum to two busy, sporty girls, she’s also their PA. In summer, an outdoor dip at Beccles Lido is her no.1 spot to enjoy time out.

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Pippa Lain-Smith, Managing Director

Pippa is the founder and managing director of Plain Speaking PR and has worked within the communications sector for more than 25 years. Having worked on both client and agency side, Pippa is passionate about her job and will talk until she’s blue in the face about the value professional PR can bring to businesses and communities.

Whilst the Plain Speaking PR agency name derives from her maiden name, Pippa is a firm believer in a plain speaking, straight-talking approach to communications, with minimal jargon and maximum results. She’s proud to have helped many organisations navigate communications surrounding complex and sensitive issues; often during times of change or crisis.

In her spare time, Pippa enjoys attempting to keep fit, writing beauty articles for regional magazines and newspapers, enjoying the best of Norfolk’s food and drink, and planning her next holiday to Greece. She also supports a number of local charities and social enterprises including Miniature Donkeys for Wellbeing.

Pippa is a member of the Chartered Institute of Public Relations.