We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Hannah Knighton a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hannah, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Do you think your parents have had a meaningful impact on you and your journey?

My parents fostered the most loving environment, a sanctuary where I felt accepted and empowered to authentically be myself. Within this nurturing space, I was encouraged to pursue my passions and embrace risks, laying the groundwork for a resilient and adventurous spirit.
My mom in particular played a crucial role in shaping my self-perception. As a black woman, she emphasized the importance of my voice, reinforcing that it was both valuable and necessary. Her unwavering support instilled in me the confidence necessary to navigate both the professional world and my personal life.

Losing my mom was an indescribable challenge, a seismic shift that reshaped the landscape of my life. However, through the grief emerged a profound understanding of the strength she instilled in me. The void left by her absence became a catalyst for self-discovery and resilience, pushing me to honor her legacy by embracing challenges, such as traveling the world to spread her ashes, and overcoming adversity, like being motherless and beginning my own journey into motherhood.

In both the joyous moments and the trials of my career, I’ve drawn upon the lessons and values she imparted. My unique voice, cultivated by her encouragement, has become a powerful tool in my professional journey. Despite the profound loss, her influence remains my guiding force, an eternal flame that continues to contribute significantly to my success and fulfillment.

Hannah, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m a freelance writer and editor specializing in wildlife, environment, sustainability, and travel. Professionally, my journey began after earning dual bachelor’s degrees in marine science and English from Jacksonville University. I further honed my craft with a master’s degree in science writing from Johns Hopkins University.

My portfolio includes contributions to renowned publications like Smithsonian Magazine online, the Ocean Portal, and Motif Magazine. I’ve also provided editorial support for Science and the Science Writer. What sets me apart is my ability to seamlessly blend scientific knowledge with captivating storytelling.

I take pride in delivering content that fosters a deep connection between the natural world and the human experience. Whether it’s through articles, essays, blog posts, or editing services, my goal is to provide valuable insights and engage readers on topics that matter. People often ask exactly what it is I do as a freelancer. So examples, I offer a range of writing and editing services tailored to meet diverse client needs including:

-Crafting Feature Articles: Engaging and informative articles on wildlife, environment, sustainability, and travel
-Writing Blog Posts: Regular and compelling blog content for websites or personal blogs.
-Copywriting: Captivating copy for promotional materials, advertisements, or product descriptions.
-Research-Based Content: In-depth research and creation of content backed by credible sources.
-Content Editing: Comprehensive editing to enhance clarity, coherence, and overall quality.
-Proofreading: Detailed review for grammar, spelling, and punctuation to ensure polished final drafts.
-Developmental Editing: Collaborative editing to refine structure, flow, and overall effectiveness.
-Scientific Editing: Specialized editing for scientific content, ensuring accuracy and readability.

Something I’m proud of is my recent exploration into essays covering themes of grief, race, identity, and motherhood. It’s an exciting avenue that adds a personal touch to my professional repertoire. For potential clients and followers, I want them to know that my work is not just about information—it’s about creating an immersive experience that resonates on both intellectual and emotional levels.

My unique background in marine science and English equips me to handle diverse subject matter with both precision and creativity. Clients can expect a personalized approach, attention to detail, and a commitment to delivering content that resonates with their audience. Whether it’s crafting compelling narratives or refining existing material, my goal is to elevate the impact of each piece.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My creative journey as a writer is powered by the mission to weave narratives that resonate with the human experience and steered by a deep-seated desire to provoke thoughtful reflection. I aim to explore the complexities of grief, race, identity, and motherhood, offering readers a mirror to reflect upon their own lives. Through storytelling, I aspire to inspire empathy and ignite a sense of shared humanity. Ultimately, my goal is to create stories that linger in the hearts of readers, sparking conversations and fostering a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world we inhabit.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding part of being a writer, regardless of the genre, is the ability to craft words that resonate, transport readers, and evoke strong emotions. Providing a space for introspection and connection, my writing has the potential to impact and enrich someone’s life. Witnessing the profound impact on individuals, whether through moments of reflection or joy, adds a meaningful layer to the creative process. As an artist, the shared human experience and the potential to make a positive difference make the journey deeply rewarding.

For a science writer, the unique reward lies in bridging the gap between complex scientific concepts and the general public. Making intricate ideas accessible and engaging fosters a deeper appreciation for science. Witnessing readers grasp and find fascination in topics they might have initially found daunting is immensely satisfying. The opportunity to ignite curiosity, share the wonders of discovery, and contribute to a scientifically informed society makes being a science writer uniquely fulfilling.

When it comes to writing personal essays, the most rewarding aspect is the cathartic process of self-discovery and the potential to create connections with readers. Delving into personal experiences allows for introspection and a deeper understanding of oneself. Sharing these narratives not only provides a sense of vulnerability but also opens the door for readers to resonate with shared emotions and perspectives. The mutual recognition and understanding that arise from personal essays create a unique bond, making the writing process an enriching and meaningful journey across genres.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://hannahnknighton.com/
• Instagram: hannahnicoleknighton
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-knighton-5891a3145
• Other: Podcast (Spotify): https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/waitwhy Podcast (Apple Podcasts): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wait-why/id1520264944

Image Credits
Mara S Lanka