Alan Hanstein

Host Dave Fiore speaks with Alan Hanstein, the executive director of the Challenger Learning Center in downtown Tallahassee. Alan grew up in Rockland County, New York, a short drive from Manhattan that provided for fun and relatively safe teenage exploration – at least during the day. His life took a dramatic turn while headed home on winter break from The State University of New York at Fredonia, when he and his friends stopped to help an overturned tractor trailer during a snowstorm. A passing car hit Alan on the side of the road, flipping him into a snowbank, breaking both legs and changing the trajectory of his life. After a remarkably fast recovery and exploring a few life options, Alan decided to continue his education at Florida State, where a European trip derailed his education for a bit, before he eventually returned to earn his degree. It was during that time that Alan accelerated his career journey by combining his work in the event management industry with his knowledge of innovative technologies that would eventually lead to online event registration. His job would take him around the world, rubbing elbows with celebrities at high-profile events and parties. But his favorite place has always been with his wife, Amy, whom he met as a SCUBA instructor, and their two children, who are now grown. At the Challenger Learning Center, Alan is living out a dream that includes a lifelong passion for science and space and giving back to the community. His programs serve more than 50,000 K-12 students every year and they host popular events and activities for kids of all ages. _________________________________ Thanks for listening to Tallahassee's Podcast. Enjoying the conversation? Please share this episode. Love the show? Please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts.  About the Podcast: How I Got Here is hosted by Dave Fiore and features Tallahassee leaders, entrepreneurs and changemakers sharing the experiences and pivotal moments that shaped their journey. The show is produced by Fiore Communications, a Tallahassee-based strategic marketing firm that helps businesses build trust with the audiences that matter most. Visit hightlh.com for more great episodes and to suggest a guest or sign up for email updates.  Connect with Dave Fiore: LinkedIn Explore more local podcasts: Tallahassee Podcast Network Follow or Subscribe to How I Got Here Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube