Episode 61: 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.

This episode is sponsored by Barineau Heating and Air Conditioning.