We had the good fortune of connecting with Hanna Powers and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Hanna, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
Journalists have this incredible responsibility to keep people informed, but it goes deeper than just reporting the facts. We have the power to shape the way people see the world, and that’s a responsibility I take seriously. In a time when everyone’s flooded with information, we help people cut through the noise and understand what really matters.
Whether it’s breaking news, community highlights, or important advocacy work like our ‘Clear the Shelters’ campaign, journalism impacts the world by creating connections, sparking dialogue, and sometimes, just giving people a reason to smile in the morning.
I have been especially touched by our annual ‘Clear the Shelters’ campaign. We’ve helped thousands of animals find their forever homes—and, in the process, we’ve raised a lot of money to keep those tails wagging. Nothing beats the feeling of connecting people with a new four-legged family member. At the end of the day its bigger than the animals, it’s all about making Charleston an even more compassionate place to live—one paw, hoof, or snout at a time.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m incredibly proud of the work I’ve done as a news anchor, but what really sets me apart is my connection to the community. Charleston isn’t just where I report the news; it’s where I live and serve. My involvement in initiatives like ‘Clear the Shelters’ is a reflection of that. It’s not just about delivering the stories, it’s about making a difference in people’s lives—whether that’s helping animals find homes or giving a voice to the underrepresented in our community.
Getting to where I am today wasn’t easy, and I’m thankful for the challenges because they helped me grow. Early in my career, there were some times when I doubted whether I was cut out for the pressure, especially when I had to cover big stories. But I leaned on my family and the mentors who believed in me, and I learned that pushing through discomfort is how you grow.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of resilience. Not everything will go your way—and trust me, live TV will teach you that very quickly—but how you bounce back makes all the difference. My journey hasn’t just been about career success; it’s about using that platform to uplift others and make a positive impact. If you keep showing up for a cause bigger than yourself, amazing things can happen.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
When I’m off the clock, Charleston has no shortage of spots where I love to hang out. You can usually find me somewhere by the water—whether it’s on a boat with a view of the Battery or enjoying the sun at Folly Beach. Some restaurants on my must see list right now include old favorite Felix and new star Sorelle, but I’m always down for casual spots like a good farmers market stroll at Marion Square to start the day. If the night calls for a drink, the Citrus Club at The Dewberry is perfect for rooftop views, but I’m equally happy at Moe’s Crosstown, which is a total dive bar gem.
On chill days, I’m all about walking my dog at Hampton Park (bonus points for duck spotting). And when I want something different, you might catch me trying out a new spot on King Street or enjoying a hidden patio somewhere in town. Charleston’s got so many great places—there’s always something fun to explore!
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My family deserves a huge shoutout—they’ve been in my corner through everything. My mom, Leslie Powers, in particular, always knew I could do very tough things, even when I wasn’t so sure. I also owe a lot to the incredible people who gave me the chance to cover big stories early in my career. They saw potential in me and pushed me to step up, giving me opportunities to learn and grow as a journalist. Those moments were crucial in shaping who I am today, and I’m grateful for their belief in me.
Website: https://hannapowers.com
Instagram: @hannapowers
Twitter: @hannakpowers
Facebook: Hanna Powers