Heiko Weiner was born in Suhl, a small town nestled in the Thuringia Forest of what was then East Germany. Growing up surrounded by vast forests and mountains, Heiko spent much of his childhood outdoors, developing into an accomplished cross-country runner and skier. His early years were also shaped by the presence of skilled artisans, as Suhl and its neighboring villages were home to generations of craftsmen who specialized in woodwork and toy-making. His grandfather, an expert carpenter, introduced Heiko to tradi…