Leland Vittert didn't speak until age three. Diagnosed with what we now know as autism, he spent middle school crying himself to sleep while his father repeated one message: "The qualities that make you bullied now will make you successful later." It seemed impossible then. But those brutal years became the training ground for tear gas in Cairo, hostile newsrooms in Washington, and the courage to ask tough questions when no one else will. In this raw conversation, Leland opens up about his memoir *Born Lucky*, a father-son story about choosing resilience over accommodation, justice over bitterness, and truth over popularity. We talk about the decision his parents made not to shelter him from adversity, but to hold his hand through it. About learning to turn isolation into independence, and pain into purpose. This isn't a polished highlight reel. It's an honest look at neurodivergence, parenting choices, bullying, journalism in the age of fake news, and what it costs to stand your ground when facts bend under pressure. Leland shares practical wisdom from the frontlines, both personal and professional, about developing the character that carries you through life's hardest moments. Key Topics:

• Growing up neurodivergent before we had the language for it

• The parenting decision that changed everything: adaptation vs. accommodation

• Why middle school bullying prepared him for Washington newsrooms

• Standing up for people who can't stand up for themselves

• Asking tough questions of both sides in today's media landscape

• The father-son relationship that became his foundation

• Finding your voice when you literally couldn't speak

Whether you're a parent of a struggling kid, someone who's faced isolation, or anyone trying to find strength in their story, this conversation offers hope, honesty, and the reminder that your hardest seasons might be preparing you for something greater. About the Guest: Leland Vittert is a journalist and anchor who has reported from war zones across the Middle East and covered major political events from Baltimore to Capitol Hill. His memoir Born Lucky chronicles his journey from a nonverbal child with severe learning disabilities to a voice millions trust. He currently anchors his show weeknights at 9 PM Eastern.

Get the book Born Lucky: bornlucky.com