NewsNation’s Leland Vittert Opens Up About His Autism Journey in Born Lucky
Leland Vittert of NewsNation Shares Inspiring Journey with Autism
Leland Vittert’s Early Challenges: A Story of Perseverance
NewsNation anchor Leland Vittert is breaking new ground by sharing his personal story, something that anchors don’t typically do. His memoir, “Born Lucky: A Dedicated Father, A Grateful Son, and My Journey with Autism” (Harper Horizon), reveals the challenges of growing up with autism. Diagnosed in childhood, Vittert opens up about not speaking until the age of three, being bullied, and struggling to make friends. These experiences shaped his early years long before he found himself reporting live from prominent locations like the White House.
A Father’s Unwavering Support
Vittert’s father, Mark, emerges as a key figure in his journey. To give Vittert the support he needed, Mark left his job, dedicating himself to coaching his son through life’s social complexities. This unique upbringing involved training Vittert to practice eye contact, decode humor, and recognize social cues. These lessons were pivotal in overcoming his early struggles, helping Vittert build the resilience that would later fuel his success.
Letter of Gratitude: Born Lucky as a Tribute
“Born Lucky” serves as Vittert’s heartfelt acknowledgment of his father’s sacrifices and love. The memoir details how Mark was, for many years, Vittert’s closest friend and guide. Their journey included practical strategies such as using a subtle signal—a tap on the watch—to help Vittert regulate conversations.
From Personal Struggles to Professional Triumph
While Vittert is familiar to viewers as NewsNation’s chief Washington anchor, the full story behind his success often remained untold. Formerly a Fox News correspondent known for reporting from significant global events like Cairo’s Tahrir Square, Vittert now commands the 9 p.m. slot with “On Balance.” During a recent high-profile broadcast, he helped NewsNation achieve impressive ratings success, besting major networks such as CNN and MSNBC.
Behind the Scenes: Leland Vittert’s Personal Life
The memoir also offers a glimpse into Vittert’s life beyond the newsroom. Readers discover his passion for grilling, with specialties like pulled pork and ribs, and his love for golf, with clubs conveniently stored in his office. Additionally, Vittert shares his joy in being a pet owner to a black lab named Dutch. These personal insights render a more relatable, human image of the anchor, providing texture to the persona audiences see on screen.
A Message of Hope for All Parents
Through the lens of his personal experiences, Vittert offers hope to parents navigating similar challenges with their children. His message emphasizes that diagnoses like autism do not define potential. “If you had told someone that a kid like me…would end up talking on national television every night, they would have rightfully questioned your sanity,” Vittert writes. In sharing his story, he aims to inspire others to see beyond limitations, as he did, proving his place both in front of the camera and within the life he built.
