What happens when a parent refuses to let a diagnosis define their child?

TV news anchor Leland Vittert shares his story of growing up with autism, the “tough love” lessons his father insisted on, and how those moments of discomfort shaped the man and reporter he became.

In this conversation with host Julie Rose, Vittert opens up about bullying, rejection, resilience, and the powerful role his father played in teaching him to adapt to the world rather than expecting the world to adapt to him.

Leland Vittert is the Chief Washington Anchor at NewsNation and host of “On Balance with Leland Vittert.” Before joining NewsNation, he spent a decade as a foreign correspondent and anchor at Fox News. His new memoir is "Born Lucky: A Dedicated Father, A Grateful Son, and My Journey with Autism," available now https://www.harpercollinsfocus.com/harper-horizon/born-lucky/.

Episode transcript - https://uncomfypodcastbyu.blogspot.com/2025/10/growing-up-with-autism-and-fathers.html

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction

00:40 Meet Leland Vittert

01:38 The Role of a Dedicated Father

02:31 Facing Bullying and Social Challenges

03:34 Early Signs and Diagnosis

05:30 Overcoming Social Struggles

11:34 The Impact of Autism on Journalism

14:19 Reflections and Final Thoughts