Leland Vittert, Emmy-nominated journalist and author of Born Lucky, joins Len to share how his father’s refusal to accept limits transformed his trajectory. This episode reveals why labels can disempower parents - and what to focus on instead. The secret this week is… DON’T Fall Into The Diagnosis TRAP
Welcome to Episode 275 of Autism Parenting Secrets.
This week, I’m joined by Emmy-nominated journalist Leland Vittert, host of On Balance on NewsNation.
In his powerful new book Born Lucky, Leland shares his deeply personal story: a childhood marked by social challenges, relentless bullying, and an autism diagnosis at a time when the word itself was barely understood.
At the heart of his story is his father - a man who refused to accept the limitations imposed by others. Instead, he built trust, modeled resilience, and empowered Leland to rise above every label.
The message of Born Lucky couldn’t be more aligned with this podcast. It’s not about denying differences. It’s about NOT letting a diagnosis define or confine your child.
The secret this week is…
DON’T Fall Into the Diagnosis TRAP
You'll Discover:
About Our Guest:
Leland Vittert is an Emmy-nominated journalist and the host of On Balance on NewsNation. Known for holding leaders accountable and digging for truth, he shares his most personal work yet in Born Lucky, a memoir about his father’s fierce love, resilience, and refusal to accept limitations. It’s a story that transcends diagnosis and inspires parents everywhere.
References In This Episode:
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