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."
In this raw conversation, Leland opens up about his memoir Born Lucky, a father-son story about choosing resilience over accommodation 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, and what it costs to stand your ground when the truth matters most.
Key moments:
Growing up neurodivergent before we had the language for it
The parenting decision that changed everything
Why middle school bullying prepared him for Washington newsrooms
Finding your voice when you literally couldn't speak
The father-son relationship that became his foundation
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.
Guest: Leland Vittert is a journalist and author of Born Lucky, chronicling his journey from a nonverbal child with severe learning disabilities to a voice millions trust.
Get the book Born Lucky: https://bornlucky.com/
Chapters:
(00:00) Trailer
(01:09) Intro
(01:44) Introducing Leland Vittert
(02:41) Overcoming Childhood Challenges
(08:16) The Power of a Nickname: 'Lucky'
(11:37) Navigating Autism and Social Challenges
(20:41) Journalism and Personal Growth
(27:30) Facing Adversity in the Newsroom
(40:06) Covering the George Floyd Protests
(43:37) The Challenges of Neutral Journalism
(47:54) The Role of Media in Political Polarization
(50:02) Interviewing Extremists
(58:02) Personal Sacrifices for Integrity
(01:05:08) Autism and Personal Growth
(01:11:24) Faith and Family
(01:19:56) A Father Tribute
(01:20:58) Rapid Fire Questions
SPONSORS:
ElevenLabs: Thanks to ElevenLabs for supporting this episode and powering Tim’s voice.
SOCIAL:
Website: nlupod.com
Twitter: @nlutimgreen
Facebook: facebook.com/NLUpod
Instagram: @nlupod
AUDIO ONLY:
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Apple Podcasts: Listen on Apple Podcasts
PERSONAL:
Tackle ALS: tackleals.com
Tim Green Books: authortimgreen.com
ROCKET ARM: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0062796895/
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