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Byron Pitts

Advocacy and Overcoming a Speech Disorder

As a child, Pitts struggled with a severe stutter, a challenge that affected both his academic and social life. He was often bullied and isolated, leading to a sense of frustration and loneliness. In an interview with Stuttering Help, he recalled, “I was bullied through elementary school and much of junior high school... For me, it was like living as a prisoner inside a cell.”

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In 2009, he released his memoir, Step Out on Nothing: How Faith and Family Helped Me Conquer Life’s Challenges, in which he detailed his battle with stuttering and his journey toward becoming a broadcast journalist. Through this book and public speaking, Pitts has become a recognized advocate for people with speech disabilities, helping to raise awareness and provide encouragement to others facing similar obstacles.

Awards and Literary Contributions

Pitts has received numerous accolades for his work in journalism. He was awarded an Emmy for his coverage of the Chicago train crash in 1999 and received further acclaim for his reporting during the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

In addition to his memoir, Pitts is the author of another book and has been commended for his literary contributions. He currently serves as a journalist-in-residence at High Point University, where he mentors and inspires future journalists. His dedication to education and storytelling continues to leave a lasting impact on the field of journalism.

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Quick Facts
Height: N/A
Profession: Television journalist
Children: Brittni Pitts, Angela Pitts, Christiani Pitts
Date of Birth: October 21, 1960
Nationality: American
T.V. Show(s): Nightline, 60 Minutes, CBS Evening News
Divorced Date: N/A
Birth Place: Baltimore, MD
Spouse: Lyne Pitts
Education: Ohio Wesleyan University
Net Worth 2021: 5 million
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Last Modified: Jul 24 2025
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