On this episode of Learning to Fly, host Bruce Mittman sits down with legendary journalist Maria Stephanos, a trusted pillar of Boston news for over 30 years and current co-anchor of WCVB’s NewsCenter 5.

Maria shares how her spark for storytelling was ignited as a child watching her parents’ reaction to the news of Elvis Presley's death, driving her to pursue journalism at Emerson College. She remembers her early days in radio at WJAR and local stations, her 10 years working at Cheers to put herself through school, and her 18-year career as a reporter and anchor at WFXT TV (Fox 25) during its peak rise in Boston media.

Bruce and Maria discuss the responsibility that comes with reporting the news, the importance of empathy behind the anchor desk, and the lessons Maria learned from early failures and challenges along the way. She also reflects on balancing a demanding career with family life and how her Greek heritage and close-knit family have kept her grounded throughout her time in the spotlight.

Offering a firsthand look at the evolution of local broadcasting and the journey behind one of New England’s most recognizable news personalities, Maria explains how staying true to yourself can be one of the most important keys to lasting success. It’s an intimate, heartfelt conversation that puts Maria in the guest chair for once, allowing her journey to become this week’s headline.