Lisa Evers is an American journalist, television reporter, radio host, former model, martial artist, and community advocate best known for her work with FOX 5 News New York (WNYW) and her long-running public affairs program, Street Soldiers with Lisa Evers. Throughout a career spanning several decades, she has become one of New York City’s most recognizable media personalities, covering crime, counterterrorism, politics, public safety, youth culture, and community issues.
Unlike many reporters who specialize in traditional news coverage, Evers has built a reputation for reporting directly from neighborhoods most affected by violence, social inequality, and public safety concerns. Her work frequently highlights issues impacting urban communities, while her interviews with law enforcement officials, civic leaders, activists, entertainers, and young people have made Street Soldiers one of New York’s most respected public affairs programs.
Lisa Evers Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
| Full Name | Lisa Maria Evers |
| Profession | Journalist, Television Reporter, Radio Host |
| Nationality | American |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, United States |
| Education | Lake Forest College |
| Degree | Economics with a minor in French Literature |
| Employer | FOX 5 New York (WNYW) |
| Television Show | Street Soldiers with Lisa Evers |
| Radio | HOT 97 |
| Former Spouse | Curtis Sliwa |
| Known For | Crime Reporting, Public Affairs Journalism |
Early Life and Education
Lisa Evers grew up in the Midwest before later establishing her career in New York City. Although she has remained relatively private about her childhood and immediate family, her educational background reflects an early interest in both analytical thinking and the humanities.
She attended Lake Forest College, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics with a minor in 17th-century French literature. This combination of business knowledge and liberal arts education helped shape the communication and analytical skills that later defined her journalism career.
Long before becoming a television reporter, Evers demonstrated an adventurous spirit and a willingness to pursue unconventional opportunities. These traits would eventually lead her into modeling, martial arts, public safety advocacy, and journalism.
Modeling Career
Before entering television news, Lisa Evers enjoyed a successful international modeling career. Her career reportedly began after she was discovered by a fashion photographer while riding the New York subway. The opportunity led to a contract with Elite Model Management, one of the world’s leading modeling agencies.
During the 1980s, she modeled in both New York and Paris, appearing in publications including French editions of Elle and Vogue, as well as magazines distributed throughout Europe, Australia, India, and the United Kingdom. Her work introduced her to international fashion while providing experience in television and media that later proved valuable in broadcasting.
Martial Arts and Professional Wrestling
Lisa Evers’ career has never been limited to journalism. She is a highly accomplished martial artist who earned a black belt in karate and became one of the first women to gain widespread recognition within the martial arts community. In 1987, she was honored as Woman of the Year by the Black Belt Hall of Fame, becoming the first woman to receive that distinction. She also wrote columns for Black Belt Magazine, sharing self-defense knowledge and martial arts insights with readers.
Her martial arts background even led to a brief association with the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) during the mid-1980s. Under the guidance of legendary trainer The Fabulous Moolah, Evers trained as a professional wrestler and appeared on WWF programming, although she ultimately chose to continue pursuing journalism rather than professional wrestling.
Guardian Angels
Another significant chapter of Lisa Evers’ life involved the Guardian Angels, the volunteer crime-prevention organization founded by Curtis Sliwa. Evers served as the organization’s national director and vice president, helping oversee community safety initiatives while participating in patrols and public outreach programs. During this period, she became well known for promoting crime prevention, community involvement, and youth empowerment.
Her work occasionally placed her in dangerous situations. In one widely reported incident during the 1980s, she fought off attackers during an attempted assault at her Manhattan office. Her martial arts training enabled her to defend herself until the attackers fled. The incident attracted national media attention and reinforced her reputation for courage and resilience.
Journalism Career
After transitioning from modeling and community activism, Lisa Evers began building a successful journalism career. She initially worked as a freelance reporter for 1010 WINS, one of New York City’s leading all-news radio stations. She also reported for CNN Radio Network and ABC Radio Network, gaining valuable experience covering breaking news, crime, politics, and community affairs.
Her combination of reporting experience, public speaking skills, and deep understanding of New York communities eventually led to her joining FOX 5 New York, where she became one of the station’s most recognizable reporters.
FOX 5 News Career
At FOX 5 New York, Lisa Evers established herself as one of the station’s leading general assignment reporters, specializing in crime, public safety, counterterrorism, and investigative reporting.
Unlike many reporters who remain in the studio, Evers is known for reporting directly from neighborhoods affected by major events. She has covered gang violence, terrorism investigations, police operations, natural disasters, public demonstrations, and numerous breaking news stories throughout New York City.
One of her strengths is building relationships with community leaders, law enforcement agencies, educators, and young people, allowing her to present stories from multiple perspectives. This balanced reporting style has earned her credibility across diverse communities.
She has also gained exclusive access to specialized units within the New York Police Department, including the NYPD Bomb Squad and counterterrorism teams, providing viewers with rare behind-the-scenes insights into public safety operations.
Street Soldiers with Lisa Evers
One of Lisa Evers’ greatest contributions to journalism has been the creation and success of Street Soldiers with Lisa Evers, a public affairs program dedicated to discussing issues affecting young people and urban communities. Originally launched as a radio show on HOT 97 FM, the program became one of New York City’s highest-rated community affairs broadcasts before expanding to television on FOX 5 New York in 2016.
Unlike traditional news programs, Street Soldiers focuses on conversations that directly impact local communities, including youth violence, education, policing, gang prevention, mental health, drug abuse, employment, social media, and community empowerment. The show regularly brings together community leaders, law enforcement officials, educators, activists, healthcare professionals, and young people to discuss practical solutions to complex issues.
The program has also become known for securing exclusive interviews with some of the biggest names in music, sports, and entertainment. Over the years, Evers has interviewed celebrities including 50 Cent, Jay-Z, Sean “Diddy” Combs, DMX, Usher, Derek Jeter, and Alex Rodriguez. One of her most notable achievements was conducting 50 Cent’s first television interview in 2003, long before he became an international superstar.
Her ability to build trust with both community members and high-profile public figures has made Street Soldiers an important platform for meaningful dialogue on issues often overlooked by mainstream media.
Journalism Style and Impact
Throughout her broadcasting career, Lisa Evers has developed a distinctive reporting style built on credibility, community engagement, and firsthand reporting.
Rather than relying solely on official press conferences or studio analysis, she frequently reports directly from neighborhoods affected by crime, violence, and major news events. Her longstanding relationships with law enforcement officers, community organizations, educators, and local residents often allow her to provide exclusive information and perspectives unavailable to other reporters.
She has covered some of New York City’s most significant stories involving terrorism, gang violence, public safety, police investigations, transportation, politics, and community relations. Her reporting from Ground Zero following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks remains one of the defining moments of her journalism career. Before joining FOX 5, she reported live for 1010 WINS throughout the attacks and their aftermath.
Because of her extensive experience covering law enforcement, Evers has also received exclusive behind-the-scenes access to specialized NYPD units, including the Bomb Squad and counterterrorism operations, providing viewers with a rare look at how public safety agencies protect New York City.
Awards and Community Service
Although Lisa Evers is widely recognized for her journalism, she is equally respected for her commitment to community service. Over the years, she has participated in numerous charitable initiatives benefiting young people, underserved communities, and disaster victims. Working alongside FOX 5 and HOT 97, she helped organize relief efforts following Hurricane Katrina and later supported aid initiatives after Superstorm Sandy, collecting clothing, shoes, toys, and other essential supplies for affected families.
Her earlier work with the Guardian Angels also reflected a long-standing commitment to public safety and crime prevention, particularly in neighborhoods facing significant social challenges.
Lisa Evers Husband
Lisa Evers was previously married to Curtis Sliwa, the founder of the Guardian Angels, an internationally recognized volunteer crime-prevention organization.
The couple married in 1981 while both were deeply involved with the organization. During their marriage, Evers was widely known as Lisa Sliwa and served as one of the Guardian Angels’ senior leaders. They also co-hosted a talk radio program on WABC-AM, combining their interests in community activism and public affairs.
However, after more than a decade together, the marriage ended in divorce during the 1990s. Neither Evers nor Sliwa has publicly discussed the details surrounding their separation, and both have generally chosen to keep those matters private.
Lisa Evers Family
Lisa Evers has always maintained a relatively private personal life despite her public career. While she has openly discussed aspects of her professional journey, she has shared very little about her parents, siblings, or extended family. Public records and official biographies likewise provide limited information about her immediate relatives.
Similarly, there is no publicly confirmed information indicating that Lisa Evers has children. Although some unofficial websites speculate about her family, these claims have not been confirmed by Evers or FOX 5 and should therefore be treated cautiously.
Lisa Evers Age
Lisa Evers’ age has been the subject of conflicting reports across the internet. Several biographies state that she was born on June 15, 1953, while others report June 15, 1958. FOX 5 New York has not publicly confirmed her birth year, making it impossible to verify her exact age with certainty.
What is consistently confirmed is that she celebrates her birthday on June 15.
Lisa Evers Salary
FOX 5 New York has never publicly disclosed Lisa Evers’ salary. Given her decades of experience, specialized reporting expertise, and prominent role at one of the nation’s largest local television stations, industry observers estimate that experienced reporters in similar positions often earn between $100,000 and $200,000 per year. Some biography websites publish narrower salary estimates, but none have been verified by Evers or FOX 5.
Accordingly, any reported salary figure should be viewed as an estimate rather than confirmed compensation.
Lisa Evers Net Worth
Lisa has an estimated net worth of between $1 million and $5 million. His wealth is mainly attributed to her long career in television journalism, radio broadcasting, public speaking, writing, and other professional endeavors.
It is important to emphasize that these figures are estimates only. Neither Lisa Evers nor FOX 5 New York has confirmed her financial information, and no official records establishing her net worth have been made public.
Her primary sources of income are believed to include:
- Television journalism
- FOX 5 News reporting
- Hosting Street Soldiers
- Radio broadcasting
- Speaking engagements
- Book royalties and media appearances
Interesting Facts About Lisa Evers
- She previously modeled internationally with Elite Model Management.
- She holds a black belt in karate and was named Black Belt Hall of Fame Woman of the Year in 1987.
- She briefly trained as a professional wrestler under The Fabulous Moolah.
- She speaks conversational Spanish and French.
- She hosted 50 Cent’s first television interview.
- She continues to host Street Soldiers on both television and radio.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Lisa Evers?
Lisa Evers is an American journalist, FOX 5 New York reporter, radio host, and host of Street Soldiers with Lisa Evers.
Is Lisa Evers married?
No verified public information indicates that she is currently married. She was previously married to Guardian Angels founder Curtis Sliwa.
Does Lisa Evers have children?
There is no publicly confirmed information indicating that Lisa Evers has children.
What is Lisa Evers famous for?
She is best known for her crime reporting at FOX 5 New York and for hosting Street Soldiers, a long-running television and radio public affairs program.
What is Lisa Evers’ net worth?
Most online estimates place her net worth between $1 million and $5 million, although these figures have not been publicly confirmed.
Conclusion
Lisa Evers has built one of the most distinctive careers in American broadcast journalism. From international modeling and martial arts to community activism, radio broadcasting, and investigative reporting, she has continually reinvented herself while remaining committed to public service. Her fearless reporting on crime, terrorism, and community issues, together with the enduring success of Street Soldiers, has made her a trusted voice in New York media.
Although she keeps much of her private life out of the public eye, her professional achievements speak for themselves. Whether reporting live from breaking news scenes, interviewing influential public figures, or leading conversations about issues affecting urban communities, Lisa Evers continues to demonstrate why she remains one of FOX 5 New York’s most respected journalists.
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