In this powerful episode of Parenting on the Spectrum, Theresa sits down with author and attorney Shermin Kruse to explore the balance between emotional awareness and self-control through the lens of “stoic empathy.”

Shermin shares her extraordinary childhood experience growing up in post-revolutionary Iran during war, missile attacks, and political unrest and how her parents modeled calm, love, and emotional safety in the midst of chaos. Together, Theresa and Shermin discuss how parents can remain grounded during difficult moments, especially while raising autistic and neurodivergent children.

This conversation dives into:

• The difference between reacting and responding
• How empathy and emotional regulation work together
• Parenting through overwhelm, meltdowns, and stress
• Why parents must learn to regulate themselves first
• Letting go of guilt and learning from mistakes
• Teaching resilience while still showing compassion
• The “duality of control” and focusing on what we can control

This episode is a reminder that parenting isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up with love, awareness, and the willingness to grow.

About Sher

Shermin Kruse is an internationally recognized author, attorney, TEDx producer, and Northwestern University law professor whose work focuses on empathy, resilience, leadership, and negotiation. Born in Tehran during the Iranian Revolution, Shermin draws from her experiences living through war and political upheaval to teach the power of emotional regulation and “stoic empathy” balancing compassion with self-control. Her work has influenced audiences worldwide through her bestselling book Stoic Empathy, TEDx talks, speaking engagements, and leadership training.

Learn more from Sher at: https://www.sherminkruse.com/

About Theresa

Theresa Alexander-Inman is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, certified infant massage coach, author, and parent advocate dedicated to empowering families raising autistic and neurodivergent children. With experience supporting children from infancy through adulthood, Theresa is passionate about helping families build communication, emotional regulation, independence, and meaningful connection through compassionate, evidence-based strategies. She is the founder of Parenting on the Spectrum, where she combines professional expertise with heartfelt conversations to inspire and support families

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Pathways to Early Communication book

If you're like most parents, you want to do everything possible to help your child reach their fullest potential. Communication delays can be very frustrating and worrying for both children and parents. This book is a great tool for anyone working with infants and toddlers to help them develop the skills they need to prevent or reduce the effects of any possible delays.

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Close your eyes, take a deep belly breath! You don't have to do this alone