Parenting on the Spectrum

Theresa Alexander Inman

Raising children with autism comes with unique joys, challenges, and learning moments. Join host Theresa as she explores the diverse experiences of parenting kids on the spectrum. Each episode features expert insights, real-life stories, and practical strategies to help you navigate this journey with understanding, compassion, and strength. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or ally, this podcast is your go-to resource for fostering connection and celebrating neurodiversity.

  1. 1d ago

    #299: But You Don't Look Autistic with Shea Belsky

    In this inspiring conversation, Theresa sits down with Shea Belsky, an autistic self-advocate, public speaker, and tech professional who’s helping redefine what inclusion really means. Shea shares his lived experience of navigating the world as an autistic adult, embracing authenticity, building supportive communities, and challenging stereotypes that limit neurodivergent potential.Together, they explore what it means to thrive as an autistic person, how organizations can create truly inclusive spaces, and why embracing neurodiversity benefits everyone. This episode is a reminder that being autistic isn’t about fitting in, it’s about living fully and unapologetically as yourself. Tune in to gain insight, empathy, and real-world strategies for celebrating neurodiversity. Learn more from Shea at:https://www.sheabelsky.com/ Parenting on the Spectrum AppWhile you wait for services, don’t wait for progress. The Parenting on the Spectrum app helps you support, track, and celebrate your child or student's growth with practical tools and loving guidance. Because every moment matters. No waitlist requiredStart today at: app.parentingonthespectrum.coYour child isn’t broken.They’re communicating in a language most people haven’t learned yet.Inside my Parenting on the Spectrum personalized program, I teach parents how to understand that language and help their child build communication, regulation, and independence.To learn more email: wecare@parentingonthespectrum.coPathways to Early Communication bookIf 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. The author, who is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Infant Toddler Developmental Specialist, uses stories from her own work to bring points home in an interesting and easy-to-read way. This book makes a great shower gift for any new parent!Find it at your favourite book seller by following this link: https://books2read.com/How-can-I-help-my-child-communicateClose your eyes, take a deep belly breath! You don't have to do this alone

    27 min
  2. 2d ago

    #298: The Secret to Paying Off Your Mortgage Early and Building a $10K/Month Business with Ann Pells

    What if financial freedom was closer than you think? In this empowering episode of Parenting on the Spectrum, Theresa sits down with entrepreneur and financial strategist Ann Pells, who reveals the powerful system she used to pay down her mortgage early, and then leverage that freedom to build a thriving $10K/month business.Ann shares practical steps anyone can take to eliminate debt, create new income streams, and design a life that feels both secure and abundant. Whether you’re a parent dreaming of stability or an aspiring business owner ready to take action, this conversation will inspire you to take charge of your money and your mindset.Tune in to learn how to shift from surviving to thriving, one intentional step at a time. Learn more from Ann at: https://lifegiverlegacy.com/3-steps-to-financial-freedom Parenting on the Spectrum AppWhile you wait for services, don’t wait for progress. The Parenting on the Spectrum app helps you support, track, and celebrate your child or student's growth with practical tools and loving guidance. Because every moment matters. No waitlist requiredStart today at: app.parentingonthespectrum.coYour child isn’t broken.They’re communicating in a language most people haven’t learned yet.Inside my Parenting on the Spectrum personalized program, I teach parents how to understand that language and help their child build communication, regulation, and independence.To learn more email: wecare@parentingonthespectrum.coPathways to Early Communication bookIf 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. The author, who is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Infant Toddler Developmental Specialist, uses stories from her own work to bring points home in an interesting and easy-to-read way. This book makes a great shower gift for any new parent!Find it at your favourite book seller by following this link: https://books2read.com/How-can-I-help-my-child-communicateClose your eyes, take a deep belly breath! You don't have to do this alone

    28 min
  3. Jun 6

    #297: Parenting From Reaction to Connection with Katherine Sellery

    What if the “bad behavior” you’re trying to stop is actually your child’s way of saying, “I don’t have the skills or words to tell you what I need?” In this eye-opening episode of Parenting on the Spectrum, Theresa sits down with Katherine Sellery. She is a three-time TEDx speaker and founder of the Conscious Parenting Revolution. They discuss conscious parenting, emotional regulation, autism, and connection-based parenting strategies. Together, they unpack power struggles, meltdowns, unmet needs, and the importance of moving away from punishment, labels, and control-based parenting. Katherine shares powerful insights on helping autistic and neurodivergent children communicate their emotions. They also share ways to develop self-regulation skills, and feel truly understood. Parents will walk away with practical tools to reduce challenging behaviors, strengthen connection, and create more peace at home. Achieved through compassion, communication, and emotional awareness. About Katherine Sellery (in her words) I’m Katherine Sellery, and for over 20 years I’ve been guiding parents, educators, and leaders through powerful mindset shifts that transform the way we communicate, connect, and lead. My journey started as a mom who wanted something more than power struggles and disconnection—I wanted deep, respectful relationships that honored the whole person.That desire led me to build the Conscious Parenting Revolution and become a three-time TEDx speaker. My work isn’t about quick fixes. It’s about changing the lens through which we see ourselves and the people we care for. Whether we’re talking about raising kids, navigating conflict at work, or healing intergenerational patterns, I bring a fresh perspective and practical tools that help people feel seen, heard, and empowered. 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 Parenting on the Spectrum App While you wait for services, don’t wait for progress. The Parenting on the Spectrum app helps you support, track, and celebrate your child or student's growth with practical tools and loving guidance. Because every moment matters. No waitlist required Start today at: ⁠⁠⁠app.parentingonthespectrum.co⁠⁠⁠ Your child isn’t broken. They’re communicating in a language most people haven’t learned yet.Inside my Parenting on the Spectrum personalized program, I teach parents how to understand that language and help their child build communication, regulation, and independence.To learn more email: ⁠⁠⁠wecare@parentingonthespectrum.co⁠⁠⁠ 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. The author, who is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Infant Toddler Developmental Specialist, uses stories from her own work to bring points home in an interesting and easy-to-read way. This book makes a great shower gift for any new parent!Find it at your favourite book seller by following this link: ⁠⁠⁠https://books2read.com/How-can-I-help-my-child-communicate⁠⁠⁠ Close your eyes, take a deep belly breath! You don't have to do this alone

    26 min
  4. Jun 3

    The Parenting Minute with T & Tango - Children Thrive Within Boundaries

    Many parents worry that setting boundaries will upset their child or damage connection.Healthy boundaries actually help children feel safer, calmer, and more emotionally secure. Children thrive when adults provide: clear expectations,consistent routines,and calm responses during difficult moments.When boundaries are inconsistent, children may struggle with emotional regulation, tantrums, aggression, anxiety, or testing limits because they are still learning where safety exists. A boundary is not punishment.A boundary is a calm limit that teaches safety, respect, and emotional regulation. Your child may cry, yell, or become frustrated when you hold a limit. That does not mean the boundary is wrong. It means they are learning how to handle disappointment with support. You can stay calm, connected, and firm:“I hear you.”“I know this is hard.”“And the answer is still no.” Children do not need perfect parents.They need adults who are predictable, emotionally safe, and willing to lead with both connection and structure. Connection before correction does not mean no boundaries.It means we guide children with empathy while still teaching limits. Close your eyes and take a deep belly breath. You don’t have to do this alone Follow Parenting on the Spectrum for compassionate parenting strategies that support emotional regulation, communication, and connection. 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 Parenting on the Spectrum App While you wait for services, don’t wait for progress. The Parenting on the Spectrum app helps you support, track, and celebrate your child or student's growth with practical tools and loving guidance. Because every moment matters. No waitlist required Start today at: ⁠⁠app.parentingonthespectrum.co⁠⁠ Your child isn’t broken. They’re communicating in a language most people haven’t learned yet.Inside my Parenting on the Spectrum personalized program, I teach parents how to understand that language and help their child build communication, regulation, and independence.To learn more email: ⁠⁠wecare@parentingonthespectrum.co⁠⁠ 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. The author, who is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Infant Toddler Developmental Specialist, uses stories from her own work to bring points home in an interesting and easy-to-read way. This book makes a great shower gift for any new parent!Find it at your favourite book seller by following this link: ⁠⁠https://books2read.com/How-can-I-help-my-child-communicate⁠⁠ Close your eyes, take a deep belly breath! You don't have to do this alone

    2 min
  5. Jun 2

    #295:Parenting with Awareness: Transforming Relationships with Kamini Wood

    How can parents raise emotionally resilient children while managing their own stress, fears, and expectations? In this episode of Parenting on the Spectrum, Theresa Alexander Inman speaks with Kamini Wood, a Human Potential Coach, author, and mother of five, about emotional regulation, self-compassion, and mindful parenting. Kamini shares how overcoming people-pleasing, perfectionism, and fear transformed her parenting and now helps her guide teens, parents, and adults toward healthier relationships and greater emotional well-being. They discuss: How emotional awareness improves parentingWhy children need validation instead of judgmentTeaching teens emotional intelligence and self-regulationHow parents can model healthy communicationThe importance of self-care without guiltBuilding stronger parent-child connectionsWhether you're parenting an autistic child, supporting a teenager, or working to become a more mindful parent, this episode offers practical tools to help your family thrive. Listen now and discover how self-compassion, emotional regulation, and connection can transform your parenting journey. About Kamini Kamini Wood is a certified life coach, speaker, and founder of Live Joy Your Way and AuthenticMe® Life Coaching. As a first-generation American and mother of five, Kamini's personal journey led her from people-pleasing and seeking external validation to embracing self-compassion, authenticity, and self-leadership. Today, she helps high-performing adults and young adults overcome self-doubt, build confidence, and discover their true worth by learning to validate themselves from within. Her mission is to empower others to heal their relationship with themselves and create a life aligned with who they truly are. Learn more from Kamini at: https://www.kaminiwood.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 Parenting on the Spectrum App While you wait for services, don’t wait for progress. The Parenting on the Spectrum app helps you support, track, and celebrate your child or student's growth with practical tools and loving guidance. Because every moment matters. No waitlist required Start today at: ⁠⁠app.parentingonthespectrum.co⁠⁠ Your child isn’t broken. They’re communicating in a language most people haven’t learned yet.Inside my Parenting on the Spectrum personalized program, I teach parents how to understand that language and help their child build communication, regulation, and independence.To learn more email: ⁠⁠wecare@parentingonthespectrum.co⁠⁠ 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. The author, who is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Infant Toddler Developmental Specialist, uses stories from her own work to bring points home in an interesting and easy-to-read way. This book makes a great shower gift for any new parent!Find it at your favourite book seller by following this link: ⁠⁠https://books2read.com/How-can-I-help-my-child-communicate⁠⁠ Close your eyes, take a deep belly breath! You don't have to do this alone

    26 min
  6. May 29

    #294: Prema Rose on Creativity, Purpose & The Circus of Life

    In this episode of Parenting on the Spectrum, Theresa speaks with Prema Rose about helping children discover confidence, creativity, and purpose. Prema shares the inspiration behind The Microcosmic Cartoon Show, a musical journey designed to help tweens navigate identity, emotions, perspective, and self-expression in today’s distracting world. Together, they discuss encouraging creativity without judgment, building confidence from within, and supporting children through curiosity, connection, and imagination. About Prema Prema Rose is a Hollywood screenwriter and acclaimed storyteller known for her deep spiritual insights and creative vision. With a distinguished career that spans Broadway and film, Rose has channeled her extensive experience into crafting The MicroCosmic Cartoon Show, an animated musical that addresses crucial issues of teen identity and resilience. Her unique background combines artistic excellence with a profound understanding of personal growth, making her a sought-after voice on guiding young people through today’s complex world. Rose is dedicated to providing practical advice and support to parents and educators, aiming to foster meaningful conversations and positive outcomes for the next generation. Learn more from Prema at: https://premaroseproductions.com/productions/ 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 Parenting on the Spectrum App While you wait for services, don’t wait for progress. The Parenting on the Spectrum app helps you support, track, and celebrate your child or student's growth with practical tools and loving guidance. Because every moment matters. No waitlist required Start today at: ⁠app.parentingonthespectrum.co⁠ Your child isn’t broken. They’re communicating in a language most people haven’t learned yet.Inside my Parenting on the Spectrum personalized program, I teach parents how to understand that language and help their child build communication, regulation, and independence.To learn more email: ⁠wecare@parentingonthespectrum.co⁠ 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. The author, who is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Infant Toddler Developmental Specialist, uses stories from her own work to bring points home in an interesting and easy-to-read way. This book makes a great shower gift for any new parent!Find it at your favourite book seller by following this link: ⁠https://books2read.com/How-can-I-help-my-child-communicate⁠ Close your eyes, take a deep belly breath! You don't have to do this alone

    29 min
  7. May 27

    #293: The Parenting Minute with T & Tango

    Welcome to The Parenting Minute with T & Tango — a quick moment of encouragement, reflection, and practical parenting insight. In this Parenting Minute, Theresa shares a simple but powerful moment when a child responded to another child instead of an adult. This highlights the importance of modeling and peer influence in child development. Children often learn best by watching the people around them, making positive examples one of the most powerful teaching tools we have. About Tango He is our mixed-breed rescue who takes me for a walk every morning. Parenting on the Spectrum App While you wait for services, don’t wait for progress. The Parenting on the Spectrum app helps you support, track, and celebrate your child or student's growth with practical tools and loving guidance. Because every moment matters. No waitlist required Start today at: ⁠app.parentingonthespectrum.co⁠ Your child isn’t broken. They’re communicating in a language most people haven’t learned yet.Inside my Parenting on the Spectrum personalized program, I teach parents how to understand that language and help their child build communication, regulation, and independence.To learn more email: ⁠wecare@parentingonthespectrum.co⁠ 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. The author, who is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Infant Toddler Developmental Specialist, uses stories from her own work to bring points home in an interesting and easy-to-read way. This book makes a great shower gift for any new parent!Find it at your favourite book seller by following this link: ⁠https://books2read.com/How-can-I-help-my-child-communicate⁠ Close your eyes, take a deep belly breath! You don't have to do this alone

    1 min
  8. May 27

    #292: Resilience Meets Connection: Shermin Kruse on Stoic Empathy

    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 respondingHow empathy and emotional regulation work togetherParenting through overwhelm, meltdowns, and stressWhy parents must learn to regulate themselves firstLetting go of guilt and learning from mistakesTeaching resilience while still showing compassionThe “duality of control” and focusing on what we can controlThis 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 Parenting on the Spectrum App While you wait for services, don’t wait for progress. The Parenting on the Spectrum app helps you support, track, and celebrate your child or student's growth with practical tools and loving guidance. Because every moment matters. No waitlist required Start today at: app.parentingonthespectrum.co Your child isn’t broken. They’re communicating in a language most people haven’t learned yet.Inside my Parenting on the Spectrum personalized program, I teach parents how to understand that language and help their child build communication, regulation, and independence.To learn more email: wecare@parentingonthespectrum.co 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. The author, who is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Infant Toddler Developmental Specialist, uses stories from her own work to bring points home in an interesting and easy-to-read way. This book makes a great shower gift for any new parent!Find it at your favourite book seller by following this link: https://books2read.com/How-can-I-help-my-child-communicate Close your eyes, take a deep belly breath! You don't have to do this alone

    26 min

About

Raising children with autism comes with unique joys, challenges, and learning moments. Join host Theresa as she explores the diverse experiences of parenting kids on the spectrum. Each episode features expert insights, real-life stories, and practical strategies to help you navigate this journey with understanding, compassion, and strength. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or ally, this podcast is your go-to resource for fostering connection and celebrating neurodiversity.