What happens when you've spent decades taking care of everyone else—and suddenly it's finally your turn?
In this fascinating episode of The More Than Your Age Podcast, Erica Pasvar sits down with Tami Fandrei, a hiker, backpacker, ice climber, military spouse, former nonprofit founder, and mother whose life was defined by caregiving for years.
After her daughter developed a rare autoimmune disease at just nine years old, Tami spent the next decade living in hospitals, balancing military life, raising two other children, and putting every dream of her own on hold. When her children eventually left home, she found herself asking a question so many women face: Who am I now?
Rather than letting fear or age define her, Tami began saying "yes" to adventure. In her 50s, after multiple knee surgeries—including a total knee replacement—she discovered backpacking, completed the legendary John Muir Trail, hiked across Europe, and fulfilled a lifelong dream by climbing a frozen waterfall on her 53rd birthday.
Her story is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to rediscover yourself, heal through nature, and chase dreams that once felt impossible.
In this episode, you'll hear:
How caregiving consumed 10 years of her life—and what it taught her
The realities of being a military spouse while raising children
The emotional transition into becoming an empty nester
Why nature became her greatest source of healing
Starting over after 50 with an artificial knee
Recovering from multiple knee surgeries and a total knee replacement
Completing the John Muir Trail and hiking across Europe
What ice climbing is really like—and why she fell in love with it
Overcoming fear, embracing challenges, and redefining aging
Why your best adventures may still be ahead of you
Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed by caregiving, entering an empty nest season, or wondering if it's too late to pursue your dreams, this conversation will remind you that your story is far from over.
Resources & Links Mentioned
Follow Tami Fandrei
Places & Adventures Mentioned
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Connect with Erica
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***This Podcast is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something we'll receive a small commission. ***
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Intro and Exit Music written and performed by Daniel Ging.
🎙️ About the Podcast
More Than Your Age is a podcast for women who refuse to be defined by timelines, expectations, or age-based limitations. Through honest conversations and inspiring stories, host Erica Pasvar highlights women who are pursuing purpose, creativity, and growth at every stage of life.
