Welcome to the Grit Show!
Growing up as the middle child in a family of nine kids, Tandi had a great childhood. But as a young teen, she picked up the drug and drinking habits of her older siblings.
At 14, she ran away from home with her boyfriend. As she was trying to stay warm in a recycling bin during the Utah winter, a truck picked her up and crushed her.
After somehow surviving, she dropped drinking but ended up getting pregnant at 15. As a result of the abuse of her boyfriend, her son was born with cerebral palsy.
In 2001, Tandi discovered a newfound source of confidence through fighting, a skill she practiced to protect herself. She talks more about how this snowballed into a career in the MMA.
Along the way, she found love and support in her husband, who stepped up as a father figure to her son, who only lived until he was 18. She talks about their last moments together and opens up about their bond.
As she reflects on her life, Tandi shares her passion for helping others, especially children, find their strength and confidence through combat training. Drawing from her own journey, she offers advice to parents whose children struggle the same way that she did.
This episode touches on suicide, IVF, and other experiences that have affected Tandi on her way to who she is today.
Please send your guest requests to james@ironcowboy.com or through Instagram.
Keep tuning in to embrace the grit!
