From a small town, big family and vast lands, the explorer emerges. Camera and notebook in hand, and a Mother so grounded, teaches her son how to soar into a world wide view of living. What a beautiful gift this story is.
Love the emphasis around the 7:20 mark on what _his_ version of success is. I really think it should be different for everyone! That way there's no constant upward downward comparisons diminishing our joy...
this talk really made me think about how travel can change your perspective on life... It's not just about the places you go, but the people you meet and the experiences you have, it all goes such a long way in terms of shaping your perspective
If you can, travel. Explore. Leave your hometown. Go somewhere far away. Live or find a job in another country for a while. Discover how other people live and how different it is from what you know. Different places will bring out different versions of you. Go and see what’s out there. The self-discovery that comes from leaving can change your entire life. I know it’s scary, I was scared too.. but I did it anyway and you can too. My whole perspective in life changed the moment I stepped out of my comfort zone. And you won’t regret it, I promise. If it works for you, good. If it doesn’t, well, atleast you tried.
I wish my parents had taken me overseas as a kid. We never went anywhere and now I feel like there must be something wrong with me because I just have no desire to travel. Never did a gap year... none of that. This guy has so much positivity around it and obviously got some really awesome opportunities though so maybe it's something I should be considering
It's never too late to start treaveling, it can be as easy as finding a cheap flight overseas for a long weekend or exploring a new area in your own city or country!
Starting a scholarship in his family's name to give back and help others have similar life-changing experiences abroad is such a touching way to honor his mother's memory and legacy. What a guy!
Loved hearing about him trying to establish a study abroad scholarship in his mothers name. Such a beautiful tribute to her and the values she instilled in you.
His story of loss, resilience, and adventure brings so much perspective on what's truly important in life. His mother's influence and her lessons seem to have been a guiding light throughout his journey
I appreciate your honesty about the hardships, especially losing your mom to cancer. It must have been incredibly tough. Your resilience in turning pain into purpose is commendable and shows the power of personal strength, something everyone should strive for.
The part where he talks about the importance of building relationships and how they've opened doors for him worldwide is a valuable lesson. It's not just about the places you go, but the connections you make.
It's really cool to hear about someone making the most of the opportunities given to them. It's important to seize life's chances, sometimes I forget about that.
What an impressive achievement to grow your workforce to 100 remote workers. I think this has now become a viable and sustainable option for many seeking work/life balance.
It's refreshing to hear someone advocate for both living in the moment and careful personal and professional growth. I think these stories really speak to the importance of balance within taking risks and planning for the future.
This is such a great talk! I get the vibe that he's still so humble and grateful and wants to give back in a meaningful way. I think that's rare for people who have achieved this level of success
The emphasis on taking opportunities as they come and not being afraid to embrace change really resonated with me. It's a reminder that life is about more than just the conventional paths we're often told to follow.
I love how he talks about turning pain into purpose. Losing his mom must have been so hard, but he used it to fuel his passion for travel and remote work. Truly inspirational.
Lol had to chuckle to myself that Dad said "let's all go to Italy" knowing full well Mom was not down for it. Maybe he just wanted to give her a break or something but good on her for supporting it!
Oh man the part where he talks about their phone call about volleyball definitely made me choke up. It's always the little things that your mom gets so excited about for you, it's one of the things I miss about my mom too.
The idea of living in a cheaper country with the same income is exactly what I dream of, of course its in the tropics with loads of fresh food and beaches ... etc etc etc
Woah what a crazy journey Mike That valentine's quote hit deep. Thanks for being such an inspiration for travelers worldwide. Hope our paths cross again soon 🔥🙌🏾
Man this just makes me wish I'd chosen a profession you can do digitally. I learnt a trade and even though I love it I can't see myself getting steady work in another country let alone any country I want to go to
Can relate to what he says about that spark being lit in him! It's amazing what happens to your brain when you're suddenly around so much new stuff to take in!
I felt so inspired when he talked about booking that one-way ticket to Europe with no plan... it sounds so scary but I think having that kind of freedom would be exhilarating
It's amazing how he transformed personal loss into a drive for living with purpose and helping others through his experiences. That's really admirable.
Yes, it's one thing to go to another place and say oh I've been here and here I'm so well traveled... but quite another to open yourself up to the opportunities and perspectives of being in different environments.
His adventures from a small town in Missouri to exploring over 100 countries is really cool... I've only been to five other states and two countries haha LOL
This was such a beautiful retelling of someones journey, enjoyed hearing every minute, especially the stuff about his mama, you can tell she was an awesome lady!
The advice about creating unique experiences is spot on. It's not about ticking off countries on a map but building lasting connections and creating impact no matter where you are. That's a valuable message for everyone to hear
Such an inspiring talk! His story about his mom and how it motivated him to travel really touched me. Makes me want to book a flight and explore the world too.
I'd be really interested to hear about the cultural challenges he came up against while living and working in different countries. There are so many innate cultural differences that you just don't know about until you're in the other place!
I'm fascinated by the idea of using multiple perspectives to understand mental health issues. It's making me reconsider some of my own struggles in a new light and I can see why approaching them in a different way might be helpful
I've always wondered if it was possible to do this! The way remote working has taken off, especially in the last few years. Very cool to see someone living like that
You’re Very Welcome! Sorry for the loss of your beautiful Mother to cancer… Your Mother had a beautiful heart… It’s incredible to hear how you chose to overcome adversity, as well as succeed in the global marketplace via the inspiration your Mother gave to you… You are and will be a inspiration to many, many people around the globe, who will now, find the strength to overcome adversity in their own lives as well as succeed… Thank You for being who you are and for sharing your story. :)
Personally I find it really difficult to step outside my comfort zone and a huge part of that is linked to financial stability... so hearing about all the chances you took was somewhat terrifying for me lol
Appreciate the feedback and I agree, typically TEDx talks are more big picture. I have a bestselling book called “Global Career” that’s full of some VERY practical advice!
I don't mean to yuck his yum but I don't think travel always leads to career advancement... I guess it depends what industry you're in and how good you are at networking but this talk seems really idealistic about it all
Thanks for checking out my TEDx talk everyone. Love you all!
❤
@@bettina5755 thanks for the heart!
"Be a dreamer but more importantly be a doer" - I appreciate this. It's easy to dream, but making those dreams a reality is the real challenge.
Yes, it's the most important thing in life...to take action!
@@MikeSwigunski or sometimes to not take it, and just witness what takes place...
From a small town, big family and vast lands, the explorer emerges. Camera and notebook in hand, and a Mother so grounded, teaches her son how to soar into a world wide view of living. What a beautiful gift this story is.
Thanks so much for your kind comment!
"Embrace the now while building for tomorrow." This is such a balancing act for me lol still haven't quite mastered it.
Love the emphasis around the 7:20 mark on what _his_ version of success is. I really think it should be different for everyone! That way there's no constant upward downward comparisons diminishing our joy...
I think this too!
Losing a parent is tough but it's pretty admirable the way he managed to turn that pain into purpose. I'm sure his mom would be really proud of him.
this talk really made me think about how travel can change your perspective on life... It's not just about the places you go, but the people you meet and the experiences you have, it all goes such a long way in terms of shaping your perspective
"Unplugging from the unsupportive" is going to serve as a constant reminder for me going forward. Thanks!
If you can, travel. Explore. Leave your hometown. Go somewhere far away. Live or find a job in another country for a while. Discover how other people live and how different it is from what you know. Different places will bring out different versions of you. Go and see what’s out there. The self-discovery that comes from leaving can change your entire life. I know it’s scary, I was scared too.. but I did it anyway and you can too. My whole perspective in life changed the moment I stepped out of my comfort zone. And you won’t regret it, I promise. If it works for you, good. If it doesn’t, well, atleast you tried.
I wish my parents had taken me overseas as a kid. We never went anywhere and now I feel like there must be something wrong with me because I just have no desire to travel. Never did a gap year... none of that. This guy has so much positivity around it and obviously got some really awesome opportunities though so maybe it's something I should be considering
It's never too late to start treaveling, it can be as easy as finding a cheap flight overseas for a long weekend or exploring a new area in your own city or country!
Starting a travel blog led him to write a best-selling book? That's goals.
His story about finding his first remote job in Australia was really encouraging. Shows that with persistence, you can find opportunities anywhere 🥳
How blessed you were to have such supportive parents who ignited your life's passion. Must admit I'm jealous.
I am thankful for this every single day!
Such a lovely story, thank you
Thanks for the kind words 🙏
His journey shows that you can turn personal tragedy into a powerful motivator for achieving your dreams. Very inspiring.
Starting a scholarship in his family's name to give back and help others have similar life-changing experiences abroad is such a touching way to honor his mother's memory and legacy. What a guy!
The way he built his career while traveling the world is proof that anything is possible with determination! Loved to hear it
I love how his mom encouraged him to follow his dreams, even if she couldn’t join him. True parental support.
The way you’ve turned your mother’s passing into a source of motivation is a really great way to reframe the sad experiences
I love how he kept emphasizing the importance of making the most of every single day. Such a valuable lesson.
His story is a testament to how travel can fundamentally change a person.
I really appreciate your comment and kind words, travel has opened up so many doors in my life!
Loved hearing about him trying to establish a study abroad scholarship in his mothers name. Such a beautiful tribute to her and the values she instilled in you.
His story of loss, resilience, and adventure brings so much perspective on what's truly important in life. His mother's influence and her lessons seem to have been a guiding light throughout his journey
Wow, he has really lived an incredible life. Working remotely while traveling to over 100 countries sounds like a dream come true.
I appreciate your honesty about the hardships, especially losing your mom to cancer. It must have been incredibly tough. Your resilience in turning pain into purpose is commendable and shows the power of personal strength, something everyone should strive for.
The part where he talks about the importance of building relationships and how they've opened doors for him worldwide is a valuable lesson. It's not just about the places you go, but the connections you make.
Your mother would be so proud of all the lives you've changed for the good. Her zest for life lives on in all of them - through you. Congratulations.
I appreciate the kind words so much, thanks!
The emphasis on making the first move in networking abroad is a great tip.
It's really cool to hear about someone making the most of the opportunities given to them. It's important to seize life's chances, sometimes I forget about that.
What an impressive achievement to grow your workforce to 100 remote workers. I think this has now become a viable and sustainable option for many seeking work/life balance.
Thank you so much for your kind words Ted!
It's refreshing to hear someone advocate for both living in the moment and careful personal and professional growth. I think these stories really speak to the importance of balance within taking risks and planning for the future.
The way he described living and working in different countries makes me want to try remote work. It sounds like the ultimate freedom.
I was really touched by the way he honored his mom’s memory. Creating a memorial at the John Lennon wall in Prague is such a beautiful idea.
This is such a great talk! I get the vibe that he's still so humble and grateful and wants to give back in a meaningful way. I think that's rare for people who have achieved this level of success
The emphasis on taking opportunities as they come and not being afraid to embrace change really resonated with me. It's a reminder that life is about more than just the conventional paths we're often told to follow.
I love how he talks about turning pain into purpose. Losing his mom must have been so hard, but he used it to fuel his passion for travel and remote work. Truly inspirational.
Lol had to chuckle to myself that Dad said "let's all go to Italy" knowing full well Mom was not down for it. Maybe he just wanted to give her a break or something but good on her for supporting it!
Oh man the part where he talks about their phone call about volleyball definitely made me choke up. It's always the little things that your mom gets so excited about for you, it's one of the things I miss about my mom too.
Travelling with a job? Sign me up! He makes it sound so easily achievable
The idea of living in a cheaper country with the same income is exactly what I dream of, of course its in the tropics with loads of fresh food and beaches ... etc etc etc
The story of his mom writing Valentine’s Day cards is so sweet. It’s those little things that mean the most.
Woah what a crazy journey Mike
That valentine's quote hit deep.
Thanks for being such an inspiration for travelers worldwide.
Hope our paths cross again soon 🔥🙌🏾
Appreciate that so much buddy and thanks for watching the talk!
Hearing him talk about his first trip to Italy brought back memories of my first big trip abroad. Travel really does change you!
Man this just makes me wish I'd chosen a profession you can do digitally. I learnt a trade and even though I love it I can't see myself getting steady work in another country let alone any country I want to go to
Can relate to what he says about that spark being lit in him! It's amazing what happens to your brain when you're suddenly around so much new stuff to take in!
I felt so inspired when he talked about booking that one-way ticket to Europe with no plan... it sounds so scary but I think having that kind of freedom would be exhilarating
An amazing talk! Thank you for sharing so much insight into you!!!! Your mom has a huge smile on her face!💖
Thanks so much! I agree 1000%
Loved the part about the John Lennon wall memorial for his mom. So heartfelt.
It's amazing how he transformed personal loss into a drive for living with purpose and helping others through his experiences. That's really admirable.
Thanks so much for your kind words!
@@MikeSwigunski thanks for doing the talk, its important
Wow that is the dream. He makes it sound so easy but having that level of openness and confidence can be really difficult
Yes, it's one thing to go to another place and say oh I've been here and here I'm so well traveled... but quite another to open yourself up to the opportunities and perspectives of being in different environments.
The digital nomad lifestyle is something I've been considering! This talk just gave me the push I need to explore it further 💜
This is awesome. Way cooler than those yt chix with dreddies who travel around in their van and put it up on instagram
His adventures from a small town in Missouri to exploring over 100 countries is really cool... I've only been to five other states and two countries haha LOL
His advice on living in the moment while planning for the future is spot on. It’s a balance I think we all need to strive for.
It's incredible how he his life around travel and work. Very motivating!
Thank you for sharing your journey with such authenticity. Many with be inspired to be brave and embrace the route you travelled.
Thanks for the kind comment and I appreciate you :)
This was such a beautiful retelling of someones journey, enjoyed hearing every minute, especially the stuff about his mama, you can tell she was an awesome lady!
The advice about creating unique experiences is spot on. It's not about ticking off countries on a map but building lasting connections and creating impact no matter where you are. That's a valuable message for everyone to hear
Amazing talk overall. His passion for travel and remote work is contagious. Definitely feeling motivated to start my own journey now!
Such an inspiring talk! His story about his mom and how it motivated him to travel really touched me. Makes me want to book a flight and explore the world too.
Sometimes you just have to take a leap of faith
I really enjoyed this talk. It’s amazing how travel can shape your career and life in unexpected ways. His story is proof of that.
I'd be really interested to hear about the cultural challenges he came up against while living and working in different countries. There are so many innate cultural differences that you just don't know about until you're in the other place!
I'm fascinated by the idea of using multiple perspectives to understand mental health issues. It's making me reconsider some of my own struggles in a new light and I can see why approaching them in a different way might be helpful
Interesting speech ❤❤ I really love it
I've always wondered if it was possible to do this! The way remote working has taken off, especially in the last few years. Very cool to see someone living like that
Good to see you on youtube^^
You are so great.
I hope you have a wonderful traveling sustainably
Good luck my friend
- Sang tack, Korea, Gwang ju -
Thanks so much, apprecaite that!
Congratulations 🎉🎊🎈
Thanks Lori! :)
You’re Very Welcome!
Sorry for the loss of your beautiful Mother to cancer…
Your Mother had a beautiful heart…
It’s incredible to hear how you chose to overcome adversity, as well as succeed in the global marketplace via the inspiration your Mother gave to you…
You are and will be a inspiration to many, many people around the globe, who will now, find the strength to overcome adversity in their own lives as well as succeed…
Thank You for being who you are and for sharing your story. :)
great path to success
Yes, 1000%
awesome talk 👊
Thanks buddy! :)
Many find it hard to break into remote positions, some simply don't have the right skillset
I want to do this!!!!
Third commenter! Anyway, a very big congratulations to you! 👏🌎🌍🌏😇✈️🚢🚉🎊
woohoo thanks!
Wow 🤩 interesting speech
Thanks so much!
Excellent talk!
Thanks so much @nicknimmin!
Personally I find it really difficult to step outside my comfort zone and a huge part of that is linked to financial stability... so hearing about all the chances you took was somewhat terrifying for me lol
Not everyone can afford to travel extensively or secure remote jobs... this was a lovely story but I was hoping for more practical advice.
Appreciate the feedback and I agree, typically TEDx talks are more big picture. I have a bestselling book called “Global Career” that’s full of some VERY practical advice!
Is the part about _how_ to travel and work remotely in the room with us now?
I appreciate the passion for travel but I'm not sure everyone can relate to this lifestyle or would even want it?
I'm sorry was I the only one who didn't catch the "how to" part of this talk? Is it like really subtle advice or something I outright missed?
every1 on TEDx talks the same
Ya'know for a "How To" there is very little actionable advice in here. Just saying.
I don't mean to yuck his yum but I don't think travel always leads to career advancement... I guess it depends what industry you're in and how good you are at networking but this talk seems really idealistic about it all
why are you talking like that
...