How To Travel & Work Remotely Forever | Mike Swigunski | TEDxVake

Join Mike Swigunski, remote work and travel expert, as he shares the incredible journey of working and traveling across 100+ countries, fueled by personal loss, unwavering determination, and a quest for a life filled with purpose. This talk isn't just about the miles traveled or the countries ticked off; it's a heartwarming narrative of how travel can transform lives, open up unparalleled opportunities, and teach us the true value of living in the moment. Mike's story is a testament to the power of embracing the unknown and making the most out of every single day. Mike Swigunski is a best-selling author and nomadic entrepreneur who is renowned for his contributions to the remote work industry through his international bestseller, "Global Career: How To Work Anywhere And Travel Forever." His expertise in the remote work realm is evident from his extensive travels to over 100 countries and a decade of experience. Swigunski played a pivotal role in scaling an eight-figure remote company into one of the fastest-growing in the USA and has successfully brokered hundreds of millions in online businesses, showcasing his deep passion and expertise in location-independent work. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx

[@basilfaulty7643]

"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.

[@MikeSwigunski]

Yes, it's the most important thing in life...to take action!

[@basilfaulty7643]

@@MikeSwigunski or sometimes to not take it, and just witness what takes place...

[@MikeSwigunski]

Thanks for checking out my TEDx talk everyone. Love you all!

[@izayahmayson]

His story about finding his first remote job in Australia was really encouraging. Shows that with persistence, you can find opportunities anywhere 🥳

[@lachiepturner]

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.

[@annemery885]

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.

[@FineSinEgo]

The story of his mom writing Valentine’s Day cards is so sweet. It’s those little things that mean the most.

[@nelsonpierse]

His story is a testament to how travel can fundamentally change a person.

[@MikeSwigunski]

I really appreciate your comment and kind words, travel has opened up so many doors in my life!

[@ElegantEye]

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.

[@thereallybigdog]

Wow, he has really lived an incredible life. Working remotely while traveling to over 100 countries sounds like a dream come true.

[@jonjrarcher]

I love how he kept emphasizing the importance of making the most of every single day. Such a valuable lesson.

[@blockchainbobisbroke]

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

[@averyrothschild]

I love how his mom encouraged him to follow his dreams, even if she couldn’t join him. True parental support.

[@jaxstub]

The way he built his career while traveling the world is proof that anything is possible with determination! Loved to hear it

[@sanderburton]

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.

[@tyronecaojr]

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!

[@emmajchance]

The emphasis on making the first move in networking abroad is a great tip.

[@eleanorrigbywhatdoesitmean]

His journey shows that you can turn personal tragedy into a powerful motivator for achieving your dreams. Very inspiring.

[@jacobydusar]

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.

[@ericreevesby4192]

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.

[@jodikennedy8886]

The way he described living and working in different countries makes me want to try remote work. It sounds like the ultimate freedom.

[@rontjacks]

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.

[@andrealfifi]

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

[@deewolk5956]

An amazing talk! Thank you for sharing so much insight into you!!!! Your mom has a huge smile on her face!💖

[@MikeSwigunski]

Thanks so much! I agree 1000%

[@jackrichards9402]

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...

[@Flipflopflipflop]

I think this too!

[@saajidahlip]

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.

[@gerdefrederick]

Starting a travel blog led him to write a best-selling book? That's goals.

[@harmonyhadley5216]

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.

[@MyOwnBookpad]

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.

[@oscarnotreallyawiener]

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.

[@MikeSwigunski]

Thanks so much for your kind words!

[@oscarnotreallyawiener]

@@MikeSwigunski thanks for doing the talk, its important

[@QuackGal]

Loved the part about the John Lennon wall memorial for his mom. So heartfelt.

[@samsonhollmerus]

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 🔥🙌🏾

[@MikeSwigunski]

Appreciate that so much buddy and thanks for watching the talk!

[@rachealbrasner4237]

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

[@georgewatkiss]

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.

[@pablocortez6960]

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.

[@freedomplace5239]

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.

[@MikeSwigunski]

Thanks so much for your kind comment!

[@DeliriousGentleman]

Hearing him talk about his first trip to Italy brought back memories of my first big trip abroad. Travel really does change you!

[@Flipflopflipflop]

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!

[@tedbuden]

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.

[@MikeSwigunski]

Thank you so much for your kind words Ted!

[@jasperdemuynck]

awesome talk 👊

[@MikeSwigunski]

Thanks buddy! :)

[@avajayden1729]

The digital nomad lifestyle is something I've been considering! This talk just gave me the push I need to explore it further 💜

[@DivaBliss]

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.

[@MikeSwigunski]

I appreciate the kind words so much, thanks!

[@dennisboystop9442]

How blessed you were to have such supportive parents who ignited your life's passion. Must admit I'm jealous.

[@MikeSwigunski]

I am thankful for this every single day!

[@carstenberns7104]

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!

[@GunDeeMug]

Thank you for sharing your journey with such authenticity. Many with be inspired to be brave and embrace the route you travelled.

[@MikeSwigunski]

Thanks for the kind comment and I appreciate you :)

[@BeenFoundTwice]

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

[@COCOtheBRAT]

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!

[@carldupont4440]

Amazing talk overall. His passion for travel and remote work is contagious. Definitely feeling motivated to start my own journey now!

[@colbyjames4843]

"Embrace the now while building for tomorrow." This is such a balancing act for me lol still haven't quite mastered it.

[@jujurocker]

It's incredible how he his life around travel and work. Very motivating!

[@grantcayden]

Travelling with a job? Sign me up! He makes it sound so easily achievable

[@ZeekKingdom]

Wow that is the dream. He makes it sound so easy but having that level of openness and confidence can be really difficult

[@marychristmaseveryone]

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

[@sadfacesforall]

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.

[@yujinlst25]

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 -

[@MikeSwigunski]

Thanks so much, apprecaite that!

[@notthatoneorthoseones]

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

[@MikeSwigunski]

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!

[@FollowedFriends]

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.

[@BladeStunBert]

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

[@lilyschmyer]

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

[@loriklump5016]

Congratulations 🎉🎊🎈

[@MikeSwigunski]

Thanks Lori! :)

[@loriklump5016]

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. :)

[@KaterynaYevhrashena]

great path to success

[@MikeSwigunski]

Yes, 1000%

[@robyncrosby666]

Such a lovely story, thank you

[@MikeSwigunski]

Thanks for the kind words 🙏

[@quynhhuong5846]

Interesting speech ❤❤ I really love it

[@mbatiste]

Third commenter! Anyway, a very big congratulations to you! 👏🌎🌍🌏😇✈️🚢🚉🎊

[@MikeSwigunski]

woohoo thanks!

[@KaterynaYevhrashena]

Wow 🤩 interesting speech

[@MikeSwigunski]

Thanks so much!

[@NickNimmin]

Excellent talk!

[@MikeSwigunski]

Thanks so much @nicknimmin!

[@IAmTheRealJoker]

I want to do this!!!!

[@MoonShimmer]

Sometimes you just have to take a leap of faith

[@3leftfeet]

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

[@valenciaponomarenco]

Not everyone can afford to travel extensively or secure remote jobs... this was a lovely story but I was hoping for more practical advice.

[@MikeSwigunski]

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!

[@my-own-boss]

Is the part about _how_ to travel and work remotely in the room with us now?

[@lanceabbott1994]

Ya'know for a "How To" there is very little actionable advice in here. Just saying.

[@russhearn]

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

[@hanapark1019]

why are you talking like that

[@MadureyMaran]

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