Tom Turcich's Journey From World Walker to Guest Speaker

Robert White, Editor-In-Chief

Tom Turcich’s life took a dramatic turn when he embarked on a journey that very few have even imagined—walking around the world. Over seven years, he traveled nearly 28,000 miles, exploring 38 countries on foot. What began as a quest to find meaning in the face of loss has now become a story of profound personal discovery, which he shares as an author and guest speaker.

Turcich grew up in the peaceful suburbs of South Jersey, where he lived an idyllic middle-class life. His childhood, surrounded by supportive parents and friends, was typical. But at 17, his life changed when his close friend, Ann Marie Lynch, tragically died in a jet ski accident. This event stirred something deep within him, awakening an awareness of the brevity of life. In an interview on The Savoir Faire Audio Experience, Turcich recounts how this loss led him to confront life’s most difficult questions, particularly the inevitability of death.

"I needed to make the most of life and decide on a path for myself," Turcich shared. This sense of urgency sparked his desire to live boldly, inspired by watching Dead Poets Society and its mantra of "carpe diem." After several years of introspection, he made up his mind: he would walk around the world. The idea wasn’t simply about travel—it was about forcing himself into uncomfortable situations that would help him grow. However, financial constraints delayed his departure, and it wasn’t until he was 25 that he was able to save enough to make the journey a reality.

With minimal resources, Turcich pushed a customized baby buggy filled with essentials like a tent, sleeping bag, and a few personal items. For the first year, he camped almost exclusively, proving to himself that he could endure the rigors of his journey. “I had this burning desire to prove to myself that I could do it,” he explained during the interview. His plan was simple: walk 24 miles a day, every day.

But his journey didn’t remain solitary for long. In Austin, Texas, Turcich adopted a rescue dog, Savannah, who would go on to walk 25,000 miles by his side. Savannah, a faithful and energetic companion, not only provided protection but also became the first dog to walk around the world. “She was always ready to go,” Turcich said fondly, describing how her presence allowed him to sleep better at night, knowing she was alert to any dangers.

For seven years, Turcich’s life was defined by this single purpose—moving forward, one step at a time. But the challenges were immense. In the interview, Turcich recounted sleeping behind churches, in forests, and enduring long stretches of solitude, particularly in remote regions like the deserts of Peru and Chile. Yet it was in these moments of isolation that he found the most profound peace. "Walking is inherently reflective. You turn over your life in every way, again and again," he said. This deep introspection ultimately shaped the philosophy he shares today as a motivational speaker.

Turcich’s walk wasn’t just about seeing the world—it was about discovering his place within it. His reflections during those countless miles are now compiled in his upcoming book, The World Walk, set for release in October 2024. The book details not only the physical challenges of his journey but also the emotional and spiritual growth he experienced along the way. It is both a travel memoir and a guide to living with purpose.

While his walk has ended, Turcich’s story continues to inspire. As a guest speaker, he shares the lessons learned from his journey with audiences across the globe. Drawing from his experiences, he highlights three core principles: knowing your values, setting a goal (or “flag” as he calls it), and embracing constraints. These insights form the foundation of his motivational talks, where he encourages others to find their own paths and live with intention. “I believe in these things deeply,” Turcich says, and his authenticity shines through in each talk.

His newfound role as a speaker came naturally, though he admits it wasn’t always something he envisioned. “Before the walk, I would have felt like a fraud,” he said, reflecting on his initial reluctance. But after spending so much time with himself and discovering his own beliefs, sharing his story now feels right. Whether it’s addressing corporate audiences or inspiring individuals, Turcich speaks with the authority of someone who has not only traveled the world but has truly lived in it.

Since returning from his walk, Turcich has also been adjusting to a new phase of life. His world has shifted from the simplicity of walking each day to building a new life in Seattle with his partner, Bonnie. Still, he is searching for the next flag to set in the distance. "I’m figuring that out now," he says, reflecting on life after finishing his book. “I have this void, and I’m still looking for what’s next.”

As Tom Turcich steps into his role as an author and motivational speaker, his journey continues to inspire countless others to face life’s challenges with courage and intention. The lessons he learned while walking the world are now shaping the lives of those who listen to his story, and his message remains clear: Life is fleeting—seize the day.