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Excess Baggage

One Family's Around-the-World Search for Balance

Published by She Writes Press
Distributed by Simon & Schuster

About The Book

Tracey Carisch thought she had it all. As a wife, mother, and successful executive, she seemed to be living the modern American dream. But one night, a panic attack sent her tumbling into an existential crisis and questioning everything about her life. That’s when she and her husband made a decision that shocked their family and friends: they sold everything they owned, pulled their three young daughters out of school, and became a family of wandering globetrotters.

Loaded with hilarious mishaps as well as deeply meaningful revelations, Excess Baggage chronicles the Carisch family’s extraordinary, eighteen-month adventure across six continents. As they navigate the trials and tribulations of international travel, the family encounters unique people and bizarre situations that teach them about the world—and themselves. Carisch’s candid and insightful account of her family’s journey will have you laughing out loud, shedding a few tears, and bringing the lessons of family travel into your own life . . . without ever having to leave home.

About The Author

Tracey Carisch grew up in a small midwestern town and attended Indiana University for her undergraduate degree. After beginning her career in technology consulting, she returned to academia for her MBA and founded her own consulting firm, helping to lead change in education and workforce development. Tracey is now an international speaker and leadership professional. Her presentations challenge audiences to embrace change and find the opportunities in life's difficult situations. She lives in the mountains of Colorado with her family, their two dogs, and a cat who thinks he’s also a dog.

Product Details

  • Publisher: She Writes Press (August 14, 2018)
  • Length: 320 pages
  • ISBN13: 9781631524127

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Raves and Reviews

2019 IBPA Ben Franklin Awards Finalist in Travel

“A courageous story of travel, family, and realizing what's important in life.”
—Vicki Lesage, best-selling author of Confessions of a Paris Party Girl

“Reading this story will make you want to discard the literal and figurative clutter in your life in exchange for a more simple and meaningful existence. I haven’t felt this inspired and challenged since reading Walden.”
—Alison Lebovitz, Host of The A List

“This enlightening memoir is part Eat, Pray, Love and part National Lampoon's Vacation. Funny, fast-paced, and adventurous while also deep and thought-provoking, this book will be a great read for all parents trying to keep up in the modern family rat race.”
—Travis Long, filmmaker and screenwriter

Excess Baggage is both funny and enlightening as it tells the story of a woman's brave journey to recalculate her life and set a new direction for her family. We can all learn from her courage and commitment to creating an extraordinary life.”
—Karen Jacobsen, International Entertainer and Author of Recalculate

Excess Baggage draws the reader into a family’s fascinating nomadic life. This powerful memoir will entertain and transform everyone who reads it.”
—Kathryn Grohusky, CoachGro Leadership Services

“A touching and honest account of a shero’s journey. Women and their families will be empowered and inspired by this memorable story.”
—Linda Štucbartová, Atairu Authentic Leadership

“I laughed. I cried. Through it all, I could relate to this captivating memoir. The stories shared from the travel experience underpin the real journey of self-discovery and the search for a new normal.”
—Ronna-Renee Jackson, Founder of Launchpoint Leadership

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