As a travel nurse, you’re constantly on the move – whether you’re commuting to a new assignment, unwinding after a long shift, or explore a new city. Audiobooks and podcasts are the perfect companions to keep you entertained, informed, and inspired. Whether you’re looking for motivation, professional development, or just a good story to pass the time, we’ve got you covered. Here are the top five audiobooks and podcasts we think every travel nurse should add to their playlist!
Top 5 Audiobooks for Travel Nurses
1. The Shift: One Nurse, Twelves Hours, Four Patients’ Lives by Theresa Brown
A powerful and honest account of a single shift in an oncology ward. This audiobook provides deep insight into the emotional and physical demands of nursing. It’s a gripping, real-world depiction of what nurses experience daily. Download The Shift audiobook on Audible.
2. Can’t Hurt Me: Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds by David Goggins
A deeply motivational audiobook by former Navy SEAL David Goggins. This book teaches mental toughness and resilience – qualities essential for travel nurses who face constant challenges dealing with difficult patients, new coworkers, and new environments in every assignment. Download Can’t Hurt Me audiobook on Audible.
3. Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes
This inspiring audiobook encourage readers to embrace new opportunities – something travel nurses do every time they take on a new assignment! Shonda Rhimes shares personal anecdotes about steeping out of her comfort zone and saying “yes” to life. Download Year of Yes audiobook on Audible.
4. A Woman of Firsts by Edna Adan Ismail
This inspiring memoir tells the story of Edna Adan Ismail, a nurse-midwife and activist who broke barriers in healthcare and politics. Her journey from the first Somali woman to drive a car to building a hospital in Somaliland is a testament to resilience and the power of healthcare professionals to create change. Download A Woman of Firsts audiobook on Audible.
5. Daring Greatly by Brené Brown
A motivating book about courage and vulnerability, perfect for travel nurses navigating new challenges and environments. Brené Brown’s research on shame and vulnerability can help nurses build resilience and confidence in their personal and professional lives. Download Daring Greatly audiobook on Audible.
Top 5 Podcasts for Travel Nurses
1. The Truth About Travel Nursing
A deep dive into the travel nursing industry, covering contract negotiations, housing, and career growth. This podcast is a must-listen for anyone looking to maximize their experience as a travel nurse. Listen to The Truth About Travel Nursing on Spotify.
2. The Nurse Keith Show
A fantastic resource for career advice, leadership tips, and personal development tailored for nurses. Nurse Keith provides thoughtful discussions on topics such as workplace culture, job satisfaction, and professional growth. Check out The Nurse Keith Show on Apple.
3. Good Nurse Bad Nurse
A mix of true crime and nursing stories, this podcast provides an entertaining yet educational perspective on the nursing profession. The hosts share real-life stories about both inspiring and shocking cases in healthcare. Listen to Good Nurse Bad Nurse on Apple.
4. The Happy Traveler Podcast
Focused on making travel nursing more enjoyable, this podcast shares tips on maintain work-life balance while on assignment. It also includes travel hacks, destination recommendations, and advice for staying healthy on the road. Check out The Happy Traveler Podcast on Luminary!
5. Straight A Nursing
Perfect for both new and seasoned nurses, this podcast covers essential nursing topics, from clinical knowledge to mental health strategies. Whether you need a refresher on medical topics or tips for reducing stress, this podcast has something for you. Listen to Straight A Nursing on Apple.
Why Audiobooks and Podcasts are Essential for Travel Nurses
Life as a travel nurse is exciting but also comes with its own set of challenges – long shifts, new environments, and time away from family and friends. Audiobooks and podcasts provide a way to stay connected, continue learning, and find entertainment on the go. Whether you’re driving to your next assignment, relaxing after a 12-hour shift, or exploring a new city, having the right content in your earbuds can make all the difference.
