From Travel OT to Global Impact: Kaylee Earll's Journey with Mercy Ships

From Travel OT to Global Impact: Kaylee Earll's Journey with Mercy Ships

Author: TravCon: The Travelers Conference July 13, 2026 Duration: 18:10

What happens when your career takes you far beyond the hospital walls?

In this episode, we sit down with travel occupational therapist Kaylee Earll to talk about her journey from working across the U.S. to serving aboard Mercy Ships, where she helped provide life-changing care to patients in underserved communities.

Kaylee shares how she first discovered Mercy Ships, what it's really like living and working on a hospital ship, and how her experiences have reshaped both her career and her perspective on healthcare. From unforgettable patient stories to practical advice for anyone considering medical missions, this conversation offers an inspiring look at how healthcare professionals can use their skills to make a global impact.

Whether you're a travel healthcare professional, someone interested in humanitarian work, or simply looking for a story that reminds you why you chose healthcare in the first place, this episode is for you.

About Our Guest

Kaylee Earll, OT, is an occupational therapist with a passion for bringing healing to underserved communities around the world. She earned both her Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies and her Master of Occupational Therapy from Colorado State University. For the past nine years, she's worked as a traveling occupational therapist, building diverse clinical experience while pursuing opportunities to serve.

Kaylee has volunteered multiple times with Mercy Ships, serving aboard both the Africa Mercy and the Global Mercy in the Rehabilitation Department. Outside of healthcare, she enjoys photography, hiking, and exploring new places with friends.


Ever wondered what it's really like to take your nursing or allied health skills on the road? Travel Nursing & Allied Life pulls back the curtain on the healthcare travel industry, offering a genuine look at the opportunities and realities of this unique career path. Created by the team behind TravCon: The Travelers Conference, this podcast serves as a year-round companion for professionals considering or already living the travel life. You'll hear straightforward conversations that cut through the noise, providing practical advice on navigating contracts, understanding industry trends, and building a sustainable mobile career. It’s more than just tips and updates; it’s about connection and guidance from those who understand the journey. Each episode aims to equip healthcare travelers from all specialties with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions and thrive, both professionally and personally. Tune in for a direct line to the collective wisdom of the traveling community, ensuring you never feel alone on the road. This is the resource many wish they had when they started, delivered in an accessible, conversational format that feels like talking with a trusted colleague.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Travel Nursing & Allied Life
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