Dr. Jeff Otte is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with the Orthopedic Institute of Ohio, serving patients from Sidney to Tiffin. He's also my neighbor.

Fourteen years of school. Quitting never felt like an option. And he still isn't sure how he got here.

We talk about being present and calm when someone is hurt, why he trains while everyone else is asleep, and how Exodus 90 reshaped his mornings with prayer and silence. We get into the power of honest fellowship, and why your work can be your ministry, no matter what you do.

Jeff also opens up about the cost of the job: time away from his family, and the drives home from residency when he couldn't hold it together.

It's hard, and it's okay to not be okay. But if you're pursuing what you're called to do, you can be at peace.

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00:00 Introduction to Dr. Jeff Audi

02:47 The Journey to Becoming an Orthopedic Surgeon

05:57 The Importance of Physical Fitness in Medicine

08:54 Balancing Life's Responsibilities

12:00 Influential Figures in Dr. Audi's Life

15:08 Calmness in Crisis: The Role of a Surgeon

18:03 The Power of Presence in Leadership

21:06 Navigating Self-Perception and Confidence

23:17 The Impact of Spiritual Practices

25:58 Continuous Education and Personal Growth

27:32 The Importance of Fellowship and Vulnerability

29:53 Connecting Career and Ministry

32:10 Finding Purpose in Work

35:00 Reflections on Blessings and Challenges

39:43 Embracing Humanity in Professional Life