What drives a Division I All-American linebacker to become a veterinary surgeon? How does running 100 miles help build mental toughness for medicine? Join host Dr. Gershon Alaluf and guest Dr. Jake Rostas — new DVM, ultramarathoner, and surgical hopeful — as they dive into identity, resilience, and mentorship in the transition from student to professional. From the OR to the trail, this episode is a blueprint for how to thrive under pressure and stay true to your goals.

What you’ll discover:

• The mindset shift from athlete to veterinarian
• How ultramarathons build resilience for the clinic
• Why early-career mentorship matters more than ever
• Daily strategies for time management, discipline, and perspective

Who will love this episode:

• Veterinary students & recent grads
• DVMs balancing career & wellness
• Surgical hopefuls & specialty applicants
• Former athletes in medicine
• Mentors and mentees in veterinary practice

Stay Connected:

• Like this video if you found value in this story
• Drop your questions or share your own vet school journey in the comments
• Subscribe & hit the bell icon to never miss an episode

Resources Mentioned:

• Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins
• Complications by Atul Gawande
• Georgia Jewel 100 Mile Race
• Movember Foundation

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

Follow us: @Pacific.Lens.Studios

Contact: [email protected]

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Jake Rostas

03:10 From All-American linebacker to future veterinary surgeon

08:12 Mentorship, motivation, and discovering surgery

14:00 Balancing vet school with ultramarathon training

20:47 Discipline, mental resilience, and legacy

27:04 Time management strategies and goal setting

33:00 Handling imperfection and emotional clients

39:00 Growth through adversity in both medicine and sport

45:00 Final reflections, favorite mantras, and future goals

Ep. 33

#veterinarymentorship #ultramarathonmindset #earlycareervet