Episode 24

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Published on:

12th May 2025

FromSports Injury to Orthopedics Specialist at 24 | Karmen Rettinger | Called 2 Serve Podcast Episode 24

In this episode of the Called 2 Serve Podcast, host Reggie Hubbard talks with Karmen Rettinger, a 24-year-old orthopedic specialist who transformed her own sport injury into a thriving career in orthopedics.

After 13 years in competitive sports as a cheerleader, a knee injury in high school shifted Karmen’s path. That sport injury sparked a deep interest in healthcare, eventually leading her to work in the trauma ICU and now as an orthopedic specialist helping others heal from sports-related injuries.


Karmen now works in durable medical equipment (DME), fitting patients with braces, boots, and recovery gear after injury. She collaborates closely with athletes recovering from ACL tears, shoulder surgeries, and other common sport injuries. Her love for sports, movement, and helping others makes her journey relatable and inspiring.


In this episode, Karmen shares:


* How a sport injury led her from cheerleading to orthopedics

* What life is like as a young orthopedic specialist

* Her experience working in trauma and sports injury recovery

* The truth about DME and why it's so vital in orthopedic care

* How COVID shaped her career and personal life

* Her passion for working with athletes and staying active

* Why she doesn’t like chocolate — and what people always ask her


Why this episode matters:


Whether you're an athlete, recovering from injury, or simply interested in sports medicine, Karmen's story highlights how personal struggle can lead to meaningful service. As an orthopedic specialist, she’s helping others return to the sports and lives they love.


About Karmen Rettinger:

* Orthopedic specialist at Peachtree Orthopedics

* Master’s in Exercise Science

* Former trauma ICU professional

* Competitive cheer athlete for 13 years

* Passionate about sports, recovery, and service


About the Called 2 Serve Podcast:

Hosted by Reggie Hubbard, this show features real people who lead with service, purpose, and strength in their everyday lives.


Timestamps:

00:00 – Meet Karmen: Her background in cheer and sports

03:00 – Her sport injury and entry into orthopedics

07:45 – Trauma ICU and early healthcare experience

12:00 – Life as a DME expert and orthopedic specialist

18:30 – Working with athletes and managing injury recovery

25:00 – Pickleball, sports competition, and relationships

30:00 – Travel, family, and life lessons beyond sports

35:00 – The chocolate surprise and fun facts

38:00 – Final thoughts on purpose, injury, and service


🎧 Listen now on:

👉 Spotify: [https://open.spotify.com/show/1QI4k5GtEdp6AXBmdEj8yk](https://open.spotify.com/show/1QI4k5GtEdp6AXBmdEj8yk)

👉 Apple Podcast: [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/called-2-serve-podcast/id1785553680](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/called-2-serve-podcast/id1785553680)


Follow Called 2 Serve Podcast:

Facebook: @Called2ServePodcast

Instagram: @called2servepodcast


Subscribe for more real stories of strength, sport injury recovery, and purpose through service.


#SportsInjury #OrthopedicSpecialist #InjuryRecovery #SportsMedicine #Called2ServePodcast #DME #WomenInHealthcare #CheerInjury #SportInjury #ServiceThroughSports #HealingThroughInjury

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About the Podcast

Called 2 Serve Podcast
The Voices Behind Public Service
Called 2 Serve is the podcast where we shine a light on the inspiring stories behind public servants. Join us as we dive deep into the lives of dedicated individuals who serve their communities, uncovering their motivations, challenges, and triumphs. From first responders to community leaders, each episode reveals the heart and purpose behind their call to serve. Whether you're in the field or simply inspired by those who are, this podcast will leave you motivated to make a difference.

About your host

Profile picture for Reggie Hubbard

Reggie Hubbard

Reggie Hubbard is a seasoned public servant, entrepreneur, and change agent, originally from California. With an unwavering commitment to service, Reggie spent 14 years in the U.S. Army, followed by over a decade as a law enforcement veteran. His extensive experience on the front lines of public safety has given him unique insight into leadership, discipline, and the courage it takes to stand for others.

Throughout his career, Reggie has been called to do more than just serve — he’s been called to lead change. His journey from the military to the marketplace has been marked by a clear vision: to be a transformative force in every industry he enters. Recognized by major publications like FORBES, FOX, NBC, CBS, and US INSIDERS, Reggie is more than a serial entrepreneur. He is a visionary who helps organizations and individuals alike reach their full potential, cultivating leaders and innovators for the future. His work reflects a deep passion for developing others, ensuring they have the tools and mindset to thrive in an ever-changing world.

As the founder and host of the Called 2 Serve podcast, Reggie explores the stories and journeys of those who have committed their lives to service, leadership, and making an impact in their communities. Through this platform, he amplifies the voices of public servants and change-makers, shedding light on the critical roles they play and the challenges they face.

Reggie is driven by a personal calling to be a change agent in the marketplace — helping others not only to succeed but to transform the spaces they inhabit. His purpose is clear: to inspire others to rise, lead, and innovate in whatever sphere they find themselves.

An active member of his church community, Reggie’s values are rooted in faith, service, and a deep commitment to giving back. His spiritual foundation guides his leadership and mission to uplift others, both professionally and personally.

Reggie is also a devoted family man. He shares his life and mission with his wife, Rachel, and together, they are the proud parents of three children. His commitment to personal growth and the growth of others is as much a part of his family values as it is his professional life.