Dr. Smith almost didn't stick with it during the long journey to become a doctor, but he credits God and His grace for helping him see it through. He also credits his father, also a family physician, for providing the strong example that inspired his budding love of medicine and the opportunity to take a hands-on approach to changing the world in which his children will grow.

Practicing medicine, Dr. Smith said, makes for interesting days at work. There are always new challenges, and a condition you've seen a thousand times can look completely different from one person to the next. That's why he believes in healthy communication with his patients.

"Let's talk things through," Dr. Smith said. "Tell me what you need me to hear, and if for some reason we can't reach an answer right away, let's keep working on it together until we can get you where you need to be."

He loves being a dad, and he is in awe of his wife for her incredible ability to juggle being a full-time physician with making their house a home.

As a family, the Smiths love outdoor activities like camping and hiking.