Society of Physician EntrepreneursInstructor, Healthcare AI
AI in Healthcare & Education
Benny Esparra, MBA
Harnessing clinical, commercial, digital, and global antecedents from a remarkable 25 years of experience in healthcare, Benny Esparra seamlessly blends his diverse experience in health tech innovation.
Building on his academic foundation as an Executive MBA Candidate at the University of Pittsburgh, Benny has earned National Certification in Surgical Technology and a Bachelors in Biological Sciences and Healthcare Sociology from Arizona State University.
Emphasizing the synergy between theory and practice, his multifaceted journey spans through military service in the United States Air Force, surgical management in prestigious medical centers such as the Mayo Clinic, and transformative leadership in Fortune 500 companies and growing healthcare startups.
Now an entrepreneur in various businesses including a Health AI startup, Benny’s legacy of excellence and innovation is delivered to medical device and digital health companies through his consulting services at Compass Lessons LLC.
His work, research, and specialty in Artificial Intelligence in Medicine is framed by his membership of the Medical Intelligence Society, the Coalition for Health AI, and the Society of Physician Entrepreneurs as a lecturer in Health A.I. Governance.
Amidst his commitment to driving meaningful change in healthcare, Benny finds solace in his most cherished roles: a loving husband to a wondrous bride, Natalia, and attentive father to his plucky daughter, Denali.
Student Loans
Brandon Barfield
Student Loan Professor / Doctors without Quarters
Co-Founder & Director
Brandon Barfield is the Director and Co-Founder of SLP/DWOQ and is nationally known as student loan expert for graduate health professions. Since 2011, Brandon has given over 500 loan repayment presentations for schools, hospitals, and medical conferences across the country, and is regularly requested to present at some of the nation’s most prestigious institutions. He also serves as a consultant for employers looking to incorporate loan repayment into their recruitment strategies and compensation packages.
Previously, Brandon was a Financial Aid Supervisor at Kaplan University, worked in financial planning for The Henssler Financial Group, and served as an Enlisted Officer in the US Army. He earned a BBA in Finance from Kennesaw State University, as well as an MBA from Kaplan University. With his diverse background in financial aid, financial planning and student loan advisory, Brandon has a broad understanding of the intricacies surrounding student loans, loan repayment strategies, and how they should be considered when physicians make other financial decisions. On the weekends Brandon can usually be found spending time with his family, attending church, or enjoying the Georgia outdoors.
DDQX LearningFounder & CEO
MCAT DOCTORSFounder & CEO
Clinical Readiness
Brandon Deason, MD
Dr. Brandon Deason, MD, is the pioneering founder of DDQX Learning, an innovative educational platform aimed at revolutionizing medical education. His journey through the complexities of medical training inspired him to create a space where medical students can excel and grow. Dr. Deason's educational background includes a medical degree from the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix, and undergraduate degrees in Psychology and Biochemistry from Arizona State University.
With extensive experience in both clinical practice and academia, Dr. Deason has held various positions, including Senior Content Manager at Kaplan Medical and Lead Investigator of a medical research project conducted at Maricopa Medical Center. His research and professional endeavors have equipped him with unique insights into the educational needs of medical students.
Dr. Deason's vision for DDQX Learning is shaped by his philosophy that medical education should be more than rote memorization; it should foster critical thinking, technology use, and empathy. His innovative 5P Approach—Prioritize, Paraphrase, Prognose, Pick, and Post-mortem—reflects this ethos, focusing on teaching students to think like physicians.
An advocate for mentorship, Dr. Deason believes in the power of guidance and resilience-building in medical education. He envisions DDQX Learning as a hub for connecting learners with mentors and industry leaders, fostering a supportive learning community. His dedication to improving medical student outcomes is evident in his work, which extends beyond content delivery to creating optimal learning conditions.
In his personal life, Dr. Deason is an avid video gamer and enjoys bonding with his children through shared activities. His commitment to DDQX Learning and its mission is a testament to his passion for innovative medical education and his desire to impact the future of healthcare positively.
Learning Strategies
Chase DiMarco, MD, PhD, MBA
FindARotationFounder & CEO
Meded UniversityFounder
Chase DiMarco, MD, PhD-C, MBA, NREMT, stands as an influential figure in medical education, renowned for his innovative approaches and dedication to revolutionizing how healthcare professionals are trained. At DDQX Learning, he brings his extensive experience as a medical educator, podcast host, author, and entrepreneur, making significant contributions to the future of medical education.
Dr. DiMarco's academic journey is marked by a robust educational foundation, including a Masters in Educational Psychology, and an MBA in Healthcare Administration from Western Governors University. Currently an MD/PhD candidate, he epitomizes the intersection of medical knowledge and educational expertise. His commitment to medical education began with the founding of MedEd University in 2014, an initiative born out of a desire to provide accessible educational resources to medical students.
As the CEO of FindARotation, Dr. DiMarco has been pivotal in creating platforms that facilitate practical learning experiences for medical students and professionals. His role as the host of the Medical Mnemonist Podcast further illustrates his passion for enhancing learning in medicine. DiMarco's innovative methods include the integration of Genetics-Artificial Intelligence (GAI) in medical curricula, a forward-thinking approach that aligns with DDQX Learning's ethos of embracing technological advancements in education.
Dr. DiMarco's philosophy is grounded in creativity and thinking outside the box. He believes in reimagining the future of healthcare training, combining existing ideas in novel ways to enrich learning experiences. His approach to medical education is not just about knowledge dissemination; it's about igniting a passion for learning and problem-solving among students.
In his role at DDQX Learning, Dr. DiMarco champions the use of advanced technology and multimedia integration in medical education. He advocates for simulation-based learning, bringing a new level of interactivity and realism to medical training. His initiatives in technology-enhanced learning are designed to make medical education more immersive, engaging, and effective.
Dr. DiMarco's journey as an innovator in medical education is also marked by challenges, particularly in overcoming resistance to change. His perseverance and ability to demonstrate the efficacy of new teaching methods have been instrumental in advancing medical education practices. He is a strong proponent of continuous professional development, collaboration, and networking, essential components in fostering a culture of innovation in medical education.
His contributions are integral to DDQX Learning's mission of shaping the future of healthcare education, preparing the next generation of medical professionals to excel in an ever-evolving healthcare landscape.
PracticeRxFounder, Senior Management Consultant
Upper Iowa University
Adjunct Professor
Leadership Development
Clayton Hall, PhD, MBA, NP-C
Clay Hall is a distinguished management consultant known for his strategic acumen and leadership development expertise in the healthcare sector. With a foundation in clinical practice, Clay has built an illustrious career as a healthcare executive, developing and implementing strategies that propel healthcare organizations towards success. Recognized as a LinkedIn Top Leadership Development Voice, he brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective that enables him to understand diverse industry needs and deliver tailored, impactful solutions.
Clay's career is characterized by his passion for transforming organizational visions into tangible realities. His ability to navigate complex challenges and shape growth strategies has made him a valuable asset in the healthcare industry. As a seasoned consultant at PracticeRx, Clay has played a pivotal role since August 2020, offering senior advisory services in human strategy, talent development plans, leadership training programs, and aligning workforce strategies with organizational goals. Prior to this, he founded PracticeRx in June 2019, specializing in management consulting for strategy and growth in healthcare organizations.
Apart from his consulting roles, Clay has also contributed to academia as an Adjunct Professor at Upper Iowa University since September 2019. Here, he imparts his knowledge in graduate-level Leadership and Organizational Behavior, nurturing the next generation of professionals with the skills required for effective leadership.
Clay's academic credentials are as impressive as his professional achievements. He holds a Master of Business Administration with a focus on Strategy and Innovation from the Quantic School of Business and Technology. He also earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Organizational Leadership from Florida Bible University, where he had the opportunity to conduct mentorship and research under the guidance of the world-renowned leadership expert, Dr. Ken Blanchard. Additionally, Clay possesses a Master of Science in Nurse Practitioner from Olivet Nazarene University and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Upper Iowa University.
Clay Hall's journey from a clinical practitioner to a sought-after management consultant and educator showcases his multidimensional expertise and his commitment to fostering leadership within healthcare organizations. His dedication to healthcare growth strategies and leadership development is not just a profession but a passion, and he warmly welcomes connections from anyone interested in these fields. Looking forward to new collaborations and opportunities, Clay continues to be a guiding force in shaping effective leaders and successful healthcare strategies.
Stress Management
Conrad Aquino, MD
Stress Free InitiativeChief Experience Officer
Published Author"Life Should Be Simple and Easy: If You're Doing It Hard, You're Doing It Wrong."
Dr. Conrad Aquino is a multifaceted professional whose career spans the realms of healthcare, entrepreneurship, mentorship, and writing. As a dedicated doctor, he stands out in the medical community not only for his clinical expertise but also for his unique approach to patient care. Dr. Aquino believes in treating more than just the illness; he prioritizes caring for the person behind the patient. This philosophy is encapsulated in his adage, "Treating the illness is only secondary to what I do — caring for the person within the patient." In a fast-paced modern healthcare environment, his ability to see beyond the disease and connect with the individual's story makes him a rare and empathetic figure in the medical field.
Dr. Aquino's journey, however, extends beyond the boundaries of traditional medicine. His life experiences, marked by significant challenges, have led him to a stress-free way of living, which he passionately shares with others. His insights into achieving a balanced and fulfilling life are detailed in his multi-award-winning book, "Life Should Be Simple and Easy: If You're Doing It Hard, You're Doing It Wrong." Through this work, he aims to enlighten others about the radical truths of a stress-free life, challenging them to embrace the changes necessary to attain such a lifestyle.
In his role as a motivational speaker, Dr. Aquino delves into profound philosophical questions, exploring the purpose of life—a theme that has been the focus of many philosophers throughout history. He encourages people to move beyond the daily hustle and understand the deeper meaning of life, a concept he believes is understood by few but is crucial for a fulfilled existence.
One lesser-known aspect of Dr. Aquino's skill set is his talent in teaching, a trait he attributes to his mother, a doctorate in educational psychology. From her, he inherited a deep understanding of learning processes, which has given him an edge in both acquiring knowledge and imparting it to others. This ability to teach effectively is another facet of his diverse career, allowing him to share his knowledge and experiences in a way that is both engaging and enlightening.
Conrad Aquino is not just a doctor or an author; he is a life mentor who combines his medical expertise, philosophical insights, and educational skills to impact lives positively. His commitment to sharing knowledge and guiding others towards a simpler, stress-free life defines his multifaceted career and contributions to society.
University of MinnesotaPediatric Rheumatology Attending Physician & Faculty Member
Patient communication skills
Emily Hause, MD, MPH
Emily Hause, MD, MPH, is a distinguished Pediatric Rheumatology Attending and Faculty member at the University of Minnesota, with a remarkable educational and professional journey. Her academic achievements include an MPH from the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis and an MD from the University of Colorado in Aurora, Colorado. These qualifications have laid a solid foundation for her thriving career in pediatric rheumatology.
Dr. Hause's commitment to her specialty is further evidenced by her completion of her residency in Pediatrics at the Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and a fellowship in Pediatric Rheumatology at the University of Minnesota. These experiences have not only honed her clinical skills but also deepened her understanding of pediatric rheumatological conditions.
In addition to her clinical expertise, Dr. Hause holds a certification in Pediatrics from the American Board of Pediatrics, underscoring her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of medical care in her field. Her work extends beyond traditional clinical settings; she has spearheaded a virtual pediatric rheumatology teaching initiative for physicians in Somaliland, reflecting her dedication to global medical education and her innovative approach to healthcare delivery.
Dr. Hause is also known for her contributions to improving doctor-patient communication, as evidenced by her work titled "Jargon Be Gone – Patient Preference in Doctor Communication." This project highlights her focus on enhancing the clarity and effectiveness of medical communication, ensuring that patients and their families are fully informed and comfortable with their care.
Passionate about education in both medical and non-medical fields, Dr. Hause has excelled in connecting learners with successful methods that transcend mere content understanding. Her enthusiasm for educational innovation and curriculum development has been a driving force throughout her career. She is an Arthritis Foundation Grantee, recognized for her efforts to educate underserved populations, particularly through Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Dr. Hause is a versatile individual with diverse interests. She holds additional teaching certifications, has completed a marathon, and is an avid traveler. Her personal life is as fulfilling as her professional one, residing in Minnesota with her husband and three children. Dr. Emily Hause's multifaceted career and personal achievements illustrate her as a dynamic and dedicated professional, committed to excellence in both her personal and professional endeavors.
Education Consultant
Jen Hartmark-Hill, MD
University of Arizona College of Medicine PhoenixDirector, Academic Medicine Fellowship
Arizona Medical AssociationPresident, 2022-2023
Dr. Jen Hartmark-Hill is an award-winning medical educator and Mayo Clinic-trained Family Medicine Physician who completed a Faculty Development Fellowship with the University of Arizona in 2008. She has held director roles in teaching medical students and residents since that time, as well as leadership roles with national medical organizations. Dr. Hartmark-Hill has mentored medical students in leadership, advocacy and professional identity formation integrations of well-being, emotional intelligence, self-compassion and mindfulness/ meditation. She directs a “Patient-Centered Care” course at the University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix, a four-year Certificate of Distinction in Health Humanities for medical students, and teaches “Narrative Medicine & Narrative Ethics” courses for clerkship students as well as in the Bioethics and Medical Humanism Masters Degree Program.
Dr. Hartmark-Hill has peer-reviewed educational innovations published in Medical Education, Health Education Journal, AAMC MedEdPortal and a chapter in Medical School Faculty Fundamentals. She has been an invited speaker and session leader at a number of medical schools nationally and internationally, and has presented work for ACGME, AAMC, STFM, ASBH, NAPCRG and AMA Change MedEd conferences.
In addition to medical education, Dr. Hartmark-Hill is passionate about care of vulnerable patient populations and health policy advocacy. She served as the inaugural medical director for Street Medicine Phoenix, and currently continues to provide patient care and medical student mentoring as a clinical preceptor. She is the Immediate Past President of the Arizona Medical Association and has served as a member of the Arizona Delegations to the American Medical Association.
When she isn't working, she can often be found vegetable gardening, hiking with her husband and three dogs, or planning outdoor movie nights with family and friends.
