About Us
Meet Our Board of Advisors
Financial analysis & Forecasting
Amy Foeller
The CFO Service Founder, CEO
National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Treasurer of Phoenix, AZ Chapter
SCORE
Mentor
Combining her vast array of experiences in data analysis, accounting, and financial planning, Amy has set her sights on improving medical student and physician financial outcomes. Thanks to her Excel wizardry and project management skills, DDQX Learning students are provided with numerous tools and resources that make financially planning a career in medicine easier then ever.
While others spent years attaining their schooling, Amy built up her skill set on the job. Her first years after college were filled with entry-level bookkeeping positions that provided her with solid corporate experience, first in multi-state and then national commerce for a globally-recognized company. Having her fill of the corporate world, she moved on to an office manager role at a local small business, rapidly expanding her duties to include not only bookkeeping, but also payroll, HR, project management, detailed (and accurate) job costing, and high-level financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting over 12+ years.
With a goal to combine her blazing passion for anything numbers-related and a strong desire to guide other small business owners in building profitable businesses, Amy started her own fractional CFO firm. Now, as an entrepreneur herself, Amy’s ability to provide in-depth financial assessments and analyses is brought to companies across a multitude of industries, including construction, cosmetics, and education. She also regularly presents workshops focused on increasing small business owners' financial literacy and understanding of the fiscal health of their own businesses and firms.
Apart from her dedicated work life, Amy is an avid crocheter, piano player, aviation enthusiast, and volunteer. Her work with SCORE, mentoring other aspiring and established entrepreneurs, keeps her ever-learning mind sharp and also fulfills her innate desire to help others in any way she can, especially if it involves numbers.
Compass Lessons Co-Founder, President
Society of Physician Entrepreneurs Instructor, 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.
Fortius Metals Inc Fractional CFO
OASIS Financial and Executive Managment CEO / CFO
Financial & Strategic Planning
Brent Bowyer
Brent Bowyer is a seasoned financial executive whose extensive career spans over 45 years, marked by a diverse range of high-level roles including Chief Financial Officer, Corporate Treasurer, Director of Finance, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, and Controller. His expertise lies in the meticulous preparation and analysis of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and financial statements for multi-unit entities both in the USA and internationally. Brent’s proficiency extends beyond the numbers; he is adept at reporting and presenting complex financial data to various stakeholders, including staff, managers, executive teams, Board of Directors members, investors, and third parties.
A tactical and strategic financial professional, Brent has a knack for problem-solving, ranging from hands-on accounting and systems design to sophisticated financial transactions, planning, and budgeting. His collaborative approach has made him an asset in working closely with diverse teams and stakeholders. Brent’s experience is not just limited to the routine aspects of finance but also extends to more dynamic areas such as turnarounds and all facets of Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) activities. His acumen in finance is further highlighted by his experience with various financing vehicles like Angel Financing, Series A and B Financing, SAFE Financing vehicles, as well as other early-stage and traditional financing options.
As a leader, Brent is known for his proactive approach, well-developed emotional intelligence, and strong interpersonal communication skills. He is a team player at heart who nurtures a family-like culture within organizations and excels in building world-class teams. Brent believes in partnership and collaboration, whether working with supervisors, peers, subordinates, or other stakeholders.
One of Brent’s key strengths is his ability as a coach and mentor. He is deeply motivated by the personal and professional development of his staff, guiding them to grow alongside the organization and to contribute meaningfully towards achieving the organization's mission, goals, objectives, and budget. His past roles as an operations manager, human resources manager, general manager, and CEO of remote, multiple USA and internationally located businesses have endowed him with a unique perspective and skill set.
Brent’s foresight in recognizing and fostering paradigm shifts is notable. He excels at implementing actions that lay the foundation for business models capable of successful scaling. His experience and skills make him an invaluable asset to any organization, particularly those looking to navigate complex financial landscapes and achieve sustainable growth and success.
Learning Strategies
Chase DiMarco, MD, PhD, MBA
FindARotation Founder & CEO
Meded University Founder
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.
PracticeRx Founder, 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 Initiative Chief 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 Minnesota Pediatric 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.
Nonprofit & Government Affiliations
Maurice Ramirez, DO, PhD
Physician & Consultant Disabled/Retired
High Alert Institute Co-Founder, Chairperson
Dr. Ramirez is a former Senior Physician/Federal Medical Officer, Emergency Room Doctor, Disaster
Medicine Specialist and Bioterrorism/Hazmat expert. He is the recipient of the American Association of
Physician Specialists Lifetime Achievement Award in Disaster Medicine and also served as the Founding
Chairperson of the American Board of Disaster Medicine. For more than three decades, Dr. Ramirez has
brought vast clinical, field response, and professional speaking experience to the disaster response
community.
He has published numerous articles in professional and scientific journals and has been cited in over 24 textbooks. In addition, Dr. Ramirez authored The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Disaster
Preparedness (Alpha Books, 2009) and Making Sense of Disaster Medicine (Oxford Univ. Press, 2010). He
was the Technical Advisor for Spike TV’s: Surviving Disaster and 1000 Ways to Die.
Dr. Ramirez currently serves as the Chairperson for the High Alert Institute, contributing his knowledge, experience and insight to the advancement of disaster healthcare science, research, policies and procedures, as well as novel
technologies. Furthermore, he is dedicated to the advancement of green energy solutions and has an immense enthusiasm for raising koi.
New Solutions Network Founder, CSO
The CHOPRA Foundation Strategic Advisor
Strategic Partnerships
Natanya Wachtel, PHD
Women Who Create Board Chair
ViTel Health Strategic Advisor
Dr. Natanya Wachtel is a seasoned behavioral psychology scientist with a profound commitment to integrative wellness, especially in the context of mental and gut health, with a passion for all things integrative and the magic of Fungi.
With over 20 years of professional experience, she has intricately combined the principles of behavioral science with emerging digital innovations, making significant strides in B2B and D2C sectors, particularly within health and wellness, pharmaceutical and biotech, MedTech, and EdTech domains.
As the founder of New Solutions Network, Dr. Wachtel has curated a leading-edge consulting network of behavioral science marketers, clinicians and healthcare tech experts. Their mission is to champion education, marketing and novel products that fortify trust while making a positive impact on the world. She's also an early partner and investor in evrmore, an Empathy AI(™)-powered MedTech start-up, which is pioneering the integration of technology, positive psychology and empathy in therapeutic applications for GenZ betterment.
Dr. Wachtel’s passion extends beyond just business. As the Board Chair of Women Who Create, she actively mentors and provides scholarships to women of color, fostering equity and representation. Over the last two decades, she has fervently advocated for mental health awareness, addressing disparities in healthcare accessibility, education for marginalized communities, and nutrition.
Recently, Dr. Wachtel introduced “Mindful Moments,” a TV segment focusing on self-care and mindfulness practices. She also hosts the insightful health podcast, “Insights Out,” on the Outcomes Rocket Network, where she speaks with clinicians and business leaders and delves deep into customer-driven narratives within the healthcare and wellness industries.
Her background is a combination of academia, working with clinicians and patients, and launching major healthcare brands that uniquely positions her as an industry trailblazer, poised to learn and share her ideas on the transformative power of psychedelics.
The Force for Health Network Chief Medical Officer, Co-Founder
Physician Entrepreneurship
