About Us

INFLUENT was born from the urgent need to address healthcare professionals’ burnout and neglect of basic needs like sleep and nutrition. Seeing this in friends and colleagues, we recognized the need for change. Our mission is to build a supportive network that helps the next generation of medical professionals thrive personally and professionally. With a community of over 50,000 experts—from med students to seasoned pros—we’re sparking vital conversations and mentorship that redefine work in medicine today. By uniting diverse voices, we seek to inspire meaningful dialogue that empowers professionals and helps them create lasting change in their careers and personal lives. Our founders bring over 25 years of combined experience working closely with physicians and medical experts in the insurance space, providing a wealth of knowledge and insight to our mission.

Our Network

Our network is more than an information source; it’s a hub for connection, inspiration, and change. Our podcast hosts, creators, and partners are professionals who are highlighting overlooked gaps in medical training—such as stress management, entrepreneurship, and wellbeing—while fostering conversations that lead to real solutions.

The Strong MD
Episode 12
White Coat Warriors
Episode 1
Episode 8
Promising Young Surgeon

Our Advisors

We understand that the challenges faced by medical students, residents, and practicing professionals are unique, which is why we consult with marketing researchers and maintain an advisory council of individuals at different career stages and specialties. This group provides invaluable guidance, ensuring we address what truly matters to the medical community.

Claire Abramoff

Claire Abramoff, MD

Dr. Claire Abramoff is an assistant program director of Emergency Medicine in Philadelphia, PA. She completed her resident and ultrasound fellowship at Emory University, after doing medical school at The Ohio State University. She has been practicing emergency medicine since completing residency 8 years ago.

Demetrio J. Aguila III, MD, MA, FACS

Demetrio J. Aguila III, MD, MA, FACS

Demetrio J. Aguila III, MD, MA, FACS is a diplomate of the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology, specializing in peripheral nerve surgery and the surgical management of acute and chronic pain, as well as general plastic, reconstructive, and microsurgery and general otolaryngology.

Derrick Burgess, MD, FAAOS

Derrick Burgess, MD, FAAOS

Dr. Derrick Burgess is a board-certified Orthopedic Surgeon and Sportsmedicine specialist, known for his expertise in orthopedics and his dedication to empowering others. As the host of the TimeOut With The SportsDr Podcast, Dr. Burgess provides insights and practical tips for success in life, sports, and medicine.

Kayla Ellis

Kayla Ellis, MD

Education: Ball State University 2018 (Bachelors of Science), Indiana University School of Medicine 2023 (Medical Degree)
Fields of practice: Anesthesiology
Kayla Ellis graduated medical school in 2023 and started residency in anesthesiology. She is currently a second year resident and plans to graduate residency in 2027.

Claudia Martinez

Claudia Martinez, MD

Dr. Claudia I. Martinez is currently a Spinal Cord Injury Fellow at UTHealth Houston. She received her medical degree from McGovern Medical School in 2020 where she was elected into the Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) Honor Society. She completed her Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) residency in 2024 at UTHealth Houston where she served as Administrative Chief.

John Scott, DO, MHA, FASA

John Scott, DO, MHA, FASA

UNT Health Science Center alumnus John Scott, Jr., D.O., MHA, FASA, of Keller, was first appointed to the Board in 2019. His term expires in May 2025. Regent Scott is the Chief Medical Officer and Chairman of the Board with Elite Care Physicians and Premier Specialty Physicians.