Rise

Larry Baca Director, Medicare Sales, California

Providence Health Plan

With over 25 years in sales leadership, Larry is an expert on sales, marketing & retention in the Medicare field. He has worked for both large state-wide plans as well as smaller regional plans. He takes pride in helping others reach their goals and enjoys working in an industry that assists people access health care. 

Larry is married with three daughters who have all received their bachelor’s degrees. Larry is a UCLA graduate who loves college athletics and eating. He is a self-certified grill master. 

Tomeshia Beckett, J.D., L.L.M. Chief Compliance Officer

Millennium Physicians 

Tomeshia S. Beckett, J.D., L.L.M. is an accomplished results-driven Chief Compliance Officer with extensive years of experience in Medicare compliance, fraud, privacy, and other areas. As a seasoned C-Suite Executive in Healthcare, Fintech, and Corporate Compliance, she has successfully developed and implemented comprehensive compliance programs to ensure data integrity and adherence to regulatory requirements while building a compliance-focused organization and providing guidance to influence C-suite and Board Leadership. She has successfully advised and influenced top-level executives on critical matters including but not limited to: FDA, FTC, HIPAA, CCPA, and OIG compliance, privacy issues, data integrity issues, mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, fraud, audits, risk management, investigations, anti-corruption, corporate governance, and regulatory compliance. In addition, she has been successful in obtaining investigation dismissals with the Office of Inspector General (OIG) and the Office of Civil Rights (OCR). Throughout her career, Tomeshia has implemented robust data management systems and processes to ensure the accuracy, completeness, and reliability of data within the organization. By establishing data governance practices and implementing data quality controls, she has been able to mitigate risks associated with data inaccuracies and inconsistencies. As a Chief Compliance Officer, Tomeshia has been responsible for overseeing all aspects of compliance, including regulatory reporting, risk assessments, and internal audits. She stays up to date with the evolving regulatory landscape and ensures the compliance program is aligned with the latest standards. She has been recognized for her leadership and contributions to the compliance field by receiving accolades such as the “Most Powerful & Influential Woman” award in 2024 by The National Diversity & Leadership Council, being published in the Internal Auditor Magazine where she provided insight on “Organizations offering Board Replenishment, ” and being named as the "Most Strategic Chief Compliance Officer in 2024" by CXO Magazine. She serves on the Board of Directors as the Treasurer for The Resource Group (TRG), and she sits on the Advisory Board of Babies Youth Children Empowerment, and she received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology (B.S.) from the University of Houston, her Juris Doctorate (J.D.) from the Florida Coastal School of Law, and she received her Master of Law (L.L.M.) in Organizational Ethics and Compliance from the University of St. Thomas School of Law.

Tricia Beckmann, J.D. Principal

Faegre Drinker

Tricia Beckmann helps clients throughout the health care industry navigate state and federal regulatory issues. Tricia leads the Federal Policy, Advocacy and Consulting team’s Health Plans and Providers subteam. A former CMS regulator and in-house counsel, Tricia has broad and deep experience advising and advocating for the health care and insurance industries. She regularly assesses business and regulatory aspects of Medicaid, Medicare and private insurance policy and coverage at federal and state levels. Tricia’s practice frequently helps clients develop compliance strategies to respond to emerging issues.”

Robert Bever Director of Medicare Sales

Banner Health

Shannon Decker Founder & CEO

VBC One

Dr. Shannon Decker is Founder & CEO at VBC One, a consulting firm assisting physician groups, health plans and vendors maximize the performance of their value based contracts and offerings. Dr. Decker has more than 25 years experience in health care and most recently led teams in risk, quality, data and analytics, telehealth, COVID response and delegation compliance. Of her more than 25 years of experience in healthcare--17 include working with risk adjustment, quality and Medicare. Dr. Decker has a PhD. in Interdisciplinary Studies, dual MBA degrees--in Finance and in Marketing, as well as an M.Ed. in Secondary Education and a M.Ed. in Administration and Leadership. Dr. Decker is on the faculty at Arizona State University and is also an associate professor in the social and behavioral sciences for Walden and Capella Universities where she chairs and oversees the dissertations of doctoral students. An author of two books and several peer-reviewed articles, and a prolific national public speaker, her interests include the study of human behavior and how social and behavioral theories may be brought to bear in value based care and population health management as a whole. 

Tina Dueringer Principal Advisor

Dueringer Advisors, Inc.

Tina Dueringer, BSN, RN, CCM, PCC, is the CEO and Principal Advisor at Dueringer Advisors Inc., a distinguished consulting firm dedicated to supporting health plans, vendors, and leaders in the health insurance and provider sectors. With a robust background spanning Medicare Advantage, Medicaid, Duals, ACA, and commercial markets, Tina brings extensive expertise in care management, utilization management, clinical quality, Model of Care development, Stars ratings, HEDIS measures, and accreditation standards such as NCQA and URAC. 

Tina's career is marked by strategic insights into health plan operations, including strategic planning, joint ventures, partnerships, delegated relationships, and the advancement of value-based care models. She is deeply committed to advancing Health Equity, Population Health, and integrated care initiatives across the industry. 

Previously, Tina served as Vice President of Clinical Quality and Stars at Rebellis Group, specializing in Medicare Advantage and government consulting. Her leadership journey includes pivotal roles at Cityblock, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, Medicaid Policy Division. 

Tina earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and holds a post-graduate certification in Population Care Coordination from Duke University. She is also a Board-Certified Case Manager (CCM), underscoring her dedication to enhancing healthcare delivery and outcomes through comprehensive care coordination strategies. 

Kacey Dugan Director - Policy & Regulatory Affairs

Faegre Drinker

Kacey helps clients in the healthcare industry navigate state and federal policy issues and respond to new legislative and regulatory developments. She is an experienced health policy analyst focused on the major government health programs: Medicare, Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act. She offers deep knowledge of these programs, including how they function and their underlying regulatory structures, how decisions are made and their unique roles in providing health coverage to Americans. Previously, Kacey served as a senior analyst at the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission – Congress’s advisory agency on issues affecting Medicaid dual-eligible beneficiaries. She has also held positions with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and Senator Edward J. Markey.

Samantha George Director of Client Relationships

The Baldwin Group

Samantha has over 22 years of experience in the Healthcare Industry, 14 specifically in Medicare, spanning from provider offices, Medicare agent, carrier leadership, to FMO leadership. She has served in markets from Florida to Washington. 

In her current role, she heads up Learning & Development, Medicare Compliance and Policy for The Baldwin Group Health, a national FMO. She believes that agent education is the key to empowerment in agents being strong advocates for themselves and their clients.

Jessica Gonzalez-Arias Principal, Markets Growth Lifestyle Medicine Marketing & PR

Blue California

Jason Hegstad Independent Medicare sales expert

Jason M. Hegstad is an accomplished Medicare Sales Manager with over 15 years of proven success driving double-digit growth and achieving exceptional member retention. His career is defined by a relentless pursuit of excellence in the Medicare industry, with extensive expertise in crafting high-impact sales strategies, fostering collaborative relationships, and leading high-performing sales teams.
Jason has consistently positioned organizations for long-term success. With a deep understanding of Medicare products and regulations, he has guided teams to deliver tailored solutions that elevate member experiences and strengthen brand reputation. A strategic thinker and mentor, Jason leverages market insights and data-driven strategies to inform decision-making, ensuring continued business success and compliance. His career milestones include leadership roles at Cambia Health Solutions and Centene Corporation, where he played a pivotal role in driving growth and market expansion.
Beyond his professional achievements, Jason is a devoted family man. He lives with his wife and their four children, and he finds joy in spending time outdoors, savoring a great cup of coffee, and occasionally enjoying an evening poker game with friends.

Nikki Rital Hungate Director of Medicare

PacificSource

Nikki is an accomplished professional with over 17 years of experience in the healthcare industry, specializing in Medicare and Medicaid product strategy. With extensive knowledge and expertise in the field, Nikki is a trusted leader who has consistently contributed to the growth and success of various organizations.

Nikki holds a Master's degree in Health Administration. Additionally, she has pursued a Doctorate in Executive Leadership. 

As a passionate advocate for accessible and affordable healthcare, Nikki remains dedicated to driving innovation in the Medicare and Medicaid sectors.

Karen June Kuipers CEO

Incentivize Consulting Inc.

Karen June (KJ) is a strategic leader and the driving force behind Incentivize Consulting, where she specializes in empowering organizations to achieve AI-driven transformation. With a proven track record in building high-performing delivery teams, KJ ensures her clients—ranging from innovative startups to global enterprises—are positioned for success through foundational AI practices. 

KJ’s expertise includes the healthcare industry, where she has been involved in transformative initiatives across the payer, pharmaceutical, immunotherapy, and academic sectors. In 2021 KJ led her first AI project and has expanded her experience by completing the AI for Healthcare certification through the MIT Sloan School of Management and the Strategic Healthcare Leadership Program through Johns Hopkins Carey Business School.   

Her approach in delivering technology and AI solutions combines strategic foresight, operational excellence, and a commitment to ethical practices. This focus has helped organizations streamline operations, enhance outcomes, and unlock the potential that AI can bring when addressing challenges. As an AI for Good advocate, KJ is dedicated to leveraging artificial intelligence capabilities to improve healthcare outcomes, enhance patient care, and establish trustworthy, responsible AI systems.  

Her thought leadership in AI shines through the publication series, AI and the Future of Business. The most recent installment, Artificial Intelligence in the Healthcare Industry: Care meets Code, explores the role AI can play in transforming health care. 

Beyond her consulting work, KJ is a passionate community builder and innovator. She also shares her insights on technology, business, and industry trends as the host of her new podcast, Minding One’s Own Business. Through her work, she is not only contributing to shaping the future of business and its use of AI but also plays an active role in inspiring the next generation of innovators and changemakers. 

Gary Melis Clinical Pharmacist

Network Health

Gary is a clinical pharmacist at Network Health, a local health insurance provider in Northeast and Southeast Wisconsin. He is currently one of three pharmacists involved in making MTM calls in-house. His responsibilities also involve NCQA, pharmacy appeals, P&T Committee, as well as member and provider relations.

Gary also has experience as pharmacy manager for a national long term care company, as pharmacy manager for a retail pharmacy chain, and as pharmacy director for a national health care provider. In addition, he has been a pharmacy instructor at a local medical college family practice clinic.

Tara Minissale Manager, GM Broker Affairs & Partnerships - Government Markets

Independence Blue Cross

Tara Minissale has more than 16 years of Medicare expertise. During her time at Independence Blue Cross, she has developed a working knowledge of Medicare sales, compliance, and marketing in the healthcare industry. Tara has shown success in establishing external sales partnerships with healthcare providers and other organizations across the greater Philadelphia market with an emphasis on strategic planning, driving sales success and brand reputation.

Tara is a graduate of Penn State University (Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology) land received her MBA from Rosemont College, Rosemont PA.

Maggie Mood Vice President, Sales and Marketing

Mass Advantage Medicare Advantage Plan

Margaret (“Maggie”) Mood brings over 25 years of Medicare-focused success to her role as Vice President of Sales and Marketing. She’s experienced in all aspects of Medicare product sales and market growth: launching Medicare products, expanding regional access, leading sales teams to top performance, and cultivating warm, productive relationships among our community and business partners. She was one of the key players in Mass Advantage's successful debut in 2021. Mass Advantage is a local, Massachusetts-based Medicare Advantage, which is closely associated with UMass Memorial Health, the largest Provider System in Central Massachusetts.

Prior to joining Mass Advantage, Maggie orchestrated and facilitated all Medicare marketing strategies and sales channels at Harvard Pilgrim Health Care.

In addition to leading numerous sales teams to the top performance year after year, Maggie is deeply committed to mentorship and supports fellow professionals in their own career paths.

Maggie holds an MBA in Business Administration with a focus on health care.

Hank Osowski Managing Partner

Strategic Health Group

Hank Osowski, a Founding Member and Managing Partner of Strategic Health Group, is a
nationally recognized health care executive and strategist who has provided strategic advice
and counsel to executive leadership and boards of Medicare Advantage, Medicaid and
commercial health plans for more than three decades. His clients have ranged from some of
the largest national Medicare Advantage plans, regional market leaders, major health systems
and several of the most successful start-up MA plans. He has led several strategic engagements
for the firm’s clients on the key challenges of profitable growth and market expansion for
Medicare and Medicaid Managed Care programs in diverse markets, such as California, Arizona,
Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, New Mexico, Florida, Texas, West Virginia and Hawaii.

Hank is a former MA plan CEO and a frequent speaker and resource on critical issues facing the
Medicare Advantage program, including the opportunities for strengthening a plan’s market
positioning, the challenges of supporting programs for the Dual Eligible populations, as well as
the principles for structuring profitable and effective long term care programs. His insights on
some of the challenges facing the healthcare industry have been published in “Managed Care”,
“Healthcare Marketing Report”, “Managed Care Contracting & Reimbursement Advisor”, “Payer
and Providers” and “Becker’s Hospital Review” among other publications.

Jason Vallejos Executive VP and CSO

Syndicated Insurance Agency

Jason Vallejos is the EVP & CSO for Syndicated Insurance Agency, a Limited Liability Company founded in 2003. Syndicated is a multi-line general agency offering all lines of coverage including Life, Health, Property & Casualty insurance with a strong focus on Medicare Plan sales as a National Field Marketing Organization. As Executive Vice President, Jason is head of sales, marketing and training for all sub-agencies working with Syndicated and fosters win-win relationships with professional partners including medical groups & Independent Physician Associations.

Syndicated’s approach to marketing is to work in collaboration with professional advisors such as healthcare providers, CPA’s, business, and estate planning attorneys to help develop long-term protection plans and growth for his clients. As the industry and the needs of our community change, Jason continues rigorous educational standards in Senior Health Care, Life, Long-Term Care and Business Insurance.

At a young age, Jason volunteered with various charities and organizations including the American Red Cross. In 1994 Jason assisted the victims of the Northridge Earthquake with claims filing, shelter, food, and clothing, as an American Red Cross volunteer. This is where Jason first understood the necessity of insurance and the value it brings to communities during disasters. Later, as a healthcare business analyst, Jason developed a passion for helping seniors with their healthcare needs while learning the operational and analytical support that runs a major carrier. Through this diverse career background, Jason acquired business knowledge, actuarial analysis, insurance, networking and managed care experience. Jason Vallejos was born and raised in Los Angeles, California and resides in the Ventura County area.

Jason has a passion for people and is driven by a set of core values including integrity, excellence and innovation, focusing on client satisfaction and retention, teamwork, continuous improvement, mentoring, growth and success. Jason is an accomplished and results driven top performing leader known for his industry knowledge, organizational and leadership abilities and his focus on win-win solutions for his clients and partners. 

Elizabeth Villatoro Castro Chief Growth Officer

Syndicated Insurance Agency

Elizabeth Villatoro is the Chief Growth Officer for Syndicated Insurance Agency, a Limited Liability Company founded in 2003. Syndicated is a multi-line general agency offering all lines of coverage including Life, Health, Property & Casualty insurance with a strong focus on Medicare Plan sales as a National Field Marketing Organization. Syndicated’s approach to marketing is to work in collaboration with healthcare providers, medical groups, carriers and professional advisors such as CPA’s, business, and estate planning attorneys to help develop long-term protection plans and growth for clients.

As Chief Growth Officer, Elizabeth streamlined internal processes, emphasized goal setting, business planning, agency acquisitions and scaled Syndicated’s Medicare team of agents, resulting in 282% growth rate in 2022 as publish in the July-August 2023 issue of the Harvard Business Review. Syndicated has continued to grow consistently at an annual rate of 121% year-over-year.

Dushyant Viswanathan CMO

The Columbia Center for Integrative Medicine

Matt Wallaert Chief Experience Officer | Founder | Former Chief Behavioral Officer

Oceans | BeSci.io | Clover Health

For almost 20 years, Matt Wallaert has been applying behavioral science to practical problems.  After leaving academia, his career as an executive lead from startups (Thrive, Churnless) to the Fortune 500 (Microsoft, CapGemini) and back again, before founding BeSci.io (Behavioral Science in organizations), where he and the world’s most experienced behavioral science leaders help companies grow applied behavioral science capabilities within their organizations.

These days, he is the Chief Experience Officer (CXO) at Oceans, helping to bring high-quality job opportunities to international markets so that talented people don’t have to emigrate to grow.

In his book Start At The End and other writings, as well as hundreds of talks from the UN to SXSW, Wallaert details how the cycle of behavioral strategy, insights, design, and evaluation can help us build products and services that change behavior.  From the janitor to the CEO, his approachable frameworks show how everyone can incorporate behavioral science into what they do, no PhD required.

Wallaert’s side projects consistently focus on creating greater equity in the world, like GetRaised, which has helped underpaid women ask for and earn over $3.6B in salary increases, and his research reports, like MediocreWhiteMen, blend humor and science to help work toward change.  He can usually be found wearing cowboy boots and gesturing wildly.