The Paradox of Progress

Michael Karch, M.D., is a multifaceted professional who combines his expertise as an orthopedic surgeon specializing in computer-navigated and robotic hip and knee replacement with roles as an entrepreneur, inventor, author, and international disaster responder. Dr. Karch co-invented the SmartDrill and SteriTools technologies, holding numerous patents in the medical device sector. He co-founded the California-based Mammoth Orthopedic Institute. Additionally, he serves as an Associate Professor of Orthopedic Surgery at Georgetown University School of Medicine. Dr. Karch's commitment to global health is evident in his rapid response work to international disasters. He was one of the first physicians on-site at Ground Zero following the September 11, 2001 attacks and has led Forward Surgical Teams to various disaster zones worldwide. He also co-founded Mammoth Medical Missions 501(c)(3), an organization dedicated to providing immediate medical care in disaster and conflict zones. For his leadership during these missions, Dr. Karch has received two letters of commendation from the President of the United States and international recognition from the United Nations, and the governments of Iraq, Kurdistan, Nepal, Mexico, and the Philippines. An accomplished author, Dr. Karch has written three books: "Tangible Heroes: The Force Multiplying Power of Ordinary People with Extraordinary Impact", "Artificial Intelligence for the Everyday Person: Demystifying AI." He has recently completed his third book, "The Paradox of Progress: The Roses and Thorns of Artificial Intelligence." He is currently enrolled in the Harvard Business School studying Artificial Intelligence and Business Analytics and at MIT studying machine learning in their certificate education program. Beyond his professional endeavors, Dr. Karch is an avid endurance athlete, having completed 57 marathons, 6 Iron Distance Triathlons, and numerous ultra-distance running, cross-country skiing, and mountain biking events. He is a two-time finisher of the Badwater 135-mile Ultramarathon across Death Valley, often touted as the most challenging endurance footrace race in the world. Dr. Karch resides on his family ranch in Mammoth Lakes, California, with his wife, Kim, and their three children, Mia, Dane, and Olivia.