Michael Gorton

Michael Gorton is a serial entrepreneur, author, and pioneer in the telemedicine and internet industries. He earned degrees in physics, engineering, and law while working full time before embarking on a career that has influenced multiple sectors. Prior to founding Teladoc, Gorton established Internet Global, a company that delivered the first DSL network and one of the first VOIP networks, contributing to the evolution of internet-based communication. Earlier in his career, he worked as a project engineer at Dallas Power & Light, focusing on power plants, distribution, transformer management, and integrating renewable energy into the grid.

The concept for Teladoc was developed with co-founder Dr. George Byron Brooks during a climb of Mt. Kilimanjaro. Gorton served as the founding CEO of Teladoc, which launched the first large-scale telemedicine system in the United States and played a significant role in the growth of the telehealth industry. He developed a healthcare model that provided members with access to telephonic physicians who could review medical records, treat patients, and prescribe medication, supporting advancements in healthcare delivery. Teladoc faced legal challenges in 17 states, but these efforts contributed to the broader acceptance of telemedicine. Under Gorton's leadership, Teladoc was recognized by MIT as one of the Top 50 Smartest Companies in the World.

In addition to Teladoc, Gorton has founded and led companies such as Internet Global, Principal Solar, Recuro Health, Palo Duro Records, Back To Space, and other technology ventures. As founding CEO of Principal Solar, he led the company to become a leader in the solar energy sector, delivering nearly 400 megawatts of sustainable electricity, enough to power approximately 70,000 American homes. He also served as chief strategy officer at Phantom Space, a launch vehicle company.

Gorton is an EY Entrepreneur of the Year, a Texas Business Hall of Fame director, and a World Economic Forum Tech Pioneer. He is also an author whose work spans business, history, and science fiction. His business book, "Broken Handoff," draws on three decades of entrepreneurial experience and has been recognized as a top resource in mergers and acquisitions. He co-authored "Digital Medical Home: How the Telemedicine Revolution Ignited the Creation of Precision Health" with Jay Sanders, MD. His science fiction series includes "Tachyon Tunnel 2," which continues the story of the Tranquility team as they encounter the Daklin Empire.

Gorton is a frequent speaker on innovation and entrepreneurial disruption, delivering keynote presentations on simplifying complex topics, fostering practical innovation, and inspiring audiences. Drawing from his experience in founding companies across diverse industries, Gorton offers insights grounded in scientific, legal, and entrepreneurial expertise.