Episode 82: Building and Managing Biotech Startup Boards that Drive Success

What’s the difference between a Scientific Advisory Board and a Board of Directors—and why does it matter for your startup’s success?
In this episode, hosts Elaine Hamm, PhD, and James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, break down the critical roles that Scientific Advisory Boards (SABs) and Boards of Directors (BODs) play in the biotech startup world. With candid insights, real-world stories, and practical advice, this episode gives you a front-row seat to the boardroom—and why who you put there can make or break your company.
In this episode, you’ll discover:

• The strategic differences between SABs and BODs—and how to know when to build each one.
• How to identify the right board members, what to avoid, and when to grow your board.
• Common pitfalls (like yes-men and micromanagers) and how to build a board culture rooted in trust, transparency, and mission alignment.

Whether you're forming your first board or thinking about your next funding round, tune in to learn how to build boards that work for your company, not against it.
Links:
Connect with Elaine Hamm, PhD, and James Zanewicz, JD, LLM, RTTP, and learn about Tulane Medicine Business Development and the School of Medicine.
Check out Osage University Partners and connect with Kirsten Leute, MBA.
Listen to our previous episode with Kirsten Leute on The Equalize Program.
Check out BIO on the BAYOU and make plans to attend October 28 & 29, 2025.
Learn more about BIO from the BAYOU - the podcast.
Bio from the Bayou is a podcast that explores biotech innovation, business development, and healthcare outcomes in New Orleans & The Gulf South, connecting biotech companies, investors, and key opinion leaders to advance medicine, technology, and startup opportunities in the region.