Guiding Startup Triumph: The Vital Role of Independent Advisors and Platforms in Achieving Success

Dr. Stephen M. Chang is a distinguished human geneticist with over 32 years of commercial experience in the life sciences, specializing in stem cells, cell and gene therapy, and drug development. He has co-founded multiple companies, including Orpheus Therapeutics, Legacy Therapeutics, Prometheus Therapeutics, and Princeton Drug Discovery, and serves on the boards of Orpheus Therapeutics and Histogen, Inc., where he is also Chairman and Acting CEO. Dr. Chang has held significant roles such as Vice President for Research & Development and Senior Vice President for Strategic Initiatives at the New York Stem Cell Foundation, and Chief Science Officer and Vice President at Canji Inc./Schering Plough Research Institute. His academic background includes a Ph.D. in Biological Chemistry from the University of California, Irvine, and a B.S. in Zoology, Microbiology, and Cell and Molecular Biology from the University of Michigan. Throughout his career, Dr. Chang has co-authored over 30 published papers, filed more than 15 Investigational New Drug Applications with the FDA, and is an inventor on over 50 patents worldwide. He is recognized as a pioneer in commercial gene therapy technologies and induced pluripotent stem cells, with recent successful drug developments including Adstilirin™ (rAd-IFN/Syn3) for bladder cancer therapy and Intravail™ diazepam for epilepsy treatment. Dr. Chang also serves as Entrepreneur in Residence at Rutgers University and New York University, providing strategic guidance on genetic technologies and their market applications.

Barry Nadell is a renowned expert in employment background screening, with decades of experience shaping industry standards and legal compliance. As the founder of InfoLink Screening Services, he built a leading background screening firm that was later acquired by Kroll, where he served as Senior Vice President of the Background Screening Division. A founding member and former co-chair of the National Association of Professional Background Screeners (NAPBS), Barry has played a key role in developing best practices for the industry. He is the author of Sleuthing 101: Background Checks and the Law and a sought-after speaker, media contributor, and expert witness in litigation involving employment screening. Currently, he leads Nadell Investigations, providing expert testimony and consulting on background screening issues. His dedication to legal compliance and consumer protection has made him an influential figure in the field.

I’m excited to share my executive biography, highlighting my journey as an entrepreneur, business strategist, and leader in the waste industry. With over 15 years of experience, my passion lies in building businesses, fostering innovation, and helping others succeed.

Jason Cerrano is a seasoned leader with a multifaceted career spanning mechanical engineering, public safety, entrepreneurship, and corporate innovation. Currently serving as the Business Line Leader at IDEX Fire and Safety, Jason drives strategic initiatives in product development, patent management, and operational excellence, solidifying IDEX’s position as an industry trailblazer. With experience ranging from manufacturing engineering to firefighting—where he earned the Silver Medal of Valor—Jason combines technical expertise with frontline decision-making skills. His passion for technology and problem-solving, coupled with his proven leadership, makes him a dynamic force in advancing safety and innovation across industries.

After a fulfilling career in financial fraud prevention and risk management, I’m excited to share my professional biography. It highlights the journey, achievements, and insights that have shaped my 30+ years in the industry.

Brad Holtz is a seasoned executive with over 40 years of experience in the engineering software industry. As President and CEO of Cyon Research, he is a trusted analyst and thought leader, offering strategic insights into CAD, CAE, PLM, BIM, and IPD technologies. Holtz’s expertise helps guide major corporations, investors, and legal entities in navigating the evolving software landscape. He is the driving force behind key industry initiatives, including the COFES conference, the DaS Symposium, and the Green Keystone Alliance, focusing on innovation and sustainability in design and manufacturing. Holtz’s leadership and foresight have made him a leading voice in shaping the future of engineering software.

Michael Bordainick's executive journey is defined by an unwavering commitment to excellence and a genuine passion for leadership. He consistently demonstrates the ability to align core business functions—ranging from marketing and sales to product development and customer service—around a unified, purpose-driven vision. His leadership style focuses on cultivating high-performance teams that are both results-oriented and motivated by a shared sense of mission. Michael's expertise in driving digital transformations and innovative marketing strategies enables organizations to meet evolving market demands while ensuring sustainable growth. His ability to navigate complex business landscapes, coupled with his focus on fostering talent and building inclusive, performance-driven cultures, has been a hallmark of his career. This steadfast dedication not only highlights his track record of delivering exceptional results but also underscores his ability to drive both personal and organizational success, making him a respected leader across industries.

Tod Petersen is a seasoned entrepreneur and business leader with over 35 years of experience driving success across the solar energy, manufacturing, and community development sectors. As the founder and CEO of Sol Power Projects Ltd., Tod has led the completion of over 450 commercial solar projects, solidifying the company's position as an industry leader. His expertise extends to strategic business development, fundraising, and sales management, where he has consistently demonstrated a knack for identifying opportunities and developing impactful solutions. Tod's leadership is characterized by his commitment to integrity, sustainability, and team-building, which has earned him a reputation for fostering strong relationships with clients, stakeholders, and employees alike.

Excited to share the impressive journey of Eric Olivas, a seasoned insurance professional and owner of Northern Nevada Insurance Agency. With over 23 years in the industry, Eric's commitment to client-centered service and comprehensive insurance solutions has made him a trusted name in Reno, NV. From auto to life insurance, Eric's expertise ensures tailored coverage for individuals and businesses alike. His strategic vision, dedication to continuous learning, and exceptional communication skills have driven his agency's success. Beyond his professional achievements, Eric is an avid musician, family man, and passionate about his diverse interests. Connect with Eric to learn more about his remarkable career and the value he brings to the insurance industry.