March 16, 2026
In this four part series, Pheast CEO and co founder Roy Maute discusses the scientific, strategic, and leadership decisions behind building successful biotech companies. Drawing on his experience across academia, startup formation, and major acquisitions, Maute offers a candid look at how disciplined thinking, strong teams, and focused execution drive long-term value creation in biotech.
Part 1: “Get the Info, Take the Shot”: The DIY Mindset Behind Success
Maute reflects on the early experiences that shaped his entrepreneurial mindset, from hands on problem solving to navigating high intensity academic environments. The episode underscores how intellectual curiosity, self reliance, and informed risk taking form the foundation of strong scientific and business leadership.
Episode link here
Part 2: Why Comfort Is the Enemy of Scientific Growth
This episode explores Maute’s rigorous scientific training and why he intentionally chose demanding environments to accelerate growth. He highlights how resilience, analytical rigor, and exposure to technological inflection points prepare leaders to translate science into scalable companies rather than remain purely academic.
Epsiode link here
Part 3: Trust Over Control: Building Teams Like the Best Scientists
Focusing on leadership and company formation, Maute shares lessons from founding and exiting Ab Initio Biotherapeutics and his role at Forty Seven through its acquisition by Gilead. He outlines a trust based approach to building high performing teams and managing capital efficient organizations without overengineering structure.
Epsiode link here
Part 4: Staying Focused During Biotech Funding Ups & Downs
The final episode centers on founding Pheast Therapeutics, selecting CD24 as a differentiated macrophage checkpoint target, and advancing PHST001. Maute discusses building a lean clinical-stage company, navigating shifting capital markets, and maintaining strategic focus as data generation and value inflection points approach.
Episode link here