In this episode of The DESPAC Podcast Go Public Series, host Chaz Churchwell and SPAC attorney Michael Blankenship of Winston & Strawn take a deep look at the most important part of the DESPAC process: G – Getting Ready.

The discussion explains why internal readiness determines deal speed, valuation outcomes, and investor confidence. Michael breaks down the essential components that SPAC teams will examine during diligence and why companies must discover issues themselves before the SPAC does.

You will learn:

• Why internal self-audits protect valuation and timeline

• How to prepare financials, contracts, and cap tables for diligence

• Why public-company governance begins long before the transaction

• What it means to build an independent, credible board

• How to stress-test projections and avoid unrealistic growth forecasting

• Why disciplined projections are essential in today’s SPAC markets

• What companies must know about crypto treasuries and risk management

This episode gives private company leaders clear guidance on how to properly prepare for the DESPAC path and build credibility with investors and regulators.

Connect With the Guest:

Michael Blankenship, Winston & Strawn LLP

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeblankenship

Connect With the Host & The DESPAC Podcast:

Chaz Churchwell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chazchurchwell/

YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/@thedespacpodcast

THE DESPAC PODCAST STANDARD LEGAL DISCLAIMER

The DESPAC Podcast is for informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not represent the views of Smooth Stone Capital, its affiliates, or any sponsoring organization.

Nothing in this podcast should be interpreted as legal advice, investment advice, tax advice, or a recommendation to pursue or avoid any transaction. Discussions may reference SPACs, DESPAC transactions, securities regulations, or public-company readiness frameworks. These conversations are educational in nature and should not be relied upon when making financial or strategic decisions.

Listeners should consult qualified legal, financial, and tax professionals before acting on any information discussed in this podcast. Any examples or scenarios mentioned are illustrative and may not reflect current market conditions or regulatory requirements.

Participation by a guest does not constitute an endorsement of any company, strategy, product, or service. References to specific firms or individuals are for context only.

Smooth Stone Capital and the DESPAC Podcast disclaim all liability arising from the use of or reliance on the information presented.