This episode provides a quick market update on the SPAC ecosystem and discusses how legal trends and governance practices are shaping the next cycle of deals.

Chaz Churchwell explains why securities litigation has dropped dramatically since the peak SPAC boom and outlines steps SPAC sponsors and targets can take to protect themselves moving forward.

The episode also explores why governance, valuation discipline, and strong advisory teams are becoming critical components of successful DESPAC transactions.

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.

Investment bankers play a critical role in the SPAC and DESPAC process, yet their work often happens behind the scenes.

In this interview, host Chaz Churchwell sits down with Jesse Busch of iBankers to unpack the mechanics of taking a company public through a SPAC merger. Jesse shares insights from two decades of SPAC market experience, explaining how boutique investment banks help guide private companies through deal structuring, capital raising, exchange approvals, and ultimately the transition to becoming a publicly traded company.

The conversation covers the evolution of the SPAC market since the boom years of 2020–2021, what healthy deals look like today, how investment bankers help companies navigate redemptions and capital raises, and why investor relations and transparency are essential for long-term public market success.

Jesse also explains the differences between IPOs, direct listings, and SPAC mergers, and why not every company should pursue the public markets.

For founders, sponsors, and investors looking to understand how deals actually get done, this episode provides a practical look at the strategy, execution, and discipline required to close successful transactions.

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.

In this episode, host Chaz Churchwell speaks with Mohammad Hasham, Partner at Cohn Reznick, about the critical role CFO advisory teams play in helping private companies prepare to become public.

Mohammad specializes in capital markets advisory and works with companies navigating IPOs, SPAC mergers, and public company readiness.

The conversation explores how accounting advisory teams support CFOs throughout the public company transition by helping companies prepare financial statements, manage audit readiness, and coordinate with auditors, legal teams, and investors.

Topics discussed in this episode include:

• The role of CFO advisory services during SPAC transactions

• Why PCAOB audit preparation is critical before going public

• The operational challenges private companies face during the transition to public markets

• Differences between audit firm expectations and methodologies

• Why investor relations becomes a key responsibility for CFOs

• Infrastructure changes companies must make before becoming public

• The advantages of SPAC transactions compared to traditional IPOs

Mohammad also discusses the growing importance of executive networks and communities in helping founders and finance leaders connect with investors, advisors, and strategic partners.

For executives evaluating a SPAC merger or IPO, this episode provides practical insight into the financial and operational preparation required for a successful transition to the public markets.

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.

In this episode, host Chaz Churchwell interviews Caitlyn Van Valin, Head of U.S. Sales at Odyssey Trust Company, to discuss the role transfer agents play in helping companies transition into the public markets.

Caitlyn explains how transfer agents serve as the gatekeepers of shareholder records, issuing and tracking shares while supporting companies during corporate action events like DESPAC transactions.

The conversation explores the operational side of becoming a public company and highlights the importance of strong communication, modern technology, and experienced advisory support throughout the process.

Topics covered include:

• What transfer agents and trust companies do in the public markets

• Why the DESPAC is considered a major corporate action event

• How shareholder records are reconciled prior to closing a transaction

• When private companies should engage with transfer agents

• Key contract provisions to evaluate in transfer agent agreements

• How technology improvements are removing operational bottlenecks

• The role of transfer agents in helping companies navigate their first year as a public company

Caitlyn also shares her outlook on the SPAC market and why the next cycle of DESPAC transactions may produce stronger outcomes as more experienced sponsors and better-prepared private companies enter the public markets.

For founders, executives, and advisors exploring the path to a DESPAC, this episode provides a practical look at the infrastructure that supports companies after they go public.

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.

In this episode, host Chaz Churchwell interviews Alexandra Low, Cayman counsel at Appleby and one of the leading advisors supporting SPAC IPOs and DESPAC transactions.

Alexandra shares her perspective from working with international deal teams, U.S. law firms, and SPAC sponsors executing public listings through Cayman-structured entities.

The conversation explores:

• Why the Cayman Islands dominate SPAC incorporation
• How private companies structure cross-border DESPAC transactions
• The importance of sponsor relationships and deal visibility
• Governance considerations when forming a Cayman entity
• Charter provisions and director responsibilities in public companies
• How advisors coordinate across jurisdictions during a transaction
• The timeline from LOI to closing and the regulatory filings involved

Alexandra also discusses the role of market cycles, sector trends, and investor sentiment in determining which private companies successfully enter the public markets.

For founders, executives, and advisors exploring SPAC transactions, this episode provides an inside look at the international legal infrastructure behind DESPAC deals and the preparation required for success.

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.

In this episode of The DESPAC Podcast, host Chaz Churchwell interviews Chris Cottone, Vice President at Greentree Financial, a family office active in IPO and SPAC advisory since 1999.

Chris shares practical insight from years of experience advising companies through both IPOs and DESPAC transactions.

Topics covered include:

• What types of SPACs targets should evaluate
• How promote structure and dilution impact outcomes
• The importance of having PCAOB audits completed early
• Valuation discipline and post-close market correction risk
• Understanding redemption variability
• Capital recycling strategies: PIPEs, non-redemption agreements, follow-on financing
• Board composition and long-term sponsor alignment

Chris also discusses how integrity, long-term thinking, and preparation shape successful public transitions.

For private companies exploring a DESPAC, this episode delivers a grounded, operator-focused perspective on how to approach the process strategically and defensibly.

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.

In this episode, host Chaz Churchwell interviews Peter Goldstein, founder of Exchange Listing and sponsor of Emmis Acquisition Corp.

With over 25 years in capital markets, Peter shares a candid comparison between IPOs and DESPAC transactions. He explains why 80% of the preparation process is the same, but the engines driving each path are fundamentally different.

Topics covered include:

• Market-driven price discovery versus negotiated valuation
• Why redemption risk is real and often misunderstood
• Structural dilution and sponsor discipline
• How to avoid inflated valuations that lead to post-close collapse
• What foreign filers must understand before listing in the U.S.
• Why public readiness should begin 12–24 months in advance
• The importance of shareholder communication and long-term vision

Peter emphasizes that going public is not about how you list. It’s about how you perform after the bell rings.

For founders, executives, and boards evaluating a DESPAC or IPO, this episode offers practical insight grounded in real market cycles.

If you want to understand the capital markets beyond headlines and hype, this conversation is essential listening.

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.

In this international episode, Chaz Churchwell interviews Daniele D’Alvia, Director of the Banking and Finance Law Institute at Queen Mary University of London and founder of SPACs Consultancy.

Daniele offers a global perspective on SPACs, examining the boom and bust cycle of 2020–2022 and what it revealed about governance, sponsor incentives, valuation discipline, and investor confidence.

Key discussion points include:

• Why redemptions are a vote of confidence
• The role of governance in preventing litigation
• How sponsor promotes should align with value creation
• The structural evolution of SPAC regulation in the U.S.
• Why cultural alignment between SPAC and target is critical
• How crypto, stablecoins, and financial innovation are influencing the next phase of SPACs

Daniele explains that SPACs are not inherently flawed. They are contractual instruments that reward discipline and punish overpromising.

For private companies evaluating a DESPAC, this episode provides clarity on how to approach valuation, governance, sponsor selection, and long-term public-market readiness.

If you want to understand SPACs beyond headlines and hype, this conversation delivers both academic depth and practical insight.

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.

In this episode of The DESPAC Podcast, Chaz Churchwell interviews Jordan Darrow, founder of Darrow IR, to discuss the strategic role of Investor Relations in the DESPAC process.

Jordan shares insight from representing SPAC sponsors and operating companies across multiple market cycles. He explains why IR should be engaged early, how investor positioning influences valuation, and why small-cap public companies require disciplined communication strategies to survive volatile markets.

Topics include:

• Timing IR engagement in a DESPAC
• IR vs. PR: understanding the difference
• CEO mindset and ego in public markets
• Interest rate environments and small-cap performance
• Capital access through SPAC vs. traditional IPO
• How IR protects and enhances shareholder value

This episode delivers a practical framework for leadership teams who want to transition from private to public with clarity and discipline.

If you are evaluating a DESPAC or planning to go public, this conversation provides tactical insight you can apply immediately.

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.

Going public through a DESPAC puts companies under a spotlight most leaders underestimate.

In this episode, we sit  down with Jon Uretzky, founding partner of PULP Law Firm, one of the most recognized securities litigation firms in the microcap and small-cap markets.

Jon explains why DESPAC transactions attract disproportionate regulatory and shareholder scrutiny, how SEC actions trigger cascading class-action lawsuits, and why FINRA’s Corporate Actions department can quietly derail post-DESPAC plans. This conversation gives leaders an unfiltered look at what actually happens after the deal closes.

Key topics include:

• Why DESPACs face elevated litigation risk
• How SEC inquiries turn into shareholder lawsuits
• The danger of “obey the law” injunctions without waivers
• FINRA Corporate Actions and post-DESPAC delays
• Why cap table cleanup matters before going public
• How D&O insurance protects directors and officers
• What strong legal defense really looks like in public markets

If you are a founder, executive, or board member considering a DESPAC, this episode delivers critical insight you cannot afford to ignore.

Subscribe for more conversations on public-company discipline and DESPAC readiness.

YouTube Channel: https://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.