The DESPAC Podcast

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 is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this content constitutes legal, investment, tax, or financial advice, nor a recommendation to pursue or avoid any transaction. Consult qualified legal, financial, and tax professionals before acting on any information discussed. 

News Theme 1 by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

THE DESPAC PODCAST  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 One Iron Network LLC, 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.

One Iron Network LLC 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 is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this content constitutes legal, investment, tax, or financial advice, nor a recommendation to pursue or avoid any transaction. Consult qualified legal, financial, and tax professionals before acting on any information discussed. 

News Theme 1 by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

THE DESPAC PODCAST  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 One Iron Network LLC, 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.

One Iron Network LLC 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 is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this content constitutes legal, investment, tax, or financial advice, nor a recommendation to pursue or avoid any transaction. Consult qualified legal, financial, and tax professionals before acting on any information discussed. 

News Theme 1 by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

THE DESPAC PODCAST  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 One Iron Network LLC, 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.

One Iron Network LLC 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 is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this content constitutes legal, investment, tax, or financial advice, nor a recommendation to pursue or avoid any transaction. Consult qualified legal, financial, and tax professionals before acting on any information discussed. 

News Theme 1 by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

THE DESPAC PODCAST  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 One Iron Network LLC, 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.

One Iron Network LLC 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 is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this content constitutes legal, investment, tax, or financial advice, nor a recommendation to pursue or avoid any transaction. Consult qualified legal, financial, and tax professionals before acting on any information discussed. 

News Theme 1 by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

THE DESPAC PODCAST  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 One Iron Network LLC, 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.

One Iron Network LLC and the DESPAC Podcast disclaim all liability arising from the use of or reliance on the information presented.

In this episode, host Chaz Churchwell is joined by Seth Farbman, CEO of VStock Transfer, for a deep, practical discussion on the role transfer agents play in DESPAC transactions and ongoing public-company operations.

Seth shares insight from decades in capital markets, explaining how transfer agents serve both issuers and shareholders, why communication failures create real financial risk, and how early preparation changes outcomes. From shareholder education and cap table management to visibility, trust, and long-term credibility, this episode highlights issues most private companies overlook.

Topics include:

• The real responsibilities of transfer agents
• Why communication protects valuation and trust
• How operational gaps surface after DESPACs
• When companies should engage transfer agents
• The importance of education and visibility in public markets

This is a practical conversation for leaders who want fewer surprises and stronger execution as they enter the public markets.

The DESPAC Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this content constitutes legal, investment, tax, or financial advice, nor a recommendation to pursue or avoid any transaction. Consult qualified legal, financial, and tax professionals before acting on any information discussed. 

News Theme 1 by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

THE DESPAC PODCAST  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 One Iron Network LLC, 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.

One Iron Network LLC and the DESPAC Podcast disclaim all liability arising from the use of or reliance on the information presented.

In this episode, host Chaz Churchwell is joined by Elliot Goldstein of Federal Filings, a veteran EDGAR agent and capital markets operator, for a detailed conversation on the realities of SEC filings during DESPAC transactions.

Elliot explains how filings are prepared, why formatting and XBRL tagging create risk, and where private companies consistently fall short when transitioning to public-company standards. From version control breakdowns to unrealistic timelines and surprise costs, this episode highlights the operational blind spots that derail deals and frustrate regulators.

Topics include:

• The true role of EDGAR agents and filing firms
• Why timing and accuracy drive deal outcomes
• How poor coordination leads to SEC scrutiny
• The hidden costs private companies don’t plan for
• Where AI helps and where it cannot replace human review
• Why experienced partners matter before the deal closes

This is a practical, experience-driven conversation for leaders who want fewer surprises and stronger execution as they prepare for the public markets.

If you are evaluating a DESPAC or preparing for life as a public company, this episode delivers clarity you can use immediately.

The DESPAC Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this content constitutes legal, investment, tax, or financial advice, nor a recommendation to pursue or avoid any transaction. Consult qualified legal, financial, and tax professionals before acting on any information discussed. 

News Theme 1 by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

THE DESPAC PODCAST  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 One Iron Network LLC, 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.

One Iron Network LLC and the DESPAC Podcast disclaim all liability arising from the use of or reliance on the information presented.

In this episode, we are joined by Long Long, a veteran SPAC sponsor and capital markets operator, for a deep discussion on what truly drives successful DESPAC transactions.

Long shares his journey from corporate finance to leading SPACs and explains why many deals fail long before they ever reach the market. From lack of internal coordination and unrealistic expectations to poor governance and weak readiness, this episode breaks down the issues most private companies underestimate.

Key topics include:

• Why SPACs are not just deals but public companies in motion
• The importance of internal ownership, cadence, and coordination
• What SPAC teams look for in strong targets
• How promote structures, warrants, and rights affect long-term value
• Why public readiness failures lead to shareholder lawsuits
• The mindset founders must adopt before going public

This is a practical, experience-driven conversation for leaders who want to approach the public markets with discipline and clarity.

If you are evaluating a DESPAC or preparing for life as a public company, this episode is essential listening.

The DESPAC Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this content constitutes legal, investment, tax, or financial advice, nor a recommendation to pursue or avoid any transaction. Consult qualified legal, financial, and tax professionals before acting on any information discussed. 

News Theme 1 by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

THE DESPAC PODCAST  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 One Iron Network LLC, 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.

One Iron Network LLC and the DESPAC Podcast disclaim all liability arising from the use of or reliance on the information presented.

In this episode, host Chaz Churchwell is joined by securities attorney Morris Zarif, founder of Zarif Law Group, for a deep conversation on legal readiness, governance discipline, and the hidden risks private companies face when pursuing a DESPAC transaction.

Morris brings more than a decade of capital markets experience and breaks down what he consistently sees go wrong for targets that wait too long to prepare. From corporate governance cleanup and IP ownership to board structure, diligence gaps, and cost surprises, this episode gives leaders a clear look at what actually matters before and after going public.

Key topics include:

• Litigation patterns emerging from DESPAC transactions
• Why governance gaps derail deals and increase risk
• How early legal preparation protects valuation
• The importance of experienced advisors and consultants
• Hidden costs beyond legal fees, including audit and D&O exposure
• What founders must change in mindset to operate as a public company

This is a practical, experience driven conversation designed to help private companies approach the public markets with discipline, clarity, and confidence.

If you are considering a DESPAC or preparing for life as a public company, this episode is essential listening.

The DESPAC Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this content constitutes legal, investment, tax, or financial advice, nor a recommendation to pursue or avoid any transaction. Consult qualified legal, financial, and tax professionals before acting on any information discussed. 

News Theme 1 by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

THE DESPAC PODCAST  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 One Iron Network LLC, 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.

One Iron Network LLC and the DESPAC Podcast disclaim all liability arising from the use of or reliance on the information presented.

In this final episode of The DESPAC Podcast Go Public Series, host Chaz Churchwell and SPAC attorney Michael Blankenship of Winston & Strawn walk through the last step of the Go Public Framework: C – Continuing to Evolve.

Public companies operate in a dynamic environment where regulations shift, risks change, and shareholder expectations intensify. Long-term viability depends on continuous adaptation, disciplined execution, and proactive risk management.

Listeners will learn:

• Why public-company responsibilities continue long after the DESPAC closes

• Why annual risk and insurance reviews are essential for executives

• How litigation trends affect newly public companies

• Why scalable operations and M&A readiness matter

• How to use public currency for strategic growth

• What crypto-involved companies must do to remain compliant as regulations shift

• Why evolving SEC policy requires proactive transparency

• Why long-term success is built on adaptability, not just completion of a transaction

This final episode provides the mindset, structure, and expectations for thriving as a public company in a constantly shifting environment.

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 is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this content constitutes legal, investment, tax, or financial advice, nor a recommendation to pursue or avoid any transaction. Consult qualified legal, financial, and tax professionals before acting on any information discussed. 

News Theme 1 by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

THE DESPAC PODCAST  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 One Iron Network LLC, 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.

One Iron Network LLC and the DESPAC Podcast disclaim all liability arising from the use of or reliance on the information presented.