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In this episode of The DESPAC Podcast Go Public Series, host Chaz Churchwell and SPAC attorney Michael Blankenship of Winston & Strawn break down the seventh step of the Go Public Framework: I – Institutionalizing Discipline.
Institutional discipline is the foundation of long-term public-company success. It includes regulatory compliance, governance structure, transparent reporting, investor communication rhythm, and continuous risk oversight.
Listeners will learn:
• Why discipline becomes the priority after the DESPAC transaction closes
• What SOX compliance means and why it exists
• Why internal audit controls and certified financial statements matter
• How reporting cadence builds investor confidence
• Why ongoing guidance from legal advisors remains essential
• How insurance and D&O audits ensure leadership protection
• How crypto-involved companies must maintain disciplined treasury oversight
• Why the public markets reward companies that embed discipline into culture and operations
This episode prepares leaders for the governance and reporting expectations of public-company life.
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.
In this episode of The DESPAC Podcast Go Public Series, host Chaz Churchwell and SPAC attorney Michael Blankenship of Winston & Strawn walk through the sixth step of the Go Public Framework: L – List and Launch.
Listing day is the milestone many founders anticipate. But far from being just a celebration, it is a coordinated, highly visible event that sets the tone for how the market views your company.
Listeners will learn:
• What happens when the DESPAC deal closes and the stock begins trading
• How to coordinate market communications and internal messaging
• Why the first earnings report is one of the most important early milestones
• How to demonstrate alignment with earlier projections
• Why public-company execution starts immediately
• How crypto-involved companies must account for and disclose digital assets
• Why insurance activation and risk readiness matter at launch
• How transparency builds early investor trust
This episode prepares leaders for the operational and communication demands of debuting as a public company.
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.
In this episode of The DESPAC Podcast Go Public Series, host Chaz Churchwell and SPAC attorney Michael Blankenship of Winston & Strawn break down the fifth step of the Go Public Framework: B – Building Market Trust.
Building market trust is one of the most important requirements for a successful DESPAC transaction. It is not enough to structure a strong deal. The market must believe in the company, the leadership, and the plan.
Listeners will learn:
• How executive teams prepare for analyst, investor, and media scrutiny
• Why clear and aligned messaging determines investor confidence
• The communication mistakes that drive redemption rates
• Why investors prioritize transparency, discipline, and execution
• How hype undermines trust and weakens public-market positioning
• Why crypto-involved companies must articulate risk, custody structure, and long-term strategy
• How disciplined communication builds credibility with institutional investors
This episode gives leaders the communication strategy required to maintain trust through the DESPAC process and into life as a public company.
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.
In this episode of The DESPAC Podcast Go Public Series, host Chaz Churchwell and SPAC attorney Michael Blankenship of Winston & Strawn break down the fourth step of the Go Public Framework: U – Undergoing Diligence.
Diligence is the phase where every detail of your business is examined. This review includes legal compliance, financial accuracy, internal controls, risk disclosures, governance readiness, operational viability, and insurance structure. Your company must demonstrate clarity, accuracy, and transparency to satisfy SPAC partners, PIPE investors, auditors, and the SEC.
Listeners will learn:
• How diligence tests the entire foundation of the DESPAC
• What auditors, investors, and regulators focus on
• Why transparent disclosures and accurate projections determine trust
• How the S-4 filing becomes the public-facing roadmap of your business
• Why D&O insurance, tail coverage, and risk frameworks must be finalized pre-close
• What crypto-related companies must document to satisfy regulators
• How proactive preparation speeds up the SEC review process
• Why diligence is essential for a smooth transition toward going public
This episode gives leaders a clear understanding of what to expect and how to prepare for one of the most demanding parts of the DESPAC journey.
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.
In this episode of The DESPAC Podcast Go Public Series, host Chaz Churchwell and SPAC attorney Michael Blankenship of Winston & Strawn unpack the third step of the Go Public Framework: P – Positioning the Deal.
Positioning determines how the market will perceive your company, your credibility, your economic structure, and your partnership fit. This step defines the trajectory of the entire DESPAC transaction.
Listeners will learn:
• Why positioning extends far beyond raising capital
• How to choose the right SPAC sponsor based on track record and sector expertise
• How deal economics shape investor outcomes
• Why realistic, disciplined projections matter to institutional buyers
• How to structure the narrative to establish trust rather than hype
• Why crypto treasury companies need enhanced disclosure on risk and custody
• How transparency can mitigate regulatory and investor concerns
This episode provides clarity for leaders preparing to shape their deal story and structure for a successful transition to the public markets.
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.
In this episode of The DESPAC Podcast Go Public Series, host Chaz Churchwell and SPAC attorney Michael Blankenship of Winston & Strawn dive into the second step of the Go Public Framework: O – Organizing Advisors.
This conversation explains why selecting the right advisory team is one of the most important decisions a private company will make when pursuing a DESPAC transaction. From legal counsel to audit to risk management, every advisor influences deal speed, valuation, compliance, and the company’s long-term stability as a public entity.
Listeners will learn:
• Why advisors serve as the structural guardrails of a DESPAC deal
• How to engage securities counsel, audit, and investor relations early
• Why SPAC-specific legal expertise is essential
• How D&O, cyber, and crime insurance must be structured before any S-4 filing
• Why missing private D&O coverage creates serious litigation risk
• How to vet advisors based on experience and past deal quality
• What digital-asset companies must do to build compliant infrastructure
• How crypto-competent legal and compliance advisors avoid regulatory issues
This episode gives private-company leaders a clear roadmap for building the right advisory team before entering the public markets.
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.
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 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 kickoff episode of The DESPAC Podcast, host Chaz Churchwell welcomes Michael Blankenship of Winston & Strawn to unveil the Go Public Framework, a complete end-to-end system for private companies evaluating a DESPAC transaction.
The conversation covers every stage of the public-ready journey, from internal preparation and assembling your advisory bench to positioning your valuation, navigating diligence, building market trust, and preparing for life as a public company.
Listeners will learn:
• What private companies must do before entering SPAC discussions
• Why advisory structure determines deal speed and outcomes
• How to craft a compelling deal narrative
• What diligence teams look for and where companies get stuck
• How to communicate effectively with analysts and investors
• What happens at listing and launch
• Why governance, reporting, and operational discipline drive long-term success
• How public companies adapt as markets shift
This episode offers actionable, practical guidance for CEOs, CFOs, founders, and investors evaluating whether a DESPAC is the right path.
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.
Most podcasts talk about SPAC deals.
This one talks about what happens after.
In the debut episode of The DESPAC Podcast, host Chaz Churchwell sits in the guest seat as Executive Producer Josh Wilson leads a conversation on why this show was created and who it is built for.
Chaz explains how working closely with SPAC teams and public companies exposed a hard truth. Many private companies enter SPAC transactions without understanding the operational, governance, and legal realities of being public. The result is predictable. Litigation. Regulatory pressure. Stock collapse. Leadership burnout.
This episode covers:
This show exists to protect leaders, boards, and companies from preventable failure.
If you are considering a SPAC or preparing for life as a public company, this podcast is for you.
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.
The DESPAC Podcast gives private company leaders the guidance, structure, and truth they need to approach SPAC and DESPAC transactions with confidence. Hosted by Chaz Churchwell, the show focuses on the real work required to become a disciplined public company. Each episode cuts through confusion and delivers practical insight from operators, CFOs, auditors, attorneys, bankers, SPAC sponsors, PIPE investors, and advisors who understand the process end to end.
Chaz started this show out of frustration. He has seen too many companies rush into the public markets without the systems, controls, and governance needed to survive. His commitment is simple. Help leaders avoid preventable mistakes and build the internal discipline required to thrive after the deal closes. As he says, he is tired of seeing companies go public only to be crushed in the courts because they were not prepared.
The vision of the show is to be the leading catalyst for disciplined private companies exploring DESPAC deals built for long-term public success. The mission is to arm leadership teams with the knowledge and resources needed to navigate SPAC transactions wisely and win on the public stage.
Each conversation gives you a clear view of what public readiness demands. You learn how to evaluate if your company is a real fit for a SPAC, how to prepare financial controls that withstand scrutiny, and how to build a governance structure that protects your company. You hear how auditors assess your internal processes. You understand what regulators expect. You learn how PIPE investors make decisions. You get direct guidance on investor communication, forecasting discipline, board readiness, and the standards that define public-company performance.
The show serves founders, CEOs, CFOs, COOs, controllers, general counsels, private equity partners, and advisors who want to understand the process without spin. Whether you are preparing a portfolio company for a public exit or exploring a SPAC for the first time, this podcast gives you the insight needed to lead wisely.
What makes The DESPAC Podcast different is its focus on preparation over hype. You hear the truth from experts who have lived through successful transitions and from those who have witnessed failures up close. You learn what to do, why it matters, and how to protect your company from the operational, financial, and legal risks that catch most teams off guard.
If you are considering a SPAC or DESPAC path, this podcast helps you build a clear public-readiness roadmap. If you are already in the process, it helps you strengthen your systems and avoid missteps. And if you have already gone public, it gives you the tools to stabilize, communicate, and operate with more discipline.
The DESPAC Podcast is built for leaders who want clarity, accountability, and a serious understanding of what it takes to succeed as a public company. It is a resource you can trust as you prepare for one of the most demanding transitions in business. Chaz Churchwell built this platform to help you win.
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.
From the publisher's feed
The DESPAC Podcast gives private company leaders the guidance, structure, and truth they need to approach SPAC and DESPAC transactions with confidence. Hosted by Chaz Churchwell, the owner of…
Chaz started this show out of frustration. He has seen too many companies rush into the public markets without the systems, controls, and governance needed to survive. His commitment is simple. Help leaders avoid preventable mistakes and build the internal discipline required to thrive after the deal closes. As he says, he is tired of seeing companies go public only to be crushed in the courts because they were not prepared.
The vision of the show is to be the leading catalyst for disciplined private companies exploring DESPAC deals built for long-term public success. The mission is to arm leadership teams with the knowledge and resources needed to navigate SPAC transactions wisely and win on the public stage.
Each conversation gives you a clear view of what public readiness demands. You learn how to evaluate if your company is a real fit for a SPAC, how to prepare financial controls that withstand scrutiny, and how to build a governance structure that protects your company. You hear how auditors assess your internal processes. You understand what regulators expect. You learn how PIPE investors make decisions. You get direct guidance on investor communication, forecasting discipline, board readiness, and the standards that define public-company performance.
The show serves founders, CEOs, CFOs, COOs, controllers, general counsels, private equity partners, and advisors who want to understand the process without spin. Whether you are preparing a portfolio company for a public exit or exploring a SPAC for the first time, this podcast gives you the insight needed to lead wisely.
What makes The DESPAC Podcast different is its focus on preparation over hype. You hear the truth from experts who have lived through successful transitions and from those who have witnessed failures up close. You learn what to do, why it matters, and how to protect your company from the operational, financial, and legal risks that catch most teams off guard.
If you are considering a SPAC or DESPAC path, this podcast helps you build a clear public-readiness roadmap. If you are already in the process, it helps you strengthen your systems and avoid missteps. And if you have already gone public, it gives you the tools to stabilize, communicate, and operate with more discipline.
The DESPAC Podcast is built for leaders who want clarity, accountability, and a serious understanding of what it takes to succeed as a public company. It is a resource you can trust as you prepare for one of the most demanding transitions in business. Chaz Churchwell built this platform to help you win.