Shows
The DESPAC PodcastWhen Should IR Enter the DESPAC Process? The Answer Most CEOs MissIn 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 DESPACIR vs. PR: understanding the differenceCEO mindset and ego in public marketsInterest rate environments and small-cap performanceCapital access through...
2026-02-1650 min
The DESPAC PodcastWhy DESPACs Attract Litigation and How Leaders Defend ThemselvesGoing 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 fac...
2026-02-0945 min
The DESPAC PodcastWhat Transfer Agents Really Do and Why Communication Decides OutcomesIn 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 agentsWhy communication protects...
2026-02-0233 min
The DESPAC PodcastWhat Private Companies Don’t Understand About SEC FilingsIn 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 firmsWhy...
2026-01-2632 min
The DESPAC PodcastInside the Mind of a SPAC Sponsor: How Good Deals Get DoneIn 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 motionThe importance of internal ownership, cadence...
2026-01-1953 min
The DESPAC PodcastWhat Breaks First After a DESPAC: The Deal or the Company?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.
2026-01-1345 min
The DESPAC PodcastContinuing to Evolve: How Public Companies Stay Compliant, Agile, and Ready for What Comes NextIn 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 litigati...
2026-01-1202 minThe DESPAC PodcastInstitutionalizing Discipline: The Governance and Reporting Standards Every Public Company Must MasterIn 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
2026-01-1102 minThe DESPAC PodcastList and Launch: What Happens the Moment Your DESPAC Deal ClosesIn 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 intern...
2026-01-1002 minThe DESPAC PodcastBuilding Market Trust: Preparing Leaders and Messaging for Public ScrutinyIn 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 determ...
2026-01-0902 minThe DESPAC PodcastUndergoing Diligence: What Private Companies Must Prepare for in a DESPAC TransactionIn 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 t...
2026-01-0802 minThe DESPAC PodcastPositioning the Deal: Crafting the Narrative and Economics Behind a DESPAC TransactionIn 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 eco...
2026-01-0702 minThe DESPAC PodcastOrganizing Advisors: Building the Team That Makes or Breaks Your DESPAC TransactionIn 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...
2026-01-0603 minThe DESPAC PodcastGetting Ready: The Most Critical Step Before a DESPAC TransactionIn 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, contra...
2026-01-0502 minThe DESPAC PodcastThe "GO PUBLIC" Framework Overview for Private CompaniesIn 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 cra...
2025-12-2203 minThe DESPAC PodcastWhy The DESPAC Podcast Exists: Protecting Companies After the SPACMost 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.
2025-12-1829 min
The DESPAC PodcastThe DESPAC Podcast With Chaz ChurchwellThe 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. H...
2025-11-2501 min
The SPAC Podcast: Special Purpose Acquisition CompanyCustom D&O Coverage Protects SPAC and De-SPAC CompaniesIn this episode of The SPAC Podcast, Chaz, founder of Churchwell, explains why D&O insurance is highly customizable and why wording matters more than most sponsors realize.He shares real-world examples of how missing a single phrase, like “reverse merger,” has led carriers to deny SPAC-related claims. Chaz also describes how his firm works with clients post-de-SPAC, leveraging top D&O coverage attorneys to audit policies, uncover deficiencies, and fix them without raising costs.For SPAC sponsors and targets, this episode highlights how tailoring policy language can make the difference between full protection and no c...
2025-09-2901 min
The SPAC Podcast: Special Purpose Acquisition CompanyDelivering for Small-Cap Clients Overlooked by Big FirmsIn this episode of The SPAC Podcast, Chaz, founder of Churchwell, explains what sets his firm apart from the big-name insurance agencies like Lockton, Marsh, and Aon.While large agencies focus their attention on billion-dollar companies, Churchwell specializes in small- to mid-cap public companies, the very clients who often feel overlooked despite spending millions in premiums. Chaz shares how Churchwell’s attorney-led approach ensures policy wording is negotiated precisely, preventing carriers from slipping in exclusions that could deny coverage.He also highlights a powerful personal mission: Churchwell donates 10% of profits to fight veteran suicide, partnering wi...
2025-09-2301 min
The SPAC Podcast: Special Purpose Acquisition CompanyDetermining D&O Insurance Needs with Real Market DataIn this SPAC Podcast Spotlight, Chaz Churchwell, President of The Churchwell Agency, explains how he helps clients determine the right level of D&O insurance coverage. Rather than relying on vague estimates, Chaz emphasizes a data-driven approach, leveraging sources such as Stanford Law Review, Cornerstone Research, and peer analytics to assess litigation trends and coverage benchmarks.He describes how factors like market cap, industry segment, and peer data can guide companies—especially those preparing for IPOs—in making informed decisions about coverage needs. By combining analytics with real-world risk exposure, Chaz helps companies prepare for potential settlement cost...
2025-08-2102 min
The SPAC Podcast: Special Purpose Acquisition CompanyWhy D&O Insurance Prices May Be on the Rise AgainIn this episode of The SPAC Podcast, we sit down with Chaz Churchwell, Founder & Principal of Churchwell Insurance Agency, to discuss the shifting landscape of public Directors & Officers (D&O) insurance. With nearly two decades in the insurance industry and a reputation for guiding clients through complex coverage needs, Chaz shares why current D&O pricing levels may not be sustainable — and what market forces could be pushing costs upward.From the role of reinsurance companies like Trans Re, to recent exits from the public D&O market, Chaz unpacks the financial realities facing insurers. He explains ho...
2025-08-0901 min
The SPAC Podcast: Special Purpose Acquisition CompanySPAC Sponsors & D&O Coverage: What You Need to KnowAs securities litigation involving SPACs continues to rise, SPAC sponsors are increasingly finding themselves named in lawsuits. In this episode of The SPAC Podcast, Mike Blankenship and Chaz Churchwell break down what sponsors need to know about D&O (Directors & Officers) insurance in this shifting legal environment.Chaz shares recent litigation trends—including the fact that 96% of SPAC-related securities lawsuits in 2024 named the sponsor team—and emphasizes the importance of specific endorsements that extend D&O coverage to sponsors. Many teams may not realize that sponsor protection isn’t automatically included, even though adding it is often free...
2025-07-2301 min
The SPAC Podcast: Special Purpose Acquisition CompanySPAC Guest Spotlight: Chaz Churchwell🎙️ SPAC Guest Spotlight — Meet Chaz ChurchwellFrom the U.S. Army to the boardrooms of public companies, Chaz Churchwell has spent nearly two decades helping leaders manage risk with precision and integrity. A U.S. Army Reserve veteran and founder of Churchwell Insurance Agency, Chaz brings an unwavering sense of purpose to executive liability insurance — protecting what founders, officers, and directors work so hard to build.Since founding his agency in 2014, Chaz and his team have served over 1,200 clients, specializing in executive liability for public companies — including D&O, E&O, cyber, crime, IP, and mor...
2025-07-2201 min