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 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 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 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, 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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.