The SPAC Podcast: Special Purpose Acquisition Company

Joshua Wilson

🎙️ Welcome to The SPAC Podcast — your front-row seat to the dynamic world of Special Purpose Acquisition Companies. Hosted by Michael Blankenship, a leading capital markets attorney and partner at Winston & Strawn LLP, and Joshua Wilson, executive producer and capital markets advisor, The SPAC Podcast brings you candid conversations, insider insights, and sharp analysis from the people shaping the future of the SPAC market. Whether you’re a sponsor, investor, founder, attorney, banker, or just curious about the mechanics and momentum behind SPACs — this show is your go-to source for education, strategy, and real-world stories from the dealmakers behind the deals. 🚀 What You’ll Hear In each episode, we’ll unpack: The structure, lifecycle, and mechanics of SPACs — from IPO to de-SPACLegal and regulatory insights that matter to sponsors and targetsInterviews with founders, investors, and advisors who’ve navigated successful transactionsTrends and forecasts from the front lines of capital marketsLessons learned, deal strategies, and ways to leverage SPACs as a growth vehicle We’re not just watching the SPAC market — we’re talking to the people building it. 🎧 Meet Your Hosts Michael Blankenship is the Office Managing Partner of Winston & Strawn LLP (Houston) and Co-Chair of the firm’s Capital Markets practice. He has represented over 100 public companies, private equity firms, and SPACs in IPOs, M&A, de-SPACs, and securities offerings. Known for his clarity, legal acumen, and deal fluency, Michael brings unmatched insight into the regulatory, transactional, and strategic forces shaping the SPAC space. Joshua Wilson is experienced in investment banking and the founder of multiple media brands, including The Investor Relations Podcast. With over 2,000 interviews under his belt and deep experience in real estate, private capital, and investor engagement, Josh brings a fresh voice and strategic lens to every conversation — helping connect deals with the stories and people behind them. Together, they bridge law, finance, and media — guiding listeners through the world of SPACs with clarity, credibility, and curiosity. 🌎 Who This Show is For SPAC Sponsors & CEOsInstitutional and Private InvestorsInvestment Bankers & Corporate AttorneysVenture-backed Founders and StartupsPrivate Equity & Family OfficesFinance Professionals and Capital Markets Enthusiasts 🔔 Subscribe, Follow, and Join the Conversation This isn’t just a show — it’s a platform for education, connection, and business development in the SPAC ecosystem. Subscribe now on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube. New episodes drop weekly. Follow us on LinkedIn and share the show with colleagues, clients, and fellow capital markets pros. The SPAC Podcast Where sponsors meet stories, markets meet momentum, and strategy meets execution.

  1. How Are SPAC Deals Different Today?

    4H AGO

    How Are SPAC Deals Different Today?

    SPACs have gone through several evolutionary cycles, and today’s transactions look very different from those of just a few years ago. In this episode of The SPAC Podcast, Seth Farbman, Chairman of Vstock Transfer, joins Michael Blankenship and Joshua Wilson to break down the changes shaping SPAC 2.0 (or even 3.0). From deal size and sponsor dynamics to the expanded cast of participants—including auditors, custodians, and transfer agents—Seth shares insights from the front lines of modern SPAC execution. If you're trying to understand the current landscape of SPAC activity, this episode is a must-watch for founders, investors, and capital markets professionals alike. 🔗 Connect with our Guest Seth Farbman YouTube: www.youtube.com/@seth-farbman LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sethfarbman/ Company: www.vstocktransfer.com Company: www.sharemedia.co 🎙️ Connect with the Hosts Michael Blankenship  LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/mikeblankenship/ Firm: www.winston.com Joshua Wilson  LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/joshuabrucewilson/ More Episodes: www.thespacpodcast.com Explore more episodes and follow the show:  🎧 Website: www.thespacpodcast.com 📺 YouTube: www.youtube.com/@thespacpodcast 📣 LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/thespacpodcast/ #SPACs #CapitalMarkets #IPOInsights #TransferAgents #SPACPodcast #InvestorRelations #GoingPublic Disclaimers: The views, opinions, and statements expressed by the guest are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of The SPAC Podcast, its hosts, or affiliated organizations. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment, legal, tax, or accounting advice. Michael J. Blankenship is a licensed attorney and is a partner at Winston & Strawn LLP. Joshua Wilson is a licensed Florida real estate broker and holds FINRA Series 79 and Series 63 licensure. The content of this podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal, financial, or compliance advice. The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of any regulatory agency, law firm, employer, or organization. Listeners are encouraged to consult their own legal counsel, compliance professionals, or financial advisors to ensure adherence to applicable laws and regulations, including those enforced by the SEC, FINRA, and other regulatory bodies. This podcast does not constitute a solicitation, offer, or recommendation of any financial products, securities transactions, or legal services. Let’s Connect on LinkedIn: 👉 Michael J. Blankenship - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeblankenship/ 👉 ...

    1 min
  2. SPAC Updates: What Changed, What’s Working, and What to Watch in 2026

    2D AGO

    SPAC Updates: What Changed, What’s Working, and What to Watch in 2026

    Mike Blankenship kicks off a new SPAC Updates series, breaking down how the SPAC market has evolved heading into 2026. He covers SPAC 2.0 structures, sponsor economics, IPO and DESPAC trends, capital costs, PIPE dynamics, redemptions, digital assets, AI, energy, and what sponsors and targets must do to succeed in today’s environment. This episode sets the foundation for ongoing market updates designed to educate founders, investors, and dealmakers navigating the modern SPAC landscape. Disclaimers: The views, opinions, and statements expressed by the guest are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of The SPAC Podcast, its hosts, or affiliated organizations. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment, legal, tax, or accounting advice. Michael J. Blankenship is a licensed attorney and is a partner at Winston & Strawn LLP. Joshua Wilson is a licensed Florida real estate broker and holds FINRA Series 79 and Series 63 licensure. The content of this podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal, financial, or compliance advice. The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of any regulatory agency, law firm, employer, or organization. Listeners are encouraged to consult their own legal counsel, compliance professionals, or financial advisors to ensure adherence to applicable laws and regulations, including those enforced by the SEC, FINRA, and other regulatory bodies. This podcast does not constitute a solicitation, offer, or recommendation of any financial products, securities transactions, or legal services. Let’s Connect on LinkedIn: 👉 Michael J. Blankenship - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeblankenship/ 👉 ...

    40 min
  3. How to Choose the Right Legal Counsel and Underwriter for a SPAC

    6D AGO

    How to Choose the Right Legal Counsel and Underwriter for a SPAC

    Chris Cottone explains how SPAC sponsors should think about selecting legal counsel and underwriters.  He outlines why fees should never be the primary decision factor, why SPACs require highly specialized legal experience, and how the wrong choices can lead to delays, added costs, or failed transactions. Disclaimers: The views, opinions, and statements expressed by the guest are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of The SPAC Podcast, its hosts, or affiliated organizations. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment, legal, tax, or accounting advice. Michael J. Blankenship is a licensed attorney and is a partner at Winston & Strawn LLP. Joshua Wilson is a licensed Florida real estate broker and holds FINRA Series 79 and Series 63 licensure. The content of this podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal, financial, or compliance advice. The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of any regulatory agency, law firm, employer, or organization. Listeners are encouraged to consult their own legal counsel, compliance professionals, or financial advisors to ensure adherence to applicable laws and regulations, including those enforced by the SEC, FINRA, and other regulatory bodies. This podcast does not constitute a solicitation, offer, or recommendation of any financial products, securities transactions, or legal services. Let’s Connect on LinkedIn: 👉 Michael J. Blankenship - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeblankenship/ 👉 ...

    2 min
  4. How the SPAC Model Has Matured, What Still Gets Misunderstood

    JAN 29

    How the SPAC Model Has Matured, What Still Gets Misunderstood

    Andrejka Bernatova explains how the SPAC model has evolved since the boom years and why many misconceptions still persist.  She shares why SPACs should be viewed as a long-standing capital markets tool, not a short-term trend, and why the structure only works for companies that are truly ready to be public and operating in high-growth, high-interest sectors. Disclaimers: The views, opinions, and statements expressed by the guest are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of The SPAC Podcast, its hosts, or affiliated organizations. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment, legal, tax, or accounting advice. Michael J. Blankenship is a licensed attorney and is a partner at Winston & Strawn LLP. Joshua Wilson is a licensed Florida real estate broker and holds FINRA Series 79 and Series 63 licensure. The content of this podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal, financial, or compliance advice. The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of any regulatory agency, law firm, employer, or organization. Listeners are encouraged to consult their own legal counsel, compliance professionals, or financial advisors to ensure adherence to applicable laws and regulations, including those enforced by the SEC, FINRA, and other regulatory bodies. This podcast does not constitute a solicitation, offer, or recommendation of any financial products, securities transactions, or legal services. Let’s Connect on LinkedIn: 👉 Michael J. Blankenship - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeblankenship/ 👉 ...

    3 min
  5. What an Ideal SPAC Board Should Look Like

    JAN 28

    What an Ideal SPAC Board Should Look Like

    Chris Cottone explains how SPAC sponsors should think about board composition. From NASDAQ independence requirements to the importance of financial, legal, and M&A experience, he breaks down why a lean, well-balanced board is critical for governance and deal execution. Disclaimers: The views, opinions, and statements expressed by the guest are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of The SPAC Podcast, its hosts, or affiliated organizations. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment, legal, tax, or accounting advice. Michael J. Blankenship is a licensed attorney and is a partner at Winston & Strawn LLP. Joshua Wilson is a licensed Florida real estate broker and holds FINRA Series 79 and Series 63 licensure. The content of this podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal, financial, or compliance advice. The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of any regulatory agency, law firm, employer, or organization. Listeners are encouraged to consult their own legal counsel, compliance professionals, or financial advisors to ensure adherence to applicable laws and regulations, including those enforced by the SEC, FINRA, and other regulatory bodies. This podcast does not constitute a solicitation, offer, or recommendation of any financial products, securities transactions, or legal services. Let’s Connect on LinkedIn: 👉 Michael J. Blankenship - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeblankenship/ 👉 ...

    2 min
  6. The Next Phase of the SPAC Market: Fewer Deals, Better Sponsors

    JAN 27

    The Next Phase of the SPAC Market: Fewer Deals, Better Sponsors

    Chris Sorrells shares his view on where the SPAC market is headed next.  After years of excess, he explains why rationalization, more experienced sponsors, cleaner vehicles, and better capital alignment are critical for long-term health. He also outlines why greater discipline and sponsor accountability could strengthen the structure moving forward. Disclaimers: The views, opinions, and statements expressed by the guest are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of The SPAC Podcast, its hosts, or affiliated organizations. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment, legal, tax, or accounting advice. Michael J. Blankenship is a licensed attorney and is a partner at Winston & Strawn LLP. Joshua Wilson is a licensed Florida real estate broker and holds FINRA Series 79 and Series 63 licensure. The content of this podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal, financial, or compliance advice. The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of any regulatory agency, law firm, employer, or organization. Listeners are encouraged to consult their own legal counsel, compliance professionals, or financial advisors to ensure adherence to applicable laws and regulations, including those enforced by the SEC, FINRA, and other regulatory bodies. This podcast does not constitute a solicitation, offer, or recommendation of any financial products, securities transactions, or legal services. Let’s Connect on LinkedIn: 👉 Michael J. Blankenship - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeblankenship/ 👉 ...

    3 min
  7. How to Form a SPAC Entity and Where to Incorporate

    JAN 26

    How to Form a SPAC Entity and Where to Incorporate

    Chris Cottone explains how to properly form a SPAC entity and why incorporation choice matters. He breaks down the pros and cons of Delaware, Nevada, and Cayman structures, highlighting tax considerations, litigation risk, and cost differences sponsors should understand before launching a SPAC. Disclaimers: The views, opinions, and statements expressed by the guest are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of The SPAC Podcast, its hosts, or affiliated organizations. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment, legal, tax, or accounting advice. Michael J. Blankenship is a licensed attorney and is a partner at Winston & Strawn LLP. Joshua Wilson is a licensed Florida real estate broker and holds FINRA Series 79 and Series 63 licensure. The content of this podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal, financial, or compliance advice. The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of any regulatory agency, law firm, employer, or organization. Listeners are encouraged to consult their own legal counsel, compliance professionals, or financial advisors to ensure adherence to applicable laws and regulations, including those enforced by the SEC, FINRA, and other regulatory bodies. This podcast does not constitute a solicitation, offer, or recommendation of any financial products, securities transactions, or legal services. Let’s Connect on LinkedIn: 👉 Michael J. Blankenship - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeblankenship/ 👉 ...

    2 min
  8. What the Rise of Continuation Vehicles Means for Public Markets and SPACs

    JAN 23

    What the Rise of Continuation Vehicles Means for Public Markets and SPACs

    As continuation vehicles and secondaries gain momentum in private equity, Andrejka Bernatova explains what this shift means for investors, sponsors, and LPs. She shares why IPOs and SPACs should still be primary exit paths, how public markets remain open, and why SPACs offer a uniquely discreet way for sponsors to test public-market readiness. Disclaimers: The views, opinions, and statements expressed by the guest are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of The SPAC Podcast, its hosts, or affiliated organizations. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment, legal, tax, or accounting advice. Michael J. Blankenship is a licensed attorney and is a partner at Winston & Strawn LLP. Joshua Wilson is a licensed Florida real estate broker and holds FINRA Series 79 and Series 63 licensure. The content of this podcast is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal, financial, or compliance advice. The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of any regulatory agency, law firm, employer, or organization. Listeners are encouraged to consult their own legal counsel, compliance professionals, or financial advisors to ensure adherence to applicable laws and regulations, including those enforced by the SEC, FINRA, and other regulatory bodies. This podcast does not constitute a solicitation, offer, or recommendation of any financial products, securities transactions, or legal services. Let’s Connect on LinkedIn: 👉 Michael J. Blankenship - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeblankenship/ 👉 ...

    3 min
5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

🎙️ Welcome to The SPAC Podcast — your front-row seat to the dynamic world of Special Purpose Acquisition Companies. Hosted by Michael Blankenship, a leading capital markets attorney and partner at Winston & Strawn LLP, and Joshua Wilson, executive producer and capital markets advisor, The SPAC Podcast brings you candid conversations, insider insights, and sharp analysis from the people shaping the future of the SPAC market. Whether you’re a sponsor, investor, founder, attorney, banker, or just curious about the mechanics and momentum behind SPACs — this show is your go-to source for education, strategy, and real-world stories from the dealmakers behind the deals. 🚀 What You’ll Hear In each episode, we’ll unpack: The structure, lifecycle, and mechanics of SPACs — from IPO to de-SPACLegal and regulatory insights that matter to sponsors and targetsInterviews with founders, investors, and advisors who’ve navigated successful transactionsTrends and forecasts from the front lines of capital marketsLessons learned, deal strategies, and ways to leverage SPACs as a growth vehicle We’re not just watching the SPAC market — we’re talking to the people building it. 🎧 Meet Your Hosts Michael Blankenship is the Office Managing Partner of Winston & Strawn LLP (Houston) and Co-Chair of the firm’s Capital Markets practice. He has represented over 100 public companies, private equity firms, and SPACs in IPOs, M&A, de-SPACs, and securities offerings. Known for his clarity, legal acumen, and deal fluency, Michael brings unmatched insight into the regulatory, transactional, and strategic forces shaping the SPAC space. Joshua Wilson is experienced in investment banking and the founder of multiple media brands, including The Investor Relations Podcast. With over 2,000 interviews under his belt and deep experience in real estate, private capital, and investor engagement, Josh brings a fresh voice and strategic lens to every conversation — helping connect deals with the stories and people behind them. Together, they bridge law, finance, and media — guiding listeners through the world of SPACs with clarity, credibility, and curiosity. 🌎 Who This Show is For SPAC Sponsors & CEOsInstitutional and Private InvestorsInvestment Bankers & Corporate AttorneysVenture-backed Founders and StartupsPrivate Equity & Family OfficesFinance Professionals and Capital Markets Enthusiasts 🔔 Subscribe, Follow, and Join the Conversation This isn’t just a show — it’s a platform for education, connection, and business development in the SPAC ecosystem. Subscribe now on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube. New episodes drop weekly. Follow us on LinkedIn and share the show with colleagues, clients, and fellow capital markets pros. The SPAC Podcast Where sponsors meet stories, markets meet momentum, and strategy meets execution.

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