CFO Advisory Secrets: What Private Companies Must Fix Before a DESPAC

In this episode, host Chaz Churchwell speaks with Mohammad Hasham, Partner at Cohn Reznick, about the critical role CFO advisory teams play in helping private companies prepare to become public.Mohammad specializes in capital markets advisory and works with companies navigating IPOs, SPAC mergers, and public company readiness.The conversation explores how accounting advisory teams support CFOs throughout the public company transition by helping companies prepare financial statements, manage audit readiness, and coordinate with auditors, legal teams, and investors.Topics discussed in this episode include:• The role of CFO advisory services during SPAC transactions• Why PCAOB audit preparation is critical before going public• The operational challenges private companies face during the transition to public markets• Differences between audit firm expectations and methodologies• Why investor relations becomes a key responsibility for CFOs• Infrastructure changes companies must make before becoming public• The advantages of SPAC transactions compared to traditional IPOsMohammad also discusses the growing importance of executive networks and communities in helping founders and finance leaders connect with investors, advisors, and strategic partners.For executives evaluating a SPAC merger or IPO, this episode provides practical insight into the financial and operational preparation required for a successful transition to the public markets.The DESPAC Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this content constitutes legal, investment, tax, or financial advice, nor a recommendation to pursue or avoid any transaction. Consult qualified legal, financial, and tax professionals before acting on any information discussed. News Theme 1 by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/THE DESPAC PODCAST  DISCLAIMERThe 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.