Own Your Genius with LaConya Murray

In this episode of the Own Your Genius podcast, Attorney LaConya Murray dives into the importance of having multiple trademark registrations for your business. Attorney Murray draws inspiration from Sweet Chaos popcorn’s packaging to explain why one registered trademark might not be enough to fully safeguard your brand. She discusses how trademarks like taglines and logos can strengthen brand recognition and why registering each element separately is often a smart strategy.   Here are three important takeaways: 1. Multiple trademarks create a stronger brand fortress, protecting each unique identifier. 2. Registering combined brand elements limits flexibility and protection. 3. You don’t need to be a large company to protect more than one brand identifier.   Tune in to Own Your Genius Podcast Episode 91: Your One Registered Trademark Isn’t Enough. Want to join the conversation? Head over to the MARKEDlegal community to chime in!

In this episode of the Own Your Genius podcast, Attorney LaConya Murray dives into what to do if your trademark application faces opposition. From understanding the intricacies of the trademark opposition process to navigating the steps to protect your brand, this episode covers it all. We explore why oppositions occur and how to respond proactively. Join us to learn what you need to know to safeguard your trademark. Here are three important takeaways: The trademark opposition process is governed by the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB) and involves multiple stages. Reasons for opposition can include confusion with existing trademarks, dilution, or deceptiveness. To defend your application, you must immediately docket deadlines, hire a TTAB-experienced attorney, and file a timely answer. Tune in to Own Your Genius Podcast Episode 160: "3 Things You Should Do if Your Trademark Application is Opposed." Want to join the conversation? Head over to the MARKEDlegal community to chime in!

In this episode of the Own Your Genius podcast, Attorney Murray dives into the critical importance of rest for business owners. Many entrepreneurs tie their self-worth to the success of their business, but understanding that you and your business are not the same can help shift this mindset. Attorney Murray discusses how giving yourself permission to rest can be the key to long-term success, especially during challenging times like 2024.   Here are three important takeaways: Rest is essential for sustainable business growth and personal well-being. Your business’s success does not determine your personal value. Mental and physical health should be prioritized, especially during slow seasons. Tune in to Own Your Genius Podcast Episode 159: Overcoming 2024 Hurdles. Want to join the conversation? Head over to the MARKEDlegal community to chime in.

In this episode of the Own Your Genius podcast, Attorney Murray dives into the seven common trademark registration mistakes that can cost entrepreneurs time and money. She highlights the importance of thorough trademark clearance searches and choosing the right trademark class, emphasizing how these choices can impact your brand's protection and success. Here are three important takeaways: Conducting a comprehensive trademark clearance search can prevent legal disputes and application delays. Selecting the appropriate trademark class is crucial for effective protection and compliance. Monitoring the status of your application and enforcing your rights are essential for maintaining your trademark's strength. Tune in to Own Your Genius Podcast Episode 158: 7 Common Trademark Registration Mistakes. Want to join the conversation? Head over to the MARKEDlegal community to chime in.

In this episode of the Own Your Genius podcast, Attorney Murray dives into key insights from attending the White House's Southeast Regional Business Briefing. She discusses the latest updates on the SBA’s funding initiatives, technical assistance programs, and strategic partnerships that aim to support small businesses. As an entrepreneur, understanding these policies is crucial to accessing the resources needed to scale your business. Here are three important takeaways: SBA's streamlined process for smaller loans is boosting minority business lending. Technical assistance and education programs are key for sustainable growth. Strategic partnerships are expanding access to capital in underserved communities. The Biden-Harris administration’s intentional funding distribution for small business owners ensures that resources are equitably accessible, particularly in minority communities. Tune in to Own Your Genius Podcast Episode 157: Recap of The White House Southeast Regional Business Briefing. Want to join the conversation? Head over to the MARKEDlegal community to chime in.

In this episode of the Own Your Genius podcast, Attorney Murray dives into why adding “LLC” to your business name might not be the best choice for your branding. We'll break down how to distinguish between your business's legal identity and its public-facing image. Discover the key differences between your legal business name and your brand name. Here are three important takeaways: Your legal business name (with the LLC) is for contracts and government purposes. Your brand name is for marketing and customer recognition, so feel free to leave the LLC off your promotional materials. It’s okay for your business and brand name to be different—as long as you maintain consistency in your marketing. Tune in to Own Your Genius Podcast Episode 156: When to Use LLC In Your Business Name. Want to join the conversation? Head over to the MARKEDlegal community to chime in.

In this episode of the Own Your Genius podcast, Attorney LaConya Murray dives into the risks of building your brand on viral trends and why a long-term strategy is essential for lasting success. Learn why trademarking a catchy phrase isn't always the key to securing your brand's future.   Tune in to discover how to protect your brand’s identity, navigate the complexities of trademarking, and avoid the pitfalls of short-term trends.   Today’s episode discusses: The limitations of trademarking viral phrases Why building a brand on trends can backfire Strategies for sustainable brand growth Want to join the conversation? Head over to the MARKEDlegal community to chime in.

Are you using music in your business the right way? You might be surprised to learn that you are unintentionally committing copyright infringement. Learn the essential steps to protect your business and avoid costly mistakes. Today’s episode discusses: The importance of securing permission to use copyrighted music in your business. Understanding public performance and its implications for businesses. The different types of licenses needed for using music in various commercial settings. Tune in to Own Your Genius Podcast Episode 154: The Key To Using Popular Music In Your Business. Want to join the conversation? Head over to the MARKEDlegal community to chime in.

Feeling like you're leaving money on the table? Before joining the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, Attorney LaConya Murray did too. In just 9 weeks, she learned to evaluate her business, hire the right team, and forecast growth with confidence—no more guesswork. Here are her key takeaways: Leadership & Hiring: She discovered her leadership style, which helped her identify and hire two great team members. Revenue Growth: She realized she was leaving money on the table and, as a result, increased their revenue by 20%. Supportive Community: She found a network of over 10,000 Goldman Sachs alumni who motivate and support her. Tune in to Own Your Genius Podcast Episode 153: My Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Experience to learn more. Head over to the MARKEDlegal community to chime in. #trademarkattorney #brandattorney #businessattorney #lawyersofinstagram #intellectualproperty #copyrightattorney #copyrightprotection #10KSB

Ever felt like your career prospects were restricted by a piece of paper you signed when joining a new job? Explore the intricacies of non-compete agreements and their effects on both employers and employees alongside our host, Attorney LaConya Murray. Learn about the recent developments in non-compete agreements, including the nationwide ban issued by the Federal Trade Commission. Uncover the potential impact of this ban on millions of workers and the legal challenges it may face in this episode of the Own Your Genius podcast 152: What the End of Non-Compete Agreements Could Mean for Small Businesses and Startups In this episode, Attorney LaConya Murray discusses: Discover how non-compete agreements protect trade secrets, prevent competition, and retain talent. Gain insights into alternative strategies for protecting business interests due to changing regulations. Understand the potential effects of the non-compete agreement ban on startups and small businesses. Let's start a conversation as we navigate the non-compete agreements and empower entrepreneurs to make informed decisions about protecting their business interests in this episode of how to Own Your Genius. Want to join the conversation? Head over to the MARKEDlegal community to chime in.