Two IPs In A Pod

Send us a textEver found yourself chasing a toddler through bustling streets in Vietnam or battling childhood shingles during a family getaway? We share these personal adventures that serve as a lively backdrop to our enlightening conversation on the intricate world of intellectual property. Lee and Gwilym are joined by the insightful Rachel Jones and Jet Doran from Snapdragon IP, who reveal their journey from personal invention to establishing a key player in the fight against online counterfeits. With tales of unexpected innovations and the harsh realities of counterfeiting, this episode promises a unique blend of engaging narratives and critical insights.

Send us a textHow do the pressures of the IP industry intersect with men's mental health, and what strides are being made to address them? Joining Lee and Gwilym this week are Graham Mccartney and Richard Wells, who shed light on Jonathan's Voice, a charity dedicated to supporting mental health in the IP sector. They also give insight to the amazing work of IP Inclusive, who promote and improve EDI and wellbeing throughout the UK’s IP professions.Looking back over the past decade, significant progress in mental health support within the IP community is evident. But there is always more to be done.

Send us a textCIPA members have played a key role in the success of Prince William's increasingly influential Earthshot Prize, the multi-million pound annual environmental awards.This year the awards were held in Cape Town and Deputy Chief Executive Neil Lampert was among the invited VIPs. Neil talks to Lee about his chats with past CIPA-nominated winners and finalists - and hopes that CIPA members can play an even more important role in supporting Earthshot finalists.Read more about the 2024 winners and the awards ceremony on the Earthshot website.

Send us a textIn this episode of Two IPs in a Pod, Lee and Gwilym chat with Annemarie Parsons and Vicky Maynard about CIPA’s Introductory and Advanced Paralegals training courses. After discussing how the IP Paralegal profession has developed over the years they dive into the structure, benefits, and objectives of each course, explaining how they help paralegals develop key skills and deepen their understanding of the IP profession.

Send us a textTrade marking isn't just a legal formality; it's a strategic move that can help make or break a band's artistic journey. Joining Lee Davies and Gwilym's stand-in, Neil Lampert, this week are trade mark attorneys Chris McLeod and Jerry Bridge-Butler, of CITMA, who bring a blend of legal expertise and rock 'n roll enthusiasm to our discussion. From Frank Zappa's Mothers of Invention to the oft-debated legacy of The Smiths, our guests provide insight into the historical missteps and modern approaches to band names and trade marks.

Send us a textJoin us as we explore the intersection of professional achievements and cultural heritage with our special guests, Josh McLennan, a European patent attorney, and Nikkei, a technical director and diversity advocate. Discover how the Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys is embracing democracy with an upcoming presidential election, a decade since the last contested race. Our guests share their unique journeys in the fields of patent law and engineering, offering insights into the importance of diversity and inclusion within these industries.The episode takes an introspective turn as we examine Britain's complex race relations history, from past economic motivations behind policy decisions to the resurfacing of racial tensions today. We tackle the critical need for open conversations around systemic inequality and the role of allyship in creating lasting change. Through a mixture of personal anecdotes and historical reflections, we invite listeners to engage with the past and its influence on our present and future, underscoring the importance of continuous learning and connection.

Send us a textWe’re back! Kicking off season 12, Lee and Gwilym are joined by Rachel Fetches, IP/Patent Litigation Partner at HGF. Discover how the Unified Patent Court is set to transform patent litigation across Europe. This episode sheds light on the shift from a fragmented to a more centralized system, offering patentees the promise of pan-European injunctions and a streamlined process. Join them as they discuss the potential of the UPC for SMEs, international businesses, and the opportunities and hurdles presented.

Send us a textIn this episode of Two IPs in a Pod, hosts Lee and Gwilym sit down with David Kappos, former Director of the USPTO and a key figure in IP law. They dive into his fascinating career, from his work at IBM to his time in the Obama administration, exploring pivotal moments and key insights. The conversation also touches on the future of IP law in the US, the challenges ahead, and some stories about the most famous people they’ve all met along the way.

Send us a textThis week Lee and Gwilym are joined by another amazing IP Inclusive Community - IP Ability.Guests Marianne Privett (AA Thornton), Chris Clark (Vectura) and George Lucas (eip) bring both a personal and professional perspective on disability inclusion and emphasize the crucial need for a more open and accessible environment within the IP profession. From examination accommodations for neurodivergent individuals to the legislative milestones like the UK's Equality Act, the progress made is commendable, yet there is still a long way to go. 

Send us a textThis week Lee and Gwilym are joined by Lisa Jorgenson of WIPO as she shares her incredible career journey from sales, to IP litigation, to her current role at WIPO. Join the Peas as they chat with Lisa about WIPO's collaborative efforts to advance intellectual property on a global scale, the structure and functions of WIPO, and the role of the PCT in shaping patent strategies. Lisa also describes the the global initiatives led by WIPO, especially those aimed at supporting developing countries and empowering women and minorities in the IP field.