The Own Your Genius podcast is the perfect mix of business, law, and mindset to help black entrepreneurs succeed in business and life. Join Attorney LaConya Murray each month as she and her guest share their entrepreneurial journey, tricks of the trade, and their secrets to getting out of their own way to succeed. Inspired by her grandmother, the community bootlegger Attorney Murray‘s passion for helping entrepreneurs started early. Today she helps entrepreneurs throughout the country protec ...
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
153. My Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Experience
17:31
17:31
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:31
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 leader…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
152. What the End of Non-Compete Agreements Could Mean for Small Businesses and Startups
14:04
14:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:04
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 issue…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
151. 3 Tips to Avoid Copyright Infringement
10:07
10:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:07
We always say that while trademarks protect your brand's identity, copyrights protect your brand's voice. Learn how to avoid stealing someone else's voice in this episode of the Own Your Genius podcast 151: 3 Tips to Avoid Copyright Infringement In this episode, Attorney LaConya Murray discusses: The importance of understanding what copyrights prot…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
150. Does your Work Ethic Match your Dreams?
6:51
6:51
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
6:51
Celebrating Dawn Staley's recent championship win with the University of South Carolina has Attorney LaConya Murray reflecting on the importance of matching our dreams with our work ethic. Are we holding ourselves back from dreaming bigger because of preconceived notions of what's possible?On this week's episode of Own Your Genius, we're diving int…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
149. Planning for Retirement with Financial Advisor Kenneth Laneaux
34:37
34:37
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:37
When should you start planning for retirement? Whetheryou're just starting to save or looking to optimize your retirement strategy, this insightful podcast with Attorney LaConya Murray will guide you towards financial success. Discover the importance of early retirement planning andstrategies for everyone, even for late bloomers. Learn about the be…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
148. Which Should I Trademark, My Business Logo or Name?
8:05
8:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
8:05
How do you decide between trademarking a logo or a business name? Attorney LaConya Murray tackles this proverbial question in this episode of the Own Your Genius podcast. Today’s episode discusses: · The limitation on federal trademark registrationprotection · The importance of protecting all aspects of your brand · Practical tips for prioritizing …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
147. Did Pepsi really lose their trademark to an influencer?
10:42
10:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:42
In this episode of the Own Your Genius podcast, Attorney LaConya Murray delves into a juicy legal tea surrounding an influencer, Cierra Mistt, and the rebranding of Sierra Mist to Starry by Pepsi. Remember, registering yourtrademark is just the beginning. Stay tuned for more legal nuggets and savvy business tips in future episodes. Don't forget to …
…
continue reading
In this episode of the Own Your Genius podcast, Attorney LaConya Murray delves into the crucial aspects of email marketing compliance, emphasizing the significance of obtaining consent, providing clear opt-in mechanisms, and respecting privacy laws. She highlights the potential consequences of non-compliance, including legal penalties and damage to…
…
continue reading
In this episode of the Own Your Genius podcast, Attorney LaConya Murray discusses the passing of bill SB129 in Alabama, which prohibits certain public entities from maintaining diversity, equity, and inclusion offices and from sponsoring diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. She reminds listeners of the importance of local elections and challe…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
144. Legal Essentials for Growing Businesses
12:49
12:49
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:49
In this episode of Own Your Genius podcast, Attorney Murray dives into the different phases of business while discussing the legal essentials for growing businesses. From the discovery phase to scaling, we cover the legal considerations every entrepreneur should be aware of. Join us as we empower entrepreneurs to use their education and experience…
…
continue reading
Attorney LaConya Murray drops some knowledge about why you need to trademark your brand ASAP. She warns about the risks of dragging your feet on filing a trademark, like getting into trouble with other businesses that use similar names or logos. She breaks down the difference between LLCs and branding and why they both matter for entrepreneurs. Mur…
…
continue reading
Attorney LaConya Murray invites you to the Own Your Genius Podcast, where you can unlock your brilliance as an entrepreneur. Listen to episode 142 and discover how starting a business after40 can be a great move, and how to conquer obstacles to own your genius. Don't miss an episode. Subscribe today. Today’s episode discusses: · The Advantages of S…
…
continue reading
Welcome to Own Your Genius, where we uncover the trademark journey of Slutty Vegan, a brand that started small and soared to success. Join Attorney Murray as she explores, the visionary behind this wildly popular vegan restaurant, Pinky Cole’s strategic trademarking journey. If you're an entrepreneur ready to own your genius, this episode is a game…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
140. Strategies for Building a Strong Brand
20:04
20:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
20:04
In this episode of the Own Your Genius podcast, Attorney Murray unveils strategies for building a resilient brand identity. Discover the importance of conducting a comprehensive trademark clearance search and the pitfalls of waiting until your business is profitable to register. Explore the power of consistent branding and its impact on brand recog…
…
continue reading
In this episode Attorney Murray delves into the challenges of keeping promises to oneself and offers practical insights to overcome them. She discusses the difficulties of showing up when motivation is low, handling the fear of disappointing others, and the importance of visualizing the end goal. We want you to win! Tune in to learn how flexibility…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
138. Changes Being Made to How We Classify Employees
15:48
15:48
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:48
Attorney Murray dives into the recent shifts in employee classification, sparked by Off The Mark's move to hire itsfirst full-time employee. This episode unpacks the contrast between the relaxed approach under the previous administration and the nuanced considerations introduced by the Biden administration. Murray outlines the six key factors now u…
…
continue reading
In this episode, Attorney Murray discusses the history of copyright laws and how they relate to Disney. She highlights the cautionary tale of Katt Williams receiving a cease-and-desist letter for using the stage name 'Katt in the Hat'. Attorney Murray then delves into the history of copyright laws and explains how Disney successfully lobbied to ext…
…
continue reading
Welcome back to the Own Your Genius podcast! In this episode, Attorney Murray dives into a candid discussion about the transition from 2023 to 2024. She reflects on her unconventional approach to the new year, sharing insights into the power of revisiting old plans and adapting them to align with personal and professional growth. Tune in for a thou…
…
continue reading
Ready to elevate your startup game? Dive into this power-packed podcast where Attorney Murray unveils the keys to conquering the startup world through strategic contract management. Join us as Murray delves into the vital role contracts play in the startup ecosystem, offering invaluable insights on how to navigate the complex web of legalities effe…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
134. Avoiding Legal Woes in Grinch-Themed Photos
13:51
13:51
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:51
Welcome to the Own Genius Podcast, where we dive into the intricacies of building businesses, growing brands, and owning your genius. In this episode, Attorney Murray breaks down the legal side of Grinch-themed photo shoots. She explains that using the Grinch name or character in photo shoot promotions is a violation of Dr. Seuss Enterprises' trade…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
133. How Does Your LLC Affect Your Trademark?
13:58
13:58
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:58
Welcome to the Own Genius Podcast, where we dive into the intricacies of building businesses, growing brands, and owning your genius. In this episode, host LaConya Murray takes us on a journey sparked by a Facebook post, exploring the intersection of LLCs and trademarks. Tune in as Attorney Murray sheds light on how an LLC can impact your trademark…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
132. Does the Corporate Transparency Act Apply to Your Business?
11:46
11:46
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:46
In this insightful episode of Own Your Genius, your host, Attorney LaConya Murray, delves into the game-changing Corporate Transparency Act 2024, exploring its implications for businesses across the nation. As of January 1, 2024, corporations, LLCs, and various business entities must comply with new federal regulations requiring the disclosure of o…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
109. Murray's Law: How Tik Tok and Instagram Marketing Can Get You Sued
25:19
25:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
25:19
It’s business, nothing personal (and that might be the problem). Tiktok trends and instagram reels are becoming the new ‘norm’ amongst social media, gathering the attention of many business owners and business coaches. They are tools that can help expand business outreach. When using these tools to grow your business, it’s important to make sure yo…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
131. 5 Tips for Crafting an Unforgettable Brand Name
17:17
17:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:17
Ever wondered what makes a brand name truly unforgettable? Join Attorney Murray as she unlocks the secrets to a great brand name. From the power of alliteration to the art of thematic exploration, she guides you through crafting a memorable identity that stands out in the competitive business arena. Say goodbye to descriptive and hello to a brand n…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
130. How Your Mindset Shapes Your Business Success
8:22
8:22
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
8:22
Discover the hidden key to business success in our latest podcast episode: "How Your Mindset Shapes Your Business Success." As a seasoned business owner, Attorney Murray's learned that it takes more than just financial planning and innovative strategies to thrive. In this episode, she dives into the often overlooked power of mindset and how it infl…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
129. 5 Actionable Steps to Transition from Employee to Entrepreneur with Confidence
14:35
14:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:35
Learn the actionable steps to confidently transition from an employee to a successful entrepreneur. Today’s podcast reveals five crucial strategies to help you navigate the journey. Attorney Murray discusses not only the what but the how in this eye-opening episode. Gain confidence and set yourself up for entrepreneurial success with these essentia…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
128. Contracts and Collaboration: Ensuring Successful Partnerships
7:44
7:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
7:44
Uncover five essential considerations before entering a partnership, including shared vision, complementary skills, trust, defined roles, and risk assessment. Discover how these factors contribute to successful collaborations. Additionally, delve into four crucial contract clauses that can enhance partnership success, covering purpose and scope, co…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
127. Twitter Threatens to Sue Meta over Threads platform
12:49
12:49
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
12:49
Description Uncover the hidden world of trade secrets and the thrilling journey of leaving a job to start a business in the same industry. Imagine having access to confidential information that gives a business a competitive edge—formulas, processes, customer lists, and marketing strategies. These trade secrets are the lifeblood of success. But wha…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
126. Exploring the Opportunities that Come with Operating Your Business Online
14:07
14:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:07
In this captivating finale of our three-part series on safeguarding your brand online, Attorney Murray shifts our focus to the exciting opportunities that await entrepreneurs in the digital landscape. With her relatable storytelling and genuine passion, she reveals the untapped potential of running an online business. Drawing from her own journey a…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
125. How to Protect Your Intellectual Property When Operating Your Business in the Digital World
15:11
15:11
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:11
In the digital world, we always have the challenges: digital piracy, counterfeit products, domain disputes, and copyright infringement. In the other corner we have the solutions ready to ward off the digital evildoers to ensure your business is safe as operates in the digital world. Last week we discussed 4 challenges today we will explore 4 soluti…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
124. Protecting Your Online Presence: The Challenges of Operating Your Business in the Digital World
9:16
9:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
9:16
Welcome to episode 124 of the Own Your Genius podcast! Today, we're diving into the harsh realities of intellectual property protection in the digital age. From digital piracy and counterfeit products to domain name disputes and content theft, we're tackling the challenges that business owners face. Join us as we share strategies to safeguard your …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
123. T.I. and Tiny's OMG Lawsuit Explained
14:01
14:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:01
Welcome to episode 123 of the Own Your Genius podcast! In this Legal Tea segment, we delve into the court battle between T.I. and Tiny, centered around a lawsuit involving The OMG Girlz, a girl group managed by Tiny. We explore the claims of misappropriation of name, likeness, trade dress infringement, and unfair competition. Join us as we break do…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
122. How to Maintain your Limited Liability Status
11:32
11:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:32
Welcome to the latest episode of the Own Your Genius podcast! In this insightful installment, we dive into the crucial topic of maintaining limited liability for your business. Join us as we explore the concept of piercing the veil and discuss the essential steps you need to take to safeguard your personal assets and maintain your business's limite…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
121. The Pros and Cons of Operating as a Limited Liability Company
13:08
13:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:08
In this episode of the Own your Genius podcast, we delve into the world of Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) and explore why they are a popular choice for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Join us as we uncover the benefits and consequences of forming an LLC and empower you to make informed decisions about your business's structure. Attorne…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
120. The Pros and Cons of Operating as a Corporation
19:23
19:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
19:23
Welcome back to part three (3) of our four-part series. Over the last couple of weeks, we began exploring the different ways businesses operate. So far, we have discussed sole proprietorship and partnership. Today we will discuss corporations, the first formal business formation. Listen and learn as Attorney Murray begins part three of our four-par…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
119. The Pros and Cons of Operating as a Partnership
10:18
10:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:18
Unlock the secrets of successful business formations in our engaging four-part series. In part two, discover the different types of partnerships, their pros and cons, and why partnerships might be the right choice for your venture. From sharing expenses and responsibilities to navigating decision-making with a partner, we explore it all. Don't miss…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
118. The Pros and Cons of Operating as a Sole Proprietor
11:57
11:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:57
It’s a series! What better way to kick off the month of May than by tackling one of the top five questions we get on a regular basis? Which business entity should you choose for your business? The best entity is relative to your needs so it will vary not only from person to person but sometimes from stage to stage of your business. Listen and learn…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
117. Your Contract Can't Save You From Independent Contractor Misclassification
14:53
14:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:53
Welcome to episode 117 of the Own Your Genius podcast. Hiring help in your business is a huge milestone for many entrepreneurs. Many business owners step their toe into the hiring pool by starting with virtual assistants under the assumption that they are independent contractors rather than employees. But what happens when the assumption is wrong? …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
116 Ghosted. The Truth about Phantom Trademarks
8:12
8:12
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
8:12
Welcome to episode 116 of the Own Your Genius podcast. There are many reasons a trademark application may be rejected. While some are easier to avoid, others not so much. Receiving a phantom trademark rejection for an application can be frustrating. Listen and learn as Attorney Murray discusses the phenomenon known as phantom trademarks. Today’s ep…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
115. The Necessity of Defining Success for Yourself
17:10
17:10
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:10
Recently there has been a lot of talk about being overwhelmed, burned out, and uninspired. In this week's podcast, Attorney Murray explores how defining success by your own terms can help decrease these feelings. You'll learn how a candid conversation with her daughter inspired her to ditch the scheduled topic to encourage entrepreneurs to stop usi…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
114. Influencers, Your Contract Needs These 5 Clauses
10:18
10:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:18
Companies large and small have used influencers to promote their products and services for years. However, sometimes it takes the law a minute to catch up with the trends. In episode 114 of the Own Your Genius podcast Attorney Murray discusses how a court ruling can change who is liable for intellectual property infringement and what this change me…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
113. Murray's Law: How to Protect Your Trademark Before you Launch
45:05
45:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
45:05
Although trademark has become a buzzword in the small business community, many entrepreneurs still don't know what, when, and why, which creates uncertainty, fear, and anxiety for some. Do I need a trademark? Is it safe to introduce the brand if I don't have a trademark? What if someone steals my stuff? Listen to this week's Murray's Law as Attorne…
…
continue reading
Just because you paid for it doesn't make it yours. In episode 111, we introduced the idea of copyright ownership. In today's episode, we will discuss how business owners can retain the rights to the work they commissioned. Listen as Attorney Murray explains the difference between commercial rights, transfer of rights, and licensing, as well as the…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
111. When Work for Hire is Not Work for Hire
17:17
17:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:17
Oh, oh, back again . Welcome to season 5 of the Own Your Genius podcast. If you are working with third parties to create what could be copyrighted materials, you need to understand who owns the rights to the created work. Most business owners wrongly believe they can slap a work-for-hire clause in the contract to gain ownership,…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
110. How to Create a Solid Financial Plan for Your Business with Juneil Bettis
44:27
44:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
44:27
Make Money Money, Make Money Money Today's guest speaker is Juneil Bettis. She is the financial accountant of Bettis Financial, a financial services company headquartered in Huntsville, AL. She provides clients with the tools and resources they need to maintain their personal and business finances. Listen as she and Attorney LaConya Murray discuss …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
108. 3 Things to Consider When Transitioning From Employee to Employer
14:20
14:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
14:20
Do it right.When transitioning from working a 9-5 to becoming an entrepreneur, it’s important to take into consideration the “proper protocol” to follow. You don’t have to scream the news from the top of a building (though you can if you want), but there are conversations that may need to be had depending on the language of the contracts signed wit…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
107. Why Does My Single Member LLC Need an Operating Agreement
9:49
9:49
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
9:49
Don’t sell yourself short. Many business owners question whether or not they should advance their business structure because of their size. “Why do I need an LLC if my business isn’t big yet? How do I protect my business, a trademark, or something else? Do I really need an operating agreement if it’s just me?” Just because you are operating solo do…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
106. What Mariah Carey's Failed Trademark Application Teaches Us About the Opposition Process
23:31
23:31
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:31
We may disagree about when is too soon to start blasting Christmas music there is no denying that when the time comes, Mariah Carey is on top of the playlist. After almost 30 years on the charts, the pop diva earns 2.5 million dollars from her hit, All I Want For Christmas. It's no wonder she's been dubbed the Queen of Christmas. During today's epi…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
105. Protect Your Personal Assets by Properly Executing Your Business Contracts
19:06
19:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
19:06
A contract is more than a piece of paper. Business contracts can protect your business and personal assets but must be executed properly to be effective. Contracts voice the terms and clauses of an agreement between two or more parties and can be the defining line of who owns what and what business rights are in motion. Short summary: contracts are…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
104. 5 Considerations When Choosing Your Next Attorney
15:11
15:11
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
15:11
Take your time. Just like in dating, it’s important to take your time when properly vetting an attorney to hire to help with your business matters. It’s your business so BE PICKY!!! What’s your communication preference? How much experience do you expect the attorney to have? When do you expect to be contacted? These questions barely scrape the surf…
…
continue reading