A new year brings new energy—and new possibilities. In this New Year’s Eve episode of Legit Podcast Pro, entertainment and media attorney Gordon Firemark shares the single most empowering resolution a creator can make: choosing to build like an owner, not just create like a contributor. This episode is about clarity, confidence, and building something that lasts. You’ll learn: • Why structure empowers creativity • How ownership creates confidence • The mindset shift from creator to owner • How to prepare for growth with optimism • What it means to build a real business behind your content If you’re ready to think bigger than a show and step into your role as a media business owner, this episode is for you. ---------------- Apply to join my Entre-Creator Mastermind. Inside the Entre-Creator Mastermind, you’ll get: * Strategic guidance to turn content into a scalable media enterprise * Direct feedback so you’re never building alone * Accountability that keeps momentum moving forward * Support building the ownership, contracts, and systems that empower growth Apply Now. https://entre-creator.com/apply

Join Me for a FREE online workshop: How To Protect your Podcast: Easy, affordable legal strategies without expensive lawyers! Monday, January 5, 2026, 10:00am (PST) Register Now: https://podcastlaw.net The holidays are quiet for a reason, and smart creators use that time intentionally. In this Christmas episode of Legit Podcast Pro, Gordon Firemark shares why the end of the year is the ideal moment to address the business and legal issues creators tend to postpone when things are busy. This isn’t about working harder. It’s about removing friction before the new year begins. You’ll hear: • Why unresolved issues resurface in January • What creators quietly fix during slow seasons • How clarity around ownership and relationships reduces stress • Why structure creates confidence and flexibility If you want to start the new year feeling prepared instead of behind, this episode will help you use the holidays wisely. Resources mentioned: • Podcast legal forms and templates: https://PodcastLawForms.com FREE online workshop: ***How To Protect your Podcast: Easy, affordable legal strategies without expensive lawyers!*** Register Now: https://podcastlaw.net

The creator economy is maturing—and that’s not good news for everyone. In this episode of Legit Podcast Pro, Gordon Firemark breaks down who is actually winning in the creator economy heading into 2026, and why many creators who are “doing everything right” still feel stuck, squeezed, or exposed. This episode isn’t about chasing trends or beating the algorithm. It’s about understanding the structural shift that’s already underway—and deciding whether you’re prepared for it. You’ll hear: * Why the creator economy won’t punish beginners—but will punish the unprepared * The hidden difference between creators who scale and those who stall * Why legal and business issues usually appear when things start working * The danger of waiting to “get serious” later * What creators should put in place now to grow with confidence If your podcast or content brand disappeared tomorrow, would you still have a business? This episode is for podcasters, YouTubers, and creator-driven entrepreneurs who want to build something durable, professional, and worth protecting. Resources mentioned: * Podcast legal forms and templates: https://PodcastLawForms.com

Most creators treat “collaboration” as a casual, friendly word. But legally? A collaboration is a partnership — with all the risk, responsibility, and liability that partnerships carry. In this episode, Gordon Firemark — The Podcast Lawyer™ — unpacks the biggest myths about collaborations and explains why so many creator relationships blow up when the paperwork doesn’t match the actual relationship. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why most projects creators call “collabs” are actually producer–talent relationships • A real cautionary tale of a show that collapsed because the parties used the wrong agreement • How collaborations legally function like partnerships, including: – joint and several liability – tax obligations – operational complexity – difficulty terminating cleanly • The difference between collaborations, partnerships, joint ventures, and co-productions • Why “no partnership or joint venture” clauses in collaborations create contradictions • The risk of relying on AI-generated contracts • When collaboration does make sense, and how to structure it safely Join the free Legit Podcast Pro community: https://legitpodcastpro.com Join the waitlist for the next Legal Protection Workshop for Podcasters: http://podcastlaw.net More creator resources: • Legal forms & templates: https://podcastlawforms.com • Training library: https://easylegalforpodcasters.com

Turn Your Podcast Into a Media Empire SUBTITLE: The creator-to-media-company roadmap no one else is teaching. SUMMARY: Most podcasters and YouTubers stay small because they keep making content instead of building a business around it. In this episode, Gordon Firemark, The Podcast Lawyer™, breaks down the real, practical path creators follow when they scale from “one show” to a full-blown media enterprise — including the five creator media business models, the step-by-step expansion path, and the legal/business infrastructure required to grow without losing control of your IP. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN: • Why some creators level up fast while others plateau • The 5 types of creator-driven media companies • The step-by-step roadmap from flagship show to full media business • How to build assets, IP, and revenue streams that last • Why legal and business structure is the critical (and often missing) early step • How to set yourself up to add shows, build a team, create products, and scale safely LINKS AND RESOURCES: Free sample lesson (the “secret video”): http://gordonfiremark.com/levelup Easy Legal for Podcasters program: http://easylegalforpodcasters.com Podcast contracts, releases, and legal templates: http://podcastlawforms.com Join the Legit Podcast Pro community: http://legitpodcastpro.com

Looking for the perfect gift for the podcaster or content creator in your life? In this holiday gift-guide episode, I break down the best gear, software, books, courses, and legal tools that can help any creator level up — from budget upgrades to pro-studio essentials. All products mentioned in this episode are linked below. Some links are affiliate links (including Amazon links), which means I may earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you — but every recommendation comes from gear and services I personally know, trust, and stand behind. 🎙️ Microphones & Audio Gear RØDE PodMic – https://amzn.to/43IZmxH Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) – https://amzn.to/47QOSPc Shure MVX2U XLR-to-USB Interface – https://amzn.to/4r6VIYx Shure MV7 USB/XLR Microphone – https://amzn.to/4oM7ypj Shure SM7B – https://amzn.to/49AT2fv Elgato Wave Mic Arm LP – https://amzn.to/3XCErsy 📚 Books for Creators The Legal Survival Guide – https://podcastlawbook.com Make Noise by Eric Nuzum — Audiobook: https://amzn.to/3JZcVT0 | Paperback: https://amzn.to/3X84hEA Austin Kleon Trilogy – https://amzn.to/49uSHLh Building a StoryBrand – https://amzn.to/3X7Lv0g 💻 Computer Hardware Samsung T7 SSD – https://amzn.to/3XaIdcv Mac mini (M4/M2) – https://amzn.to/43HO1hh Dell XPS 15 – https://amzn.to/49vvIQ5 📸 Cameras & Lenses Logitech StreamCam – https://amzn.to/4rax0GF Elgato Facecam 4K – https://amzn.to/3XFTsK5 Sony ZV-E10 – https://amzn.to/49vJPVz Canon R100 – https://amzn.to/4ifA3t4 Sigma 16mm f/1.4 (Sony) – https://amzn.to/4pmxIii Sigma 16mm f/1.4 (Canon) – https://amzn.to/4icaNDP 💡 Lighting & Studio Essentials Neewer LED 2-Pack – https://amzn.to/4pktw2v Elgato Key Light Air – https://amzn.to/3XKha7W Godox SL60II Bi – https://amzn.to/43FyH4K Stream Deck MK.2 – https://amzn.to/4pnDErs Acoustic Panels Kit – https://amzn.to/44canaS Nanoleaf Shapes – https://us-shop.nanoleaf.me/ 🎧 Courses, Software & Subscriptions Easy Legal For Podcasters – https://easylegalforpodcasters.com PodcastLawForms Templates – https://podcastlawforms.com Skillshare – https://skillshare.com LinkedIn Learning – https://linkedin.com/learning Auphonic – https://auphonic.com/pricing Descript – https://www.descript.com/pricing Riverside.fm – https://riverside.fm Adobe Creative Cloud – https://adobe.com Epidemic Sound – https://share.epidemicsound.com/0802w9

When you record guests on your podcast, you’re capturing their performance — and that means you need their permission to record, publish and use or re-use it. In this episode, Gordon breaks down everything you need to know about podcast guest releases, including what clauses they should include, common mistakes to avoid, and how to make it part of your professional workflow. In this episode: What a guest release actually does Why verbal or email consent isn’t legally safe The six must-have clauses that protect your show How to address AI use and repurposing rights How to automate releases in your booking process Real-world examples from Gordon’s legal experience The simple system to stay protected and stress-free Takeaway: Every serious podcaster needs a written guest release for every interview. It’s not just a legal formality — it’s the foundation of your creative freedom. Mentioned Resources: • Free Podcast Guest Release Template – http://podcastrelease.com • Easy Legal for Podcasters Program – https://easylegalforpodcasters.com • Legit Podcast Pro Community – https://legitpodcastpro.com Call to Action: Grab your free guest release template today at http://podcastrelease.com and start protecting your content before you hit “record.”

The Truth About Using Music in Your Content (and Staying Legal) Show Notes: Music can elevate your content—or end your channel. In this episode, Gordon Firemark, The Podcast Lawyer™, breaks down how to use music safely in your podcasts and videos. You’ll Learn: Why music is protected from the moment it’s created The two rights you need to license (composition & recording) Why fair use rarely applies Legal, affordable options for using music Real-world examples of creators who learned the hard way Takeaways: Don’t risk your podcast or channel by using music without permission. Licensing is easier, cheaper, and safer than fighting takedowns. Resources & Links: Join the free community: https://legitpodcastpro.com Download the Sample License Request Letter: https://firemark.com/licenserequest Legal templates for podcasters: https://podcastlawforms.com

Collaborations can be a dream—or a disaster. In this episode, Gordon Firemark, The Podcast Lawyer™, counts down the top 5 legal mistakes creators make when teaming up, and how to prevent them. You’ll Learn: Why handshake deals and DMs aren’t enough How to divide ownership, credit, and revenue fairly Why you should plan your exit before you need one The importance of protecting your shared brand and trademarks Simple steps to stay professional and keep relationships intact Takeaways: Always get written agreements. Define ownership, revenue, and responsibilities clearly. Plan for the breakup before it happens. File trademarks early to protect your brand. Links & Resources: Podcast Prenup™ Planning Guide: http://podcastprenup.com Collaboration Agreement Templates: https://podcastlawforms.com Free Sample Lesson: https://gordonfiremark.com/levelup Full Easy Legal for Podcasters Program: https://easylegalforpodcasters.com Disclaimer: Educational purposes only—this is not legal advice.

“Is this fair use?”
It’s the question almost every creator asks — and most get it completely wrong. In this episode of Legit Podcast Pro, I’m breaking down what fair use really means for podcasters, YouTubers, and filmmakers in 2025 — and why it’s more complicated (and more important) than ever. We’ll cover:
• What fair use actually is — and what it’s not
• The four factors courts really look at
• Why Ethan Klein, the YouTuber who once won a major fair use case, is now suing others for infringement
• How fair use plays out on YouTube, podcasts, and social media
• Real examples of what is and isn’t fair use in the creator economy
• What to do if you get hit with a takedown notice Whether you’re producing a podcast, running a YouTube channel, or making short-form content on TikTok or Instagram — understanding fair use can protect your business, your reputation, and your income. 👉 Join my free Legit Podcast Pro Membership Group to connect with like-minded creators, get your legal and business questions answered, and level up your podcast or channel — the smart, safe way.
I’m in there almost every day helping creators like you stay legit.
Join free at http://LegitPodcastPro.com

Host: Gordon Firemark, The Podcast Lawyer™ In this episode, Gordon breaks down why every serious podcaster and YouTuber should protect their brand name with a trademark. He explains how U.S. trademark law really works, clears up common misconceptions, and shares real-world stories of creators who lost their brands by waiting too long. You’ll Learn: • What trademarks protect (and what they don’t) • How “first use” vs. “first to file” plays out in the real world • Why creators are especially vulnerable to brand theft • Common trademark myths debunked • How to check if your name qualifies — and what to do next Resources Mentioned: •https://easylegalforpodcasters.com - Our DIY Legal Course for creators • https://podcasttrademark.com – Secure your podcast or channel name • https://gordonfiremark.com/levelup – Watch the FREE video sample lesson from Easy Legal for Podcasters

LLC vs. Corporation: The Smart Creator’s Guide Are you running your podcast, YouTube channel, or creative business without an LLC or corporation? You might be one lawsuit away from losing everything you’ve built. In this episode of Legit Podcast Pro, The Podcast Lawyer™ Gordon Firemark breaks down the key differences between LLCs and corporations, explains which structure is best for creators, and reveals why doing nothing is the most dangerous option of all. You’ll learn: • Why running your creative venture as a “solo project” can expose your personal assets • The major legal and tax differences between LLCs and corporations • How LLCs protect your brand, simplify taxes, and project professionalism • When corporations make sense — especially for filmmakers, theatre producers, and investors • How single-purpose LLCs work (and why they’re standard in film and theatre) • Real client stories that show what can go wrong — and how to avoid it Ready to protect your creative business? Book a consultation today at http://firemark.com/scheduling and get your business entity set up the smart way. Because your creativity deserves protection — and you deserve peace of mind. Watch next: 👉 How to Turn Your Podcast Into an Asset You Can Sell — [https://youtu.be/(link-placeholder) ] 👉 Breaking Up is Hard to Do: How to End Podcast Partnerships the Right Way — [https://youtu.be/(link-placeholder) ] More Resources: • Podcast Legal Forms – http://podcastlawforms.com • Easy Legal for Podcasters – http://easylegalforpodcasters.com • Free Podcast Guest Release – http://podcastrelease.com #PodcastLawyer #LegitPodcastPro #LLCvSCorporation #PodcastBusiness #CreatorLaw #ContentCreator #GordonFiremark #BusinessProtection #LegalTips #Filmmaking #YouTubeBusiness

Podcast partnerships can fall apart—different visions, workload, money, life. Ending the show without a plan can wreck the brand, the audience, and your relationships. In this video, attorney Gordon Firemark (The Podcast Lawyer™) shows you how to exit cleanly. You’ll learn: Who owns the name, feed, and back catalog A simple decision tree for clean exits (assignment, spin-off, retire, or license) The step-by-step process: term sheet, transfer, notices, and public comms How to settle the money (cut-off date, make-goods, trailing revenue) The exact documents you need (separation, IP assignments, releases) How a Podcast Prenup™ prevents messy splits ► Podcast Prenup™ Planning Guide + Co-Host Agreement: http://podcastprenup.com ► Easy Legal for Podcasters (full toolkit): https://easylegalforpodcasters.com ► Free sample lesson (on-demand): http://gordonfiremark.com/levelup ► Podcaster legal templates: https://podcastlawforms.com This video is educational and not legal advice. Talk to a lawyer about your situation. Hashtags: #Podcasting #PodcastLaw #CoHost #Partnership #Contracts #IP #LegitPodcastPro

Building a podcast team is exciting—writers, editors, assistants—but without the right legal steps, you could lose control of your show. In this episode of Legit Podcast Pro, I’ll show you how to protect yourself when bringing on team members: * Why team members may actually own the work they create * The most common mistakes podcasters make when hiring * Essential contract clauses you can’t skip * How to onboard team members smoothly and professionally * What to do if things go wrong Don’t let a team member end up with more control over your podcast than you. Learn how to do it the right way. ► Get lawyer-drafted contracts for podcasters: https://podcastlawforms.com
 ► Free sample lesson from Easy Legal for Podcasters: https://gordonfiremark.com/levelup
 ► More podcast legal forms & resources: https://podcastlawforms.com Subscribe for weekly episodes of Legit Podcast Pro—your legal and business toolkit for podcast success. Hashtags:
#Podcasting #PodcastTeam #PodcastLaw #CreatorEconomy #Freelancers #Contracts #LegitPodcastPro

Thinking of putting your podcast logo on a hoodie, mug, or t-shirt?
Before you hit “publish” on that merch store, you need to know the trademark traps that could cost you your brand. In this episode of Legit Podcast Pro, I break down: * Why podcast merch creates trademark risks * The biggest mistakes creators make with branding and merchandise * How to check your brand before you print * What to do if you get a cease-and-desist * How to protect your podcast as a real business asset Don’t let a merch idea turn into a legal nightmare. Watch now and learn how to keep your podcast brand safe, strong, and yours to grow. ► Protect your brand: http://podcasttrademark.com
► Free sample lesson from Easy Legal for Podcasters: https://gordonfiremark.com/levelup
 ► Get podcast-specific legal forms & templates: https://podcastlawforms.com Subscribe for weekly episodes of Legit Podcast Pro – your legal and business toolkit for podcast success. Hashtags:
#Podcasting #PodcastMerch #PodcastLaw #CreatorEconomy #Trademarks #PodcastGrowth #LegitPodcastPro

Can you actually sell your podcast? Yes — but only if you’ve built it like a business, not just a hobby. In this episode of Legit Podcast Pro, I’ll walk you through how to turn your show into a real, transferable asset that could be sold, licensed, or syndicated. You’ll learn: What makes a podcast valuable to buyers Why IP ownership (copyrights, trademarks, contracts) is critical How to monetize in ways that last beyond one-off ad deals Exit options: selling, licensing, syndication, and partnerships Steps to prepare your podcast for a future sale 📺 Watch my free on-demand training now: https://podcastertraining.com RESOURCES & LINKS Podcast Guest Release: http://podcastrelease.com Legal Forms & Templates: http://podcastlawforms.com My book: The Podcast, Blog & New Media Producers’ Legal Survival Guide: http://podcastlawbook.com CONNECT WITH ME Instagram: https://instagram.com/gordonfiremark LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/gfiremark Facebook: https://facebook.com/podcastlaw Facebook (personal): https://facebook.com/gfiremark

It’s back-to-school season for creators! 🎒 In this episode of Legit Podcast Pro, I’m breaking down the 4 Rs of Creator Law—the legal and business fundamentals that podcasters, YouTubers, coaches, and course creators need to build a profitable and protected business. You’ll learn: Rights — who owns what, and how to protect your IP Relationships — why contracts keep collaborations strong Risks — the top legal pitfalls every creator faces Revenue — monetization strategies that work without legal headaches Think of this as your crash course in running a professional creator business—without burnout, lawsuits, or confusion. 🎯 Watch my free secret video for creators: http://gordonfiremark.com/levelup RESOURCES & LINKS Podcast Guest Release: http://podcastrelease.com Legal Forms & Templates: http://podcastlawforms.com My book: The Podcast, Blog & New Media Producers’ Legal Survival Guide: http://podcastlawbook.com CONNECT WITH ME Instagram: https://instagram.com/gordonfiremark LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/gfiremark Facebook: https://facebook.com/podcastlaw Facebook (personal): https://facebook.com/gfiremark

Most podcasters give up—not because they don’t love podcasting, but because they burn out. In this episode, Gordon Firemark, The Podcast Lawyer™, shares how to use podcasting as a strategic business tool so it fuels your brand instead of draining you. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why podcasters burn out and how to avoid it How to treat your podcast as a business asset, not just content The systems and workflows that make podcasting sustainable Monetization strategies that don’t rely on ads The burnout-proof framework to keep your podcast (and your business) thriving Mentioned in This Episode: 🎯 Watch the free Level Up Your Podcast Success video: http://gordonfiremark.com/levelup 🧰 Get my legal templates for podcasters: http://podcastlawforms.com 📘 My book: The Podcast, Blog & New Media Producers’ Legal Survival Guide: http://podcastlawbook.com