Most founders dramatically underestimate the value of their intellectual property — and it’s costing them millions at exit. In this episode of the ExitEngine Podcast, IP strategist and patent attorney Brenna Legaard (Partner, Invenio LLP) breaks down how founders can identify, protect, and monetize their intellectual property long before an exit — and why waiting until due diligence is too late. Brenna explains: • Why everything is copyable unless it’s protected • The four types of IP every founder needs to understand (copyrights, trademarks, trade secrets, patents) • How small innovations, edge efficiencies, and internal processes often qualify as trade secrets — but only if you identify and protect them • Why patents are critical in deep tech, med-device, pharma, and regulated industries — and how missing your filing window can cost you the entire market • How buyers uncover hidden IP value (and hidden IP risk) that founders always overlook • Why IP can double the value and saleability of a company when handled strategically • How to avoid blowing trademark rights through poor naming, messaging, and product positioning • How to uncover “accidental IP” hiding inside your operations, product, brand, and customer relationships If you’re planning to sell your company in the next 1–10 years, this episode will change the way you think about your business. Guest Contact: Brenna Legaard Brenna advises high-growth companies across med-tech, deep tech, SaaS, manufacturing, and scientific innovation on how to turn IP into enterprise value. Website: https://inveniolaw.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brenalegaard Explore The ExitEngine™ Ecosystem: 👉 Get your Total Exit Value Score™ 👉 Learn the 10 drivers of saleability 👉 Find vetted M&A advisors and other Advisory Partners 👉 Join a community of owners preparing for strategic exits Visit MyExitEngine.com to learn more.