Hello Genius, welcome back to another episode of the Own Your Genius podcast—the space where we encourage you to use your education and experiences to create dope businesses. I’m your host, Brand Attorney LaConya Murray, owner of Off the Mark IP Solutions and founder of MARKEDlegal.
I recently came across this question from a digital course creator who asks: “I want to license my content to other coaches, but how do I make sure it’s really protected? What do I need to do before I start those negotiations?” I love this question, and I know so many other people have the same question, so let’s get into it.
How Copyright Registration Impacts Licensing Negotiations
This is a question about protecting content, which is the number one indicator that we need to start with copyright registration. So many people think just creating something means it’s protected. Technically that’s true, copyright exists the moment you create, but registration takes things up a notch. Why? As the copyright holder, you are given certain rights. When you register your copyright, not only do you have the official proof that you own your work, you also have the means to enforce these rights. While your copyright exists at the moment you create your work, the authority to enforce those rights only comes with registration. That means, in negotiations, you can sit at the table with confidence. Instead of saying, “Trust me, I made this,” you’ve got the government backing you up.
Think about it like selling a car—you wouldn’t hand over the keys without a title, right? Copyright registration is your title. When potential licensors see that, they know you’re serious. They know your content isn’t just valuable—it’s protected. Suddenly, the deals get bigger, the terms get better, and you’re less likely to get pushed around. That’s real power.
Bundling IP Rights for Higher-Value Deals
Now, let’s talk about bundling. Most people think licensing is just about one copyright. But what if you have a course, a catchy brand name, and a cool logo? That’s three pieces of intellectual property—copyright, trademark, and maybe even some trade secrets. Don’t forget if your course includes workbooks; that is a separate copyright. Bundling your IP means you offer a package: “You can use my videos, my branding, and my workbook graphics.” It’s like asking would you like fries with that.
Bundling can help you negotiate for bigger fees, longer deals, and more favorable terms.
Instead of letting someone pick apart your hard work for a quick deal, imagine showing them everything you’ve built—the full picture, with all your creative pieces working together. When you do this, you’re not just protecting what you’ve made; you’re showing you truly value your own work. It’s about taking pride in your intellectual property, presenting yourself as someone who understands what goes into every asset.
Here’s how to get started: Take some time to gather up everything you’ve created. Maybe it’s videos, audio files, workbooks, slide decks, your course name and logo, or even a unique method you’ve developed. Each piece matters, and together they tell the story of your expertise. For each item, check what kind of protection fits—copyrights for written and recorded material, trademarks for your brand and logos, and keeping notes about any special processes that set you apart. Hang onto your drafts and outlines, too; they help show how your ideas have grown over time.
So, when it comes time to talk with a potential licensor, don’t just hand them a single document. Bring your whole collection to the table, along with proof you own it and the rights you’re offering. You’ll make their job easier and give them peace of mind about what’s included. More than that, you’ll likely find yourself negotiating better terms, because you’re offering something complete and well-protected—not just a single piece of the puzzle. In the end, it’s how you turn a small opportunity into something much bigger and more rewarding for both sides.
Why Clear Ownership Documentation Attracts Licensors
Let’s get real—licensors want to know that what they’re buying is legit. If there’s any confusion about who owns the content, deals fall apart. That’s why clear ownership documentation is your best friend. This doesn’t just mean keeping your receipts and registration certificates—it’s also about having solid, written contracts, especially with vendors, freelancers, or employees who helped create your material. Without these agreements, you may run into questions about who actually owns the rights to different parts of your content.
Written contracts spell out exactly who owns what, making it clear that you have the exclusive rights to license the finished product. This is crucial because, in many cases, if you hire someone to help—like a graphic designer, video editor, or writer—they may automatically own the copyright to their contributions unless you have a contract that transfers those rights to you. The same goes for employees; their work usually belongs to the company, but having everything in writing eliminates any ambiguity. When you show up with all your paperwork and contracts, you’re telling licensors: “You don’t have to worry. I’ve done the work, secured every contribution, and you can use my content without risk.”
This isn’t just practical—it’s emotional. Licensors want peace of mind. They want to feel safe investing in your work. When you bring clarity and documented agreements, you build trust. And trust leads to more deals, more referrals, and more money in your pocket. I talk to creators all the time who miss out because their paperwork is messy, missing, or they skipped those key contracts. Don’t let that be you. Own your genius by owning your records—and make sure every deal, collaboration, or creative contribution is backed up with a solid, written agreement.
Actionable Takeaways
- Register your copyrights as soon as possible—it’s your official proof of ownership.
- Identify and bundle all your IP assets for licensing negotiations—think copyright, trademark, and unique processes.
- Keep clear, accessible documentation of ownership for every piece of content you create.
- Be proactive—don’t wait for someone to ask. Have your paperwork ready before you start negotiating.
- Regularly review and update your records, especially when you create new content or make changes.
Closing
You worked hard to create your genius—now work smart to protect it. Licensing is about more than making money; it’s about making sure your creative legacy is secure, respected, and valued. Register your copyrights, bundle your IP, document your ownership, and watch how your deals get bigger and better.
Thanks for tuning in to Own Your Genius. If you found this episode helpful, share it with a friend, leave a review, and don’t forget to subscribe—more genius tips are coming your way. Until next time, keep building your business, growing your brand, and owning your genius.
