There is a plethora of trademark information and resources available from the USPTO.gov web site. In this episode Erik highlights what he believes are the most useful features for anyone exploring the world of trademarks.

There are many different mistakes that can affect a trademark application. Erik reveals the five most common mistakes applicants make and how to avoid them.

A plant needs water to grow. What does a brand need for growth? Listen as former USPTO trademark examiner Erik Pelton shares the five key elements to watering a brand for growth.

When it comes to non-profit organizations and trademark protection, there are several misconceptions. In this episode, Erik discusses why trademark protection is just as important for non-profits as it is for other organizations and businesses.

No one is immune from potential branding errors. Erik shares the history of the law firm brand, including some mistakes made along the way as the EMP&A brand evolved.

Every year there are probably hundreds if not thousands of trademark appeals filed. When can you appeal? How long does it take? And why the increase in such appeals. Erik explains the nuts and bolts of appeals to the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board and explains why the best appeals are planned before the appeal begins.

Even as the USPTO takes new measures that may help combatting scammers, trademark scams are everywhere. Erik shares a special tool decision tree tool that he has developed to help review whether mail or email is a trademark scam or not. For more about guarding against trademark scams, see www.isthisatrademarkscam.com

When creating content online, it is important to know what is off limits under copyright laws. And when working with contractors and others to create content for you, there are special “work for hire” considerations to be aware of. Listen as Erik provides more details in this episode.

There is quite a bit of confusion about the USPTO’s letters of protest. In this segment, Erik clarifies what is a letter of protest, and when and why to use one.

Creative brands and great trademarks are all around us. In this episode, Erik reflects on the many wonderful store names he encountered while on a recent family vacation to a small New England town, proof that there are endless possibilities when it comes to trademarks!