Blackletter
440 episodes - English - Latest episode: 3 days ago - ★★★★★ - 16 ratingsThis podcast brings famously experienced business people, lawyers, accountants, and anyone else in the realm of business to the table to share personal experiences that have shaped their business and to talk about how to handle black letter issues in creative ways. Every business is subject to so-called blackletter laws. Blackletter laws are the well-established legal rules that are no longer subject to reasonable dispute. Originally, "blackletter" was the Gothic type-style which was used to set forth the law in England until the mid 18th century. It was originally used so commoners couldn't understand the laws.
Homepage Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed
Episodes
Equity vs. Asset Purchase in Business Acquisition
September 25, 2023 04:15 - 4 minutes - 6.14 MBIn this episode, Tom Dunlap offers valuable insights for aspiring business owners looking to make a strategic move. Delving into the pivotal decision of whether to opt for an equity or asset purchase, Tom breaks down the advantages and potential pitfalls of each option. Discover why, more often than not, an asset purchase might be the wiser choice, providing a clean slate and protecting you from inheriting the seller's historical liabilities. Gain a comprehensive understanding of the factors...
Reviving Extinct Species: Legal and Ethical Dilemmas
September 18, 2023 04:15 - 4 minutes - 6.31 MBIn this episode, Tom Dunlap takes us on a fascinating journey into the world of de-extinction. Exploring the controversial realm of bringing extinct species back to life through genetic material, Tom raises thought-provoking questions about the legal and ethical implications surrounding this cutting-edge science. Tom also touches on biopiracy and bioprospecting, addressing the rights to genetic material from both the original source and the newly created organism. He highlights the significa...
An Intense Look at End of Life Law
September 15, 2023 04:15 - 11 minutes - 15.5 MBJoin the Blackletter podcast this week, where host Tom Dunlap explores how personal life-changing experiences can lead to intense lessons in life and law. Tom sits down with his law partner and special guest Dubs Herschlip, a partner of Dunlap Bennett & Ludwig who offers a unique perspective on end of life law. The passing of a loved one can be an intense experience, where peacefulness and compassion is of the utmost importance. Dubs advises listeners on how managing assets beforehand can h...
The Right to be Forgotten in a Digital World
September 11, 2023 04:15 - 5 minutes - 7.22 MBIn an age where our digital footprints linger indefinitely, discover how this right, rooted in the EU's GDPR, allows individuals to request the removal of inaccurate or irrelevant information from search engines and websites. Tom Dunlap explores the delicate balance between personal privacy and the public's right to information, as well as the challenges faced by data controllers. Join us as we navigate the complexities of this evolving legal landscape and ponder its global implications. Tun...
Deep Dive into Underwater Salvage Law
September 04, 2023 04:15 - 5 minutes - 6.86 MBIn this episode, host Tom Dunlap explores the intricate world of underwater salvage law. He discusses the conventions guiding salvage efforts, the complexities of balancing salvor rights with the interests of nations and original owners, and highlights the famous "ship of gold" case involving the SS Central America. The case showcases the legal battles over ownership of treasures found in sunken ships and underscores the multifaceted nature of underwater salvage law.
Patent Ownership and Enforcement
September 01, 2023 04:15 - 11 minutes - 15.4 MBStep into the world of intellectual property and patent monetization with the Blackletter Podcast. In this episode, host Thomas Dunlap welcomes back Anthony Brown, an expert from Tech Search, to delve into the intricacies of patent ownership and enforcement. Throughout the conversation, Anthony shares his wealth of experience in the field, recounting tales from the early '80s when computer technology was at its nascent stage. He brings to light both stories of failure and success, including...
Bioprospecting, Biopiracy, and the Challenge of Ethical Resource Discovery
August 28, 2023 04:15 - 4 minutes - 6.65 MBJoin host Tom Dunlap in another enlightening episode as he discusses the intriguing topics of bioprospecting and biopiracy. He explores the distinction between these practices, with bioprospecting involving the ethical search for beneficial biological resources and biopiracy encompassing the unauthorized exploitation of such resources without proper credit or consent. Tom shares prominent examples like the basmati rice patent dispute between the US and India, as well as instances involving t...
The Micronation Chronicles: Unveiling the Quirky Realms of Sealand and Beyond
August 21, 2023 04:15 - 4 minutes - 5.76 MBJoin Tom Dunlap as he delves into the fascinating world of micronations—tiny, self-declared independent countries often existing in legal gray areas. Exploring the concept of micronations as symbolic gestures, protests, or declarations of sovereignty, Tom introduces listeners to notable examples like the Republic of Molossia, Hutt River Province, and the Conch Republic. However, the highlight of this episode is the riveting tale of the Principality of Sealand. Tom recounts how a British man...
Lessons in Patent Law
August 18, 2023 04:15 - 13 minutes - 18.5 MBWhat important lessons can be learned from patent lawsuits? On the Blackletter podcast this week, host Tom Dunlap is joined again by guest Anthony Brown, a former lawyer and President of Cascades Ventures, as they continue his three-episode interview series. Anthony is a patent monetization expert who has joined the show to discuss his insights on patent litigation. On this episode, Anthony shares stories from his career on the patent litigation front, including one of his initial signifi...
The Beatles, Michael Jackson, and the Lucrative World of Rights and Royalties
August 14, 2023 04:15 - 4 minutes - 5.53 MBDelve into the fascinating realm of music publishing and royalties with Tom Dunlap as he explores the iconic collaboration between Michael Jackson and Paul McCartney on the song 'Say Say Say,' leading to an unexpected twist involving The Beatles' catalog. Discover how Michael Jackson's strategic acquisition of music rights paved the way for a lavish lifestyle and dig into the intricate world of mechanical royalties, performance royalties, synchronization fees, and print rights. Explore the l...
Witness Tampering in the Social Media Age
August 07, 2023 04:15 - 5 minutes - 8.17 MBIn this compelling episode, Tom Dunlap delves into the intricate world of witness tampering, examining its profound significance, legal ramifications, and evolving challenges in the age of social media. Drawing from recent headlines surrounding former President Donald Trump's alleged witness tampering on the Truth Social platform, Tom takes you on a thought-provoking journey through the dark corners of legal manipulation and intimidation. Tune in to gain a comprehensive understanding of the ...
Unveiling the Business of Patents
August 04, 2023 04:15 - 13 minutes - 15.4 MBWhat role do lawyers have in the business of patents and intellectual property? On the Blackletter podcast this week, host Tom Dunlap sits down with episode guest Anthony Brown, a former lawyer and President of Cascades Ventures, who made a significant switch in his professional path when he began working in patent monetization. After spending the beginning of his career as a law firm partner and a government attorney, Anthony decided to turn to the business end of IP and patents and now ru...
Exploring Trademark Parody and First Amendment Rights
July 24, 2023 04:15 - 3 minutes - 4.17 MBIn this episode, Tom Dunlap delves into a groundbreaking Supreme Court case involving Jack Daniels Properties and Bad Spaniels. The battle over a trademark takes an unexpected turn when Bad Spaniels claims their parody chew toy is protected by the First Amendment. But what will the Supreme Court decide? Does the First Amendment shield them from trademark infringement claims? The verdict holds significant implications for brand owners. Tune in to discover the shocking ruling and its potential...
The Risky Business of Cybersecurity and Compliance
July 21, 2023 04:15 - 19 minutes - 26.9 MBWhat advice would an expert give on maintaining business security and compliance? On the Blackletter podcast this week, host Tom Dunlap interviews episode guest Jennifer Morris, a former attorney for the CIA with law experience inside the government and businesses. Jennifer is here to share her insights on business compliance, risk balancing, and risk management. As a professional with top-secret clearance, Jen had to become an expert in the ins and outs of security and compliance. Today, s...
The End of Affirmative Admissions: Exploring the Supreme Court's Ruling and Its Impact on Universities
July 10, 2023 04:15 - 4 minutes - 5.87 MBIn this episode, Tom Dunlap delves into the recent Supreme Court ruling that struck down the ability of universities to use race as an additional factor in student admissions. He provides a comprehensive overview of the history of affirmative admissions practices, the key legal cases that shaped these practices, and the subsequent changes in admissions policies. Tom examines the Supreme Court's opinion on the matter, highlighting the reasoning behind their decision. He also explores the impl...
The Art of Achievement
July 07, 2023 04:15 - 20 minutes - 27.6 MBHow can law professionals break through the barriers to achieve their success? On the Blackletter podcast this week, host Tom Dunlap revisits some prior season 9 episodes where he and guest speakers discussed professional success and how to achieve it. The power of small numbers with Gordan Sumner (0:44) As a former Army officer, Gordon Sumner had to make significant changes to succeed with his nonprofit organization, Veterans Moving Forward. In his interview with Tom, Gordan discussed hi...
Understanding Export Regulations
July 03, 2023 04:15 - 2 minutes - 4 MBIn recent news, the United States and the Dutch government have announced tighter regulations on exports of certain circuit boards and semiconductor chips to China. Tom Dunlap discusses the importance of understanding three essential rules for exporting and importing from the United States. Export Administration Regulations (EAR): Deals with commercial goods and non-controlled, non-military items. International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR): Involves the US Munitions List (USML) and i...
Apple Takes a Bite Out of Trademarks
June 26, 2023 04:15 - 2 minutes - 3.88 MBThis week on Monday Morning Minutes, Tom Dunlap discusses the controversial Apple trademark case happening in Switzerland. Apple is trying to trademark a 2D image of an apple without a bite taken from it. The 111-year-old Swiss Fruit Union, which protects the interests of fruit growers, is concerned. Tom takes on this odd situation and what he thinks will happen next. Tune in to this episode of Monday Morning Minutes to hear more.
Planning, Persistence, and Patience
June 23, 2023 04:15 - 4 minutes - 5.66 MBOn the Blackletter podcast this week, host Tom Dunlap concludes his three-part interview with Mark Fava, an attorney who works as an ombudsman and Vice President for Boeing Corporation. Together Tom and Mark discuss Mark’s advice for listeners trying to launch their career success. Building success in business and aviation law took Mark several years and lots of hard work. On this episode, Mark shares three pieces of advice he would offer budding entrepreneurs and other professionals looki...
How to be a Happy Lawyer
June 12, 2023 04:15 - 3 minutes - 4.86 MBThis week Tom discusses how to love the practice of law and strategies for being a happy lawyer. A lot of these strategies apply not just to law, but apply to any job that anyone's in, but they're things that especially affect professionals who work in a high stress career. Listen to the episode for tips on improving your lifestyle through 1. establishing your boundaries, 2. taking breaks, and 3. exercise and diet.
Wielding Wisdom As A Veteran Attorney
June 09, 2023 04:15 - 8 minutes - 11.6 MBHow can we pass along wisdom gained from our professional leaders? On the Blackletter podcast this week, host Tom Dunlap speaks once more with Mark Fava, an attorney who works as an ombudsman and Vice President for Boeing Corporation. Tom and Mark discuss how Mark leveraged the knowledge that he gained throughout his career to mentor and lead other veterans and attorneys. He describes the lessons he learned and the knowledge he gained from working with his two great admirals during his tim...
Why Lawyers Leave Law
June 05, 2023 04:15 - 5 minutes - 7.54 MBOn this episode of Monday Morning Minutes, Tom Dunlap pulls back the curtain on a taboo subject – why lawyers quit law. Drawing on research and personal experience, he covers the top reasons why lawyers leave either temporarily or permanently. Stress and burn out, lack of work-life balance, mental health issues and more–it can be tough being an attorney. However, Tom discusses how the legal profession is evolving and upcoming solutions.
The Flight Plan to Success
May 26, 2023 04:15 - 10 minutes - 14.5 MBHow can legal professionals launch their careers in aviation law? On the Blackletter podcast this week, host Tom Dunlap is joined by Mark Fava, a practicing attorney who works as an ombudsman and Vice President for Boeing Corporation. Together they speak about Mark’s career background that led to his current position and his work mentoring other veterans and attorneys. Mark is a senior executive lawyer who experienced a lot throughout his career in aviation law. As the chief operations att...
Donut Painting Sparks Free Speech Debate
May 22, 2023 04:15 - 2 minutes - 4.1 MBWhere is the line between art, and advertising? The unresolved question is testing the direct democracy of a small New England town, where a painting of pastries has led to zoning dispute, a First Amendment lawsuit and a local vote. The town zoning board got involved, deciding that the pastry painting was not so much art as advertising, and so could not remain as is because of its size. Faced with modifying or removing the mural, or possibly dealing with fines and criminal charges, the bake...
Global Naming Laws
May 15, 2023 04:15 - 3 minutes - 5.4 MBDid you know there is a naming committee in Iceland called Mannanafnanefnd and they are a governmental body that regulates the naming of children. Upon a further look, they aren't the only country to have regulated the naming of children. This week Tom discusses illegal naming from around the world and some of the strict rules to protect a child from a name which could be deemed offensive or embarrassing in that society.
Unlocking the Potential of Business Connections
May 12, 2023 04:15 - 15 minutes - 21.5 MBHow can professionals form and identify valuable business connections? On the Blackletter podcast this week, host Tom Dunlap concludes his interview with Jason Levin, founder of Ready, Set, Launch. In this episode, Jason discusses the key themes of his book "Relationships to Infinity: The Art and Science of Keeping in Touch" and how individuals and entrepreneurs can apply its lessons to succeed in their business pursuits. Jason's book focuses on networking and the nature of making connecti...
Trial by Combat
May 08, 2023 04:15 - 3 minutes - 4.6 MBThis week on Monday Minutes, Tom Dunlap digs into the world of trial by combat – how it originated, how it evolved and how it relates to the legal profession. Tom explains how two men would face off in battle to settle charges, accusations and more. Nobles would hire a sword to stand in their place, and the practice became a complex game. Tune in to hear how trial by combat transformed to a jury of peers, and how lawyers came to be.
Consumer Privacy Act Compliance
May 01, 2023 04:15 - 2 minutes - 3.92 MBIn today's episode, we discuss consumer privacy laws and their importance. Recently, two states, Montana and Tennessee, passed new Consumer Privacy Act laws. Along with the CCPA (California Consumer Privacy Act), a privacy law that requires businesses that collect personal information to provide certain disclosures, these newly passed laws make it are easier for you to fall into compliance. Compliance can be as easy as having a link at the bottom of your page that people visiting your websi...
The Art of Making Connections
April 28, 2023 04:15 - 19 minutes - 26.2 MBWhat is the best way for people to stay connected with their business contacts? On the Blackletter podcast this week, host Tom Dunlap is joined once more by Jason Levin, author of "Relationships to Infinity: The Art and Science of Keeping in Touch" and founder of the firm Ready, Set, Launch. In this episode, Jason breaks down the importance of maintaining connections with professional contacts and the obstacles he had to face to make headway in his networking experiences. Jason first reali...
Insider Trading of NFTs?
April 24, 2023 04:15 - 4 minutes - 5.67 MBOn this episode of Monday Minutes, Tom Dunlap tackles the first charge against someone for insider trading with NFTs. Tom breaks down how an employee of OpenSea, the largest market for NFTs, purchased NFTs, then picked those digital assets to be featured on the platform’s homepage, therefore increasing their value. This is another instance of how law is playing catch up to current technology–insider trading of NFTs does not exist yet in law. Tune in to hear Tom’s analysis of how the case wil...
Classified Documents on Discord
April 17, 2023 04:15 - 3 minutes - 4.35 MBToday on Monday Minutes, Tom Dunlap discusses the recent case of a 21-year old National Guard member who allegedly leaked classified documents onto Discord. Tom breaks down the Espionage Act and another section under the US Code: their origins, what they mean, and what their sentencing would entail. As the National Guard member put the documents online, this further complicates the matter. Tune in to find out why.
Marketing in the Modern World
April 14, 2023 04:15 - 17 minutes - 23.5 MBHow can people market themselves to achieve more professional opportunities? On the Blackletter podcast this week, host Tom Dunlap sits down with Jason Levin, author of "Relationships to Infinity: The Art and Science of Keeping in Touch" and founder of the firm Ready, Set, Launch. He is also the programming chair of the National Capital Local Steering Committee for the Legal Marketing Association, which supports marketing and networking between legal professionals. During the COVID-19 pand...
NLRB Rules Severance Agreements with Nondisclosure Clauses are Unlawful
April 10, 2023 04:15 - 2 minutes - 3.45 MBThe National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) recently ruled in a case regarding severance agreements. In the case, McLaren v. Macomb, management at a hospital offered severance agreements to furloughed employees that included a clause prohibiting them from speaking negatively about their employer and disclosing the agreement's terms. The NLRB ruled this was unlawful, and that the ruling also applies retroactively. This means employers may be forced to leave non-disclosure clauses out of futur...
Powerful Lessons from Women in Leadership
March 29, 2023 04:15 - 31 minutes - 43.2 MBIn this special episode of the Blackletter podcast, we celebrate the trailblazing women who have spoken on the show over the years. Through their impactful stories and insights, these female leaders have demonstrated what it takes to succeed in the legal and business worlds. Tune in to hear their inspiring tales of overcoming challenges, breaking down barriers, and making a difference in their fields. S2E8 with DeAnna Burke (0:44) How can someone run a firm and manage people as a female bu...
AI and copyright
March 27, 2023 04:15 - 5 minutes - 7.94 MBThe Copyright Office has launched an initiative to examine the copyright law and policy issues raised by artificial intelligence (AI), including works generated using AI tools. These technologies raise questions about whether the material they produce is protected by copyright, whether works consisting of both human-authored and AI-generated material may be registered, and what information should be provided to the Office by applicants seeking to register them. Tune in to this week's episod...
Lessons in Leadership
March 24, 2023 04:15 - 12 minutes - 17.1 MBWhat leadership advice can support the success of any organizational team? On the Blackletter podcast this week, host Tom Dunlap concludes his three-episode interview with the President and CEO of Veterans Moving Forward, Gordon Sumner. As the leader of a nonprofit organization and a former army officer, Gordon is no stranger to the demands that come with leadership positions. In this episode, he provides pieces of sage wisdom and advice that he gathered from his past and present roles. Gor...
AI as an Inventor
March 20, 2023 04:15 - 5 minutes - 7.54 MBThe U.S. Supreme Court was recently asked to decide if AI can be a patent 'inventor'. Stephen Thaler petitioned the high court to review an appeals court's decision that patents can only be issued to human inventors and that his AI system cannot be the legal creator of inventions it generated. This week Tom dives into this patent rabbit-hole and discusses from legal perspectives as well as patent owner perspectives.
U.S. Soccer, FIFA Must face Anti-Trust Lawsuit
March 13, 2023 04:15 - 4 minutes - 5.9 MBA promoter's lawsuit against FIFA and the U.S. Soccer Federation can proceed toward trial after a lower-court judge had thrown it out, a federal appeals court ruled recently. In its refusal, the USSF had cited a 2018 FIFA policy that its ruling council "emphasized the sporting principle that official league matches must be played within the territory of the respective member association." Today Tom Dunlap provide's details about U.S. Soccer and FIFA's pending Anti-Trust lawsuit. He discus...
Funding the Vision
March 10, 2023 04:15 - 9 minutes - 13.2 MBWhat business challenges can one expect when running a non-profit organization? While non-profits can differ from for-profit businesses, these organizations still have their fair share of challenges. On this episode, Gordon shares the significant challenges he faced running Veterans Moving Forward during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and how the organization rearranged its plans to overcome obstacles and continue moving forward. He also explains the ongoing challenges of raising funds ...
FAA and Airplane Seat Size
March 06, 2023 04:15 - 2 minutes - 3.89 MBLast week, A U.S. appeals court denied requiring a minimum airplane seat size rule necessary for passenger safety. Therefore, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) cannot be forced to adopt minimum requirements, the court found. FAA has no compelling evidence that the tight seating slowed down emergency exits and caused medical risks like blood clots. Listen to this week's episode to hear Tom discuss the Circuit Judge's decision.
Is Google Liable for Isis Killings?
February 27, 2023 04:15 - 3 minutes - 5.43 MBThe high court is scheduled to hear arguments in Gonzalez v. Google, which questions conflicting appellate court interpretations of Section 230 of the 1996 Communications Decency Act. The law shields interactive websites from legal responsibility for harms third party content may cause. Listen to this week's episode as Tom discusses why this is a really important decision that can have a huge effect on the Internet and content sites like Google and YouTube.
Veterans Moving Forward
February 24, 2023 04:15 - 18 minutes - 26 MBWhat lengths would you go to support a cause you were passionate about? On the Blackletter podcast this week, host Tom Dunlap chats with Gordon Sumner, a former Army officer and current President and CEO of Veterans Moving Forward, a nonprofit organization that provides service and emotional support dogs to veterans. After serving in the Department of Defense for the Obama administration, Gordan decided to start his own disabled veteran-owned organization. He explains his decision to shift ...
The Satan Shoe Dispute
February 20, 2023 04:15 - 3 minutes - 5.38 MBOn this episode of Monday Minutes, Tom Dunlap chats about the infamous trademark case of the “Satan Shoes” which feature a pentagram and allegedly a drop of human blood in the sole. Nike is suing MSCHF for designing the shoe with their recognizable swoosh. To counter, MSCHF have argued that their shoes are a work of art, and therefore protected under the First Amendment. Tune in to hear how the case unfolds and why this is important for artistic protection and the law.
Presidents Keeping Classified Documents
February 13, 2023 04:15 - 5 minutes - 7.36 MBThis week on Monday Minutes, Tom Dunlap continues on classified documents. In particular, he examines the legality around presidents and former presidents storing classified documents, and who would enforce these laws. To understand the complexity of this situation, Tom explains the Federal Records Act, the Presidential Records Act, and the Freedom of Information Act, under which are storage requirements. Tune in to hear how Donald Trump, Mike Pence and Joe Biden went about storing documents...
Industrial Insights and Initiatives – Season Eight in Review
February 10, 2023 04:15 - 40 minutes - 56.6 MBThe Blackletter Podcast has covered a wide range of subjects during its eighth season, from legal advice for the Federal Aviation Administration to licensing in the medical marijuana industry, as well as technology business transformation and more. On this final episode of the season, we look back at the critical topics tackled within these past fourteen shows and the insights and knowledge revealed along the way. So tune in for this informative episode that reflects on some of the influenti...
Different Levels of Classified Documents
February 06, 2023 04:15 - 4 minutes - 5.61 MBThis week on Monday Minutes, Tom Dunlap breaks down the six different levels of classified documents. He explains how documents are categorized, what constitutes sensitive information, and who has clearance for what. Next week, he will continue the discussion by examining if presidents and former presidents can and should access classified information.
Supreme Court rejects attempt to block gun control law
January 30, 2023 04:15 - 2 minutes - 3.74 MBThe Supreme Court will not hear a case from New York gun owners, leaving Second Amendment law to be settled in lower federal courts across the country. The court declined to intervene on procedural grounds, giving the Second Circuit of the United States Court of Appeals the chance to weigh the case. Listen to this week's episode as Tom provides details what to expect from the rejection.
Navigating Your Career
January 27, 2023 04:15 - 12 minutes - 17.5 MBWhat is the most valuable career advice for finding professional success? On the Blackletter podcast this week, host Tom Dunlap concludes his three-segment interview with Marc Nichols, the Chief Counsel for the Federal Aviation Administration. On this final episode, Marc and Tom talk about careers, including Marc’s pathway into his profession and his personal career advice for those starting in the workforce. Tom’s professional experience has taught him a thing or two about what it takes to...
Supreme Court to Re-examine Principles of Online Speech
January 23, 2023 04:15 - 3 minutes - 4.2 MBThe Supreme Court is set to review a pair of cases that could significantly affect the power and responsibilities of social media platforms. On this episode, Tom will dive into more detail on both cases. The first case is Gonzalez v. Google, which argues that recommendations can count as their own form of content produced by the platform, removing them from the protection of Section 230. The second case is Twitter v. Taamneh, which questions when platforms are legally responsible for supp...
Control After COVID
January 20, 2023 04:15 - 20 minutes - 27.8 MBHow do you enforce control in a post-COVID world? On the Blackletter podcast this week, host Tom Dunlap is joined by Marc Nichols, the Chief Counsel for the Federal Aviation Administration. In this second part of the three-segment interview, Marc and Tom discuss the challenges that Marc faced as a federal workforce leader in the aftermath of COVID-19. As a senior executive and manager to many employees, Marc struggled with enforcing in-office work to ensure smooth collaboration and safety i...