Firm for the Culture

This past Saturday, I had the privilege of attending the Music Business Seminar at the African American Art & Culture Complex, organized by California Lawyers for the Arts. . It wasn't just another event—it was a vibrant exchange of ideas and a reminder of why continuous learning is our greatest asset. . Throughout the day, I dived deep into discussions about streaming revenue models, royalties, and the evolving impact of streaming on master rights. . Every session sparked fresh insights and reinforced a key truth: protecting creative legacies through intellectual property is more critical than ever. . What truly energized me, though, was connecting with fellow professionals and artists who share a passion for innovation and support for creators. . Their stories, experiences, and drive reminded me that our industry is as dynamic as the music it produces—and that staying curious and informed is essential. . I'm grateful for the opportunity to grow, to learn, and to be part of a community that isn't afraid to challenge the status quo. . Let's keep pushing boundaries, asking questions, and empowering each other. . #ForTheCulture . #IAmWhatATrademarkAttorneyLooksLike . #Trademarks #Copyrights #LicensesForSocialImpact . #LetsPlayBig . #SocialImpact . #Blessed ——— Hey y'all, I'm Ruky— a Brooklyn-bred, Berkeley-trained, Big Law girlie who loves the Culture so much that I started Firm for the Culture to help ambitious founders and thought leaders leverage, monetize, and protect their intellectual property. Like for real, y'all keep me going. ???????? ——— If you're interested in scaling your brand through trademark, copyright, or licensing, let's work together: https://lnkd.in/gmAZtvSp ——— To Join Our Free Founders Community for Social Impact, Click Here: https://fftc.substack.com

Yesterday was a good day. . It started with advising a Black woman engineer on negotiating with opposing counsel for her business. . Then came a sales call with a Midwest-based Black woman doing the political work our country urgently needs. . Next? A strategy session with a Bay Area-based Black woman building a dynamic program for young women of color—making sure they know they matter. We're crafting her licensing, trademark, and copyright strategy to protect her impact. . Lunch? That was supposed to happen… but instead, I wrapped up final edits on a Master Services Agreement for one of my faves—an East Coast-based Asian woman whose social impact consulting is changing the game. . Somewhere between filing trademark responses, celebrating wins, and strategizing with more brilliant clients, I had the kind of conversations that reaffirmed why this work matters. . Why we matter. . Yesterday reminded me of something powerful: By using my “big law” skills to help ambitious and diverse founders leverage, protect, and monetize their IP… . ? I am building the law firm of my dreams. ? I am what an IP attorney looks like. ? And this is what it means to protect the visions of those changing the world. . Welcome to Firm for the Culture. . #ForTheCulture . #IAmWhatATrademarkAttorneyLooksLike . #Trademarks #Copyrights #LicensesForSocialImpact . #LetsPlayBig . #SocialImpact . #Blessed ——— Hey y'all, I'm Ruky— a Brooklyn-bred, Berkeley-trained, Big Law girlie who loves the Culture so much that I started Firm for the Culture to help ambitious founders and thought leaders leverage, monetize, and protect their intellectual property. Like for real, y'all keep me going. ???????? ——— If you're interested in scaling your brand through trademark, copyright, or licensing, let's work together: https://lnkd.in/gmAZtvSp ——— To Join Our Free Founders Community for Social Impact, Click Here: https://fftc.substack.com

Your Side Hustle Might Not Be Yours—Here's Why . Balancing a full-time job with a personal business is already challenging—but have you ever considered that your employer might have legal claims over your side hustle? . As an IP attorney and entrepreneur, I've seen far too many creatives and founders unknowingly risk their intellectual property by building their dreams on company time. . Protecting your ideas starts with understanding your rights: ? Create on Your Own Time – Keep your side hustle separate from work hours. ? Avoid Using Company Resources – Even a company laptop could blur the lines of ownership. ? Read Your Employment Contract – The fine print matters when it comes to protecting your innovations. . ?? Are you building something outside of your 9-to-5? Let's talk about how to safeguard what's yours. . #ForTheCulture . #IAmWhatATrademarkAttorneyLooksLike . #Trademarks #Copyrights #LicensesForSocialImpact . #LetsPlayBig . #SocialImpact . #Blessed ——— If you're interested in scaling your brand through trademark, copyright, or licensing, let's work together: https://lnkd.in/gxq-Hf9t ——— To Join Our Free Founders Community for Social Impact, Click Here: https://fftc.substack.com/

How you show up every day starts with how you feel about yourself. . It's not just about the clothes you wear—it's about what they represent. . Your outfit is a reflection of your mindset, your ambition, and how you choose to face the world. . I believe in dressing in a way that aligns with your goals and shows up for the life you want to create. . When I look in the mirror, I don't just see the clothes I've picked—I see the professional I'm becoming, the impact I'm making, and the growth I'm committed to. . Confidence isn't something that's given to you. . It's something you build, moment by moment, decision by decision. . The right outfit doesn't just change how others see you, it changes how you see yourself. . The way you dress isn't just about looking good—it's about feeling powerful enough to tackle whatever comes your way. . And when you feel good, you show up as your best self, ready to make things happen. . So, take that mirror selfie. Wear the clothes that make you feel unstoppable. . It's not just about looking the part—it's about owning it. . #ForTheCulture . #IAmWhatATrademarkAttorneyLooksLike . #Trademarks #Copyrights #LicensesForSocialImpact . #LetsPlayBig . #SocialImpact . #Blessed —— If you're interested in scaling your brand through trademark, copyright, or licensing, let's work together: https://lnkd.in/gmAZtvSp —— To Join Our Free Founders Community for Social Impact, Click Here: https://fftc.substack.com

Entrepreneurship thrives in community. . Too often, founders believe they have to navigate the journey alone—but the truth is, growth happens when we lean on the right people. . As a full-time entrepreneur, I've seen firsthand the power of connection. . The communities I've joined and the relationships I've built have been game-changers, providing the tools, insight, and support needed to scale impact. . That's why at Firm for the Culture, we create spaces for founders to learn, connect, and grow together. . If you're an FFTC client, join our co-working sessions—because productivity and progress are better when shared. . And if you're ready to protect your brand through trademarks, copyrights, or licensing, let's talk! . #ForTheCulture . #IAmWhatATrademarkAttorneyLooksLike . #Trademarks . #Copyrights . #LicensesForSocialImpact . #LetsPlayBig . #SocialImpact . #Blessed ——— Hey y'all, I'm Ruky— a Brooklyn-bred, Berkeley-trained, Big Law girlie who loves the Culture so much that I started Firm for the Culture to help ambitious founders and thought leaders leverage, monetize, and protect their intellectual property. Like for real, y'all keep me going. ——— If you're interested in scaling your brand through? trademark, copyright, or licensing, let's work together:?https://lnkd.in/gxq-Hf9t ——— To Join Our Free Founders Community for Social Impact and Thought Leadership, click here:?https://fftc.substack.com/

Sometimes, the best way to find clarity is to pause and be present. . This week is the anniversary of my doggie Casper's "gotcha" day; the day I decided to fully take him on as my adopted pup. . As I sit here with my dog, I'm reminded that the small moments matter just as much as the big ones. . It's easy to get lost in the chaos of everyday life, but we need to take a step back every now and then to truly appreciate what's around us—whether it's a simple walk, a moment of silence, or just sharing time with those who matter most. . It's not about achieving more, doing more, or being everywhere. . It's about finding balance in the chaos and remembering what you're working for in the first place. . Don't let life slip by in a blur. . Slow down, appreciate the little things, and make sure that when you look back, you're proud of both the journey and the moments you chose to embrace. . #ForTheCulture . #IAmWhatATrademarkAttorneyLooksLike . #Trademarks #Copyrights #LicensesForSocialImpact . #LetsPlayBig . #SocialImpact . #Blessed —— If you're interested in scaling your brand through trademark, copyright, or licensing, let's work together: https://lnkd.in/gmAZtvSp —— To Join Our Free Founders Community for Social Impact, Click Here: https://fftc.substack.com

Branding isn't just about a logo—it's about owning your space in people's minds. . Think about Apple. If someone says, “I just bought an Apple,” you're not picturing fruit. You're thinking MacBooks, iPhones, and cutting-edge tech. . That's no accident. Apple has built an unshakable connection between its name and innovation. . And because of that, the USPTO protects it with trademarks that secure its identity. . Your brand should do the same. It should tell a story so clear, so compelling, that it doesn't need an introduction. . So here's the challenge: When someone hears your brand's name, does it spark instant recognition? . Does it stand for something bigger than just a product or service? . If not, it's time to build that connection—because the most powerful brands don't just exist, they own their space. . Tell me in the comments—what's one way you're making your brand impossible to ignore? . #ForTheCulture . #IAmWhatATrademarkAttorneyLooksLike . #Trademarks . #Copyrights . #LicensesForSocialImpact . #LetsPlayBig . #SocialImpact . #Blessed ————— If you're interested in scaling your brand through trademark, copyright, or licensing, let's work together: https://lnkd.in/gxq-Hf9t ————— To Join Our Free Founders Community for Social Impact, Click Here: https://fftc.substack.com

Too often, Black professionals, entrepreneurs, and creatives are expected to show up as unshakable, no matter what's happening behind the scenes. . The pressure to be twice as good, to never show weakness, to keep going even when you're running on empty—it's exhausting. . The truth is, we're human. We carry a lot, and sometimes, it's too much. And that's okay. . Rest doesn't mean retreat. Seeking support isn't surrender. . Protecting your mental health isn't optional—it's the foundation of everything you're building. . Let's create space for honesty. For rest. For healing. For real conversations about the struggles we don't always say out loud. . If no one has told you today: You are enough. As you are. Right now. . You don't have to earn rest. . You don't have to prove your worth. . You deserve to take up space, to heal, and to prioritize yourself—because you matter. . #ForTheCulture . #IAmWhatATrademarkAttorneyLooksLike . #Trademarks #Copyrights #LicensesForSocialImpact . #LetsPlayBig . #SocialImpact . #Blessed —— If you're interested in scaling your brand through trademark, copyright, or licensing, let's work together: https://lnkd.in/gmAZtvSp —— To Join Our Free Founders Community for Social Impact, Click Here: https://fftc.substack.com

The weight of representation can be heavy at times, I concede. But over time, it became a privilege I carry with intention. Leading the Summer Externship Series at the courthouse meant expanding access, fostering mentorship, and ensuring that leadership reflects the people it serves. As the only Black person in the Eastern District clerkships, I understood the responsibility. Presence is more than being in the room—it's about creating space, amplifying voices, and making sure those who follow don't feel alone. Watching summer externs from top universities walk through those courthouse doors and see leadership that reflected them was powerful. They didn't have to wonder if they belonged. They knew. The legal field is demanding, but purpose makes the work worth it. Representation matters. Leadership requires action. Showing up makes a difference. Because I am what a lawyer looks like. #ForTheCulture ————— Hey y'all, I'm Ruky— a Brooklyn-bred, Berkeley-trained, Big Law girlie who loves the Culture so much that I started Firm for the Culture to help ambitious founders and thought leaders leverage, monetize, and protect their intellectual property. Like for real, y'all keep me going. ————— To Join Our Free Founders Community for Social Impact and Thought Leadership, click here: https://fftc.substack.com/ ————— Ready to scale your brand with trademarks, copyrights, or licensing? Let's build your legacy together: https://lnkd.in/gxq-Hf9t

Rest is productive. Read that again. . Ever looked at your to-do list and felt like it was never-ending? . Same. . Deadlines pile up, emails flood in, and the pressure to keep going doesn't stop. . But here's the truth: Rest isn't slacking off. It's what keeps you sharp, creative, and actually able to do your best work. . When you take a break, the world doesn't fall apart. Your work will still be there. . The difference? You'll come back with the energy and clarity to handle it like the rockstar you are. . So, if you've been running on empty, this is your reminder: Step away. Recharge. . Your best work happens when you're at your best. . You don't need to earn rest—you already deserve it. . Also, can we talk about this beach outfit? This violet top is pure calm and cozy vibes—exactly the energy we need when we finally take that well-earned break. . #ForTheCulture . #IAmWhatATrademarkAttorneyLooksLike . #Trademarks #Copyrights #LicensesForSocialImpact . #LetsPlayBig . #SocialImpact . #Blessed —— If you're interested in scaling your brand through trademark, copyright, or licensing, let's work together: https://lnkd.in/gmAZtvSp —— To Join Our Free Founders Community for Social Impact, Click Here: https://fftc.substack.com