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Season 2, Episode 12: Protecting Your Ideas with Kristen Pursley, President of Dobrusin Law

In this episode, we sit down with Kristen Pursley, President of Dobrusin IP Law, a women-owned intellectual property boutique firm based in Pontiac, Michigan. Kristen specializes in helping innovators, founders, and growing companies protect what they create — from patents and trademarks to copyright strategy and tech transfer guidance.

We talk about:

• Why every business — no matter the size — should think about intellectual property early
• The key differences between patents, trademarks, and copyrights (in plain language)
• Common mistakes entrepreneurs make when DIY-ing IP (and how to avoid them)
• How strong IP strategy can make you more attractive to angel and venture investors
• Practical, budget-friendly steps founders can take right now to start protecting their work

Whether you're launching your first product, scaling a startup, or preparing to pitch investors — this conversation will help you think smarter about protecting your value and your vision.

#EntrepreneurLikeMe #DobrusinLaw #KristenPursley #IntellectualProperty #ProtectYourIdeas #SmallBusinessSupport #GreatLakesBay

Sponsored by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) – Make it in Michigan with the support of a robust partner network designed to help entrepreneurs succeed. Learn more at michiganbusiness.org.

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the ELM Podcast!

If you enjoyed this episode be sure to subscribe for more inspiring conversations with entrepreneurs and business leaders.

Connect with us:

• Follow us on Instagram: @cmuresearchcorp
• Visit our website: www.cmurc.com/elm

Don't forget to leave us a review and share this episode with your friends. Stay tuned for our next episode where we continue to explore the journeys of extraordinary individuals in the world of business and innovation. Until next time, keep exploring, learning, and making an impact!

Send us a text

Sponsored by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) – Make it in Michigan with the support of a robust partner network designed to help entrepreneurs succeed. Learn more at michiganbusiness.org.

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the ELM Podcast!

If you enjoyed this episode be sure to subscribe for more inspiring conversations with entrepreneurs and business leaders.

Connect with us:

• Follow us on Instagram: @cmuresearchcorp
• Visit our website: www.cmurc.com/elm

Don't forget to leave us a review and share this episode with your friends. Stay tuned for our next episode where we continue to explore the journeys of extraordinary individuals in the world of business and innovation. Until next time, keep exploring, learning, and making an impact!

Send us a text

Marcus Martin – Building Communities Through Access to Capital

In this episode of the Entrepreneur Like Me Podcast, Courtney sits down with Marcus Martin, Community Development Manager at Lake Trust Credit Union, to talk about how financial institutions can do more than just provide banking—they can transform lives and fuel entrepreneurship.

Marcus shares insights on:

• The importance of financial inclusion for small business owners
• Programs and lending resources Lake Trust offers entrepreneurs
• Common barriers to accessing capital—and how to overcome them
• Why building trust and relationships matters as much as funding
• How partnerships with community organizations help create long-term impact

With years of experience bridging finance and community development, Marcus brings practical tips and an inspiring perspective for entrepreneurs looking to grow and scale.

🎧 Tune in for a conversation about capital, community, and the power of access.

Sponsored by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) – Make it in Michigan with the support of a robust partner network designed to help entrepreneurs succeed. Learn more at michiganbusiness.org.

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the ELM Podcast!

If you enjoyed this episode be sure to subscribe for more inspiring conversations with entrepreneurs and business leaders.

Connect with us:

• Follow us on Instagram: @cmuresearchcorp
• Visit our website: www.cmurc.com/elm

Don't forget to leave us a review and share this episode with your friends. Stay tuned for our next episode where we continue to explore the journeys of extraordinary individuals in the world of business and innovation. Until next time, keep exploring, learning, and making an impact!