Trademark Trouble, Copyright Pitfalls & First Page Feedback

n this Ask Beth & Lisa episode of Writers With Wrinkles, cohosts Beth McMullen and Lisa Schmid open up about their latest writing challenges while tackling some urgent industry issues. From overlooked copyrights and AI lawsuits to trademark use in fiction, they offer practical advice and introduce exciting new opportunities for listeners.

Guest Bio

No guest this week—just cohosts and authors Beth McMullen (Mrs. Smith’s Spy School for Girls, Lola Benko Treasure Hunter, Secret of the Storm) and Lisa Schmid (Ollie Oxley and the Ghost). With years of publishing experience between them, Beth and Lisa deliver candid, real-world insights on the writing life.

Key Discussion Points

Writing Updates: Shifting Genres and Wrestling Revisions
Lisa reveals she’s making the leap from middle grade to cozy mysteries, a shift that comes with new challenges in voice, point of view, and pacing. Beth shares the highs and lows of revising her dark psychological thriller, reflecting on how switching perspectives forces her to stretch her craft. Both discuss the anxieties and growth that come with tackling unfamiliar territory.

Copyright Oversight and AI Lawsuits
One of the hottest issues in publishing right now is AI and copyright. Lisa shares a cautionary tale of a fellow author whose publisher failed to properly register her copyrights. The shocking discovery left the author footing the bill to correct mistakes—a reminder that writers must verify that their works are registered, even if they assume their publisher handled it. Beth emphasizes the importance of checking your status and notes that a copyright lookup resource is mentioned in the show notes.

Trademark Use in Fiction: What’s Allowed
Beth dives into the do’s and don’ts of trademark usage for authors. Neutral product mentions like “she grabbed a Coke” or “he laced up his Nikes” are generally safe. However, tying real brands to negative associations—like crime, disease, or scandal—is a legal red flag. For situations where a brand must carry negative or unusual connotations, authors should create a fictional stand-in. Publishers often err on the side of caution, but writers have grounds to push back when product mentions are neutral and add authentic detail to a scene.

First Page Feedback Opportunity
Beth and Lisa introduce First Page Feedback, a new feature of the show. Listeners can anonymously submit the first 350 words of their work-in-progress for on-air critique focused on craft, clarity, and hook. Accepted formats include picture books, middle grade, YA, and adult fiction. Submission details are available on the Writers With Wrinkles website.

Upcoming Retreat
The hosts also tease plans for a low-pressure Writers With Wrinkles and Wine retreat. Designed for community, craft, and connection, the event promises a chance to meet like-minded writers in a supportive, inspiring setting. Hints include a venue with a “Mark Twain Room”—a fitting nod to literary history.

Next Episode Preview
Looking ahead, literary agent Leslie Zampetti returns to discuss red flags in author-agent relationships and what makes those partnerships thrive. Writers in the query trenches won’t want to miss it.

Conclusion and Takeaways

This episode offers a blend of practical advice and personal storytelling. Writers are reminded to double-check their copyright registrations, understand the nuances of using trademarks in their work, and embrace opportunities for growth—whether by exploring new genres or submitting a first page for feedback. The upcoming retreat highlights the importance of community, while the preview of next week’s guest ensures more insider publishing wisdom to come.

For full details on First Page Feedback, visit the Writers With Wrinkles website, and don’t forget to sign up for the newsletter. If you enjoy the show, please rate and review wherever you listen—it helps the podcast reach more writers.