Intangify

What happens when a Brooklyn kid with an economics degree, a love of cooking, and a knack for technology helps create one of the biggest entertainment networks in the world—and doesn’t stop there? In this globe-spanning episode of Intangify, host Matthew Asbell sits down with Larry Namer, co-founder of E! Entertainment Network and author of Off Script: Recipes for Success Never Follow the Crowd.Larry shares the unexpected, often hilarious, and always enlightening chapters of his multi-decade career—from underground cable splicing in Manhattan to media reform in Russia and China. Along the way, he’s built global empires and sparked cross-cultural entertainment revolutions.In this episode, you’ll hear:How Larry’s accidental start in cable TV led to co-founding E! with just $2.5 million and a team of internsWhy thinking “off script” fueled his success from tech consulting to global TV expansionWild tales of bringing Western pop culture to post-Soviet Russia, including dancing over the graves of czars with David BowieThe birth of a Chinese media company—and how cultural empathy (and killer egg rolls) opened doors where others failedA candid take on AI’s role in media today, and why Larry believes it’s a gift—not a threat—to creativity and storytellingWhat it means to pair life’s stories with the food that defines them—and why Off Script is equal parts memoir and cookbookLarry’s approach is proof that legacy is about more than success—it's about reinvention, trust, humor, and saying yes to the unfamiliar.🔗 Grab Larry’s book: Off Script: Recipes for Success Never Follow the Crowd on Amazon🎥 Follow his latest ventures at https://www.fashnclub.com/

What drives a first-generation immigrant with no college degree and no legal status to build a luxury brand from scratch—and sell it to Procter & Gamble in under 15 years?In this episode of Intangify, host Matthew Asbell sits down with Eric Malka, co-founder of The Art of Shaving and founder of Strategic Brand Investments. From humble beginnings to a $100M+ exit, Eric shares the real story behind his entrepreneurial journey—including failure, resilience, and the intangible forces that build lasting brands.Now an investor and mentor to founders in luxury, beauty, and men’s grooming, Eric offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how success is made—and protected.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why his biggest failure became the key to his breakout successHow a $12K car sale and a chip on his shoulder launched The Art of ShavingThe critical role of culture, grit, and brand DNA in scaling and selling a companyWhy IP and intangible assets were the real value in the P&G acquisitionEric’s investment philosophy—and how he now “coaches from the owner’s box”🔗 Learn more about Eric’s ventures: StrategicBrandInvestments.com 📘 Read his memoir: On the Razor’s Edge: The Story of The Art of Shaving 📍Featured brand: Barberino’s NYC

Can hype be engineered? Author, speaker, and founder of MicroFame Media, Michael F. Schein joins Intangify host Matthew Asbell for a provocative discussion on the power—and peril—of hype. Drawing from his book The Hype Handbook and decades of experience working with thought leaders and companies, Michael unpacks how strategic emotional triggers can catapult a brand or idea to mass attention.They also explore the role of intellectual property in storytelling, how to protect big ideas once they catch fire, and why creators often struggle to balance authenticity with influence.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why hype works—and what makes it ethical or dangerousThe overlap between psychology, marketing, and intellectual propertyThe biggest mistakes experts make when trying to get noticedReal-world examples of “hype artists” throughout historyLegal insight on protecting intangible assets in a media-saturated world🔗 Learn more about Michael: michaelfschein.com 📘 Grab The Hype Handbook: on AmazonMichael F. Schein pulls back the curtain on what makes people pay attention. If you want to build buzz without selling your soul, this episode lays out the blueprint.

What does it take to turn a small boutique into a media platform and trusted fashion brand? In this episode of Intangify, host Matthew Asbell sits down with Dawn Del Russo—fashion expert, QVC brand rep, and founder of Live the Glamour. Dawn shares her journey from running Bella Dawn boutique to becoming a go-to TV style contributor, and why staying true to your brand values matters more than chasing trends.In this episode, you’ll hear:How one local TV segment launched a long-standing media careerThe pivot from boutique owner to brand-builder and national style expertWhy Live the Glamour refuses pay-to-play to spotlight authentic brandsPractical advice for aligning your business with your personal brandHow to approach trademarks and partnerships with confidenceDawn Del Russo proves that authenticity never goes out of style. From boutique beginnings to national TV, she’s built a brand rooted in trust, passion, and a commitment to showcasing real talent—without compromise.🔗 livetheglamour.com📱 Instagram: @dawndelrusso

What exactly is brand licensing—and why is it so often misunderstood? In this special episode of Intangify, host Matthew Asbell teams up with IP attorney Dave Johnson to welcome licensing veterans Steven Ekstract and Stu Seltzer, co-authors of Brand Licensing for Dummies.With decades of experience between them, Steven and Stu break down the business of licensing: what works, what doesn't, and what every entrepreneur, manufacturer, or brand owner needs to know before jumping in. From global partnerships to startup strategy, this conversation is a practical guide for navigating the complex but rewarding world of licensing.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why licensing is a marketing tool, not just a legal contractWhat makes a brand “license-ready”—and when it’s too soon to tryHow licensing can unlock massive growth through strategic partnershipsCommon mistakes that cost brands time, money, and trustWhy professional legal and licensing guidance pays for itself🎧 Get the book: Brand Licensing for Dummies🌐 More from the guests: seltzerlicensing.com | entertainmentxtracks.com

What if marketing wasn’t something you do, but something you are? In this energizing episode of Intangify, host Matthew Asbell—trademark attorney and champion of intangible value—sits down with Margarita Eberline, founder of Marketing Boss and host of the Care Sandwich podcast.Together, they unpack how marketing, sales, and networking aren’t dirty words—they’re misunderstood forms of relationship-building and service. With candid stories, cultural insights, and practical frameworks, Margarita reveals how charisma, trust, and alignment drive business success beyond any funnel or strategy.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why marketing is never optional—you're always doing it, even when you think you’re notThe real difference between manipulation and alignment, and how to sell without “selling”How to handle objections, ghosting, and hesitation using Margarita’s Connect Convert methodWhy charisma is an intangible asset—and how trust is built through energy, empathy, and authenticityA bold conversation on culture, identity, and what it really takes to build trust across differenceWith decades of cross-industry experience and a data-backed approach to sales psychology, Margarita brings both heart and strategy to how we show up in business. Whether you're a law firm owner, service professional, or someone who hates “sales,” this episode will shift how you see your role in connecting and serving.🔗 Learn more at marketing-boss.com 🎙 Listen to her podcast: caresandwichpodcast.com 📘 Find Connect Convert on Amazon

How do you protect what you can’t see or touch? In this compelling episode of Intangify, host Matthew Asbell—intellectual property attorney and advocate for the unseen value behind innovation—sits down with Adam Torres, co-founder of Mission Matters and a prolific creator who has hosted over 6,000 podcast episodes and helped launch countless others.Together, they explore podcasting not just as a marketing channel, but as an enduring form of legacy, branding, and intellectual property.In this episode, you’ll hear:How Adam’s personal story and entrepreneurial path led from Money Matters to the mission-driven platform Mission MattersWhy podcasting is more than just content—it's a vessel for memory, legacy, and lasting impactMatthew’s expert insights into trademark law, ownership pitfalls, and AI-related IP issues that every podcaster and brand builder should understandReal-life legal lessons from Adam’s journey—how one IP misstep nearly jeopardized years of content and brand equityA candid conversation on how to protect your creative work, from names and logos to intros and guest contentAs a seasoned IP lawyer, Matthew Asbell brings a sharp and thoughtful perspective, guiding creators through the often-overlooked legal landscape of intangible assets—especially in a digital, AI-enhanced age.If you care about your brand, your voice, and your story, this episode is your blueprint for protecting what truly matters.🔗 Follow Adam Torres on Instagram:@AskAdamTorres

EPISODE SUMMARY:An understanding of risks and opportunities for entrepreneurs and small businesses arising from generative AIIn this episode of Intangify, my guest Maurice Bretzfield will discuss the exciting prospects and opportunities in generative AIfor entrepreneurs, startups and small businesses, and some of the associated risks in using it and in not using it!Visit:https://mauricebretzfield.com/

EPISODE SUMMARY:We will address aspects of messaging and storytelling including:What should your message be?Not just what you say, but how you say itRestrictions can facilitate creativityFinding the right voiceThe impact of Artificial Intelligence on storytellingIn this episode of Intangify, my guest is Laurence Shanet, an award-winning director, writer, and creative director of films, television and web-based video advertisements, as well as an author and ghost-writer of technical thought leadership articles. We will discuss messaging and storytelling, and the state of creativity in 2023, including 1) what should your message be?; 2) not just what you say, but how you say it; 3) how restrictions can facilitate creativity; 4) finding the right voice; and 5) the impact of Artificial Intelligence.Visit:https://www.laurenceshanet.com/

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?When launching or growing a successful health-tech or fin-tech business, what are the intangibles that make a difference? How do innovation and intangibles impact the future of healthcare?EPISODE SUMMARY:Starting and growing a successful health-tech or fintech venture requires an understanding of the landscape and the problem to be solved, development of an innovative product or service that elegantly meets the need, identifying partners and building a team over time, and numerous other intangibles. My guest Chris Ellis discusses Thatch, an all-in-one platform for employers to offer the most personalized healthcare experience to employees. Chris will be joined by my health correspondent, Frank R. Harrison, the host of Frank About Health, following Chris' recent appearance on that podcast, for a look at the Thatch venture from a different perspective - the intangible aspects of a health-tech or fin-tech business and how they drive the future of healthcare.Visit:www.thatchhealth.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-ellis-13867358/

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?Understanding of the impact of changes in law on business decisions.EPISODE SUMMARY:Laura Winston discusses her seemingly varied background as a trademark attorney, professor, and amateur glassblower. We consider the ebb and flow of law and its impact on business decisions.Visit:https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurawinstonhttps://offitkurman.com/attorney/laura-winston/

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?Take a moment to consider your health, that of your coworkers, customers, vendor representatives, and their and your respective businesses. Health is a precursor to creativity and sometimes the inspiration behind it. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion of how health plays a role in innovation and impacts the bottom line for an entrepreneur.EPISODE SUMMARY:This episode of INTANGIFY follows on a cross-over show in which host Matthew Asbell appeared as a guest on FRANK ABOUT HEALTH on June 8, 2023, 5 pm to discuss the impact of intellectual property on health. We will be joined by Frank R. Harrison, the host of FRANK ABOUT HEALTH, to discuss personal, societal, financial, business and possibly even intellectual property health, health advocacy, succession planning and the impact of health on innovation and creativity. Health is a necessary precursor to innovation, but sometimes is also the inspiration behind it.Visit:http://frankrharrison.comhttps://www.talkradio.nyc/hosts/frank-r-harrisonhttps://health-e-media.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankrharrison/

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?An understanding of how communication works or should work, and how and why it sometimes breaks down.EPISODE SUMMARY:In this episode of Intangify, my guest Tony Gerdes, Director of Knowledge and Innovation at my firm, explains the mechanics of communication and how it can break down.Visit:http://linkedin.com/in/tonygerdes

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?Innovation and invention are often the driving force behind entrepreneurship, but obtaining exclusive rights in that creation under a patent is often considered too late or too expensive. Listeners will learn how to navigate the U.S. (and global) patent process in a manner aligned with their business plan and budget.EPISODE SUMMARY:Innovation and invention are often the driving force behind entrepreneurship, but obtaining exclusive rights in that creation under a patent is often considered too late or too expensive. My guest, Chintan Desai, and I as registered patent attorneys will discuss the U.S. (and global) patent process and ways that entrepreneurs can and should make patenting part of their business plan and budget.Visit:https://offitkurman.com/attorney/chintan-desai/

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?Listeners will learn how an entrepreneur went about identifying an underserved niche market and reinventing herself. The story of Forgotten Skincare will inspire entrepreneurial listeners in their own journeys.EPISODE SUMMARY:Alex Pottash went from being a pharmaceutical marketer to an entrepreneur when she identified an underserved market, people who have skin discolorations or irritations in regions of the body that are often ignored or uncomfortable to discuss. And so was born FORGOTTEN SKINCARE, a line of skincare products intended specifically for underarms, inner thighs and the like. On this episode of INTANGIFY, we'll talk with Alex about her "rebirth" as an entrepreneur, the beginnings of FORGOTTEN SKINCARE, and its future.Visit:https://forgottenskincare.com/

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?Attendees will learn about useful techniques to find inspiration, unleash creativity, think beyond tbe box, and solve their business problems in innovative ways.EPISODE SUMMARY:This episode of Intangify features my guest, Camila Kaul of Just a Scribble, who uses her neuropsychological training to consult with businesses on issues of creative problem solving and ideation.Visit:https://www.linkedin.com/in/camilakaulhttps://www.justasquiggle.com/

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?Hear from an established expert that advises new start-ups in the ideation phase and more established start-ups on building to scale. As your company grows, how does your attitude and approach toward risks need to change?EPISODE SUMMARY:In this episode, our guest Vince Cogan will talk about his experiences working in companies including SVB, Stripe, and Brex, and how he applies them in advising new and established startups in their approach to risk. We will discuss product-market fit, building to scale, and generally how advising start-ups is not unlike raising children - you can try to protect them from danger, but sometimes you have to let them make mistakes.Visit:https://www.linkedin.com/in/vincecogan/

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?Perspectives on environmental sustainability in businessEPISODE SUMMARY:Diane Artal is the legal director of Scale Microgrids, and Matthew Karmel is an environmental lawyer who serves as outside counsel. My guests discuss sustainability in business.Visit:https://www.scalemicrogrids.com/https://offitkurman.com/attorney/matthew-karmel/‍https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianeartal/https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-karmel-sustainability/

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?What is the message of your brand? Who are your target consumers? How should you best deliver your message to them?EPISODE SUMMARY:My guest, Jennifer Shaheen, is a masterful online marketer, who routinely helps small and mid-sized businesses to identify and reach their target audiences. We will discuss the intangible assets of branding and messaging and how they are best delivered to target audiences.Visit:https://technologytherapy.com/,https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifershaheen/

WHAT WILL THE AUDIENCE LEARN?These days, selling products beyond U.S. borders is just a click away on Amazon, and the internet provides easy access to foreign consumers of goods and services. Listeners will hear directly from attorneys in Canada and Mexico about the risks and opportunities available to them in those countries.EPISODE SUMMARY:These days, selling products beyond U.S. borders is just a click away on Amazon, and the internet provides easy access to foreign consumers of goods and services. As women's history month comes to a close, my guests, Selena Altro and Gloria Niembro, two amazing women leaders and attorneys in Canada and Mexico respectively, discuss the risks and opportunities available to businesses expanding into those countries.Visit:https://www.linkedin.com/in/selena-altro-0668272/https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloria-niembro/https://www.saltro.com/https://www.chevez.com/En/Profile/57