Episode 54: Does Kindle's Ask This Book Feature Present an IP Risk?

Episode Title:The Smart Publishing Impact Series – Episode 54: Does Kindle's Ask This Book Feature Present an IP Risk?Episode Summary:AI is moving fast—but the law isn’t.In Episode 54, Renée Lautermilch, Chief Editor at Smart Publishing, brings on two intellectual property attorneys to break down one of the most controversial developments in publishing today: Amazon Kindle’s “Ask This Book” feature.Joined by Michael J. Poropat and Travis J. Stockman, this conversation goes beyond surface-level concerns and dives deep into the legal gray areas surrounding AI, copyright, and author rights. From derivative works and consent to AI-generated content and ownership, this episode unpacks what authors actually need to understand as technology continues to evolve faster than regulation.If you’ve been wondering whether AI is helping—or quietly undermining—authors, this episode gives you the legal perspective you won’t hear anywhere else.What You’ll Hear:What Kindle’s “Ask This Book” feature does—and why it’s controversialThe legal difference between search vs. derivative workWhy lack of author consent is a growing concernHow AI-generated answers could misrepresent your contentWhether AI training on books qualifies as fair useThe risks of AI replacing the reading experienceWhy transparency (or lack of it) is a major issueThe legal implications of using AI to write your bookWhy AI-generated content may not be copyright-protectableThe difference between AI-assisted vs. AI-generated workHow authors can think about protecting their intellectual property moving forwardQuote to Remember:“You can’t protect what you didn’t create—and AI is changing what creation even means.”Guests Featured in This Episode:Michael J. Poropat, Esq. – Intellectual Property AttorneyTravis J. Stockman, Esq.– Business & Intellectual Property AttorneyMentioned in This Episode:Amazon Kindle (KDP platform)smartpublishingservices.com – publishing education and resourcesConnect with Renée Lautermilch on Facebook – she’s the only one in the worldEmail: [email protected] Next:A new chapter for the podcast—Jonathan joins as a recurring co-host, bringing deeper insights into marketing, business development, and long-term book strategy.