The Riley Black Project

Hosted by Riley Black

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265

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Jun 2026

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About the show

Where we talk about lasers, life and all the ish in between!

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60 recent

June 16, 2026Episode 2641 hr 14 min

This Episode Got Spicy FAST: Masks, Lasers & Legal Drama

Send us Fan MailShe showed up wearing a mask...And somehow things got MORE chaotic from there. 😂In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we're joined by none other than Emily That Mom with a Laser for a conversation that starts with Laser Maker Con 2025 and quickly turns into entrepreneurship, burnout, creativity, health, ADHD, community, and one of the wildest stories we've heard in the maker space.We dive into:🔥 Everything you need to know about Laser Maker Con 2025🔥 The incredible speakers, classes, giveaways, and new features coming this year🔥 Why saying "yes" to everything can hurt your business and your health🔥 Entrepreneurship, stress, burnout, and learning to slow down🔥 ADHD, procrastination, and why some creators work best under pressure🔥 Building a successful maker business without sacrificing yourself🔥 The evolution of the laser community over the last five years🔥 Hat engraving, Etsy growth, Pinterest marketing, and creative business strategies🔥 Massive Laser Maker Con giveaways including lasers and a UV printer🔥 The shocking story behind "That Mom With A Laser" and a years-long legal battle over her brandWhether you're a laser owner, maker, content creator, or small business owner, this episode is packed with laughs, lessons, and a little bit of tea.Support the showIf you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProjectCheck out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack

June 8, 2026Episode 26346 min

How Makers Can Create Better Content

Send us Fan MailWant better content without spending hours editing, stressing over algorithms, or trying to go viral?In this special compilation episode of The Riley Black Project, we're bringing together two incredible conversations from Facebook Live appearances with Emily (That Mom With A Laser) and Will (Crazy Laser Dad).The focus?Content creation that actually works for makers and small business owners.As part of the launch of the new Content Creation Playbook Mini Course, we dive into the biggest mistakes makers make with content, why consistency beats perfection, and how to create videos that attract customers instead of just views.In this episode we discuss:✅ Why most makers overcomplicate content creation✅ The biggest content mistakes hurting business growth✅ How to create content even when you're busy✅ Why authenticity beats polished production✅ Building trust through video contentWhether you're a laser owner, maker, crafter, UV printer, woodworker, or small business owner, this episode is packed with practical advice you can start using immediately.The Riley Black Project is where makers, creators, and entrepreneurs come together to talk business, creativity, content, and community. Check out the Content Creation Playbook Mini Course and start building content with purpose: https://stan.store/RileyBlackStudios/p/rbs-content-playbookSupport the showIf you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProjectCheck out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack

June 8, 2026Episode 2621 hr 4 min

From Car Accident to Jamboree in 48 Hours

Send us Fan MailLife hit HARD this week.In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal finally sit down after a whirlwind couple of weeks involving a totaled car, injuries, family loss, traveling to Virginia for Jamboree, teaching content creation classes, and somehow still trying to keep business moving forward.This episode gets real.We talk about:• Crystal’s car accident and recovery• Navigating grief, stress, and entrepreneurship at the same time• The emotional side of running a business during hard seasons• Jamboree 2026 recap and teaching content creation workshops• Why the laser community feels like family• AP LazerCon prep and upcoming eventsWe also talk maker events, laser business growth, content strategy, teaching creators, and the behind-the-scenes reality nobody talks about online.Support the showIf you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProjectCheck out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack

May 18, 2026Episode 2611 hr 0 min

Why Next Level Is No Longer Just a Laser Conference

Send us Fan MailNext Level is back… but this year, it’s bigger than lasers.In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down with Will and Mark to talk all things Next Level Maker Con 2026, the shift from Next Level Laser Conference to a broader maker-focused event, and why this year’s theme of “Refreshed” matters more than ever.We dive into:• Why the event changed from laser-focused to maker-focused• What “Refreshed” means for makers, creatives, and business owners• Why taking care of the maker matters just as much as growing the business• What to expect at the Gaylord Texan Resort in Grapevine, Texas• The value of smaller conversations, networking, and community• Why video access to classes is a huge win for attendees• The new Creator’s Corner and content creation spaces• Free professional headshots for all-access attendees• Breakout classes covering AI, pricing, marketing, Etsy, Shopify, garment decorating, UV printing, sandblasting, 3D printing, packaging, branding, and more• The charity partnership with Wipe Out Kids Cancer• Why Next Level feels more like a maker family reunion than just another conferenceWhether you’re a laser owner, UV printer, crafter, designer, content creator, or small business owner, this episode breaks down why Next Level Maker Con is becoming one of the must-attend events in the maker community.📍 Next Level Maker Con 2026https://nextlevelmakerevents.comAugust 27–29Gaylord Texan ResortGrapevine, Texas🎙️ The Riley Black Project — real conversations about creativity, business, community, and the makers building something meaningful.Support the showIf you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProjectCheck out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack

May 11, 2026Episode 2601 hr 6 min

How They Helped 100+ Makers Grow Online

Send us Fan MailRunning a business is hard enough…Now try doing it while your co-host is out of state, your kids are running wild, and you’re juggling multiple businesses at once 😅In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John holds it down solo (barely 😂) before being joined by Srishti & Arpit from Esenay Digital — a global agency helping makers and small businesses scale online the right way.From Mexico City to Colorado to Florida, this episode is a true remote podcast experience packed with real talk, real struggles, and real solutions.We dive into:• The chaos of running a business while your partner is away• Why so many makers struggle with websites, marketing, and scaling• The truth about Etsy vs Shopify (and why you need BOTH)• Why relying on one platform can kill your business• The biggest mistakes new business owners make when starting out• How Esenay Digital has helped 100+ makers build and grow online• What most agencies get WRONG (and why trust is broken)• Why building a website does NOT automatically mean more sales• The importance of owning your audience and customer data• SEO vs AEO (Answer Engine Optimization) and the future of AI search• How AI is changing the way customers find and buy products• Why ChatGPT and AI shopping will reshape eCommerce• The power of community, education, and transparency in businessThis episode is part behind-the-scenes chaos, part business masterclass, and part wake-up call for makers who want to grow.If you’re a maker, content creator, or small business owner, this conversation will change how you think about your online presence.Support the showIf you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProjectCheck out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack

May 4, 2026Episode 2591 hr 13 min

Inside UV Ink Fest: The Virtual Event Makers Need

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal record from two different states while juggling real life, real business, and everything in between.But this episode isn’t just a life update…We’re joined by Sumita & Anuj to break down UV Ink Fest, a brand-new virtual conference designed to bring real education to makers—without the need to travel.We dive into:• Why UV Ink Fest was created and who it’s for• The growing demand for UV printing education• Brand-neutral learning and why it matters in the maker space• The difference between entry-level vs production UV printers• How UV printing expands what you can offer your customersThis episode is part real-life chaos, part business strategy, and part “this is what entrepreneurship actually looks like.”If you’re a maker, engraver, or small business owner, this one is packed with insights you can apply immediately. UV Ink Fest Details: www.uvinkfest.com• Free virtual event (with optional upgrade)• 20+ speakers across UV printing, business, and marketing• Designed for beginners, intermediate, and advanced makers• Covers everything from workflow → pricing → AI → ShopifySupport the showIf you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProjectCheck out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack

April 27, 2026Episode 2581 hr 1 min

He Lost 500K Followers… Then Built It Back Stronger

Send us Fan MailWhat does it really take to scale a creative business… without burning out or losing everything?In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Chantz from Custom Grains to talk about the real side of growth — the wins, the stress, the risks, and the lessons that come with building multiple businesses at once.From losing a massive TikTok following overnight…to investing hundreds of thousands back into his business…to launching a brand new hat company…This episode is packed with raw, honest insight for anyone trying to level up.We dive into:• How Chantz lost over 500K followers overnight — and rebuilt anyway• Why relying on one platform can destroy your business• The reality of scaling a product-based business• Investing $500K+ into growth (and the risks behind it)• Building multiple brands at once (Custom Grains, Laser by the Creek, Brim Co)• The truth about revenue vs actual take-home profit• Why diversification is no longer optional• Creating your own products to control quality and margins• The stress of employees, overhead, and responsibility• How collaborations and partnerships can grow your reach• The mindset shift from creator to CEOPlus, we get into the behind-the-scenes of launching Brim Co, building a U.S.-based plywood operation, and what’s next for Chantz as he expands into a brand new shop.If you’re a maker, business owner, or content creator, this episode is a must-watch.Support the showIf you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProjectCheck out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack

April 20, 2026Episode 25744 min

Inside LazerCON 2026: AP Lazer’s Growing Community Event

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when frustration turns into innovation… and that innovation turns into an entire company?P.S. We lost Power at the end In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down with Jenna from AP Lazer to break down how their machines were born out of a real problem engraving massive granite pieces that simply wouldn’t fit into traditional laser beds.That frustration led to something different…open architecture laser design.And now?They’re hosting LazerCON, a growing event built around community, connection, and hands-on learning.We dive into:• How AP Lazer started in the granite and memorial industry• Why traditional laser beds limit what you can create• The power of open-bottom laser design (and what it unlocks)• Engraving on massive objects like whiskey barrels, doors, and floors• Why larger-scale projects are an untapped opportunity• The real truth about “market saturation” in the laser space• How finding your niche changes everything• The difference between big expos vs smaller community-driven events• What makes LazerCON unique (and why people come back every year)• Inside the growing laser community and why collaboration winsPlus, we break down everything you need to know about LazerCON 2026—including speakers, classes, and why this might be one of the best events to actually connect and learn.If you’re a maker, engraver, or creative entrepreneur, this episode will completely change how you think about what’s possible with a laser.LazerCON Details:May 28–29Round Rock, Texas (Kalahari Convention Center)Tickets available at AP Lazer’s websiteSupport the showIf you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProjectCheck out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack

April 13, 2026Episode 2561 hr 15 min

K&G Jamboree: The Maker Event Everyone’s Talking About

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when two creators turn chaos into content… and accidentally build a movement?In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Kim & Garrett to talk about their journey building a brand through live content, community, and a little bit of “figure it out as we go” energy.From late-night prep sessions and sweaty live streams… to launching their Loot Box subscription and hosting their own maker conference (Jamboree) — this episode is packed with real moments, lessons, and laughs.We dive into:• The reality of going live (and what happens when things go wrong)• Why perfection is overrated and authenticity wins• How Test Cut Tuesday became a powerful content engine• The behind-the-scenes of launching their Loot Box subscription• Turning ideas into recurring revenue streams• The importance of community in growing your brand• What creators actually struggle with (and don’t talk about)• Building a hands-on event experience with their Jamboree conference• Why “just wing it” sometimes works better than overplanningPlus… we get into the funny moments, the real struggles, and the mindset it takes to keep showing up consistently.If you’re a maker, content creator, or small business owner, this episode is a blueprint for building something people actually want to be part of.Support the showIf you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProjectCheck out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack

April 6, 2026Episode 2551 hr 7 min

How She Built a Profitable Custom Sign Business

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when you stop trying to be everything… and finally lean into what makes you different?In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Jordan from Oak & Embers to talk about her journey from sewing business → laser artist → full-time creator building a brand rooted in custom, one-of-a-kind work.This isn’t just a maker story… it’s a masterclass in finding your lane, trusting your creativity, and building a business that actually fits your life.We dive into:• How she went from Glowforge beginner to full-time laser business owner• Why she refused to become a “cookie cutter” maker• The power of niching down and owning your style• Turning markets into networking opportunities (not just sales)• How custom signage became her most profitable lane• The mindset shift that changed everything in her business• Why you DON’T need to say yes to every project• Pricing, perfectionism, and learning to let go• The reality of feast-or-famine entrepreneurship• How growth doesn’t always show up as money (at first)Plus… we get real about burnout, time freedom, and why working for yourself is both the dream AND the pressure cooker.If you’re a maker, small business owner, or creative entrepreneur, this episode is packed with insights that’ll hit you right between the eyes (in a good way).Support the showIf you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProjectCheck out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack