Advertise on podcast: The Riley Black Project

Send us Fan Mail What 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 wins Plus, 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 28–29 Round Rock, Texas (Kalahari Convention Center) Tickets available at AP Lazer’s website Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack Want more info on Aeon Lasers?? If so, show me some love by clicking on my partner link below and then hit the "Get Started" button! If you found my content helpful, and decided to call or DM instead, make sure to mention "Crystal Aguila" as the referral.

Send us Fan Mail What 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 overplanning Plus… 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 show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack Want more info on Aeon Lasers?? If so, show me some love by clicking on my partner link below and then hit the "Get Started" button! If you found my content helpful, and decided to call or DM instead, make sure to mention "Crystal Aguila" as the referral.

Send us Fan Mail What 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 show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack Want more info on Aeon Lasers?? If so, show me some love by clicking on my partner link below and then hit the "Get Started" button! If you found my content helpful, and decided to call or DM instead, make sure to mention "Crystal Aguila" as the referral.

Send us Fan Mail Five canceled flights.  Getting stranded in Baltimore. …And somehow, it was still worth it. In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal break down their full experience traveling to and from the Michigan Maker Summit—including one of the most chaotic travel stories they’ve ever lived through. But this isn’t just a travel horror story… It’s about community, showing up, teaching, and why events like this matter more than ever. We dive into: • The Michigan Maker Summit experience from start to finish  • Teaching content creation classes (and why the smallest class mattered most)  • Why intentional content beats posting just to post  • The power of in-person community and networking  • Packaging, perceived value, and simple ways to increase product pricing  • Behind-the-scenes of filming, teaching, and connecting at events  • The unexpected reality of travel delays, cancellations, and problem-solving in real time  • Getting stranded in Baltimore… and how the maker community showed up for us  • Why sometimes the worst situations lead to the best connections This episode is part business lesson, part life update, and part “you won’t believe this actually happened” story. If you're a maker, creator, or small business owner, this one hits on everything from growth to grit. Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack Want more info on Aeon Lasers?? If so, show me some love by clicking on my partner link below and then hit the "Get Started" button! If you found my content helpful, and decided to call or DM instead, make sure to mention "Crystal Aguila" as the referral.

Send us Fan Mail From pyrotechnics at Universal Studios to becoming President of the Awards & Personalization Association (APA) — Justin’s journey is one you don’t hear every day. In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down with Justin Varn of Awards4U to talk about growing up in the awards industry, stepping into a family business, and eventually becoming APA President. But the story goes deeper than that. Justin shares the emotional moment when his father presented him with APA Speaker of the Year, making history as the first father and son to both serve as APA President. We also dive into: • What it’s really like taking over a family business • The pressure of being “the owner’s son” and earning respect • His background in live show design and pyrotechnics at Universal Studios Orlando • How entrepreneurship impacts family life • The power of betting on yourself • Balancing business, parenting, and leadership • ADHD, entrepreneurship, and learning differently • How AI tools like ChatGPT are transforming the awards industry • Why embracing AI now will give makers a massive advantage Whether you're in the laser engraving, awards, maker, or personalization industry, this conversation is packed with insights about leadership, technology, and the mindset required to build something meaningful. And yes… we also talk about kids helping with orders, the chaos of entrepreneurship, and how family businesses really work behind the scenes. Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack Want more info on Aeon Lasers?? If so, show me some love by clicking on my partner link below and then hit the "Get Started" button! If you found my content helpful, and decided to call or DM instead, make sure to mention "Crystal Aguila" as the referral.

Send us Fan Mail Breaking news in the laser world… and a powerful conversation you don’t want to miss. In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down with Brandon of Szuch Design to talk about: • The acquisition of Aeon Laser USA by Aeon China — and what it could mean for the industry • Building a woodworking and CNC business from scratch • Turning upcycled black walnut rounds into scalable, profitable products • Transitioning from hobby → CNC → laser → UV • Selling to the laser community through Facebook groups • The realities of bulk pricing, website strategy, and scaling smart • Balancing National Guard service, deployments, and entrepreneurship • Running a family business while raising young kids • Navigating insurance battles and legal stress as business owners • Why mindset and the Golden Rule matter more than any machine This episode is real. It’s not just tools and tactics — it’s about resilience, flexibility, and doing business the right way. You’ll hear how Brandon built a business model around upcycled materials, how a single Father’s Day product turned into 500+ units sold, and why community support inside the maker world changes everything. And yes… we also talk tariffs, bottle opener chaos, and website frustrations. If you’re in the laser, CNC, or personalization space — this one hits. Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack Want more info on Aeon Lasers?? If so, show me some love by clicking on my partner link below and then hit the "Get Started" button! If you found my content helpful, and decided to call or DM instead, make sure to mention "Crystal Aguila" as the referral.

Send us Fan Mail We’re back at APA Expo 2026 — and this year hits different. In this special on-location episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down with Josh Perry to talk about what can happen in just one year when you show up, shake hands, and lean into community. Last year, Josh walked into APA alone, looking for direction. This year?  He’s speaking.  He’s upgrading machines.  And he’s up for Retailer of the Year. This episode dives into: • How attending APA changed the trajectory of Josh’s business  • Why connections — not machines — are the real investment  • The unexpected power of sand carving vs laser engraving  • What it feels like to go from attendee → speaker → award nominee  • Why events like APA set the tone for your entire year  • The difference between your first APA and your second  • Behind-the-scenes of vending, content creation, and collaboration  • Launching new sports-based product lines at the show  • How partnerships and wholesalers are expanding Keychain Thingies  • The reality of building momentum in the personalization industry You’ll also hear John share what it’s like working APA as a videographer this year instead of being stuck behind the booth—and why capturing the story matters just as much as living it. If you’ve ever wondered whether attending events like APA is worth it… this episode is your answer. Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack Want more info on Aeon Lasers?? If so, show me some love by clicking on my partner link below and then hit the "Get Started" button! If you found my content helpful, and decided to call or DM instead, make sure to mention "Crystal Aguila" as the referral.

Send us Fan Mail J.R. is back. In this special episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down with their son J.R. for a follow-up conversation years after his first appearance on the podcast. What follows is equal parts hilarious, emotional, and eye-opening. From talking about school, Pokémon cards, football dreams, and YouTube creators like MrBeast… to opening up about what makes him proud, nervous, and excited for the future… this episode captures something rare: a real, unfiltered time capsule of childhood in motion. You’ll hear J.R. talk about: • His favorite subject in school (and why math somehow won)  • His dream of becoming a DJ, content creator, and football player  • Why owning a business sounds better than working for someone else  • His thoughts on money, mansions, and secret rooms  • The influence of friends, gaming, and YouTube culture  • What makes him proud, nervous, and happy  • His favorite memories with mom and dad  • The reality of growing up in a creative household This episode is funny, honest, and deeply meaningful for any parent, creator, or entrepreneur trying to balance business and family. It’s not just a podcast. It’s a snapshot in time. And one day, J.R. will listen back to this. Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack Want more info on Aeon Lasers?? If so, show me some love by clicking on my partner link below and then hit the "Get Started" button! If you found my content helpful, and decided to call or DM instead, make sure to mention "Crystal Aguila" as the referral.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down with Victoria of The Bar Society for a deep, honest, and surprisingly relatable conversation about starting in the laser world, overcoming fear, finding your niche, and building a business rooted in community—not comparison. Victoria shares her journey from feeling completely overwhelmed by her first laser (the beeps, the keys, the nerves 😅) to growing The Bar Society into a trusted space for vendors, makers, and small businesses—while constantly balancing the temptation to “just buy one more machine.” We dive into: How Glowforge made lasers feel less scary for beginners The jump from hobby machines to industrial lasers (and that panic moment) ADHD crafting and the fear of investing too much too soon Why comparison on social media is dangerous for makers The truth behind “effortless” content you see online Why testing off-camera matters more than perfect posts Supporting other makers instead of doing everything yourself When it does make sense to outsource vs buy new equipment Combining mediums (laser, sand carving, UV, print & cut) to stand out Finding unexpected niches that completely change your business Building a vendor society based on trust, intention, and real relationships This episode is for makers, engravers, and creative entrepreneurs who: ✔️ feel overwhelmed by options ✔️ compare themselves too much online ✔️ want to grow without burning out ✔️ believe community beats competition Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack Want more info on Aeon Lasers?? If so, show me some love by clicking on my partner link below and then hit the "Get Started" button! If you found my content helpful, and decided to call or DM instead, make sure to mention "Crystal Aguila" as the referral.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down with Blake from Great Lakes Laser Supply to talk about the Michigan Maker Summit—how it started, why smaller meetups matter, and what really happens when makers get in the same room without the pressure of massive expos. What began as an idea on a 17-hour drive home from Next Level turned into a full-blown summit planned in just three weeks—and it worked. This conversation digs into the power of community, intimate breakout sessions, real conversations, and why these smaller events often create bigger breakthroughs than giant conferences. We cover: How the Michigan Maker Summit came together in record time Why smaller, more intimate events create safer spaces to ask questions The difference between learning online vs learning in person Why not everyone can make it to Vegas, APA, or massive expos How meetups help newer makers avoid feeling “stupid” asking questions Why teachers learn just as much as attendees The hardest part of events: implementing what you learn after you get home Maker burnout, travel exhaustion, and real-life constraints This episode is for makers, creatives, and small business owners who want real growth, real connection, and real implementation—not just motivation that fades when you get home. Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack Want more info on Aeon Lasers?? If so, show me some love by clicking on my partner link below and then hit the "Get Started" button! If you found my content helpful, and decided to call or DM instead, make sure to mention "Crystal Aguila" as the referral.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down with Becky of Get On Board Signs & More for a heartfelt, practical, and surprisingly funny conversation about community, creativity, resilience, and building a business that fits real life. Becky shares her journey from kindergarten teacher to creative entrepreneur, running mobile sign parties, opening a brick-and-mortar studio, navigating COVID pivots, and even walking through a cancer journey while continuing to show up for her customers and community. This episode covers: Transitioning from teaching to entrepreneurship Pivoting during COVID with DIY kits, virtual parties, and mobile workshops Opening a studio and learning what actually works Why community support matters more than algorithms Running a business through illness and uncertainty Building a studio model that works for families and real life Paying yourself, setting systems, and avoiding burnout Why Facebook still matters for local small businesses The value of in-person connection over faceless online orders Balancing growth, joy, and sustainability as a creative business owner This is an honest look at what success really looks like when you stop chasing someone else’s version of it and start building a business around your life, not the other way around. Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack Want more info on Aeon Lasers?? If so, show me some love by clicking on my partner link below and then hit the "Get Started" button! If you found my content helpful, and decided to call or DM instead, make sure to mention "Crystal Aguila" as the referral.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal dive into a real-life business and mindset update after returning from a private maker meetup in Amelia Island, Florida—where content creation, follow-up, and community took center stage. This episode is a mix of life, business, teaching, anxiety, growth, and clarity, as John reflects on stepping into more content-creation authority, navigating an identity shift, and realizing that knowing what to do isn’t the same as actually doing it. We talk about: Teaching a content workshop and watching makers take action immediately Why you don’t need to post every day to grow The relief of permission: 2–3 posts per week is enough Analysis paralysis and the fear of sounding salesy Why follow-up is everything (and how not doing it costs you money) This episode is for makers, creatives, and small business owners who feel stuck between knowing better and doing better—and are ready to move forward without burning themselves out. Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack Want more info on Aeon Lasers?? If so, show me some love by clicking on my partner link below and then hit the "Get Started" button! If you found my content helpful, and decided to call or DM instead, make sure to mention "Crystal Aguila" as the referral.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal are joined once again by Megan of Raymond’s Trophies & Awards to talk all things APA Expo, maker events, community, and why showing up in person still matters. With APA right around the corner, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what actually makes industry events valuable beyond just buying supplies. From procrastination confessions and teaching classes, to discovering new vendors, building real relationships, and learning things you never would’ve found online—this episode is a must-listen for makers, engravers, and creative business owners. We cover: Why APA is a cornerstone event for the laser and awards industry The difference between seeing products online vs in person Why community beats competition every time How trade shows lead to real collaborations and unexpected opportunities Teaching classes, learning on the fly, and embracing how you actually work Vendor vs attendee perspectives and what each one offers Why deadlines are sometimes the only cure for procrastination How conferences validate struggles you thought were “just you” The long-term business value of relationships, not transactions Why events often spark your next big idea If you’ve ever debated whether events like APA are worth the time, money, or energy—this episode explains exactly why they continue to shape businesses, careers, and communities year after year. Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack Want more info on Aeon Lasers?? If so, show me some love by clicking on my partner link below and then hit the "Get Started" button! If you found my content helpful, and decided to call or DM instead, make sure to mention "Crystal Aguila" as the referral.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down for a raw, unscripted conversation about real life, business pressure, community, grief, and navigating uncertainty when things don’t go according to plan. What starts as a casual catch-up quickly turns into a deep reflection on survival vs thriving, the emotional weight of January, and the reminder that nothing is guaranteed. From losing someone whose message still echoes loud, to questioning every next move, this episode captures what it feels like to keep showing up when the path forward isn’t clear yet. We talk about: Why last year felt like survival mode — and the desire for less panic, less stress, more abundance Losing someone important and carrying their message forward The danger of “I’ll live later” thinking Vendor shows: what worked, what didn’t, and what we learned Using what you already have instead of over-spending Booth setup mistakes, display clarity, and engagement tips Pricing, pivoting, and adapting in real time This episode is honest, reflective, and deeply relatable for creators, makers, and small business owners who feel like they’re constantly adjusting while trying to stay hopeful. If you’ve ever questioned your direction, felt stuck in a pivot, or wondered if you’re being pushed toward something bigger—you’re not alone. Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack Want more info on Aeon Lasers?? If so, show me some love by clicking on my partner link below and then hit the "Get Started" button! If you found my content helpful, and decided to call or DM instead, make sure to mention "Crystal Aguila" as the referral.

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down with Tanastadi for a powerful, honest conversation about identity, reinvention, sobriety, and building multiple businesses without losing yourself along the way. From growing up immersed in music, landing a number-one radio show for nearly two decades, and DJing massive clubs and festivals… to watching everything disappear during COVID and choosing a completely new path forward—Tenacity shares what it really looks like to start over without a backup plan. We dive into: Growing up fast and realizing we’re “the adults now” 😅 Life as a DJ feeding off crowds vs staring at a screen during lockdown Losing everything during COVID and refusing to go back to the same life Becoming the first Asian hip-hop radio DJ in Colorado The unseen business side of nightlife, radio, and entertainment Why networking means showing up, not waiting This episode is raw, reflective, and deeply relatable for anyone navigating career shifts, entrepreneurship, creative burnout, sobriety, or the uncomfortable space between who you were and who you’re becoming. Support the show If you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProject Check out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlack Want more info on Aeon Lasers?? If so, show me some love by clicking on my partner link below and then hit the "Get Started" button! If you found my content helpful, and decided to call or DM instead, make sure to mention "Crystal Aguila" as the referral.