The Riley Black Project

Riley Black

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

  1. 5D AGO

    From Teacher to Studio Owner | A Real Small Business Story

    Send us a text 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.

    1h 1m
  2. FEB 2

    We Had to Rethink Everything!!!

    Send us a text 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.

    53 min
  3. JAN 26

    If You’re Skipping Events, Listen to This First!!!

    Send us a text 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.

    1h 19m
  4. JAN 19

    Vendor Shows: What We Learned

    Send us a text 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.

    1h 29m
  5. JAN 12

    From Nightclubs to New Businesses: Tanastadi's Story

    Send us a text 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.

    1h 10m
  6. 2025-12-29

    She Started with a Magnifying Glass… No Seriously

    Send us a text In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down with Whitney of Whitney's Crafty Tings for a wildly inspiring conversation about resourcefulness, maker growth, and doing whatever it takes to get started—even if that means using a magnifying glass before you ever own a laser. 🔍🔥 Whitney shares her journey from burning designs by hand to running a full laser setup out of her garage in Florida, juggling machines, markets, dogs (yes… Great Danes 😅), and real-life constraints that every maker can relate to. We get into: Starting a maker business with almost nothing Why resourcefulness beats fancy equipment Going from a magnifying glass to a full-size CO₂ laser Garage studios, tight spaces, and Florida heat The reality of upgrading machines mid-growth This episode is proof that you don’t need the perfect setup to start—you just need the willingness to begin and figure it out as you go. 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.

    1h 9m
  7. 2025-12-22

    He Wakes Up at 4 AM…How Lancaster Supplies Grew So Fast

    Send us a text In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John & Crystal sit down with Jeff and Anna of Lancaster Supplies for a deep dive into the behind-the-scenes world of laser blanks, sourcing, scaling, and what it really takes to build a supplier brand from scratch. From waking up at 4 AM with no alarm, bowling in the 200s, and balancing multiple businesses… to accidentally engraving on your spouse’s belongings (we’ve all been there 😂)… this episode blends business strategy, maker humor, and real-world insight from a supplier growing fast. We dig into:  ✨ How Lancaster Supplies started from a simple idea  ✨ Going from 5 tumblers… to 20… to full product lines ✨ Why sourcing takes MONTHS (and why samples lie 👀) ✨ The struggle with minimum orders, shipping costs, and warehouse space ✨ What makers actually need from suppliers Plus:  💬 Exclusive discount code for listeners  💬 Lancaster’s plans for 2026   💬 A preview of the conversation continuing in Patreon After Dark Whether you sell blanks, buy blanks, engrave all day, or just love hearing how maker businesses grow, this episode is PACKED with value, laughs, and reality. 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.

    1h 3m
  8. 2025-12-15

    Markets, Machines & Margins: Pretty Pitty Design

    Send us a text In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down with Stephanie of Pretty Pitty Design for one real maker conversation — covering craft shows, pricing pressure, brand loyalty, machine obsession, and why markets are about more than just sales. From starting with a Cricut and Glowforge to running multiple lasers, Stephanie shares the behind-the-scenes truth of doing vendor shows in different seasons, choosing machines you trust, and navigating an economy where customers are spending smarter than ever. We talk about: - How vendor markets have changed (and what that means for makers) - Why business cards still matter - Selling during an unpredictable economy - Brand loyalty vs upgrading machines - Laser addiction - Choosing the right events, not just more events - Turning slow shows into content + future sales - Pricing pressure when competitors undercut you - Creating a brand that stands for something (and not just products) - The emotional story behind Pretty Pitty Design and dog rescue This episode is for every creative entrepreneur who’s: ✔️ Wondering if markets are still worth it ✔️ Debating another machine purchase ✔️ Feeling the slow season ✔️ Trying to survive rising costs ✔️ Building something real, not just chasing trends 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.

    1h 5m

About

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