The Riley Black Project

Riley Black

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

  1. 10H AGO

    Building The Bar Society from the Ground Up

    Send a text 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.

    1h 4m
  2. 6D AGO

    From Idea to Reality: The Michigan Maker Summit 2026

    Send a text 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.

    59 min
  3. FEB 9

    From Teacher to Studio Owner | A Real Small Business Story

    Send 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
  4. FEB 2

    We Had to Rethink Everything!!!

    Send 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
  5. JAN 26

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

    Send 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
  6. JAN 19

    Vendor Shows: What We Learned

    Send 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
  7. JAN 12

    From Nightclubs to New Businesses: Tanastadi's Story

    Send 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
  8. 12/29/2025

    She Started with a Magnifying Glass… No Seriously

    Send 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
5
out of 5
42 Ratings

About

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