The Riley Black Project

40 Episodes
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By: Riley Black

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

Glowforge to Greatness: Letters From Me TX Story
#232
Yesterday at 11:00 AM

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In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we’re joined by Jessica Raba of Letters From Me TX — known as The Keychain Lady! 

Jessica shares how she turned her creative passion into a thriving Etsy shop with over 10,000 sales in just 16 months, all while juggling motherhood, a full-time job in the oil industry, and marathon training. 

We get into:
⚡ How a hand-me-down Glowforge launched a full-blown laser business
⚡ The genius “sample name discount” hack that boosted her Etsy engagement
⚡ How she uses local suppliers like Houston Acrylic...


Inside the CMB Open House: Makers, Machines & Community
#231
10/13/2025

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In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we’re back on the road for another unforgettable maker adventure—this time at the CMB Open House! 🎉

From checking out brand-new laser gear to laughing with friends over late-night hangs, this episode is all about what makes the maker community so powerful: connection, inspiration, and hands-on experiences you just can’t get online.

We cover:
✨ Behind-the-scenes at CMB’s new space and their growing lineup of acrylic & machines
✨ Why in-person meetups fuel motivation, friendships, and fresh ideas
✨ UV printers, colo...


Why In-Person Maker Events Hit Different w/ Sumita & Anuj
#230
10/06/2025

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In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we hit the road to Atlanta for the Georgia Laser & UV Printing Business Meetup with Sumita & Anuj

We dive into:
✨ Why in-person events hit different compared to online groups and tutorials
✨ The power of simple tools like Keychain Thingies—and why seeing them live makes it click
✨ Lessons on outsourcing, staying organized, and investing in the right tools (like accounting & Shopify)
✨ How makers are diversifying—from laser engraving and jigs to apparel, acrylic, and even video content
✨ Real talk on balanc...


From Piburn Light to Vertigo: The Future of Laser Rotaries
#229
09/29/2025

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In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we’re joined once again by our friends Len & Stan from LensDigital—the minds behind some of the most innovative rotary attachments in the laser engraving industry.

We cover everything from the affordable Piburn Light (built for makers testing the waters with tumblers) to the Vertigo—a next-level rotary that’s turning heads across the laser community.

Inside this episode:
⚡ What makes the Piburn Light the perfect entry rotary for new makers
⚡ How the Vertigo evolved from sketch to Kickstarter...


Snarky Designs & Success on YouTube: Roy’s Industrial Fringe Story
#228
09/22/2025

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On this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Roy from Industrial Fringe to dive into his journey from DJ booths and Disney clubs to the laser world.

Roy shares how he went from sublimation to lasers after picking up the xTool F1, and how documenting his learning process turned into a YouTube channel with 21K+ subscribers. We get into:

How sublimation, tumblers, and snarky coaster designs led to building Industrial Fringe

What it’s really like to balance creating vs. selling products as a...


Live at Next Level Laser: Beards, Bonding & Big Impact
#227
09/15/2025

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This episode of The Riley Black Project is unlike any other—we’re live on the road from Next Level Laser Conference 2025! 🙌

Join us as we share the behind-the-scenes of our 17-hour road trip, connect with amazing makers, and rally together for a powerful cause. From beard-off fundraising to surprise donations, this episode is packed with laughs, heartfelt stories, and community spirit.

We dive into:
✨ Supporting our friend Mario as he battles stage 4 cancer—raising funds in the most creative ways possible
✨ The power of community at maker confere...


On the Road to Next Level: Snacks, Lasers & AI
#226
09/08/2025

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Hit the road with us for this special Riley Black Project episode, recorded on the way to the Next Level Laser Conference 2025! 🚗✨

We cover everything from road trip snacks and travel stories to how fast laser technology is evolving, the rise of UV printing, and how makers can use these new tools to test markets and grow their businesses. Plus, we dive deep into AI in content creation, sharing how we use tools like ChatGPT and automation in our podcast, video editing, and daily workflow.

You’ll also hear:


The TroVan Life: Frankie from Trotec Shows Us Inside
#225
09/01/2025

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On this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Frankie from Trotec to talk about life on the road with the TroVan. Frankie shares how he’s turning a ProMaster into a mobile demo hub, traveling from Florida to Michigan, Miami, Atlanta, and beyond—bringing the Trotec Speedy 360 right to makers’ doors.

We dive into:

What it’s like running laser demos out of a van (yes, even in bank parking lots!)

Frankie’s transition from electrical engineering and defense contracting to lasers

The fu...


Social Media Made Simple – Without the Burnout
#224
08/25/2025

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This week on The Riley Black Project, we’re joined by Sara, the virtual assistant who has been saving businesses (and our sanity) one task at a time — and now she’s taking it to the next level with her new subscription service, My Social Companion.

We talk about:

How a VA can free up your time and streamline your business

Why most makers and small business owners post sporadically (and how to fix it)

The real benefits of batching content vs. posting daily

Wh...


From Creative Chaos to Financial Clarity: Bookkeeping for Makers
#223
08/18/2025

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This week on The Riley Black Project, we’re hanging out with Jess & Alex from JT Financial Studio — the power duo helping makers, laser owners, and small business hustlers finally get their books, taxes, and finances in order.

From filing your LLC without falling for scams, to knowing when to switch from an LLC to an S-Corp, to avoiding the most common (and costly) tax mistakes — they break it all down in plain English.

We talk:

The real startup headaches no one tells you about

How to...


From Middle School to Manufacturer: The MakerFlo Journey
#222
08/11/2025

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In this wild episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with John and Mark of MakerFlo — two longtime friends turned laser biz legends. From being held at gunpoint at an international border (yes, really!) to building a thriving supply business for makers, their journey is full of laughs, lessons, and a little chaos.

We dive into:

Their insane border story (and how they got out of it 😳)

How their business started by accident (and what they learned the hard way)

The behind-the-scenes of sourc...


David vs. Blake: Laserland’s Most Chaotic Bromance
#221
08/04/2025

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In this wild and hilarious episode of The Riley Black Project, we're bringing together two laser world favorites—Blake and David—for a bromantic showdown like no other. From Keychain Thingies to booth-building tips, trade show antics, crafting confessions, and an actual beard vs. beard charity battle, this one is packed with laughs, ideas, and behind-the-scenes hustle.

We dive into:

The origin of David joining the Keychain Thingies dealer squad (and announcing it... months later)

Their upcoming head-to-head at Next Level😬

Hilarious trade show booth stories...


Branding So Good It’s Easy Peasy – Alyssa Tells All
#220
07/28/2025

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In this juicy episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Alyssa of Lemon Squeezy Brands, a powerhouse branding expert who helps small business owners turn chaos into clarity through bold brand strategy and killer websites. 🍋

Alyssa shares her wild journey from leaving the news industry to launching a wood sign business, going viral for all the wrong reasons on TikTok, and turning it all into a thriving branding studio that makes it easy peasy for makers, creatives, and laserpreneurs to stand out with purpose-driven branding.

We div...


From Jigs to Retail: Daniel’s Journey with Customz It
#219
07/21/2025

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In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we catch up with the king of laser jigs and 3D-printed precision: Daniel of Alive Pixel Creates and Customz It! Daniel joins us fresh off launching his new brick-and-mortar maker shop—and let's just say, it's been a wild ride of jig design, shop setup surprises, and all the “what-the-heck” moments you only discover after opening your doors.

We dive deep into:

The unexpected lessons from launching a laser + maker retail space

How Daniel builds next-level custom jigs 

Tra...


This Episode Deserves a Trophy (Luckily, Megan Makes Those)
#218
07/14/2025

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This week on The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Megan of Raymond’s Trophies — APA Volunteer of the Year, laser badass, and longtime industry pro. We dive deep into her journey from photography and corporate life to running a family-owned awards business, how Raymond’s evolved through decades of innovation, and why adaptability is the secret sauce to longevity in any maker business.

We talk gatekeeping in the early laser days, the Glowforge “lightbulb” moment, COVID-era entrepreneurship, and the beautiful mess of balancing life, business, and community support. Megan also share...


Work Boots, Glasses & Business Moves – Meet D’ondra!
#217
07/07/2025

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In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with D’ondra of Work Boots & Glasses, a self-taught maker whose business journey started by kicking her husband's car out of the garage—literally. From building furniture to launching a fresh line of earrings and glassware, D’ondra shares how she turned her DIY spirit into a full-blown brand.

We talk chocolate stashes, market wins and fails, creative chaos, and how documenting your journey (even the messy parts) builds true connection and community. Whether you're in the maker space, thinking of sta...


Real Talk on Etsy, Shopify & Pivoting Like a Pro: Melody's Back
#216
06/30/2025

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In this week’s episode of The Riley Black Project, we welcome back our acrylic plug, Melody from CMB, for a long-overdue catch-up! 🎉

We dive into how her business has transformed since her first appearance (way back in Episode 78!), including her shift into Shopify expertise, scaling to a massive 14,000 sq ft space, and embracing the unpredictable pivots of entrepreneurship. 💼

We talk shop about the importance of diversifying beyond Etsy, the power of community and networking events like Next Level, and how building genuine friendships in your industry can lead to your...


Live from the Jamboree! Chaos, Laughs & Real Talk
#215
06/23/2025

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Live from the Jamboree! This episode of The Riley Black Project is packed with laughs, behind-the-scenes chaos, and real talk as Crystal and John host a special live recording during a laser maker Summer Camp. We’re sharing takeaways from teaching classes, navigating tech fails, and connecting with the incredible maker community IRL. Hear about the unexpected moments, what worked (and what really didn’t), and the magic that happens when online friends become in-person family.

Whether you were there with us or are just catching up, you’ll feel like part o...


Let’s Go, Laser Maker Con! Emily’s Back with Big Energy
#214
06/16/2025

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Interested in Laser Maker Con? Use our link to become a VIP and take advantage of the fast action pass! Discount lasts just 20 mins, so act fast! 

Https://www.lasermakercon.com/?affiliate=crystal_aguila 

This week on The Riley Black Project, we welcome back the one and only Emily — better known as That Mom With a Laser! In this episode, we dive deep into the highs, lows, and hilarious moments of juggling life, content creation, and raising little makers in the laser world. From burnout and self-doubt to launching new...


When the Universe Hands You a Key… You Build a Studio
#213
06/09/2025

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In this Episode of The Riley Black Project, Crystal and John drop a huge update — they're launching a brand-new rentable podcast & content creation studio in Sebastian, Florida! 🎉

This episode is a behind-the-scenes look at the wild journey that led to Riley Black Studios — from a simple DM to securing the perfect space, making hard decisions, investing in a dream, and planning for the grand opening. It’s all about chasing passion, trusting timing, and taking smart risks in business.

👉 Whether you're a content creator, podcast host, small business owner, or just some...


Cut, Spray, Repeat: The Stencil Hustle You Didn’t Know You Needed
#212
06/02/2025

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🎙️ In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Collin from Stencil Stop to dive into the art and business of laser-cut stencils, custom designs, and viral content. From humble beginnings to creating jaw-dropping multi-layered stencil art that’s turned heads on social media, Collin shares the evolution of his laser journey and how he’s built a full-time business around creativity, licensing integrity, and pure stencil mastery.

We explore:
🔥 The leap from side hustle to full-time stencil artist
💡 How custom packaging, viral art, and community trust played a...


Inside MBZ Designs: UV Printing, Lasers & Creative Chaos
#211
05/26/2025

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In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we welcome Bill and Anne of  MBZ Designs to talk shop — from navigating laser upgrades and UV printing to the chaos of Amazon box piles and unexpected spider roommates. 🕷️

We dive deep into:
 -The real-life realities of creating content when you don’t feel like it 🎥
 -How the Glowforge “gateway drug” led to serious business upgrades 🔥
 -Fiber internet woes, tech fails, and why backups save your sanity 💾
 -Business partnerships, vendor collabs, and the power of networking 💡

The problem with black quarter-inc...


From Teacher to Laser Boss: Jess of Script & Grain Shares Her Story
05/19/2025

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In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Jess of Script & Grain — a former teacher turned full-time laser business owner, mom of five, and early riser (seriously... 4am!). She shares her journey from calligraphy and wedding signage to launching her own creative laser brand, all while juggling a big family and building a life of freedom.

We dive into:

-Her bold leap from teaching to entrepreneurship
-How maternity leave (or lack of it) shaped her decisions
-The power of collaboration in the maker co...


Behind LBX: How LightBurn Turned a Software Brand into an Experience
#209
05/12/2025

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In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we reconnect with Jason from LightBurn to talk all things LBX—the LightBurn Experience that blends community, learning, and laser innovation like never before. We dive into what makes LBX unique (spoiler: it’s not your typical expo), the evolution of LightBurn’s software, and what it takes to keep users excited and empowered in the maker world.

Plus, we share stories from past events, talk awkward fan encounters, parenting with a side of F-bombs, and the tech meltdowns that come with running your o...


Printers, People, and PDS Vibes – That's UV Energize!
#208
05/05/2025

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This week on The Riley Black Project, we're joined by the unforgettable Steve from PDS — a man who's done everything from accidentally hooking his lip to his nose while fishing 🪝, to becoming the top Mimaki dealer in the U.S. five years in a row, and recently being crowned Supplier of the Year at APA!

We dive deep into: 🎣 Wild stories (African water buffalo, anyone?)
🖨 The UV printer boom and how to prep for success
📦 The real talk behind small-scale vs. production-grade machines
🧠 Marketing without a degree & the power of learning...


Summer Camp for Makers-And Kim & Garrett Are Your Counselors
#207
04/28/2025

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This week on The Riley Black Project, we’re hanging out with the dynamic duo Kim and Garrett — returning guests and makers turned event planners — as they drop the details on their upcoming Laser Jamboree 🎉

We talk all things:

-How their cruise meetup inspired a full-on summer camp-style maker event (complete with loot bags and karaoke)

-What it’s really like running a business with your spouse 👫

-Behind-the-scenes planning chaos and the beauty of keeping things casual

-The value of real in-person connections in the laser a...


Next Level or Bust (Bring an Extra Suitcase)
#206
04/21/2025

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In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we kick off our four-part series spotlighting this year's must-attend laser and maker events—starting with the fan-favorite: Next Level Laser Conference! 🛠️✨

Crystal and John are joined by Mark of Big Blue Laser Designs and MJ of Casa De Huevos lol (yes, she’s really starting a farm!) to chat about the conference that feels more like a family reunion than a business event. From networking and vendor rooms to bathroom-break interruptions and laser husbands uniting, we cover it all.

We dive into:<...


Creative Burnout, Earring Bars & the Battle with Imposter Syndrome
#205
04/14/2025

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In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Melody of The Uncommon Melody to talk all things laser biz—real talk, real burnout, and real growth. 🎧✨

We dive into:

🧷 How Melody launched a successful earring bar experience

🧠 Dealing with imposter syndrome & burnout

💸 Learning to set boundaries and finally charge what you're worth

🎯 The transition from free work & bartering to paid gigs

👨‍👩‍👧 Navigating the juggle between business, family, and mental health

This one’s for every creative entrepreneur who’s felt o...


Laser Files, Life Lessons & the Power of Community – Diane’s Story
#204
04/07/2025

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This week on The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Diane of A Wee Bit Southern – a Scotland-born, North Carolina-living serial crafter who's turning creativity into community and commerce. Diane opens up about her health journey and how laser crafting became both a creative outlet and a business opportunity.

We dive deep into: 🛠️ Her start with a WeCreate laser
🖼️ The transition from selling products to files
🧠 How designing helped her find peace during personal chaos
💻 Why she loves Cuttle and how it’s helping her and others create faster
🤝...


Crushing Craft Shows with Live Laser Engraving – Paisley Co.’s Strategy!
#203
03/31/2025

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🚀 From Side Hustle to Thriving Business! 🎯 Cheyenne of Paisley Co. Designs Shares Her Journey

In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Cheyenne from Paisley Co. Designs to talk about her incredible journey from the corporate world to full-time laser crafting! 🎨🔥

We dive into:
✅ How she built a successful laser business from scratch
✅ The power of craft shows & live engraving for boosting sales
✅ Insider networking tips to grow your brand locally
✅ Managing time, motivation, and the challenges of being your own boss
✅ The surpr...


Unhinged & Unstoppable: Turning Creativity into Profits
#202
03/24/2025

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Hold onto your laser-cut hats—this episode of The Riley Black Project is a wild ride! We welcome back Stephanie and Dawn, the dynamic duo behind the Unhinged Maker Society, who have combined forces to shake up the maker community. From the struggles of branding to the untold chaos of setting up a business (Kajabi nightmares, anyone?), they spill the unfiltered truth about entrepreneurship.

We dive into: 

🔹 How they joined forces and built Unhinged Maker Society
🔹 The behind-the-scenes madness of launching an online business
🔹 Breaking past fear, overthinking...


She Bought HOW Many Machines?! Patricia’s Business Glow-Up!
03/17/2025

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🚀 From Hobby to Thriving Business! Meet Patricia of Tricia’s Reclaimed Signs, who turned a small craft into a powerhouse business! In this episode, we dive deep into her laser journey, her big moves in the signage industry, and how she’s scaling her business from local markets to e-commerce.

🎯 Learn how she built her brand through word of mouth, the challenges of juggling business and family, and the exciting new equipment she’s adding to her arsenal. Plus, get a behind-the-scenes look at her favorite tools, business tips, and what’s next for her...


200 Episodes of Chaos, Growth & Laser Talk – Let’s Celebrate!
#200
03/10/2025

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Join us in celebrating Episode 200 of The Riley Black Project! 🎉 We reflect on our journey from humble beginnings to building an engaged laser and maker community. Hear behind-the-scenes stories, lessons learned, and future plans for the podcast. Plus, special guest Will from Crazy Laser Dad joins us to share insights, laughter, and surprises along the way.

🔥 Highlights:

The podcast’s evolution from Episode 1 to 200
Why we started and how the show has changed
The challenges of podcasting & staying consistent
Memorable moments and fan interactions
The future o...


Potholes & Progress: The Laser Map Maker Story
#199
03/03/2025

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In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Isaiah and Elias from Laser Map Maker, the dynamic duo behind some of the most stunning laser-cut maps softwere  in the industry! 🛠️🔥 They share their journey from hobbyists to successful business owners, revealing the challenges, wins, and lessons learned along the way.

💡 In this episode, you'll discover:
✅ How they turned a creative idea into a thriving laser business
✅ The biggest mistakes they made—and how they overcame them
✅ Tips for standing out in the competitive laser engraving industry


From Wedding Vows to Laser Wow: The Curious Bison Story!
#198
02/24/2025

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What happens when a wedding photographer and a marketing pro dive into the world of lasers? They create an awesome business—and we’re here to tell their story! 🦄✨

In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Jordan and Mikey of Curious Bison, a laser-focused duo (see what we did there? 😆) who turned a Glowforge hobby into a thriving brick-and-mortar business. From pop-up markets to their very own storefront, we chat about their journey, the challenges of niching down (or NOT), and why saying “yes” to the right opportunit...


Bonus- Vegas, Networking & New Lasers?! (Live from APA Expo) 🎙️
02/19/2025

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Welcome to a special episode of The Riley Black Project! 🚀 Crystal and John are on the Hot Mess Express, recording live from APA Expo in Las Vegas! 🎤🔥

In this episode, we dive into:
✅ Our journey from Sacramento to Vegas for the APA Expo
✅ How The Riley Black Project podcast started & our upcoming 200th episode! 🎉
✅ The power of networking at industry expos and craft shows
✅ Our experience as first-time vendors at APA Expo 🏆
✅ The latest updates on our laser cutting business & new equipment plans 🔥
✅ Fun Vegas stories, business collabs, and...


Hot Takes, Cold Studio: Let’s Talk Laser Life
#197
02/17/2025

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It’s another wild one, folks! We’re back with Episode 197 of The Riley Black Project—this time, from what feels like a walk-in freezer! 🥶 But hey, what’s a little frostbite when you’ve got good company, hot laser talk, and plenty of laughs?

In this episode, we dive into: 🔹 Our crazy meetup stories (spoiler: laser people are the best!)
🔹 The mystery of the Laser Trolls Group—drama, anonymity, and all the tea ☕
🔹 How we accidentally became podcasters (200 episodes later, and still figuring it out!)
🔹 Why email lists are your secret busines...


From Clippers to Laser Beams: How $150 changed everything!
#196
02/10/2025

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In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Gwynn from Create It With Gwynn to talk about her incredible journey from being a dog groomer to launching a thriving laser business. 🚀✨

Gwynn shares how she saved up tip money to buy her first crafting machine, faced tough financial decisions, and ultimately took a leap into the world of laser cutting and engraving. We dive into:
✅ How she transitioned from Silhouette Cameo to a Glowforge and then to a Thunder Nova 35
✅ The challenges of starting a creative...


From Glowforge Beginner to Fiber Laser Pro: Connie’s Story
#195
02/03/2025

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In this episode, we chat with Connie from Humble Hippo Designs! We explore her inspiring journey into laser engraving, starting with a Glowforge purchased using a stimulus check, and her transition to working with CO2 and fiber lasers. Connie shares her experiences running a creative business, overcoming challenges, and crafting viral ornament designs that took her business to new heights.

✨ Highlights from this episode:

Connie’s start in the laser world and her first viral success.
Tips for mastering fiber laser settings and creating intricate designs.
A deep...


From Crime Scenes to Creative Designs: Christina’s Laser Engraving Evolution
#194
01/27/2025

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In this exciting episode of The Riley Black Project, we chat with Christina from Bay Area Blanks! 🌟 From her unique beginnings fingerprinting the departed to becoming a powerhouse in the laser engraving world, Christina's journey is nothing short of inspiring. 🚀

🔥 What We Cover:

Christina's intriguing start in fingerprinting 🕵️‍♀️
The evolution of her business, Bay Area Blanks
Insider tips on sublimation tumblers and laser engraving
A sneak peek into her upcoming releases at the APA Expo 2025 ✨
Hilarious stories, industry insights, and how she’s navigating her creative journey