The Riley Black Project

From Universal Studios Pyrotechnics to APA President

23 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Send us Fan MailFrom pyrotechnics at Universal Studios to becoming President of the Awards & Personalization Association (APA) — Justin’s jour...

Balancing Deployment, Kids, and a Growing Business

17 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Send a textBreaking news in the laser world… and a powerful conversation you don’t want to miss.In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John a...

Inside APA Expo with Josh Perry

09 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Send a textWe’re back at APA Expo 2026 — and this year hits different.In this special on-location episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Cry...

He’s Back on the Podcast… And Some Things Changed

02 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Send a textJ.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...

Building The Bar Society from the Ground Up

23 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Send a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down with Victoria of The Bar Society for a deep, honest, and surprisingly...

From Idea to Reality: The Michigan Maker Summit 2026

17 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Send a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down with Blake from Great Lakes Laser Supply to talk about the Michigan M...

From Teacher to Studio Owner | A Real Small Business Story

09 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down with Becky of Get On Board Signs & More for a heartfelt, pract...

We Had to Rethink Everything!!!

02 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal dive into a real-life business and mindset update after returning from a pr...

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

26 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal are joined once again by Megan of Raymond’s Trophies & Awards to talk...

Vendor Shows: What We Learned

19 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down for a raw, unscripted conversation about real life, business press...

From Nightclubs to New Businesses: Tanastadi's Story

12 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down with Tanastadi for a powerful, honest conversation about identity,...

She Started with a Magnifying Glass… No Seriously

29 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down with Whitney of Whitney's Crafty Tings for a wildly inspiring...

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

22 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, John & Crystal sit down with Jeff and Anna of Lancaster Supplies for a deep dive into th...

Markets, Machines & Margins: Pretty Pitty Design

15 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down with Stephanie of Pretty Pitty Design for one real maker conversat...

From Tattoo Shops to Jewelry Boss | The Hialeah Story

08 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down with Laniey & Alex of Hialeah Fine Jewelry for a raw, funny, a...

Salon Skills to Laser Success: Perry Design Tulsa’s Journey

01 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down with Joshua Perry, the award-winning creative behind Perry Design ...

Small Business Reality Check – Wins, Fails & Fresh Starts

24 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a text In this week’s episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal share a real-life business update—talking openly about burnout...

Collaboration Over Competition: The Glow-Up of Yay Gifts & Cards

17 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal catch up with Desiree Townsend of Yay Gifts & Cards — a laser maker, ...

UV Printers, Sandblasters & More: Inside Printing United 2025

10 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, we’re switching things up—recording from Riley Black Studios instead of the garage! 🎥...

Building Wealth as a Maker: Simple Investing Tips with Tess

03 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Tess from Wealth With Tess, a former aerial acrobat turned investing educat...

From Bartender to Hat Queen: Cindy’s Laser Business Glow-Up

27 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Cindy from Saltwater Stitches & Hat Co., who went from bartender and bu...

Glowforge to Greatness: Letters From Me TX Story

20 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, we’re joined by Jessica Raba of Letters From Me TX — known as The Keychain Lady! Jessic...

Inside the CMB Open House: Makers, Machines & Community

13 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, we’re back on the road for another unforgettable maker adventure—this time at the CMB Op...

Why In-Person Maker Events Hit Different w/ Sumita & Anuj

06 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, we hit the road to Atlanta for the Georgia Laser & UV Printing Business Meetup with Sumi...

From Piburn Light to Vertigo: The Future of Laser Rotaries

29 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, we’re joined once again by our friends Len & Stan from LensDigital—the minds behind ...

Snarky Designs & Success on YouTube: Roy’s Industrial Fringe Story

22 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textOn this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Roy from Industrial Fringe to dive into his journey from DJ booths and Disn...

Live at Next Level Laser: Beards, Bonding & Big Impact

15 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis episode of The Riley Black Project is unlike any other—we’re live on the road from Next Level Laser Conference 2025! 🙌Join u...

On the Road to Next Level: Snacks, Lasers & AI

08 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

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

The TroVan Life: Frankie from Trotec Shows Us Inside

01 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textOn 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...

Social Media Made Simple – Without the Burnout

25 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week on The Riley Black Project, we’re joined by Sara, the virtual assistant who has been saving businesses (and our sanity) one ...

From Creative Chaos to Financial Clarity: Bookkeeping for Makers

18 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week on The Riley Black Project, we’re hanging out with Jess & Alex from JT Financial Studio — the power duo helping makers...

From Middle School to Manufacturer: The MakerFlo Journey

11 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this wild episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with John and Mark of MakerFlo — two longtime friends turned laser biz le...

David vs. Blake: Laserland’s Most Chaotic Bromance

04 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this wild and hilarious episode of The Riley Black Project, we're bringing together two laser world favorites—Blake and David—...

Branding So Good It’s Easy Peasy – Alyssa Tells All

28 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this juicy episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Alyssa of Lemon Squeezy Brands, a powerhouse branding expert who help...

From Jigs to Retail: Daniel’s Journey with Customz It

21 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, we catch up with the king of laser jigs and 3D-printed precision: Daniel of Alive Pixel Crea...

This Episode Deserves a Trophy (Luckily, Megan Makes Those)

14 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week on The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Megan of Raymond’s Trophies — APA Volunteer of the Year, laser badass, and lo...

Work Boots, Glasses & Business Moves – Meet D’ondra!

07 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with D’ondra of Work Boots & Glasses, a self-taught maker whose business j...

Real Talk on Etsy, Shopify & Pivoting Like a Pro: Melody's Back

30 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

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

Live from the Jamboree! Chaos, Laughs & Real Talk

23 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textLive from the Jamboree! This episode of The Riley Black Project is packed with laughs, behind-the-scenes chaos, and real talk as Crystal...

Let’s Go, Laser Maker Con! Emily’s Back with Big Energy

16 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textInterested 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 ...

When the Universe Hands You a Key… You Build a Studio

09 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this Episode of The Riley Black Project, Crystal and John drop a huge update — they're launching a brand-new rentable podcast ...

Cut, Spray, Repeat: The Stencil Hustle You Didn’t Know You Needed

02 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a text🎙️ 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...

Inside MBZ Designs: UV Printing, Lasers & Creative Chaos

26 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, we welcome Bill and Anne of  MBZ Designs to talk shop — from navigating laser upgrades an...

From Teacher to Laser Boss: Jess of Script & Grain Shares Her Story

19 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Jess of Script & Grain — a former teacher turned full-time laser busi...

Behind LBX: How LightBurn Turned a Software Brand into an Experience

12 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, we reconnect with Jason from LightBurn to talk all things LBX—the LightBurn Experience tha...

Printers, People, and PDS Vibes – That's UV Energize!

05 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week on The Riley Black Project, we're joined by the unforgettable Steve from PDS — a man who's done everything from ac...

Summer Camp for Makers-And Kim & Garrett Are Your Counselors

28 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week on The Riley Black Project, we’re hanging out with the dynamic duo Kim and Garrett — returning guests and makers turned ev...

Next Level or Bust (Bring an Extra Suitcase)

21 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, we kick off our four-part series spotlighting this year's must-attend laser and maker e...

Creative Burnout, Earring Bars & the Battle with Imposter Syndrome

14 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Melody of The Uncommon Melody to talk all things laser biz—real talk, rea...

Laser Files, Life Lessons & the Power of Community – Diane’s Story

07 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week on The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Diane of A Wee Bit Southern – a Scotland-born, North Carolina-living serial cra...

Crushing Craft Shows with Live Laser Engraving – Paisley Co.’s Strategy!

31 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a text🚀 From Side Hustle to Thriving Business! 🎯 Cheyenne of Paisley Co. Designs Shares Her JourneyIn this episode of The Riley Black Pr...

Unhinged & Unstoppable: Turning Creativity into Profits

24 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textHold onto your laser-cut hats—this episode of The Riley Black Project is a wild ride! We welcome back Stephanie and Dawn, the dynamic ...

She Bought HOW Many Machines?! Patricia’s Business Glow-Up!

17 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a text🚀 From Hobby to Thriving Business! Meet Patricia of Tricia’s Reclaimed Signs, who turned a small craft into a powerhouse business! ...

200 Episodes of Chaos, Growth & Laser Talk – Let’s Celebrate!

10 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textJoin us in celebrating Episode 200 of The Riley Black Project! 🎉 We reflect on our journey from humble beginnings to building an enga...

Potholes & Progress: The Laser Map Maker Story

03 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn 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 m...

From Wedding Vows to Laser Wow: The Curious Bison Story!

24 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textWhat happens when a wedding photographer and a marketing pro dive into the world of lasers? They create an awesome business—and we’r...

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

19 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textWelcome to a special episode of The Riley Black Project! 🚀 Crystal and John are on the Hot Mess Express, recording live from APA Expo...

Hot Takes, Cold Studio: Let’s Talk Laser Life

17 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIt’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 fre...

From Clippers to Laser Beams: How $150 changed everything!

10 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Gwynn from Create It With Gwynn to talk about her incredible journey from b...

From Glowforge Beginner to Fiber Laser Pro: Connie’s Story

03 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode, we chat with Connie from Humble Hippo Designs! We explore her inspiring journey into laser engraving, starting with a G...

From Crime Scenes to Creative Designs: Christina’s Laser Engraving Evolution

27 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this exciting episode of The Riley Black Project, we chat with Christina from Bay Area Blanks! 🌟 From her unique beginnings finger...

Nicky / Smile In An Envelope

20 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, we’re thrilled to welcome Nicky, the creative force behind Smile in an Envelope! Nicky shares her inspiring journey as a bu...

Where Is Today's Episode?!?!?

13 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this quick but impactful episode, we’re breaking down all the changes coming to The Riley Black Project in 2025! Learn about our up...

Wilson / APA Expo '25

06 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode, we’re joined by the one and only Wilson Brim to dive into all things APA International Personalization Expo 2025! Tak...

Jason / Built 2 Evolve

23 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, we welcome a very special guest—John’s brother, Jason, the founder of Built 2 Evolve and a dedicated personal trainer. Ja...

TRBP On The Road In CO

16 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, The Riley Black Project hits the road! 🚗💨 Join us as we record from our hotel room and share all the exciting details a...

Marissa / Pearl & Pine

09 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textMarissa from Pearl & Pine returns to The Riley Black Project for an exciting conversation packed with insights and laughter! 🌟 We...

Jodi / Modcut

02 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, we chat with Jodi, the creative mind behind Modcut, a thriving Etsy shop specializing in mid...

Lexi & Kendra / 1819 Madera Designs

25 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode, we had an absolute blast chatting with Lexi and Kendra from 1819 Madera Designs! These incredible makers shared their l...

Will / Crazy Laser Dad

18 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this insightful episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Will from Crazy Laser Dad to discuss key challenges and strategi...

Robin Parker Marsh / Welcome Home Custom

11 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, we dive into the artistic journey of Robin Parker Marsh, the creative force behind Welcome H...

Liz / Bela Collective

04 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this insightful episode, we sit down with Liz, the visionary owner of Bela Collective, to dive deep into her entrepreneurial journey ...

Chantz / Custom Grains & LBTC

28 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode, we sit down with Chantz, the creative mind behind CustomGrainsMN.com and the recent acquisition of LaseredByTheCreek.co...

Toby / Cuttle.xyz

21 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textIn this episode, we sit down with Toby, the visionary behind Cuttle.xyz, a groundbreaking platform revolutionizing software and laser de...

Cindy / LoLo Berry Shoppe

14 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week on the podcast, we dive into personal growth and transformation with Cindy from LoLo Berry Shoppe. Together, we explore how re...

Daniel / Alive Pixel Creates

07 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, we’re joined by Daniel from Alive Pixel Creates, who shares the story of how he began crafting 3D-printed laser jigs. From ...

Dre Lane / Grown Business Apparel

27 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, we’re honored to be joined by Dre Lane, a talented singer, entrepreneur, and longtime friend of Crystal from their high sch...

Katie / Monarch Pine

23 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, we’re excited to welcome Katie from Monarch Pine, a weekly sponsor and a great friend of the show. Katie shares her inspiri...

Stan & Len / LensDigital

16 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, we’re thrilled to be joined by Stan and Len from LensDigital! This powerhouse duo is back with the exciting introduction of...

Josh / Lonestar Adhesive

09 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, we’re excited to be joined by Josh from Lonestar Adhesive! We had an incredible and fun conversation that went a little lon...

Kelsey / Powless + Co.

02 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, we're joined by Kelsey aka Kels with Powless + Co. This was a fun and motivational conversation about her journey and so...

Robin Faro / That Laser Lady

26 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, we sit down with That Laser Lady Robin Faro. she shares her story and how she became the tumbler queen.Support the showIf you...

Heather Bennett w/ Paisley Grace Makery

19 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, we welcome Heather Bennett of Paisley Grace Makery. She shares her journey with her shop. Business Page: https://www.faceboo...

Blake w/ Great Lakes Laser Supply

12 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, we welcome back Blake from Great Lake Laser Suppy. He updates us on his journey. Also, he has a generous deal for our listene...

Bre w/ The Burn Shack

05 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, we talk with Bre from The Burn Shack. As always it's was a fun convo with a ton of takeaways.Support the showIf you enjo...

Keeping it Real

29 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, We dive into our own ups and downs in our personal journey.Click here to sign up for LMC: https://www.lasermakercon.com/?affi...

Alicia w/ Azul Timber

22 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, Alicia from Azul Timber joins in on the fun. She takes us on her laser journy and shares her wins and a few losses.  Click h...

Emily Announces Laser Maker Con

15 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, That Mom with a Laser Emily Caroline joins us and announces the dates for her Laser Maker Con. She's been working hard f...

TNLLC Recap w/ Heather Lynn

08 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, we recap a busy weekend at The Next Level Laser Conference with the one and only Heather Lynn of LoBo Designs. Support the s...

Live from TNLLC in Tulsa

01 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week we recorded live from The Next Level Laser Conference. Huge thanks to all that took the time to come down and join us live.Sup...

Mark & Will w/ TNLLC

24 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, we get you pumped up for THE NEXT LEVEL LASER CONFERENCE put on by Mark & Will. We're heading to Tulsa, are you comi...

Kim & Garrett Make It

17 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, Kim & Garrett take time out from their youtube channel: Kim & Garrett make it, to share their story and have some lau...

Jessica Trueblood w/ Etsy Underachievers FB Group

10 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, Jessica Trueblood from the Etsy Underachievers FB Group joins us and gives some great tips for your Etsy shop.Support the sho...

Jenny w Lucky Jonquil

03 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, Jenny with Lucky Jonquil talks fibers with us and tells us what a jonquil is.Support the showIf you enjoy our content, consid...

Kevin w/ Sledge Epoxy Worx

27 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, New friend to the community Kevin of Sledge Epoxy Worx joins us. We talk about starting a new business, what goes into Epoxy ...

Olie w/ Copper Cactus Collective

13 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, we're joined by Olie with Copper Cactus Collective. He shares his story of being an entrepreneur for over 10yrs now. Su...

Greg w/ Fatman Little Trail

06 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, we're joined by Greg of Fatman Little Trail. He shares with us the story of how posting his hikes led to a growing audie...

Stephanie w/ The Country Porch Swing

29 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, we're joined by Stephanie from The Country Porch SwingSupport the showIf you enjoy our content, consider supporting us o...

Jess w/ 99 Art DesignZ

23 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, we're joined by Jess of 99 Arts DesignZSupport the showIf you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You...

Justin Laser

15 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Send us a textThis week, we're joined by the one and only Justin LaserSupport the showIf you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon...