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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.