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 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-inch acrylic addiction... and what to do with it 😂Support the showIf you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProjectCheck out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlackWant 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.
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1:12:35
From Teacher to Laser Boss: Jess of Script & Grain Shares Her Story
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 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 community-Why representation matters for creative kids-How AI and audiobooks are transforming small biz ownersAnd yep... we even chat about weddings and go-away pricing 🤣This one’s equal parts real talk, resource gold, and inspiration for any maker or creative on the rise.👇 Drop a comment with your biggest takeaway or favorite quote!Support the showIf you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProjectCheck out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlackWant 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.
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1:10:31
Behind LBX: How LightBurn Turned a Software Brand into an Experience
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 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 own shop. From design frustrations to LightBurn for fiber lasers, this one's got it all!Support the showIf you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProjectCheck out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlackWant 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.
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1:26:47
Printers, People, and PDS Vibes – That's UV Energize!
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 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 your way🎤 A sneak peek at upcoming events like Cerulean Tides and UV EnergizeWhether you're in the laser community, thinking about jumping into UV printing, or just want to laugh and learn — this episode’s packed with gems, real talk, and a whole lot of personality.Support the showIf you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProjectCheck out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlackWant 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.
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57:23
Summer Camp for Makers-And Kim & Garrett Are Your Counselors
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 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 and maker communities There’s laughter, chain tangles, event sneak peeks, and even some spicy troll talk near the end. 👀Support the showIf you enjoy our content, consider supporting us on Patreon!! You can check out the tier options and perks here: https://www.patreon.com/TheRileyBlackProjectCheck out my Linktree for my social media links & all the different things I have to offer! https://linktr.ee/RileyBlackWant 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.
Ireland