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Want better content without spending hours editing, stressing over algorithms, or trying to go viral?

In this special compilation episode of The Riley Black Project, we're bringing together two incredible conversations from Facebook Live appearances with Emily (That Mom With A Laser) and Will (Crazy Laser Dad).

The focus?

Content creation that actually works for makers and small business owners.

As part of the launch of the new Content Creation Playbook Mini Course, we dive into the biggest mistakes makers make with content, why consistency beats perfection, and how to create videos that attract customers instead of just views.

In this episode we discuss:

✅ Why most makers overcomplicate content creation
✅ The biggest content mistakes hurting business growth
✅ How to create content even when you're busy
✅ Why authenticity beats polished production
✅ Building trust through video content

Whether you're a laser owner, maker, crafter, UV printer, woodworker, or small business owner, this episode is packed with practical advice you can start using immediately.

The Riley Black Project is where makers, creators, and entrepreneurs come together to talk business, creativity, content, and community.

Check out the Content Creation Playbook Mini Course and start building content with purpose: https://stan.store/RileyBlackStudios/p/rbs-content-playbook

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

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Life hit HARD this week.

In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal finally sit down after a whirlwind couple of weeks involving a totaled car, injuries, family loss, traveling to Virginia for Jamboree, teaching content creation classes, and somehow still trying to keep business moving forward.

This episode gets real.

We talk about:

• Crystal’s car accident and recovery
• Navigating grief, stress, and entrepreneurship at the same time
• The emotional side of running a business during hard seasons
• Jamboree 2026 recap and teaching content creation workshops
• Why the laser community feels like family
• AP LazerCon prep and upcoming events

We also talk maker events, laser business growth, content strategy, teaching creators, and the behind-the-scenes reality nobody talks about online.

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

Send us Fan Mail

Next Level is back… but this year, it’s bigger than lasers.

In this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down with Will and Mark to talk all things Next Level Maker Con 2026, the shift from Next Level Laser Conference to a broader maker-focused event, and why this year’s theme of “Refreshed” matters more than ever.

We dive into:

• Why the event changed from laser-focused to maker-focused
• What “Refreshed” means for makers, creatives, and business owners
• Why taking care of the maker matters just as much as growing the business
• What to expect at the Gaylord Texan Resort in Grapevine, Texas
• The value of smaller conversations, networking, and community
• Why video access to classes is a huge win for attendees
• The new Creator’s Corner and content creation spaces
• Free professional headshots for all-access attendees
• Breakout classes covering AI, pricing, marketing, Etsy, Shopify, garment decorating, UV printing, sandblasting, 3D printing, packaging, branding, and more
• The charity partnership with Wipe Out Kids Cancer
• Why Next Level feels more like a maker family reunion than just another conference

Whether you’re a laser owner, UV printer, crafter, designer, content creator, or small business owner, this episode breaks down why Next Level Maker Con is becoming one of the must-attend events in the maker community.

📍 Next Level Maker Con 2026
https://nextlevelmakerevents.com
August 27–29
Gaylord Texan Resort
Grapevine, Texas

🎙️ The Riley Black Project — real conversations about creativity, business, community, and the makers building something meaningful.

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