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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

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