Best Glowforge Podcasts (2025)

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Snarky Designs & Success on YouTube: Roy’s Industrial Fringe Story 1:09:38

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16h ago1:09:38

1:09:38

Send us a text On this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Roy from Industrial Fringe to dive into his journey from DJ booths and Disney clubs to the laser world. Roy shares how he went from sublimation to lasers after picking up the xTool F1, and how documenting his learning process turned into a YouTube channel with 21K+ subscrib…

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Live at Next Level Laser: Beards, Bonding & Big Impact 42:52

1h ago42:52

42:52

Send us a text This episode of The Riley Black Project is unlike any other—we’re live on the road from Next Level Laser Conference 2025! 🙌 Join us as we share the behind-the-scenes of our 17-hour road trip, connect with amazing makers, and rally together for a powerful cause. From beard-off fundraising to surprise donations, this episode is packed …

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On the Road to Next Level: Snacks, Lasers & AI 1:04:10

11d ago1:04:10

1:04:10

Send us a text Hit the road with us for this special Riley Black Project episode, recorded on the way to the Next Level Laser Conference 2025! 🚗✨ We cover everything from road trip snacks and travel stories to how fast laser technology is evolving, the rise of UV printing, and how makers can use these new tools to test markets and grow their busine…

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The TroVan Life: Frankie from Trotec Shows Us Inside 1:03:53

8d ago1:03:53

1:03:53

Send us a text On 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 shares how he’s turning a ProMaster into a mobile demo hub, traveling from Florida to Michigan, Miami, Atlanta, and beyond—bringing the Trotec Speedy 360 right to makers’ doors. We dive into: What i…

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Social Media Made Simple – Without the Burnout 1:06:20

22d ago1:06:20

1:06:20

Send us a text This week on The Riley Black Project, we’re joined by Sara, the virtual assistant who has been saving businesses (and our sanity) one task at a time — and now she’s taking it to the next level with her new subscription service, My Social Companion. We talk about: How a VA can free up your time and streamline your business Why most ma…

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From Creative Chaos to Financial Clarity: Bookkeeping for Makers 57:32

22d ago57:32

57:32

Send us a text This week on The Riley Black Project, we’re hanging out with Jess & Alex from JT Financial Studio — the power duo helping makers, laser owners, and small business hustlers finally get their books, taxes, and finances in order. From filing your LLC without falling for scams, to knowing when to switch from an LLC to an S-Corp, to avoid…

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From Middle School to Manufacturer: The MakerFlo Journey 1:10:42

1M ago1:10:42

1:10:42

Send us a text In this wild episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with John and Mark of MakerFlo — two longtime friends turned laser biz legends. From being held at gunpoint at an international border (yes, really!) to building a thriving supply business for makers, their journey is full of laughs, lessons, and a little chaos. We dive int…

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David vs. Blake: Laserland’s Most Chaotic Bromance 1:06:39

1M ago1:06:39

1:06:39

Send us a text In this wild and hilarious episode of The Riley Black Project, we're bringing together two laser world favorites—Blake and David—for a bromantic showdown like no other. From Keychain Thingies to booth-building tips, trade show antics, crafting confessions, and an actual beard vs. beard charity battle, this one is packed with laughs, …

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Branding So Good It’s Easy Peasy – Alyssa Tells All 1:16:45

2M ago1:16:45

1:16:45

Send us a text In this juicy episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Alyssa of Lemon Squeezy Brands, a powerhouse branding expert who helps small business owners turn chaos into clarity through bold brand strategy and killer websites. 🍋 Alyssa shares her wild journey from leaving the news industry to launching a wood sign business, goi…

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From Jigs to Retail: Daniel’s Journey with Customz It 1:00:17

2M ago1:00:17

1:00:17

Send us a text In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we catch up with the king of laser jigs and 3D-printed precision: Daniel of Alive Pixel Creates and Customz It! Daniel joins us fresh off launching his new brick-and-mortar maker shop—and let's just say, it's been a wild ride of jig design, shop setup surprises, and all the “what-the-heck” …

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This Episode Deserves a Trophy (Luckily, Megan Makes Those) 1:20:20

2M ago1:20:20

1:20:20

Send us a text This week on The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Megan of Raymond’s Trophies — APA Volunteer of the Year, laser badass, and longtime industry pro. We dive deep into her journey from photography and corporate life to running a family-owned awards business, how Raymond’s evolved through decades of innovation, and why adaptability…

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Work Boots, Glasses & Business Moves – Meet D’ondra! 53:31

2M ago53:31

53:31

Send us a text In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with D’ondra of Work Boots & Glasses, a self-taught maker whose business journey started by kicking her husband's car out of the garage—literally. From building furniture to launching a fresh line of earrings and glassware, D’ondra shares how she turned her DIY spirit into a ful…

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Real Talk on Etsy, Shopify & Pivoting Like a Pro: Melody's Back 1:02:42

3M ago1:02:42

1:02:42

Send us a text In this week’s episode of The Riley Black Project, we welcome back our acrylic plug, Melody from CMB, for a long-overdue catch-up! 🎉 We dive into how her business has transformed since her first appearance (way back in Episode 78!), including her shift into Shopify expertise, scaling to a massive 14,000 sq ft space, and embracing the…

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Live from the Jamboree! Chaos, Laughs & Real Talk 44:05

3M ago44:05

44:05

Send us a text Live from the Jamboree! This episode of The Riley Black Project is packed with laughs, behind-the-scenes chaos, and real talk as Crystal and John host a special live recording during a laser maker Summer Camp. We’re sharing takeaways from teaching classes, navigating tech fails, and connecting with the incredible maker community IRL.…

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Let’s Go, Laser Maker Con! Emily’s Back with Big Energy 59:32

3M ago59:32

59:32

Send us a text Interested 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 act fast! Https://www.lasermakercon.com/?affiliate=crystal_aguila This week on The Riley Black Project, we welcome back the one and only Emily — better known as That Mom With a Laser! In this episode…

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When the Universe Hands You a Key… You Build a Studio 44:44

4M ago44:44

44:44

Send us a text In this Episode of The Riley Black Project, Crystal and John drop a huge update — they're launching a brand-new rentable podcast & content creation studio in Sebastian, Florida! 🎉 This episode is a behind-the-scenes look at the wild journey that led to Riley Black Studios — from a simple DM to securing the perfect space, making hard …

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Cut, Spray, Repeat: The Stencil Hustle You Didn’t Know You Needed 1:25:54

4M ago1:25:54

1:25:54

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-cut stencils, custom designs, and viral content. From humble beginnings to creating jaw-dropping multi-layered stencil art that’s turned heads on social media, Collin shares the evolution of his laser jo…

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Inside MBZ Designs: UV Printing, Lasers & Creative Chaos 1:12:35

4M ago1:12:35

1:12:35

Send us a text In 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 “gatewa…

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From Teacher to Laser Boss: Jess of Script & Grain Shares Her Story 1:10:31

4M ago1:10:31

1:10:31

Send us a text In 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 buil…

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Behind LBX: How LightBurn Turned a Software Brand into an Experience 1:26:47

4M ago1:26:47

1:26:47

Send us a text In 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 …

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Printers, People, and PDS Vibes – That's UV Energize! 57:23

5M ago57:23

57:23

Send us a text This 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 storie…

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Summer Camp for Makers-And Kim & Garrett Are Your Counselors 1:04:21

5M ago1:04:21

1:04:21

Send us a text This 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 karao…

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Next Level or Bust (Bring an Extra Suitcase) 1:05:44

5M ago1:05:44

1:05:44

Send us a text In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we kick off our four-part series spotlighting this year's must-attend laser and maker events—starting with the fan-favorite: Next Level Laser Conference! 🛠️✨ Crystal and John are joined by Mark of Big Blue Laser Designs and MJ of Casa De Huevos lol (yes, she’s really starting a farm!) to ch…

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Creative Burnout, Earring Bars & the Battle with Imposter Syndrome 54:56

5M ago54:56

54:56

Send us a text In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Melody of The Uncommon Melody to talk all things laser biz—real talk, real burnout, and real growth. 🎧✨ We dive into: 🧷 How Melody launched a successful earring bar experience 🧠 Dealing with imposter syndrome & burnout 💸 Learning to set boundaries and finally charge what yo…

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Laser Files, Life Lessons & the Power of Community – Diane’s Story 1:20:34

6M ago1:20:34

1:20:34

Send us a text This week on The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Diane of A Wee Bit Southern – a Scotland-born, North Carolina-living serial crafter who's turning creativity into community and commerce. Diane opens up about her health journey and how laser crafting became both a creative outlet and a business opportunity. We dive deep into: 🛠️…

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Crushing Craft Shows with Live Laser Engraving – Paisley Co.’s Strategy! 1:28:15

6M ago1:28:15

1:28:15

Send us a text 🚀 From Side Hustle to Thriving Business! 🎯 Cheyenne of Paisley Co. Designs Shares Her Journey In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Cheyenne from Paisley Co. Designs to talk about her incredible journey from the corporate world to full-time laser crafting! 🎨🔥 We dive into: ✅ How she built a successful laser bus…

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Unhinged & Unstoppable: Turning Creativity into Profits 59:21

6M ago59:21

59:21

Send us a text Hold onto your laser-cut hats—this episode of The Riley Black Project is a wild ride! We welcome back Stephanie and Dawn, the dynamic duo behind the Unhinged Maker Society, who have combined forces to shake up the maker community. From the struggles of branding to the untold chaos of setting up a business (Kajabi nightmares, anyone?)…

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She Bought HOW Many Machines?! Patricia’s Business Glow-Up! 52:13

6M ago52:13

52:13

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! In this episode, we dive deep into her laser journey, her big moves in the signage industry, and how she’s scaling her business from local markets to e-commerce. 🎯 Learn how she built her brand through wo…

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200 Episodes of Chaos, Growth & Laser Talk – Let’s Celebrate! 1:30:30

7M ago1:30:30

1:30:30

Send us a text Join us in celebrating Episode 200 of The Riley Black Project! 🎉 We reflect on our journey from humble beginnings to building an engaged laser and maker community. Hear behind-the-scenes stories, lessons learned, and future plans for the podcast. Plus, special guest Will from Crazy Laser Dad joins us to share insights, laughter, and …

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Potholes & Progress: The Laser Map Maker Story 1:27:47

7M ago1:27:47

1:27:47

Send us a text In 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 most stunning laser-cut maps softwere in the industry! 🛠️🔥 They share their journey from hobbyists to successful business owners, revealing the challenges, wins, and lessons learned along the way. 💡 I…

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From Wedding Vows to Laser Wow: The Curious Bison Story! 1:15:03

7M ago1:15:03

1:15:03

Send us a text What happens when a wedding photographer and a marketing pro dive into the world of lasers? They create an awesome business—and we’re here to tell their story! 🦄✨ In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Jordan and Mikey of Curious Bison, a laser-focused duo (see what we did there? 😆) who turned a Glowforge hobby …

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Bonus- Vegas, Networking & New Lasers?! (Live from APA Expo) 🎙️ 53:33

7M ago53:33

53:33

Send us a text Welcome to a special episode of The Riley Black Project! 🚀 Crystal and John are on the Hot Mess Express, recording live from APA Expo in Las Vegas! 🎤🔥 In this episode, we dive into: ✅ Our journey from Sacramento to Vegas for the APA Expo ✅ How The Riley Black Project podcast started & our upcoming 200th episode! 🎉 ✅ The power of netw…

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Hot Takes, Cold Studio: Let’s Talk Laser Life 1:06:21

7M ago1:06:21

1:06:21

Send us a text It’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 freezer! 🥶 But hey, what’s a little frostbite when you’ve got good company, hot laser talk, and plenty of laughs? In this episode, we dive into: 🔹 Our crazy meetup stories (spoiler: laser people are the best!…

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From Clippers to Laser Beams: How $150 changed everything! 1:18:25

8M ago1:18:25

1:18:25

Send us a text In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Gwynn from Create It With Gwynn to talk about her incredible journey from being a dog groomer to launching a thriving laser business. 🚀✨ Gwynn shares how she saved up tip money to buy her first crafting machine, faced tough financial decisions, and ultimately took a leap in…

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From Glowforge Beginner to Fiber Laser Pro: Connie’s Story 1:11:57

8M ago1:11:57

1:11:57

Send us a text In this episode, we chat with Connie from Humble Hippo Designs! We explore her inspiring journey into laser engraving, starting with a Glowforge purchased using a stimulus check, and her transition to working with CO2 and fiber lasers. Connie shares her experiences running a creative business, overcoming challenges, and crafting vira…

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From Crime Scenes to Creative Designs: Christina’s Laser Engraving Evolution 1:26:13

8M ago1:26:13

1:26:13

Send us a text In this exciting episode of The Riley Black Project, we chat with Christina from Bay Area Blanks! 🌟 From her unique beginnings fingerprinting the departed to becoming a powerhouse in the laser engraving world, Christina's journey is nothing short of inspiring. 🚀 🔥 What We Cover: Christina's intriguing start in fingerprinting 🕵️‍♀️ Th…

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Nicky / Smile In An Envelope 1:19:25

8M ago1:19:25

1:19:25

Send us a text This week, we’re thrilled to welcome Nicky, the creative force behind Smile in an Envelope! Nicky shares her inspiring journey as a business owner, diving into how she’s embraced pivoting as a natural and necessary part of her entrepreneurial process. From unexpected challenges to creative solutions, her story is full of laughs, resi…

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Where Is Today's Episode?!?!? 37:21

8M ago37:21

37:21

Send us a text In this quick but impactful episode, we’re breaking down all the changes coming to The Riley Black Project in 2025! Learn about our updated show schedule, the fresh Patreon tiers designed to give you even more value, and some fun events we’re excited to attend next year. Whether you're a longtime listener or just discovering our podc…

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Wilson / APA Expo '25 1:10:40

9M ago1:10:40

1:10:40

Send us a text In this episode, we’re joined by the one and only Wilson Brim to dive into all things APA International Personalization Expo 2025! Taking place this February in Las Vegas, this year’s expo promises to be bigger and better than ever. From must-see booths to exciting networking opportunities, we share what we’re most looking forward to…

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Jason / Built 2 Evolve 1:25:34

9M ago1:25:34

1:25:34

Send us a text This week, we welcome a very special guest—John’s brother, Jason, the founder of Built 2 Evolve and a dedicated personal trainer. Jason shares his remarkable journey, including his recent major life move, and how his experiences connect with challenges faced by many in the laser community. From finding purpose to adapting to change, …

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TRBP On The Road In CO 1:07:23

9M ago1:07:23

1:07:23

Send us a text This week, The Riley Black Project hits the road! 🚗💨 Join us as we record from our hotel room and share all the exciting details about the local meetup we attended. From connecting with fellow makers to diving into the hot topics that came up during the event, we’re bringing you a behind-the-scenes look at this inspiring gathering. W…

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Marissa / Pearl & Pine 1:20:02

10M ago1:20:02

1:20:02

Send us a text Marissa from Pearl & Pine returns to The Riley Black Project for an exciting conversation packed with insights and laughter! 🌟 We dive into her creative journey, explore the latest updates in her business, and chat about life as a maker. Whether you're a laser enthusiast, a small business owner, or just love hearing about creative hu…

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Jodi / Modcut 1:21:49

10M ago1:21:49

1:21:49

Send us a text In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we chat with Jodi, the creative mind behind Modcut, a thriving Etsy shop specializing in mid-century modern decor. Jodi shares her entrepreneurial journey, from discovering her love for mid-century design to building a successful online store that attracts decor enthusiasts worldwide. Wheth…

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Lexi & Kendra / 1819 Madera Designs 1:22:44

10M ago1:22:44

1:22:44

Send us a text In this episode, we had an absolute blast chatting with Lexi and Kendra from 1819 Madera Designs! These incredible makers shared their laser journey, from their humble beginnings to the wild and unpredictable challenges that shaped their success. 🚀 Expect laughter, inspiration, and stories that highlight the grit and creativity it ta…

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Will / Crazy Laser Dad 1:11:28

10M ago1:11:28

1:11:28

Send us a text In this insightful episode of The Riley Black Project, we sit down with Will from Crazy Laser Dad to discuss key challenges and strategies around pricing products in the laser industry. Will shares his expertise on finding the right price point, maximizing profitability, and navigating the growing competition among makers. We dive in…

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Robin Parker Marsh / Welcome Home Custom 1:16:19

11M ago1:16:19

1:16:19

Send us a text In this episode of The Riley Black Project, we dive into the artistic journey of Robin Parker Marsh, the creative force behind Welcome Home Custom Design. Originally a visual artist, Robin has transformed her talents into a thriving career as a digital file designer, crafting unique and customizable designs that makers can use to bri…

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Liz / Bela Collective 1:16:43

11M ago1:16:43

1:16:43

Send us a text In this insightful episode, we sit down with Liz, the visionary owner of Bela Collective, to dive deep into her entrepreneurial journey in the laser industry. Liz shares the highs and challenges of her path, from mastering laser techniques to launching comprehensive courses that empower others in the field. Discover how she strategic…

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Chantz / Custom Grains & LBTC 1:13:47

11M ago1:13:47

1:13:47

Send us a text In this episode, we sit down with Chantz, the creative mind behind CustomGrainsMN.com and the recent acquisition of LaseredByTheCreek.com. Chantz shares how he built his business around custom laser engraving, from personalized woodwork to expanding into new markets. We dive into his passion for creativity, growth strategies, and the…

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Toby / Cuttle.xyz 1:20:28

11M ago1:20:28

1:20:28

Send us a text In this episode, we sit down with Toby, the visionary behind Cuttle.xyz, a groundbreaking platform revolutionizing software and laser design. Toby shares the inspiring story behind his startup, from its humble beginnings to becoming a go-to tool for designers, makers, and creatives worldwide. Tune in to learn how Cuttle.xyz is empowe…

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Cindy / LoLo Berry Shoppe 1:17:42

11M ago1:17:42

1:17:42

Send us a text This week on the podcast, we dive into personal growth and transformation with Cindy from LoLo Berry Shoppe. Together, we explore how reading "The Secret" inspired us to shift our mindsets, unlocking new perspectives and opportunities. Tune in as we discuss the power of positive thinking, manifestation, and how embracing these princi…