The Laser Lounge Podcast at Pate Ranch

In this episode of The Laser Lounge, we’re talking about friction — the hidden inefficiencies, waste, confusion, and unnecessary steps that quietly cost your small business time, money, energy, and customers.

I’ll share a quick update on what’s new with Pate Ranch, lessons learned from running a growing maker business, and best practices that can help add val...

Sales are not dead, but the customer is changing.

In this episode, James and I are talking about the K-shaped economy and what it means for makers, small shops, and creative business owners trying to sell right now.

Some buyers are still spending. Some buyers are tightening up hard. And that means the “mushy middle” is getting harder to survive i...

James is back from Houston to kick off 2026 with some "real talk." We start by pulling back the curtain on our own 2025. What worked, what broke, and the numbers behind our business.

Then, we dive into the "K-Shaped Economy." The middle class "impulse buy" is disappearing, and the gap between survival and luxury is getting wider. If you sell handmade goods, this isn't just theory, it's your new operating system. We break down what ...

In this episode, we’re breaking down the Maker/Laser Business Plan Template—section by section—and showing you how to actually use it to shape your business, not just fill in the blanks.

If you’ve ever felt stuck, scattered, or unsure about your next move, this is your roadmap. No expensive course. Just a clear, tactical breakdown of the plan every maker needs—especially if you want to stop spinning yo...

Today we’re digging into a conversation that every maker, laser owner, and creative entrepreneur needs to hear — the difference between a scrappy side hustle and a real-deal small business.

I’m your host, Alisha Pate, and James is here with me at the ranch as we break down the mindsets, the money, the misconceptions, and the messy middle of it all.

Is personalizing a blank really worth what we charge? Dang right i...

Welcome back to The Laser Lounge at Pate Ranch, the podcast where we talk all things laser engraving, making, and running a successful business in the maker world. I’m your host, Alisha Pate, and today we’re diving into a topic that can make or break your business—opportunity cost.

Every decision you make in your shop—whether it’s taking on a new custom order, buying a new machine, or spending time lea...

"Welcome to today's episode of The Laser Lounge Podcast! I'm thrilled to have a special guest joining us — Jeff Stockton, an expert in the art of firearm engraving. With years of experience, Jeff has mastered the craft of transforming firearms into true works of art, blending precision, creativity, and tradition in every piece he engraves. Today, we'll dive deep into the world of firearm engraving, exploring the techniques, c...

Welcome to "Targeting Success: Strategies to Win Over Your Next Client" with James Pate! In this session, we'll dive deep into the art of client acquisition. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, this livestream is designed to equip you with proven techniques and fresh insights to help you identify, attract, and secure your ideal clients. Together, we’ll explore targeted strategies that go beyond generi...

We're excited to have a special guest from the woodworking and laser community. Amanda Schwarz, recently added a UV galvo laser to her workshop, and we're here to dive into her journey with it. We'll explore how this addition has impacted her workflow, efficiency, and ultimately, her bottom line. Whether you're a seasoned maker or just starting out, you won't want to miss her insights and experiences. Join us as we discuss the tran...

Come listen to Mae Armstrong and I chat about what material and uses we like for each different laser. We will cover the 2D UV, 3D UV, Fiber and both CO2's (Galvo and Gantry). We will dive into some of the differences and what we both like or dislike about each for certain materials. Leather, wood, glass, metal, acrylic etc.. Neither one of us are affiliates for these companies and we will not be talking about the brands themselves...

Howdy Lizards. We will have Michelle Mortman on a livestream on Friday to talk about working with influencers to highlight your products. She will highlight how to engage them, package your products for them to unbox and much more. Michelle has over 24 years of professional experience in strategic change management and also as a thought leader who helps clients achieve their goals and vision. She also has many years of running her ...

Do you want to hear how to make better social media posts - Insta & TikTok. Posts that resonates more with the younger gen? We will have Reagan in the house to show some things that grabs the viewers. She has also been explaining some new apps and tools to make your posts easier. She stays more on trend with what is happening in this space so while she is home for the holidays we are going to get her on the podcast and see what...