• Chatgpt, Sales Automation & More: How Being Let Go Propelled Blessing Into The Life She Always Wanted
    May 28 2024

    In this inspiring episode of "The Women in the Arena," host Paige Rene sits down with tech strategist Blessing Richardson to discuss her journey from self-taught coder to successful entrepreneur.

    Blessing shares her experiences in corporate tech and startups, emphasizing the importance of understanding technology's role in business operations. They explore how Blessing integrates AI and automation into business processes, providing valuable insights for women entrepreneurs.

    The conversation covers practical tips on using tools like ChatGPT to streamline tasks and the importance of building efficient sales hubs. Blessing's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of passion.

    Takeaways:

    1. The importance of working in medium to large companies for exposure to scale and innovative solutions.

    2. The potential of AI tools like ChatGPT in automating and streamlining business processes.

    3. The value of integrating technology into business operations to improve efficiency and profitability.

    In this episode:

    [00:02:00] Blessing shares her journey into tech and becoming a tech strategist.

    [00:04:00] Discussion on the benefits of working in medium to large companies.

    [00:13:00] Insights on using ChatGPT and its applications in business.

    [00:24:00] The concept of sales hubs and their importance for small businesses.

    [00:42:00] The significance of having a unified system for managing different revenue streams.

    [00:09:00] Blessing's experiences in different tech environments, from startups to Fortune 500 companies.

    [00:18:00] How Blessing uses AI to simplify business operations.

    [00:29:00] The challenges and advantages of integrating various business tools.

    [00:33:00] Practical examples of automating client interactions and contract management.

    [00:50:00] Blessing's personal story of overcoming obstacles and pursuing her passion.

    Resources

    1. The Women In The Arena

    2. Listen on Apple

    3. Listen on Spotify

    4. Connect with Blessing on Threads

    5. Read about Blessing on her website

    6. ChatGPT: OpenAI

    7. Other Tools mentioned: Airtable, Notion, Coda, SmartSuite

    Quotes

    1. "Keep saying yes and keep moving forward." - Blessing Richardson

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    56 mins
  • 3 Mistakes Brilliant People Make That Block Sales
    May 8 2024

    Come along with Paige Rene in this delightful episode of "The Women in the Arena," where she chats about the little slip-ups that even the brightest entrepreneurs can make while selling their products or services.

    With six years of business and coaching under her belt, Paige is ready to spill some practical tips to help you polish up your selling strategies. This way, you can connect more deeply and effectively with your clients.

    Whether you’re into sales, marketing, or any part of the entrepreneurial world, this episode is brimming with useful guidance to help you dodge common mishaps and improve your business approach.

    Takeaways:

    1. When explaining your expertise, tailor your communication to the comprehension level of your audience, ensuring they understand and connect with what you're saying.

    2. It's crucial to align your selling points with what your customers genuinely want, rather than merely presenting what excites you about your product or service.

    3. Your passion for what you're selling significantly impacts your success. Be clear and enthusiastic about your offers to resonate more deeply with potential clients.

    In this episode:

    [00:27] Paige introduces the theme of the episode and the relevance to various professional fields.

    [01:20] Detailed breakdown of the first selling mistake: Over-complicating your message.

    [03:12] Discussion on the second mistake: Focusing too much on your passion instead of customer needs.

    [11:31] Exploration of the third mistake: Lack of genuine enthusiasm and clarity in what you're offering.

    [16:53] Closing thoughts and a reminder of how these insights can benefit your selling strategies.

    Resources

    1. The Women In The Arena

    2. Rise Facebook Community

    3. Listen on Apple Podcasts

    4. Listen on Google Podcasts

    5. Listen on Spotify

    6. Watch on YouTube

    7. Paige Rene’s Instagram

    Quotes

    1. “Confused buyers don't buy, confused people don't understand what you're trying to sell them.” - Paige Rene, Host

    2. "You have to practice being able to translate all the knowledge you know, through the filter of being able to teach it to a fifth grader.” - Paige Rene, Host

    3. “You have to sell the result to somebody. You can't sell the process. They're not excited about the process." - Paige Rene, Host

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    18 mins
  • Beyond the Headlines: Navigating Love and Career as a Strong, Independent Woman
    Apr 25 2024
    What's the most important quality you think a journalist needs to succeed in such a high-profile position? In this interview, Chelsea Helms discusses her journey as a journalist and her recent acceptance of a main evening anchor position in Indianapolis. She reflects on challenges in relationships, emphasizing the importance of finding a partner who accepts her energy and supports her career. Chelsea shares insights into the preparation process for job auditions and highlights the significance of confidence and authenticity in navigating the professional arena. Paige Williams, the interviewer, underscores the importance of being true to oneself and pursuing goals with determination. The conversation concludes with mutual admiration for strong, independent women and well wishes for Chelsea's upcoming move. Takeaways: The importance of authenticity and confidence shines through in the conversation, highlighting the need to stay true to oneself and maintain a strong sense of self-assurance, both in professional and personal spheres. The emphasis on thorough preparation and practice in job auditions underscores their value as opportunities for growth and improvement. Each audition, regardless of immediate interest, serves as a chance to refine skills and bolster confidence for future endeavors. Reflecting on relationship challenges, the conversation underscores the significance of finding a partner who offers acceptance and support for career ambitions. Mutual understanding, respect, and support are essential in navigating both personal and professional life successfully. In this episode: [00:28] Introduction to the episode with Chelsea Helms, a KNWA news anchor. [01:20] Chelsea shares her journey into journalism, inspired by her childhood exposure to news. [03:47] Discussion on pursuing journalism after high school in a small-town setting. [05:23] Chelsea's college experience and falling in love with broadcast journalism. [05:45] Unexpected events lead Chelsea into her journalism career after college. [08:54] Chelsea discusses the challenges and importance of relocating for her career. [11:24] Chelsea talks about finding community in a new place through shared interests like fitness. [13:21] Paige and Chelsea discuss the struggle of balancing personal life with career ambitions. [16:40] The importance of maintaining a separate identity from one's career is highlighted. [17:34] Chelsea and Paige emphasize the importance of authenticity and confidence, highlighting the need to embrace one's true self in both professional and personal endeavors. [20:38] The conversation shifts to navigating criticism and maintaining resilience in the face of negativity. Chelsea shares her approach to handling harsh criticism and separating herself from external opinions. [22:56] Chelsea and Paige delve into personal challenges, particularly in finding supportive partners who embrace their ambitious energy. They explore the complexities of gender dynamics and the importance of mutual respect and understanding in relationships. [28:40] Chelsea shares her exciting career transition to a main evening anchor position in Indianapolis. The discussion highlights the significance of preparation, execution, and reflection in pursuing career opportunities. [36:45] In wrapping up, Chelsea reflects on her definition of being a woman inside the arena, emphasizing the importance of confidence, authenticity, and supportive relationships in navigating life's challenges and pursuing goals. Resources The Women In The Arena Rise Facebook Community Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Spotify Watch on YouTube Chelsea Helms on KNWA Follow Chelsea on X and IG Quotes "I remember growing up watching my now mentor on the news my entire life, and I was like, wait, I could be that for someone." - Chelsea Helms, Guest "Every city is different. You have to be really conscious of where you're living and what kind of lifestyle you're looking for." - Chelsea Helms, Guest "What we do is not who we are." - Paige Williams, Host
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    39 mins
  • How to Know You're In the Right Place (when you feel lost)
    Apr 9 2024
    What does it mean to find your true north in a world that constantly tries to pull you in a thousand different directions? In an emotionally charged episode of "The Women in the Arena," Paige Rene offers a sanctuary for women navigating the tumultuous waters of entrepreneurship. She identifies the primary barrier as the uncertainty of "how" to execute their dreams, emphasizing the need for a blueprint and direction, which is often lacking when leaving structured employment. Paige encourages listeners to overcome these hurdles by seeking guidance, focusing on personal growth, and staying true to one's purpose. She also explores the importance of acknowledging and learning from both doubts and affirmations ("God Winks 😉") to remain aligned with one's goals and continue making impactful strides in their entrepreneurial journey. Takeaways: The main reason women hesitate to transition from traditional employment to entrepreneurship is the uncertainty of "how" to implement their vision and replace their income, highlighting a need for guidance and a clear blueprint for success. Persistent self-doubt is common, but recognizing and appreciating small affirmations or "God winks" can reinforce one's purpose and direction, helping to navigate the entrepreneurial journey with more confidence and resolve. To accelerate progress and navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship, hiring experts or seeking mentorship in the desired area of business can provide the necessary insights and shortcuts to success, akin to "speed passes" that facilitate quicker achievement of goals. In this episode: [01:19] Paige's reflection on the initial perception of starting a business and the reality of changing market dynamics. [02:09] Discussion on the notion "it's not the player, it's the game," focusing on the ever-changing nature of entrepreneurship and buying behaviors. [02:48] The question from Lululemon's leader prompts Paige to explore the biggest hurdle for women in entrepreneurship: the uncertainty of "how." [04:01] The importance of having a blueprint and guidance in transitioning to entrepreneurship. [04:39] The strategy of hiring experts to overcome the 'how' barrier in business. [06:02] Paige shares her experiences with the challenges of sustaining success in business and the feeling of imposter syndrome. [07:00] Personal anecdote of Paige's reaffirmation of purpose and the concept of "God winks." [08:15] The significance of seeking and recognizing affirmations in one's entrepreneurial journey. [09:36] Introduction to Paige's free resource, "The Online Entrepreneur," for aspiring business owners. [10:06] Paige discusses the ongoing presence of doubt in entrepreneurship and the importance of acknowledgment and learning from experiences. [11:17] Encouragement to recognize and act upon the small nudges and affirmations in one's journey. [13:58] Paige urges listeners to be aware of their gifts and the value they bring, highlighting the importance of self-awareness and feedback. Resources The Women In The Arena Paige Rene Coaching The Online Entrepreneur Rise Facebook Community Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Spotify Watch on YouTube Quotes “It ain't the player, it's the game. Understanding that the rules are forever changing, buying behavior is forever changing, and you shouldn't take it so personally.” - Paige Rene, Host “The number one reason why I see women not going for what they want is the uncertainty of the How. They have this vision, this dream, and then How stops them.” - Paige Rene, Host “Life is that thing that you live forward, but understand in reverse. Enough life in one arena under your belt, and you kind of know what to anticipate, what challenges are going to come, and how to navigate those.” - Paige Rene, Host “The doubts don't go away. They just are in a different arena. I feel them in a different arena.” - Paige Rene, Host
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    15 mins
  • Leading with Grit: Inside the Mind of Coach Jordan Clark
    Apr 2 2024

    In this episode of "The Women in the Arena," host Paige interviews Coach Jordan Clark of the FAU Owls softball team. They discuss the team's recent top 25 ranking, Coach Jordan's journey to becoming a head coach, and the importance of building a positive team culture.

    Jordan shares her experiences with challenging career transitions, the significance of having a supportive network, and the realities of leadership and decision-making in coaching. She emphasizes the need for self-confidence, conviction, and the impact of creating meaningful relationships with players. The conversation also touches on work-life balance and the long-term legacy she aims to leave.

    Takeaways:

    1. Success in leadership comes from the willingness to take risks, adapt to new environments, and capitalize on opportunities for growth, even when it means stepping out of comfort zones.

    2. Building a strong team culture is crucial for success, focusing on personal development, mutual respect, and creating an environment where every member feels valued and motivated.

    3. Achieving a healthy work-life balance is essential for long-term satisfaction and effectiveness. A meaningful legacy is built on how one impacts others, prioritizing relationships and positive influences over personal accolades.

    In this episode:

    [01:42] Jordan shares her career transition from education to coaching, embracing various roles and the challenges along the way.

    [03:51] The leap of faith to the head coaching position at FAU, the uncertainties faced, and the decision-making process involved.

    [06:35] Transitioning from assistant to head coach, developing a personal coaching style, and the significance of building a positive team culture.

    [09:17] The importance of a support system in personal and professional life, dealing with challenges, and trusting one’s judgment.

    [15:16] Facing and managing challenges as a head coach, including dealing with criticism and building relationships with players and staff.

    [17:31] Legacy and impact aspirations beyond wins and losses, focusing on personal relationships and long-term influence on players.

    [19:16] Work-life balance challenges in collegiate athletics and strategies for maintaining personal relationships alongside professional commitments.

    [22:44] Handling difficult personalities and situations within the team, emphasizing emotional intelligence and objective decision-making.

    [27:31] Jordan's definition of being a "woman in the arena," emphasizing resilience, conviction, and the ability to influence positively.

    Resources

    1. The Women In The Arena

    2. Rise Facebook Community

    3. Listen on Apple Podcasts

    4. Listen on Google Podcasts

    5. Listen on Spotify

    6. Watch on YouTube

    7. Jordan Clark

    8. FAU Owls Softball Team

    9. Watch the games on ESPN+

    Quotes

    1. "I just think that when you take a job, you have this vision and you think of all the reasons things can go right. And so when it came out yesterday, it was just a real moment. It's something that you put in all this time, and you see the girls work, your staff work, and so, to see it come up, I know that we're not done yet, but it was a moment of like, you did it. Like, you did it, they did it." - Jordan Clark, Guest

    2. "It's reassuring that you need your people and you're not going to make everyone happy. But at the end of the day, you got to know that whether you listen to them or not, they're still gonna be your people. And it's okay that you don't always go with their advice." - Jordan Clark, Guest

    3. “Your legacy is how you make people feel. And at the end of the day, wins are wins and losses are losses. Who you are as a person is your core and how you make people feel. That’s the legacy I want to leave." - Jordan Clark, Guest

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    33 mins
  • The Art of Failing Forward: Finding Success in the Struggle
    Mar 26 2024

    In this episode of "The Women in the Arena," host Paige Rene offers a heartfelt conversation directly to listeners, emphasizing the importance of embracing the messiness of pursuing dreams and the pivotal role of persistence in achieving success. She discusses her own struggles with messaging in business and the enlightening moments that inspired her to persist.

    Through a reflective exercise, Paige encourages listeners to confront their fears, evaluate the risks of pursuing their dreams, and imagine the regret of not taking those chances. She shares inspiring examples, including her addition to a list of people who dared to dream big. Paige stresses that success is tied to persistent efforts and the willingness to learn from failures, urging her audience to keep pushing toward their goals.

    Takeaways:

    1. Embrace Messiness: Paige emphasizes the importance of accepting and finding value in the uncertainties and challenges encountered while pursuing dreams.

    2. Persistence is Key: The podcast highlights persistence as the essential ingredient for success, stressing the need for continuous effort despite obstacles.

    3. Face Fears and Risks: Paige encourages listeners to confront their fears, evaluate risks, and take action towards their goals, suggesting that the regret of inaction is scarier than any risk.

    In this episode:

    [01:24] The concept of "Magic in the Mess" is introduced. Paige talks about her journey with messaging in her business and the challenge of communicating effectively with her target audience.

    [03:16] Persistence is highlighted as the single word that guarantees success. Paige reflects on its importance and how it has impacted her journey.

    [04:28] Paige prompts listeners to confront their fears by rating the scariness of pursuing their dreams on a scale of one to ten, encouraging reflection on the risks and potential regrets of not taking action.

    [08:10] The introduction of the Rise Facebook Community is shared, offering listeners a space for support, coaching, and networking among like-minded women.

    [09:03] Inspiration from Dean Graziosi and the concept of viewing one's life from a future perspective to gauge the importance of taking risks and pursuing dreams.

    [10:12] The need for persistence, willingness to fail, and the importance of continual effort toward achieving one's goals are discussed, using Tom Brady as an example of success through repetition and perseverance.

    [12:27] Paige emphasizes the underappreciated value of reconnecting with one's truth and the potential within, encouraging listeners to take steps towards what draws them in and excites them.

    Resources

    1. The Women In The Arena

    2. Rise Facebook Community

    3. Listen on Apple Podcasts

    4. Listen on Google Podcasts

    5. Listen on Spotify

    6. Watch on YouTube

    Quotes

    1. "There's a lot of magic in the mess." - Paige Rene, Host

    2. "Persistence...is the only guarantee of success." - Paige Rene, Host

    3. "A winner is just somebody who tried one more time." - Paige Rene, Host

    4. "You have to be willing to let your ego get hurt." - Paige Rene, Host

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    14 mins
  • How to Remain Resilient & Powerful Online w/ Fitness Influencer Simply Manders
    Mar 12 2024
    In this episode of "The Women in the Arena" podcast, host Paige Rene interviews Amanda, known as Simply Mander on Instagram, a nutritional therapy practitioner and fitness coach with a following of 116,000. Amanda shares her journey from feeling discouraged in competitive CrossFit to exploring boxing as a new challenge, discussing the pressures of maintaining a public image and the complexities of navigating personal life events, such as her divorce and coming out, in the public eye. The conversation also touches on the realities of performance-enhancing drugs in sports and the importance of being authentic and unapologetically oneself despite societal pressures or the expectations of others. Amanda's story is a testament to finding strength and empowerment in staying true to oneself and overcoming challenges in both professional and personal arenas. Takeaways: Amanda's journey highlights the importance of staying true to oneself amidst societal pressures and expectations. Her transition in professional focus and personal revelations underscores the empowerment that comes from embracing one's authentic self. The discussion reveals the complexities of managing a public persona online, where social media offers both opportunities for connection and challenges related to privacy and scrutiny. Amanda's story is a testament to resilience, showing how overcoming personal and professional hurdles, including confronting societal taboos and changing athletic paths, leads to growth and self-discovery. In this episode: [00:59] Amanda discusses her reluctance to be labeled just as a fitness influencer and shares her professional background as a nutritional therapy practitioner, detailing her diverse coaching roles from CrossFit kids to strength and conditioning at a boxing gym. [02:03] The conversation shifts to Amanda's exploration of boxing, highlighting her desire for a new challenge and discussing the transition from CrossFit due to feelings of discouragement. [03:08] Amanda traces her entry into the fitness world back to an initial interest in law enforcement, detailing how safety concerns and a crossover with first responders led her to CrossFit and ultimately to a career in fitness and nutrition. [04:02] Paige asks Amanda about her participation in the 2024 CrossFit Open, leading to a discussion on the impact of focusing on strength training and Amanda's curiosity about her competitive standing. [05:20] The conversation delves into the realities of performance-enhancing drugs in competitive CrossFit, with Amanda sharing insights into the prevalence of PEDs and the impact on her motivation and perception of fairness in the sport. [11:06] Amanda talks about the ups and downs of sharing her life publicly, touching on the balance between connection and negativity on social media, and the personal impact of public scrutiny and online bullying. [14:20] Paige and Amanda discuss the challenges of maintaining authenticity and privacy online, particularly in relation to personal relationships and life events, with Amanda sharing her experiences navigating a public divorce and coming out. [18:43] Amanda reflects on feeling empowered by being unapologetically herself, despite societal and personal challenges, emphasizing the strength in authenticity and self-acceptance. [20:21] Amanda shares the motivation behind her decision to come out publicly, highlighting the desire to reclaim her narrative and the importance of speaking her truth in the face of speculation and rumors. [22:48] Paige and Amanda discuss the importance of aligning with one's core beliefs and morals, with Amanda sharing insights from navigating her divorce and the realization that surrounding environments and relationships must reflect one's true self for genuine happiness and fulfillment. [25:56] Amanda defines what being a "woman in the arena" means to her, encapsulating the episode's themes of empowerment, authenticity, and resilience in the face of societal expectations and personal challenges. Resources The Women In The Arena Rise Facebook Community Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Spotify Watch on YouTube Amanda’s Instagram Simply Mander YouTube Amanda’s TikTok Simply Mander's Website Black Iron Nutrition Website Quotes "Being a woman in the arena is saying like, 'Hey, I can show up and I can do this too. And I can be me and I can just crush it being a woman.'" - Amanda, Guest "If you're in a place where you feel like the people around you don't really know the real you, or don't really love the real you, or you don't really align morally with like, your surroundings...it's probably not where you're supposed to be." - Amanda, Guest "You have to just be like, okay, I don't care. I don't care what anyone says about it. Like I'm gonna try to do it and you just have to literally like go for it." - Amanda, Guest
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    28 mins
  • Dual Mastery in Motherhood & Marketing with Jill Lister
    Mar 5 2024
    In this compelling episode, host Paige Rene delves into the inspiring journey of Jill Lister, the visionary founder of Set Sail Marketing. From her early days as a natural connector to her leap into entrepreneurship, Jill shares invaluable insights into building a successful social media marketing agency that specializes in organic growth for small businesses nationwide. Balancing motherhood with her entrepreneurial spirit, Jill discusses the challenges and triumphs of managing a growing business and a growing family. This episode is a treasure trove of strategic advice, personal growth, and the importance of being present, making it a must-listen for aspiring and established entrepreneurs alike. Takeaways: Strategic Focus on Organic Social Media Growth: Jill Lister emphasizes the power of organic social media marketing in driving business growth. By focusing on creating engaging, relevant content tailored to specific target markets, Set Sail Marketing helps clients achieve significant results without relying on paid advertising. The Importance of Selectivity in Client and Team Building: Jill shares insights into the meticulous process of selecting the right clients and building a competent team. She underscores hiring slow and firing fast, ensuring team members align with the company's values and goals, and vetting clients to establish fruitful, respectful working relationships. Continuous Learning and Adaptation: The episode highlights Jill's commitment to continuous improvement and adaptation, both personally and professionally. By actively seeking new knowledge through podcasts, engaging with business coaches, and staying abreast of industry changes, Jill exemplifies the growth mindset essential for entrepreneurial success. Creating Communities for Growth: Jill discusses the launch of the Set Sail Supercharger community and The Carolina Women's Collective as platforms for collaboration, networking, and mutual support among businesses. These initiatives reflect her belief in the power of community to foster growth, innovation, and collective success in the business world. In this episode: [00:55] Jill introduces Set Sail Marketing and its focus on social media marketing management for small businesses, detailing how they assist clients with strategy, content creation, and revenue growth through social media. [01:35] Discussion on whether Set Sail Marketing serves local or nationwide clients, with Jill explaining their reach and client base. [02:03] Jill addresses common challenges small businesses face with social media, emphasizing the pitfalls of spreading efforts too thin across multiple platforms. [03:20] Strategies for choosing the right social media platforms for businesses, considering target demographics and content types. [04:18] Jill recounts her entrepreneurial journey, from early signs of her connector role to launching her business amidst the demand for social media help during COVID-19. [09:00] Advice for women seeking their passion in work, emphasizing exploration and understanding personal preferences. [10:18] Transitioning into motherhood as a business owner, Jill shares the lack of resources for navigating entrepreneurship and motherhood simultaneously. [12:01] Jill discusses her experience leading her team and managing client expectations shortly after giving birth, highlighting the importance of client selection. [13:26] Ad break featuring Paige's online community for women leaders. [14:25] The significance of choosing the right clients and team members for a harmonious business environment. [15:00] Detailed hiring process for Set Sail Marketing, focusing on values and creative capabilities. [17:27] Jill's favorite aspect of her work: developing strategic solutions for clients and witnessing the impact on their businesses. [18:11] Focus on organic social media growth versus paid advertising, with success stories of organic reach outperforming paid ads. [22:49] How motherhood has influenced Jill's approach to business, emphasizing presence and prioritization. [23:46] Introduction of the Set Sail Supercharger community as a resource for businesses seeking to improve their social media presence. [25:32] Personal strategies for maintaining enthusiasm and creativity in business, including listening to podcasts and engaging with business coaches. [29:39] Future plans for Set Sail Marketing and launching The Carolina Women's Collective for wider business and social impact. [32:50] Jill reflects on the pride and fulfillment of being a woman in the business arena. [33:50] How listeners can connect with Jill and Set Sail Marketing online. Resources The Women In The Arena Rise Facebook Community Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Google Podcasts Listen on Spotify Watch on YouTube Set Stail Marketing Agency Connect with Jill Lister Quotes "Once you start feeding the beast with paid ads, you have to continue down that route. Our secret sauce is in that organic growth." - Jill...
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    35 mins