• Unlock the Secrets of Storytelling: Jill McCorkle on Regret, Resilience, and Creativity
    Oct 31 2024

    Summary
    In this episode of The Impact Code, host Brett Hollenbeck engages with acclaimed author Jill McCorkle, exploring her insights on storytelling, the themes of regret and resilience, and the influence of fairy tales on modern narratives. Jill shares her creative process, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in writing and the need to balance profound themes with relatable experiences. She offers valuable advice for aspiring writers, encouraging them to embrace freedom in their first drafts and to understand the complexity of human emotions in character development. In this conversation, Jill McCorkle discusses the complexities of the creative process, the importance of embracing failure, and the evolution of her writing style. She reflects on the challenges of engaging both long-standing and new readers in a digital age, the influence of place on her narratives, and the significance of character development. Jill emphasizes the need for balance in storytelling and the importance of staying true to one's artistic vision amidst the pressures of the publishing industry.

    Takeaways

    • All the work leading up to that moment is necessary and worthwhile.
    • Characters often confront their regrets, shaping their narratives.
    • Fairy tales serve as moral lessons and emotional touchstones.
    • A positive ending is about recognition and acceptance.
    • Writing requires a balance between the mundane and the profound.
    • Truth in writing can be liberating and transformative.
    • Understanding opposing perspectives enriches character development.
    • The creative process is a journey of discovery.
    • Aspiring writers should avoid self-censorship in early drafts.
    • The human experience is complex and multifaceted.
    • Embracing failure is essential for artistic growth.
    • Doubt can hinder creativity, but letting go can lead to beauty.
    • The evolution of character development is crucial for depth.
    • Place significantly influences emotional landscapes in narratives.
    • Navigating reader expectations requires understanding personal growth.
    • Artistic vision must be preserved despite publishing pressures.
    • The creative process is a journey of continuous learning.
    • Characters should be multi-dimensional to resonate with readers.
    • Finding balance in storytelling is a daily challenge.
    • Stories reflect universal human experiences and emotions.

    Chapters
    00:00 The Journey of Creation
    03:04 Exploring Regret and Resilience
    05:58 The Influence of Fairy Tales
    08:52 Balancing Profound Themes with the Mundane
    12:08 Tapping into Truth in Writing
    14:49 Understanding Characters and Perspectives
    17:59 Advice for Aspiring Writers
    27:53 Embracing Failure as a Path to Growth
    31:54 Navigating Reader Expectations in a Digital Age
    36:37 The Evolution of Character Development
    42:47 The Influence of Place on Narrative
    49:56 Staying True to Artistic Vision in Publishing

    Connect with Jill:

    • Jill on Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/jill.mccorkle
    • Jill's Website | https://www.jillmccorkle.com/

    This episode is brought to you completely free by Tower Community Bank! Check us out!

    • Website | https://www.towercommunitybank.com/
    • Virtual Bank | https://virtual.towercommunitybank.com/
    • Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/towercommunitybank/
    • Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/TowerCommunityBank

    Connect with Brett:

    • Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/bahollenbeck/
    • Email | podcast@towercommunitybank.com

    Please subscribe to or follow The Impact Code and leave a review.

    Thank you for listening!

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    56 mins
  • How Local Leaders Are Creating Thriving Communities—And What You Can Learn | Beth Lothers
    Oct 24 2024

    Summary

    In this conversation, Brett Hollenbeck speaks with Beth Lothers, a former mayor of Nolensville, Tennessee, about her journey in local politics, community leadership, and her passion for history and music. They discuss the importance of self-discovery, the challenges of engaging a community in change, and the balance between honoring tradition and embracing progress. Beth shares her experiences in public service, the initiatives she led, and her insights on fostering community connections through events and projects. Additionally, they explore her writing journey and the surprising historical discoveries she made while co-authoring a book about Nolensville. In this conversation, Beth discusses her journey in preserving the history of Nolensville through photography, the importance of community engagement, and her passion for music. She reflects on the challenges of sharing her creative side while serving in public office and emphasizes the significance of embracing vulnerability in artistic expression. Beth also shares her current projects, including grant writing for community development and the arts, and highlights the importance of honoring local heroes and their legacies.

    Takeaways

    • Self-discovery is a lifelong journey.
    • Public service can be fulfilling without being political.
    • Change is inevitable; how we manage it matters.
    • Community engagement is crucial for successful development.
    • Balancing tradition and progress is a challenge for leaders.
    • Collaboration and networking are key to community success.
    • Proud achievements often stem from collective efforts.
    • History can reveal surprising stories about a community.
    • Writing can be a powerful tool for preserving history.
    • Embracing new ideas requires humility and respect.
    • The importance of preserving community history through photographs.
    • Engaging families in sharing their historical images can enrich local narratives.
    • Learning is a continuous journey, even for those in leadership roles.
    • Honoring the legacy of community heroes can inspire future generations.
    • Music can serve as a powerful tool for community connection and celebration.
    • Vulnerability in creative expression can lead to deeper connections with others.
    • It's essential to support local arts and culture for community enrichment.
    • Grant writing can be a vital skill for community development projects.
    • Embracing all parts of oneself, including creative passions, is crucial for personal growth.
    • Community events can foster unity and appreciation for local history.

    Chapters
    00:00 The Journey of Self-Discovery
    01:33 Local Politics and Community Leadership
    03:00 From Political Science to Public Service
    09:43 Engaging the Community in Change
    12:05 Navigating Resistance to Change
    18:46 Proud Achievements in Community Development
    22:07 Balancing Tradition and Progress
    28:20 Exploring Nolensville's History Through Writing
    35:21 Preserving Community History Through Photography
    39:52 The Journey of Learning and Growth
    44:14 Honoring Legacy and Community Heroes
    47:10 The Intersection of Music and Community
    52:31 Embracing Vulnerability in Creative Expression
    01:03:35 Current Projects and Future Aspirations

    Connect with Beth:

    • Beth Lothers on LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/beth-lothers-30344a157/

    This episode is brought to you completely free by Tower Community Bank! Check us out!

    • Website | https://www.towercommunitybank.com/
    • Virtual Bank | https://virtual.towercommunitybank.com/
    • Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/towercommunitybank/
    • Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/TowerCommunityBank

    Connect with Brett:

    • Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/bahollenbeck/
    • Email | podcast@towercommunitybank.com

    Please subscribe to or follow The Impact Code and leave a review.

    Thank you for listening!

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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • Sean Swarner on The Power of Hope in Overcoming Challenges
    May 23 2024
    SummaryIn this episode of The Impact Code, host Brett interviews Sean Swarner, a cancer survivor and world-renowned adventurer. Sean shares his incredible journey of defying the odds and overcoming unimaginable challenges. The conversation revolves around the power of hope, defining personal core values, and the importance of mindset in achieving goals. Sean emphasizes the need to focus on what you want rather than what you want to avoid, and the significance of internal motivation over external motivation. He also discusses the role of family and the impact of self-talk in shaping one's identity and actions. Sean Swarner shares his experience of climbing Mount Everest with one lung and overcoming high-altitude cerebral edema. He emphasizes the importance of having a deeper purpose and using it as motivation to keep going. Sean also talks about the power of signs and the impact of his flag with names of people touched by cancer. He encourages people to find a deeper reason to keep moving forward during difficult times. Sean discusses the significance of ego and confidence, and the importance of removing ego to be receptive to advice and suggestions for improvement. He highlights the value of respecting each other's stories and differences to create a better world. Sean shares a powerful story of saving a woman's life through his presentation and emphasizes the impact we can have on others without even realizing it. He advises people to focus on the present and future, rather than dwelling on the past, and to be mindful of their thoughts and beliefs. Sean also encourages people to take the Big Hill Challenge and start with deep self-reflection to discover who they are and what they want in life.TakeawaysHope is crucial in overcoming obstacles and maintaining a positive mindset.Defining personal core values helps guide decision-making and provides a sense of purpose.Focusing on what you want, rather than what you want to avoid, leads to greater fulfillment and success.Internal motivation is more sustainable and impactful than external motivation.Family plays a significant role in shaping one's values and actions.Positive self-talk and a strong sense of identity are essential for personal growth and achievement. Having a deeper purpose can provide motivation and strength during difficult times.Removing ego allows for personal growth and improvement.Respecting each other's stories and differences can create a better world.Our actions and words can have a profound impact on others, even if we are not aware of it.Focusing on the present and future is more productive than dwelling on the past.Self-reflection is essential for discovering who we are and what we want in life.Chapters00:00 Introduction: Sean Swarner's Journey of Resilience08:04 Discovering and Living by Your Personal Core Values34:19 Overcoming High Altitude Cerebral Edema46:25 The Profound Impact of Our Actions55:15 Projecting Yourself in the Future01:02:37 Removing Ego for Personal Growth01:09:05 Self-Reflection: Discovering Who You AreConnect with Sean:Sean Swarner Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/seanswarner/?hl=enSean Swarner Website | https://www.seanswarner.com/The Big Hill Challenge | https://www.thebighillchallenge.com/True North Documentary on Prime | https://www.amazon.com/True-North-%20Sean-Swarner-Story/dp/B07LBCSFCDThis episode is brought to you completely free by Tower Community Bank! Check us out!Website | https://www.towercommunitybank.com/Virtual Bank | https://virtual.towercommunitybank.com/Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/towercommunitybank/Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/TowerCommunityBankConnect with Brett:Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/impactcodepodcast/Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/bahollenbeck/Email | podcast@towercommunitybank.comPlease subscribe to or follow The Impact Code and leave a review.Thank you for listening!
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    1 hr and 14 mins
  • Zak Hazlett on Believing in Your Worth: Practicing Self Compassion
    May 9 2024

    Summary

    Zak Hazlett, also known as the Outdoor Therapist, combines his love for the outdoors with his professional training in therapy to bring healing and growth to individuals and relationships. He emphasizes the importance of love, kindness, and understanding in his work, aiming to be the friend to himself that he needed during his own difficult times. Zak believes that being a friend to oneself is challenging because of the negative self-talk and the narratives we create about ourselves. He encourages people to recognize their worth and value and to be their own biggest cheerleader and support. In this conversation, Brett and Zak discuss the importance of living authentically and letting go of other people's expectations. They share personal experiences of facing fears and finding relief in being true to themselves. They also explore the power of vulnerability, the value of relationships, and the impact of our actions and words on others. Zak shares his journey as an outdoor therapist and emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and self-care. He encourages listeners to believe in their own worth and to prioritize meaningful connections with others.

    Takeaways

    • Love, kindness, and understanding are essential in therapy and personal growth.
    • Being a friend to oneself is challenging due to negative self-talk and self-created narratives.
    • Recognizing triggers and understanding their underlying causes can lead to personal growth.
    • Setting boundaries is important for maintaining healthy relationships.
    • Self-compassion and self-love are crucial for personal growth and mental health.
    • Living authentically and letting go of other people's expectations is essential for personal happiness and fulfillment.
    • Vulnerability and selflessness are key ingredients for strong and successful relationships.
    • Believing in your own worth and practicing self-compassion are crucial for personal growth.
    • Balancing work and relationships is important, and prioritizing meaningful connections with others brings more joy and fulfillment.
    • Engaging in outdoor activities and spending time in nature can have a healing and transformative effect on individuals and relationships.


    Chapters

    00:00 The Transformative Power of Nature and Therapy
    06:27 Recognizing Triggers and Understanding Their Causes
    13:17 Self-Compassion and Self-Love: The Path to Personal Growth
    38:46 Balancing Work and Relationships: Prioritizing Meaningful Connections
    01:05:22 The Healing and Transformative Power of Nature

    Connect with Zak:

    • Zak Hazlett Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/the_outdoor_therapist/?hl=en
    • Get Outside Together Website | https://www.getoutsidetogether.com/

    This episode is brought to you completely free by Tower Community Bank! Check us out!

    • Website | https://www.towercommunitybank.com/
    • Virtual Bank | https://virtual.towercommunitybank.com/
    • Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/towercommunitybank/
    • Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/TowerCommunityBank

    Connect with Brett:

    • Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/impactcodepodcast/
    • Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/bahollenbeck/
    • Email | podcast@towercommunitybank.com

    Please subscribe to or follow The Impact Code and leave a review.

    Thank you for listening!

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    1 hr and 10 mins
  • Nikolay Timoshchuk Jr on The Power of Taking Action and Working Hard
    May 2 2024

    Summary

    Nikolay shares his journey from teaching to traveling the world and becoming a YouTuber. He emphasizes the importance of taking action and creating a positive routine to live a fulfilling life. He encourages gratitude and positive self-talk as essential practices for overcoming challenges and finding happiness. Nikolay emphasizes the importance of building positive habits and routines to maintain gratitude and positivity. He shares his journey into music and the impact it has had on his life. Nikolay discusses the significance of clean and motivational lyrics in his music and the influence it can have on listeners. He also highlights the importance of self-improvement and building strong relationships in pursuing big goals and making a positive impact in the world.

    Takeaways

    • Taking action and working hard can lead to unexpected opportunities
    • Creating a positive routine and practicing gratitude can improve overall well-being
    • Positive self-talk is crucial for overcoming challenges and finding happiness
    • Living in the present moment and appreciating what we have can bring fulfillment
    • Building positive habits and routines is essential for maintaining gratitude and positivity.
    • Clean and motivational lyrics in music can have a positive impact on listeners.
    • Self-improvement and personal growth are crucial in pursuing big goals and making a positive impact.
    • Building strong relationships and connections is key to success in business and life.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene
    08:01 Creating a Positive Routine for a Fulfilling Life
    16:01 Overcoming Challenges with Positive Self-Talk
    28:48 Embracing Multiple Talents and Passions
    35:28 The Impact of Clean and Motivational Lyrics
    42:22 Building Strong Relationships and Connections

    Connect with Nikolay:

    • Nikolay Timoshchuk Jr. Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/nikotjr/?hl=en
    • Nikolay Timoshchuk Jr. Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMKtVajpbhjwLpk6uZvtZcA

    This episode is brought to you completely free by Tower Community Bank! Check us out!

    • Website | https://www.towercommunitybank.com/
    • Virtual Bank | https://virtual.towercommunitybank.com/
    • Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/towercommunitybank/
    • Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/TowerCommunityBank

    Connect with Brett:

    • Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/impactcodepodcast/
    • Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/bahollenbeck/
    • Email | podcast@towercommunitybank.com

    Please subscribe to or follow The Impact Code and leave a review.

    Thank you for listening!

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    47 mins
  • Zach Bitter on Pushing Limits: Ultra Endurance and Personal Growth
    Apr 26 2024

    Summary

    In this episode, ultra marathon runner Zach Bitter discusses his record-breaking achievements and his approach to training, nutrition, and mental resilience. He shares his journey from breaking world records to inspiring others to push their limits. Zach emphasizes the importance of balance and multiple outlets in his life, as well as the excitement of navigating the variables and uncertainties of ultra marathon running. He also discusses his passion for coaching and helping others achieve their goals in the sport. In this conversation, Zach Bitter discusses his experience as an ultra marathon runner and coach. He shares insights on the importance of being open to new information and adapting to different approaches in training and racing. Zach emphasizes the need for a growth mindset and the willingness to learn from both successes and failures. He also highlights the significance of addressing weaknesses and making necessary adjustments to achieve long-term success. Zach provides advice for those interested in ultra running and encourages them to seek guidance from experienced coaches and engage with the supportive ultra running community.

    Takeaways

    • Zach Bitter's record-breaking achievements in ultra marathon running demonstrate the power of focus, determination, and the right training.
    • His approach to training, nutrition, and mental resilience offers valuable insights into optimizing performance in any area of life.
    • Zach's passion for coaching and helping others achieve their goals in ultra marathon running is driven by his love for navigating the variables and uncertainties of the sport.
    • Finding balance and having multiple outlets in life is essential for long-term success and fulfillment. Be open to new information and adapt to different approaches in training and racing.
    • Embrace a growth mindset and learn from both successes and failures.
    • Address weaknesses and make necessary adjustments to achieve long-term success.
    • Seek guidance from experienced coaches and engage with the supportive ultra running community.

    Chapters

    00:00 Zach Bitter: Pushing the Limits of Human Endurance
    07:47 The Achievability of Running 100 Miles
    13:30 The Influence of Social Media and Personal Branding
    31:19 Coaching and Helping Others Achieve Their Goals
    35:02 The Role of Certification in Teaching and Coaching
    41:08 Memorable Races and Lessons Learned
    52:51 Letting Go of Identities and Embracing Change
    57:07 The Supportive Community of Ultra Running
    01:02:36 Coaching and Training Options with Zach Bitter

    Connect with Zach:

    • Zach Bitter Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/zachbitter/?hl=en
    • Zach Bitter Website | https://zachbitter.com/

    This episode is brought to you completely free by Tower Community Bank! Check us out!

    • Website | https://www.towercommunitybank.com/
    • Virtual Bank | https://virtual.towercommunitybank.com/
    • Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/towercommunitybank/
    • Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/TowerCommunityBank

    Connect with Brett:

    • Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/impactcodepodcast/
    • Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/bahollenbeck/
    • Email | podcast@towercommunitybank.com

    Please subscribe to or follow The Impact Code and leave a review.

    Thank you for listening!

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    1 hr and 12 mins
  • Eric Hinman on Mastering Discomfort and Crafting Authentic Success
    Apr 18 2024

    Summary

    Eric Hinman, an athlete, entrepreneur, and influencer, shares his perspective on mindset, resilience, and wellness. He has created a space in his backyard called Muscle Mountain where he invites people to work out, do contrast therapy, and have meaningful conversations. Eric believes in the power of discomfort and pushing physical and mental boundaries to become the best version of oneself. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on one's passion and aligning business interests with personal values. Eric also advises seeking out mentors and surrounding oneself with people who have achieved what one aspires to. In this conversation, Eric Hinman shares his insights on finding mentors, discovering authenticity, and embracing discomfort as a path to fulfillment. He emphasizes the importance of adding value to potential mentors before formalizing the relationship and suggests starting with casual activities like grabbing coffee or working out together. Eric also discusses the evolution of his life and career, highlighting the role of curiosity and adaptability. He encourages listeners to focus on the journey rather than external goals, prioritize daily practices that bring fulfillment, and reprogram their days to align with their true desires. Eric shares his perspective on progress, the significance of discomfort in personal growth, and the importance of being intentional about structuring one's days. He concludes by offering advice for those starting their journey and invites listeners to connect with him on Instagram.

    Takeaways

    • Create a space that fosters community and meaningful connections.
    • Embrace discomfort and push physical and mental boundaries to grow.
    • Align business interests with personal values and passions.
    • Seek out mentors and surround yourself with people who have achieved what you aspire to. When seeking a mentor, focus on adding value before formalizing the relationship
    • Authenticity is key to finding fulfillment in life
    • Embrace discomfort as a catalyst for personal growth and progress
    • Prioritize daily practices that align with your values and bring fulfillment
    • Focus on the journey rather than external goals
    • Be intentional about structuring your days to optimize productivity and happiness

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Eric Hinman
    08:12 Embracing Discomfort for Personal Growth
    15:45 The Power of Mentorship
    35:31 Discovering Authenticity: Embracing Your True Self
    44:59 Prioritizing Daily Practices for Fulfillment

    Connect with Eric:

    • Eric Hinman Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/erichinman/?hl=en
    • Eric Hinman Website | https://erichinman.com/

    This episode is brought to you completely free by Tower Community Bank! Check us out!

    • Website | https://www.towercommunitybank.com/
    • Virtual Bank | https://virtual.towercommunitybank.com/
    • Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/towercommunitybank/
    • Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/TowerCommunityBank

    Connect with Brett:

    • Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/impactcodepodcast/
    • Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/bahollenbeck/
    • Email | podcast@towercommunitybank.com

    Please subscribe to or follow The Impact Code and leave a review.

    Thank you for listening!

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    57 mins
  • Kate Kavanaugh on Weaving Connections: Regenerative Agriculture to Deep Interconnectedness
    Apr 11 2024
    SummaryIn this conversation, Kate Kavanaugh discusses her journey to regenerative agriculture and the importance of curiosity and storytelling. She emphasizes the need for safe spaces and intentional conversations to explore deep topics. Kate also explores the overwhelming nature of modernity and the importance of finding spaces of enough. She shares her interest in supply chains and the interconnectedness of everything, as well as the transformative power of creation. In this conversation, Kate explores the themes of 'enough,' the fascination with the extraordinary, curiosity and connection, progress and healing, and the broadness and interconnectedness of the world.TakeawaysMaintain curiosity and explore diverse interests to foster personal growthCreate safe spaces for meaningful conversations and active listeningSeek spaces of enough and focus on gratitude and fulfillmentUnderstand the interconnectedness of everything and explore supply chains The concept of 'enough' is relative and can be influenced by scarcity and the desire for connection and purpose.Society's fascination with the extraordinary may stem from a drive for importance and significance.Curiosity and a deep desire for connection drive Kate's diverse interests and pursuits.Progress should be viewed through a lens of healing and growth, rather than a fixed destination.The interconnectedness of the world and the recognition of our place within it can lead to a broader perspective and deeper connections.Chapters00:00Introduction to Kate Kavanaugh and her commitment to regenerative agriculture02:30Kate's journey to regenerative agriculture and her interest in place and origins04:21The importance of support systems in exploring personal beliefs and values06:23The curiosity and questioning of children and the importance of maintaining curiosity as adults08:39Keeping curiosity alive and the role of generalists in exploring diverse interests10:51The power of podcasts in feeding curiosity and having meaningful conversations12:12The origin and purpose of Kate's podcast, Mind, Body, and Soil13:11The transformative impact of podcast conversations on personal growth15:18Creating safe spaces for meaningful conversations in everyday life18:19The importance of storytelling and oral tradition in human connection20:19Creating a container for deep conversations and the art of active listening23:37Overwhelm and the need for intentional conversations and curiosity25:32Exploring supply chains and the interconnectedness of everything30:41The challenge of understanding and navigating overwhelming information34:45Finding peace and fulfillment through creation and focusing on enough40:58The overwhelm of modernity and seeking spaces of enough45:10The temporal context of abundance and scarcity46:26The connection between enough and Kate's farm50:19The Fascination with the Extraordinary56:11Curiosity and Connection57:01Progress and Healing01:00:46The Broadness and Interconnectedness of the World01:01:31How to Connect with KateConnect with Kate:Kate Kavanaugh Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/kate_kavanaugh/?hl=enMind, Body, & Soil Podcast | https://open.spotify.com/show/1LozvGYEduMrJGDjRhUJu9?si=f1a8ddad7b764040This episode is brought to you completely free by Tower Community Bank! Check us out!Website | https://www.towercommunitybank.com/Virtual Bank | https://virtual.towercommunitybank.com/Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/towercommunitybank/Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/TowerCommunityBankConnect with Brett:Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/impactcodepodcast/Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/bahollenbeck/Email | podcast@towercommunitybank.comPlease subscribe to or follow The Impact Code and leave a review.Thank you for listening!
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    1 hr and 6 mins