Hear Us Out

Drs. Eric Sandler and Michelle Schechter

"Hear Us Out" , conversations in sound and hearing with a twist, with Audiologists, Dr. Eric Sandler and Dr. Michelle Schechter. Each episode of 'Hear Us Out' explores how sound and hearing shape the human experience, from science and health to technology, culture, arts, entertainment and communication. We engage with scientists, musicians, sound professionals, actors, storytellers, pioneering healthcare providers, and many more, offering fresh perspectives on the ways sound influences our daily lives. With insights from leading experts and cultural figures, Dr. Sandler and Dr. Schechter bring their expertise as audiologists to the discussions. This podcast offers a unique perspective on the power of sound and hearing. This podcast goes way beyond hearing loss, hearing aids and balance disorders that audiology and Audiologists typically focus on. Dr. Sandler and Dr. Schechter highlight the critical role of sound and hearing in shaping human experiences.

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S3 · E8
Monday · 30 min
David Archuleta: Finding His Voice, Finding Himself
What happens when the world knows your voice before you've fully discovered who you are? David Archuleta captured millions of hearts as a teenager on American Idol, but his journey since then has been about much more than music. From navigating fame at a young age to finding the courage to live authentically, David has continued to evolve as both an artist and a person. In this episode of Hear Us Out, Dr. Eric Sandler and Dr. Michelle Schechter sit down with David for a conversation about the power of music, the pressures of public expectations, and what it means to find your own voice. We explore the relationship between music and identity, the vulnerability that comes with sharing your story, and how personal growth can change the way an artist connects with an audience. It's a conversation about music, self-discovery, and the freedom that comes from finally being heard. Every Sound Has a Story. Episode Sponsors: www.resound.com www.oaktreeproducts.com www.iclever.com Follow us: www.instagram.com/thc_audiology www.hearusoutpodcast.com www.thcaudiology.com www.instagram.com/hearusoutpcast_official
- Transcript
S3 · E7
October 19 · 1 hr 28 min
Dr. Laurel Christensen, Chief Audiology Officer of GN Hearing, Better Hearing, Better Living
Can artificial intelligence help us hear better? Why does the size of a hearing aid matter? And what does it really take to understand speech in a noisy restaurant? On this episode of Hear Us Out, Dr. Eric Sandler and Dr. Michelle Schechter welcome Dr. Laurel Christensen, a leading expert in hearing science and hearing aid innovation, for a fascinating look at the technology changing how we hear. Together, they explore the growing role of AI in hearing aids, why smaller devices present unique engineering challenges, and how directional microphones and beamforming technology help listeners navigate difficult environments. They also dive into one of the most interesting challenges in hearing technology: balancing the warmth and natural quality of sound with the accuracy and clarity needed for better communication. From the science of speech understanding to the engineering behind today's most advanced hearing aids, this conversation reveals just how much goes into making hearing feel effortless. Because better hearing isn't simply about making sounds louder. It's about making them meaningful. Every sound has a story. Episode Sponsors: www.resound.com www.oaktreeproducts.com Follow us: http://www.youtube.com/hearusoutmediallc www.instagram.com/thc_audiology www.hearusoutpodcast.com www.thcaudiology.com www.instagram.com/hearusoutpcast_official Follow Resound: www.resound.com www.listentothis.com
- Transcript
S3 · E6
October 13 · 52 min
Every Guitar Has a Story: Trevor Boone of Emerald City Guitars
What makes a vintage guitar truly special? Is it the sound, the history, the musician who played it, or the story of the person who owned it? On this episode of Hear Us Out, we sit down with Trevor Boone of Seattle’s Emerald City Guitars to explore the fascinating world of vintage guitars, legendary gear, and the stories that make certain instruments unforgettable. Raised in a household where music was always playing and guitars were never far away, Trevor grew up immersed in his father’s guitar shop before finding his own path in the music business. Today, he helps musicians and collectors track down extraordinary instruments, uncover family heirlooms, and find the perfect guitar for the sound they’re chasing. Trevor takes us inside the hunt for rare guitars and explains what makes vintage instruments sound and feel different. We also discuss the deeply personal connections people have with their instruments, why a guitar’s provenance can mean so much, how he balances the demands of a global business with family life, and why human connection still matters in an increasingly AI-driven world. Because behind every instrument is a sound, a story, and often a piece of someone’s life. Episode Sponsor: www.oaktreeproducts.com Follow us: http://www.youtube.com/hearusoutmediallc www.instagram.com/thc_audiology www.hearusoutpodcast.com www.thcaudiology.com www.instagram.com/hearusoutpcast_official Follow Trevor: Emeraldcityguitars.com Instagram: @ecguitars https://www.youtube.com/user/emeraldcityguitars
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S3 · E5
October 6 · 55 min
Olivia Valli on Finding Her Own Voice, Broadway & Growing Up in a Musical Family
Olivia Valli grew up surrounded by music and with a last name that carries an unmistakable legacy—but her career has been about finding a voice and path of her own. In this episode of Hear Us Out, Olivia joins Dr. Eric Sandler and Dr. Michelle Schechter for a candid conversation about growing up in a legendary musical family, pursuing a career in theatre, and navigating the assumptions that can come with being Frankie Valli’s granddaughter. Olivia discusses the complicated conversation around nepotism, the opportunities and pressures that come with her family name, and the work required to establish herself as a performer in her own right. She also reflects on her experiences on Broadway, her relationship with music and performance, and what she has learned while building a career on her own terms. It’s a conversation about legacy, identity, expectations, and ultimately finding your own voice—even when you inherit one of the most recognizable names in music. 🎙️ Hear Us Out — conversations about how sound shapes the human experience. Episode Sponsor: www.oaktreeproducts.com Follow Us: www.youtube.com/hearusoutmediallc www.instagram.com/thc_audiology www.instagram.com/hearusoutpcast_official www.hearusoutpodcast.com www.thcaudiology.com
- Transcript
S3 · E4
September 29 · 49 min
Seeing Music: Sarah Kraning on the Art of Synesthesia
What if you could actually see music? Artist Sarah Kraning experiences sound in a way most of us can only imagine: through her synesthesia, music and other sounds can appear as colors, textures, patterns, and movement. She has transformed these unique sensory experiences into a career creating vibrant artwork inspired by the sounds she hears. In this episode of Hear Us Out, Sarah takes us inside her world of sound and color. She explains what it’s like to experience music visually, how she translates what she hears into art, and how synesthesia has shaped the way she understands creativity, emotion, and the world around her. We also explore the fascinating connection between our senses and ask: can seeing sound change the way we listen to it? It’s a conversation that might just make you hear your favorite music a little differently. Episode Sponsor: www.iclever.com https://www.amazon.com/stores/iClever/page/DD030F81-F08C-4264-BCD8-ED33B788728F?lp_asin=B088Z22VYF&ref_=ast_bln&store_ref=bl_ast_dp_brandlogo_sto Episode Sponsor: www.oaktreeproducts.com Follow us: http://www.youtube.com/hearusoutmediallc www.instagram.com/thc_audiology www.hearusoutpodcast.com www.thcaudiology.com www.instagram.com/hearusoutpcast_official Follow Sarah: Www.sarahkraning.com https://www.instagram.com/sarahkraning?stkn=MmdpMGJxODBoNnU=
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S3 · E3
September 22 · 1 hr
Chatting With This Year's Tony Award Winning Sound Designer Kai Harada
What does a Tony Award-winning sound designer actually do? Kai Harada joins Hear Us Out to take us behind the scenes of Broadway's biggest productions, including his 2026 Tony Award winning work on Ragtime. He shares how sound design shapes an audience's emotional experience, the art and science of mixing live theater, collaborating with directors and performers, and why the best sound design often goes unnoticed. Follow us: www.instagram.com/thc_audiology www.hearusoutpodcast.com www.thcaudiology.com www.instagram.com/hearusoutpcast_official Follow Kai: https://www.instagram.com/haradasound/?hl=en
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S3 · E2
September 14 · 1 hr 11 min
The Art and Science of Sound; Restoring the Voice of a Violin, with Jonathan Solars
In this episode of Hear Us Out, we’re joined by Jonathan Solars, a musician and expert in the world of stringed instruments, to explore the fascinating art and science of violin restoration. As audiologists, we spend much of our time thinking about how people hear sound. Jonathan approaches that same experience from the other side: how sound is created in the first place. We discuss what gives a violin its unique voice, how wood, design, craftsmanship, and restoration influence the way an instrument sounds, and why two seemingly identical instruments can sound remarkably different. Jonathan takes us inside the process of restoring and caring for instruments that can be centuries old, and explains why these instruments are so much more than tools. For many musicians, these instruments become extensions of themselves, carrying history, personality, and stories of the people who have played them. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the world of violin restoration and a whole new way to think about where sound begins. Episode Sponsor: www.oaktreeproducts.com Follow Us: www.youtube.com/hearusoutmediallc www.instagram.com/thc_audiology www.instagram.com/hearusoutpcast_official www.hearusoutpodcast.com www.thcaudiology.com Follow Jonathan: http://www.jonathansolars.com @jonathansolarsfineviolins
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S3 · E1
September 7 · 46 min
From Elphaba to Angelica: Lencia Kebede on Broadway, Sound & Finding Her Voice
On this episode of Hear Us Out, we're joined by Broadway actor Lencia Kebede, who made history as the first Black actress to play Elphaba full-time on Broadway in Wicked. Before taking the stage at the Gershwin Theatre, Lencia spent multiple transformative years touring with Hamilton playing Angelica Schuyler, a role she now plays on Broadway. Lencia takes us on her journey from Hamilton to Wicked and back to Hamilton, sharing what it's like to inhabit these powerhouse characters, how she approaches the vocal and physical demands of Broadway, and what she's learned about finding her own voice as a performer. We also discuss what audiences might not realize they're hearing during a Broadway show and what it means to make history while doing what you love. Tune in for a conversation about Broadway, music, identity, perseverance, and the sounds that bring these unforgettable stories to life. Episode Sponsor: www.iclever.com https://www.amazon.com/stores/iClever/page/DD030F81-F08C-4264-BCD8-ED33B788728F?lp_asin=B088Z22VYF&ref_=ast_bln&store_ref=bl_ast_dp_brandlogo_sto Episode Sponsor: www.oaktreeproducts.com Follow Us: www.youtube.com/hearusoutmediallc www.instagram.com/thc_audiology www.instagram.com/hearusoutpcast_official www.hearusoutpodcast.com www.thcaudiology.com Follow Lencia: https://www.instagram.com/lenciakebede/?hl=en
- Transcript
S2 · E54
August 31 · 1 hr
The Audiologists Explore Ototoxicity with Occuloplastic Surgeon Dr. Deepak Ramesh
In this special crossover episode, with the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Ophthalmologist, Dr. Deepak Ramesh sits down with Dr. Sandler and Dr. Schechter to dive into questions about ototoxicity, hearing testing, and interpreting audiograms. Dr. Ramesh guides the conversation, asking the questions listeners most want answered, while the experts explain how medications and treatments can affect hearing, what an audiogram reveals, and how to understand hearing test results. Whether you’re a professional, patient, caregiver, or just curious about ear health, this episode offers practical guidance, clear explanations, and expert insights to help you protect your hearing and navigate conversations with your healthcare providers. Episode Sponsor: www.oaktreeproducts.com Follow us: www.instagram.com/thc_audiology www.hearusoutpodcast.com www.thcaudiology.com www.instagra:m.com/hearusoutpcast_official
- Transcript
S2 · E53
August 24 · 53 min
Rami Feinstein; Emotional Truth Through Song, Writing From the Heart
In this episode of Hear Us Out, we’re joined by Israeli singer-songwriter Rami Feinstein for an intimate conversation about emotional honesty, vulnerability, and the courage it takes to write from the heart. Rami shares how his cultural background and experiences shape his music, and how he approaches songwriting as a way of telling the truth—capturing feelings that are often difficult to name and turning them into songs that resonate deeply. We dive into trusting your instincts as an artist, navigating self-doubt, and letting emotion guide the creative process. From finding your voice to staying open in an industry that doesn’t always reward vulnerability, this episode explores what it really means to create music that feels human, raw, and real. Whether you’re a songwriter, a theatre lover, or someone who believes music can say what words alone can’t, this conversation is a reminder of the power of emotional truth in art. Episode Sponsor: www.oaktreeproducts.com Follow us: www.instagram.com/thc_audiology www.hearusoutpodcast.com www.thcaudiology.com www.instagra:m.com/hearusoutpcast_official Follow Rami: www.ramifeinstein.com www.instagram.com/ramifeinstein
- Transcript
S2 · E52
August 17 · 36 min
Finding Strength Through Sound: Pete Dankelson's Story
On this week's episode of Hear Us Out, we're joined by Pete Dankelson-musician, content creator, and the man behind Pete's Diary. Pete has built a community by sharing his journey with hearing loss, music, and resilience, using honesty, humor, and creativity to connect with millions of people navigating their own challenges. Pete opens up about growing up with Goldenhar syndrome, discovering music as a source of confidence and connection, and turning life's obstacles into opportunities to inspire others. We also discuss the relationship between hearing and music, the power of social media to build meaningful connections, and why authenticity resonates so deeply with audiences. Pete's story is a powerful reminder that resilience, creativity, and a willingness to share your journey can make a lasting impact. Episode Sponsor: www.oaktreeproducts.com Follow us: www.instagram.com/thc_audiology www.hearusoutpodcast.com www.thcaudiology.com www.instagram.com/hearusoutpcast_official Follow Pete: www.petesdiary.com @petes.diary @peterdankelson
- Transcript
S2 · E51
August 10 · 47 min
Leading the Band: Inside SIX, SUFFS and more with Kerianne Brennan
On this episode of Hear Us Out we're speaking with music director, conductor, and pianist Kerianne Brennan, whose work is helping shape the sound of modern musical theater. Kerianne is the Associate Music Director for SIX on Broadway and previously served as Associate Conductor for the national tours of SIX and SUFFS. In this episode, Kerianne takes us behind the conductor's podium to explore what it really takes to lead a Broadway musical. We discuss the unique challenges of conducting from the pit, how technology has transformed live theater, the collaboration between performers and musicians, and why every performance is a little different. Episode Sponsor: www.oaktreeproducts.com Episode Sponsor: www.iclever.com https://www.amazon.com/stores/iClever/page/DD030F81-F08C-4264-BCD8-ED33B788728F?lp_asin=B088Z22VYF&ref_=ast_bln&store_ref=bl_ast_dp_brandlogo_sto Follow Us: www,youtube.com/hearusoutmediallc www.instagram.com/thc_audiology www.instagram.com/hearusoutpcast_official www.hearusoutpodcast.com www.thcaudiology.com Follow Kerianne: https://keriannebrennan.com @keriannebrennan on social media
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S2 · E50
August 3 · 56 min
The Science of Musicians' Hearing with Music Audiologist Heather Malyuk
Musicians depend on their ears-but how do they protect them? Music audiologist Dr. Heather Malyuk joins Hear Us Out to explore the specialized world of hearing care for performers. From custom hearing protection and in-ear monitors to tinnitus, sound sensitivity, and the unique listening demands of professional musicians, Dr. Malyuk explains how artists can safeguard their hearing without compromising their craft. What makes her perspective especially unique is that she isn't just an audiologist studying music from the outside: she's a lifelong musician herself, giving her a firsthand understanding of the listening demands, challenges, and passion that come with performing. Dr. Malyuk works with musicians on everything from hearing conservation and custom hearing protection to in-ear monitors and hearing wellness. She has dedicated her career to helping artists experience music safely without losing the connection that makes it so meaningful. Follow us: www.instagram.com/thc_audiology www.hearusoutpodcast.com www.thcaudiology.com www.instagram.com/hearusoutpcast_official Follow Heather: https://www.soundcheckaudiology.com/about
- Transcript
S2 · E49
July 27 · 1 hr 19 min
Jeff Coffin, The Joy of Listening and Finding Meaning in the Art and Science of Sound
What does it really mean to listen? In this episode of Hear Us Out, we welcome three-time Grammy Award-winning musician, composer, educator, producer, and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee Jeff Coffin. Best known for his work with the Dave Matthews Band and Béla Fleck & the Flecktones, Jeff has spent decades redefining what it means to create, perform, and connect through music. Our conversation begins with a question at the heart of this podcast: Where do the art and science of sound meet? From there, we explore why listening is one of the most important and often overlooked skills a musician can develop. Jeff shares his thoughts on improvisation, finding your own voice, collaborating with other artists, and the lifelong pursuit of creativity. Along the way, we dive into the unpredictable reality of performing live, discussing the moments when things don't go according to plan and how great musicians learn to embrace the unexpected. Jeff also offers fascinating insight into his experience with synesthesia, revealing how his unique perception of sound has influenced the way he creates and experiences music. As audiologists, we also discuss hearing conservation and the importance of protecting one of a musician's most valuable assets. Throughout the conversation, Jeff's curiosity, humility, and passion for music shine through, making this much more than a discussion about performing—it's a conversation about listening, creativity, and the human experience. Whether you're a musician, a Dave Matthews Band fan, an audiophile, or simply someone who appreciates thoughtful conversations, you'll come away hearing the world a little differently. Episode Sponsor: www.oaktreeproducts.com Follow us: www.instagram.com/thc_audiology www.hearusoutpodcast.com www.thcaudiology.com www.instagram.com/hearusoutpcast_official Follow Jeff: www.jeffcoffin.com www.earuprecords.com @jeffcoffinmusic
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S2 · E48
July 23 · 52 min
Jeff Brown; Behind the Sound of the Eras Tour: A Drum Tech’s Perspective
What does it take to make the biggest tour in the world sound flawless night after night? In this episode of Hear Us Out, we go behind the scenes with drum technician Jeff Brown, who worked on the record-breaking Eras Tour, to explore the hidden world of live sound at the highest level of performance. From drum setup and tuning to managing consistency across massive stadium shows, Jeff shares what it takes to support world-class musicians on tour. We dive into the realities of live performance, how sound is controlled in unpredictable environments, and the critical role drum techs play in delivering a seamless experience for both artists and audiences. If you’re interested in live music, drumming, touring, sound engineering, hearing health, or what happens behind the scenes of major concerts, this episode offers a rare look into the sound of one of the biggest productions in the world. Episode Sponsor: www.oaktreeproducts.com Follow us: www.instagram.com/thc_audiology www.hearusoutpodcast.com www.thcaudiology.com www.instagra:m.com/hearusoutpcast_official Follow Jeff: www.instagram.com/jeffbrowndrums www.instagram.com/shrugsoundstudio www.jeffbrowndrums.com
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S2 · E47
July 20 · 55 min
Meet the Sirens of Just in Time on Broadway: Julia Grondin, Christine Cornish & Jessica White; Three Voices One Sound
This week on Hear Us Out we're joined by the Sirens of Just in Time--Julia Grondin, Christine Cornish, and Jessica White-for an engaging conversation about bringing one of Broadway's most exciting musicals to life. These three performers take us behind the scenes of creating the Sirens' signature sound, blending their voices into seamless harmony while honoring the timeless music that defines the show. They share their journeys to Broadway, the friendships they've built backstage, and what audiences don't see once the curtain goes up. Their genuine friendship and effortless chemistry shine throughout the conversation as they reflect on the dedication, versatility, and resilience it takes to build a career as Broadway performer. This episode offers a fun and insightful look at the teamwork, musicianship, and joy that go into every performance of Just in Time. Episode Sponsor: www.oaktreeproducts.com Follow us: www.instagram.com/thc_audiology www.hearusoutpodcast.com www.thcaudiology.com www.instagram.com/hearusoutpcast_official See the Sirens: https://justintimebroadway.com/cast Follow Julia @juliagrondin Follow Christine :@christinecornish Follow Jessica: @jesssicawhite
- Transcript
S2 · E46
July 16 · 44 min
Aran Tanchum; Behind the Sounds of Film: The Art of Foley
What if most of what you hear in movies isn’t real? In this episode of Hear Us Out, we sit down with Foley mixer Aran Tanchum to explore the hidden world of sound design in film and television. From footsteps and clothing movement to the subtle sounds that make scenes feel real, Foley artists with the assistance of Foley mixer's (the recording engineer) create the everyday noises our brains rely on to believe what we’re seeing. We dive into how sound is built from scratch, why our brains accept artificial audio as reality, and what this reveals about how we process and interpret sound. Aran shares insights into the creative and technical side of Foley, breaking down how simple objects can be transformed into convincing sound effects—and why silence can be just as powerful as noise. This conversation also explores the science of hearing and perception, including how the brain prioritizes sound, how context shapes what we hear, and why certain audio cues feel more “real” than others. If you’re interested in sound design, Foley, film production, audio engineering, hearing, or the psychology of sound, this episode will change the way you experience movies—and the world around you. Follow us: www.instagram.com/thc_audiology www.hearusoutpodcast.com www.thcaudiology.com www.instagra:m.com/hearusoutpcast_official Follow Aran: www.instagram.com/thirdearaudio www.thirdearaudio.com
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S2 · E45
July 13 · 58 min
The Evolution of an American Idol: A Conversation with Musician David Cook
In this episode of Hear Us Out, we sit down with the Season 7 American Idol winner, platinum-selling recording artist, and Broadway performer to reflect on his journey through the music industry. David looks back on his time on American Idol, discusses how his career has evolved since the show, and shares the differences between performing with a full band and taking the stage as a solo artist. We also explore his experience on Broadway, the importance of listening as both an artist and a person, and the moments that have shaped him throughout his career. Whether you've been a fan since his Idol days or are discovering his music for the first time, this conversation offers an honest look at creativity, connection, and the power of sound to bring people together. Episode Sponsor: www.oaktreeproducts.com Follow David: @davidcookofficial Website: https://www.davidcookofficial.com/ David's Tour Date Schedule: https://www.davidcookofficial.com/david-cook-announces-bleed-me-dry-tour/ Follow us: www.instagram.com/thc_audiology www.hearusoutpodcast.com www.thcaudiology.com www.instagram.com/hearusoutpcast_official
- Transcript
S2 · E44
July 6 · 53 min
OM-Glee! Chatting with Broadway & Glee Star Matthew Morrison
This week on Hear Us Out, we're joined by Emmy, Golden Globe and Tony Award nominee Matthew Morrison. Known to many as Will Schuester on Glee, Matthew is also an accomplished Broadway performer who recently returned to the stage as Bobby Darin in Just in Time. In this episode, we discuss his return to Broadway and his musical theater roots, reflect on the lasting impact Glee has had on his life and career, explore the unique connection that forms between performers and live audiences, and talk about how becoming a father has reshaped both his outlook on life and the choices he makes in his career. It's an honest, thoughtful conversation with one of musical theater and television's most recognizable stars. Episode Sponsor: www.oaktreeproducts.com Follow us: www.instagram.com/thc_audiology www.hearusoutpodcast.com www.thcaudiology.com www.instagra:m.com/hearusoutpcast_official @matthewmorrison Website: www.thematthewmorrison.com Matthew's Tour Date Schedule: https://thematthewmorrison.com/calendar/
- Transcript
S2 · E43
June 29 · 52 min
Lauren Patten: Broadway, Concert Stages & the Art of Storytelling
Tony Award-winning actress Lauren Patten joins Hear Us Out to discuss her remarkable career on stage and screen, from her breakout performance as Jo in Jagged Little Pillto her starring role in the Tony Award-nominated play Becky Shaw. Lauren reflects on the artistry behind moving between musicals and straight plays, the importance of vulnerability in performance, and how she prepares to tell deeply human stories. She also shares insights into the role that sound, listening, and communication play in live theater, the challenges and rewards of sustaining a demanding performance schedule, and what continues to inspire her as an artist. Episode Sponsor: www.oaktreeproducts.com Follow us: www.instagram.com/thc_audiology www.hearusoutpodcast.com www.thcaudiology.com www.instagram.com/hearusoutpcast_official Follow Lauren: www.instagram.com/pattenlauren www.laurenpatten.com
- Transcript

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