Filmmaking Conversations Podcast with Damien Swaby

Damien Swaby
  • 4.9 (18)
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Step into the world of independent film with Filmmaking Conversations with Damien SwabyFrom established industry voices to the filmmakers of tomorrow, Damien Swaby opens up conversations that spark ideas, share experiences, and celebrate creativity in all its forms. Each episode offers listeners both inspiration and practical takeaways, leaving them better equipped to bring their own stories to life.With a loyal and growing audience of passionate filmmakers and film lovers, Filmmaking Conversations has become a trusted space for authentic dialogue and fresh perspectives on the art of storytelling. Join us—and discover why this podcast is resonating with the community shaping the future of film. Proud Member of the IFH Podcast Network 

  1. 1H AGO

    Ep 281: Lauren Hansson of Sheppard on Navigating Entertainment Law

    In this episode, Damien sits down with entertainment attorney Lauren Hansson to explore her journey into the legal side of film and television. Lauren shares: How she discovered her passion for lawWhy internships were key to finding her nicheHer experience at Warner Bros. AnimationWhat it’s like working with independent film producers and financiersThe realities of entertainment law beyond the glamorAdvice for aspiring lawyers interested in media and entertainmentLauren also breaks down the importance of relationship-building in the entertainment industry, how negotiation strategy differs in creative spaces, and why adaptability is essential in a field that’s constantly evolving. She offers practical insight into protecting intellectual property while still supporting the creative vision — a balance every entertainment lawyer must master. This episode offers an inside look at the intersection of creativity and contracts—and what it truly takes to protect stories behind the scenes. 🎧 Whether you’re a law student, creative professional, or film enthusiast, this conversation provides valuable insight into the legal engine that powers the entertainment industry. Website: https://www.sheppard.com/people/lauren-hansson Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link: 25% Off More Labshttps://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Strong Coffee Companyhttps://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off Tusslehttps://www.tusslegear.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Eric Javitshttps://ericjavits.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 25% Off Quantum Energy Squarehttps://quantumsquares.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Long Tablehttps://longtablepancakes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off HyperNaturalhttps://hypernaturalstyle.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off wearplaygroundhttps://wearplayground.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off STAND+https://www.standshoes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 10% Off Molly Bzhttps://mollybz.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 41% Off Cozy Earthhttps://cozyearth.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABYX (Twitter): @DamienSwaby https://x.com/DamienSwaby/status/1864468655582437405Instagram: @filmmaker__damien_swaby. https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker__damien_swaby/?hl=en JEWFACE is a bold, dark comedy about a Jewish-American bisexual woman who believes re-breaking her teenage rhinoplasty might restore her lost identity—now crowdfunding to bring this provocative, funny, and urgently human story to life. Check out the link: JEWFACE

    51 min

  2. 10H AGO

    Ep 280: Stepping Into the Frame: Ashlie Burgun's Journey to Acting

    🎙 Episode Show Notes In this episode, we explore Ashlie’s unconventional path into acting — one that didn’t begin in theatre classrooms or on school stages.She didn’t grow up as a “theatre kid.” Instead, Ashlie spent much of her childhood and teenage years behind the scenes as a visual artist and writer, engaging in storytelling from the creative side rather than as a performer. Though she was generally shy growing up, she did step onto the stage occasionally, performing in bands throughout middle and high school.While pursuing a Fine Arts degree, an unexpected opportunity shifted her trajectory. She began modeling for friends who were photography students, which gradually led to more modeling work. Over time, the line between modeling and acting began to blur, and she realized she felt drawn toward acting more seriously. Ashlie started acting part-time, taking classes whenever she could and steadily building experience. What began as a gradual exploration eventually became a full-time pursuit.  Today, she actively seeks commercial and film opportunities while also creating her own original content whenever possible. In addition to acting, Ashlie writes and performs music for her own projects and collaborates with other artists. She is currently involved in multiple ongoing web series and indie films — some of which incorporate musical elements — allowing her to merge her artistic disciplines.She thrives on unique and challenging projects, especially those that allow her to use multiple creative skill sets and push beyond traditional boundaries.In this episode, we discuss: Taking a non-traditional route into actingTransitioning from visual art to modeling to performanceOvercoming shyness and stepping into visibilityMoving from part-time to full-time creative workBalancing acting, music, and independent content creationEmbracing a multidisciplinary artistic identityThis conversation is for anyone building a creative career outside the traditional blueprint — and making it fully their own. Call to Action.  If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share the podcast. Follow Damien Swaby for more filmmaker interviews and insights into the craft and business of storytelling. Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link: 25% Off More Labshttps://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Strong Coffee Companyhttps://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off Tusslehttps://www.tusslegear.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Eric Javitshttps://ericjavits.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 25% Off Quantum Energy Squarehttps://quantumsquares.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Long Tablehttps://longtablepancakes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off HyperNaturalhttps://hypernaturalstyle.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off wearplaygroundhttps://wearplayground.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off STAND+https://www.standshoes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 10% Off Molly Bzhttps://mollybz.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 41% Off Cozy Earthhttps://cozyearth.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABYX (Twitter): @DamienSwaby https://x.com/DamienSwaby/status/1864468655582437405Instagram: @filmmaker__damien_swaby. https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker__damien_swaby/?hl=en

    45 min

  3. JAN 19

    Ep 279: Xan Aranda on Taste, Opinion, and Creative Decision-Making

    In this episode of Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby, Damien is joined by Emmy-nominated filmmaker and showrunner Xan Aranda for a wide-ranging discussion on taste, creative authority, and decision-making in filmmaking. Drawing on her experience across film and television — including work with Netflix, HBO, and Amazon — Xan talks about why strong opinions are not optional in creative work, particularly in editing and directing.  She reflects on collaboration, trust, and the dangers of consensus-driven filmmaking, where too many voices dilute responsibility.The conversation touches on her work on Blue Jay, produced with Mark Duplass, her role as Co-Executive Producer on Netflix’s My Love, and her experience navigating creative leadership across independent film and global television productions. This episode is a grounded, unsentimental look at how films and series are actually made — through taste, confidence, and the willingness to choose. https://www.xanaranda.com Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link: 25% Off More Labshttps://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Strong Coffee Companyhttps://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off Tusslehttps://www.tusslegear.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Eric Javitshttps://ericjavits.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 25% Off Quantum Energy Squarehttps://quantumsquares.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Long Tablehttps://longtablepancakes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off HyperNaturalhttps://hypernaturalstyle.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off wearplaygroundhttps://wearplayground.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off STAND+https://www.standshoes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 10% Off Molly Bzhttps://mollybz.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 41% Off Cozy Earthhttps://cozyearth.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABYX (Twitter): @DamienSwaby https://x.com/DamienSwaby/status/1864468655582437405Instagram: @filmmaker__damien_swaby. https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker__damien_swaby/?hl=en

    1h 3m

  4. JAN 3

    Ep 278: Inside Rebel Safety with Richard Bradshaw: Creativity Without Compromise

    🎙️ Show Notes In this episode, host Damien Swaby speaks with Richard Bradshaw, Director of Rebel Safety, about the often-misunderstood role of safety in film, television, and live events. Far from being a barrier to creativity, Richard explains how safety, when approached differently, can actually fuel imagination, innovation, and bold storytelling. As the head of Rebel Safety, he has seen firsthand how productions can thrive when safety isn’t treated as a box-ticking exercise, but as a culture of care, collaboration, and trust. Throughout the conversation, Damien and Richard explore: The role of Rebel Safety: what the company does, who it supports, and why its mission matters to creatives.Changing perceptions of safety: breaking free from the stereotype of “bubble wrap and hard hats” and embracing safety as a foundation for innovation.Culture over compliance: how mindset, leadership, and trust often make a bigger difference than regulations alone.Practical insights for creatives: from film directors to event producers, Richard offers guidance on how to manage risk while keeping creative energy alive.The future of safety in creative industries: how embracing new approaches can help productions stay ambitious, resilient, and safe.Richard’s perspective is both refreshing and empowering. He argues that safety doesn’t kill creativity—it protects it, supports it, and allows it to shine brighter. By the end of this episode, you’ll see how risk management and artistry are not opposites, but allies. Whether you’re a filmmaker, producer, crew member, or creative professional in any industry, this conversation is packed with insights to help you push your projects further—without compromising the well-being of your team. https://rebelsafety.co.uk Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link: 25% Off More Labshttps://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Strong Coffee Companyhttps://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off Tusslehttps://www.tusslegear.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Eric Javitshttps://ericjavits.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 25% Off Quantum Energy Squarehttps://quantumsquares.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Long Tablehttps://longtablepancakes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off HyperNaturalhttps://hypernaturalstyle.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off wearplaygroundhttps://wearplayground.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off STAND+https://www.standshoes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 10% Off Molly Bzhttps://mollybz.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 41% Off Cozy Earthhttps://cozyearth.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABYX (Twitter): @DamienSwaby https://x.com/DamienSwaby/status/1864468655582437405Instagram: @filmmaker__damien_swaby. https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker__damien_swaby/?hl=en

    35 min

  5. 12/17/2025

    Ep 277: Itunu Olowo: The Editor Who Rebuilt Her Creative Life from the Ground Up

    Episode Summary In this episode of Filmmaking Conversations with Damien Swaby, Damien is joined by the talented and driven, a promo producer, editor, and filmmaker whose determination, discipline, and creative resilience have shaped a truly distinctive career in post-production. From her early beginnings as a theatre actor in Ireland to becoming a multi-skilled editor and producer across some of the UK’s most recognisable broadcasters — including Channel 5, MTV, Discovery, Warner Bros., and CNBC — Itunu shares a journey built on hard choices, constant upskilling, and an unwavering commitment to craft.  She opens up about the reality behind her pivot away from acting, explaining why stability mattered, how she rebuilt her creative identity from the ground up, and how storytelling eventually led her to fall in love with the edit suite. Her career path includes assisting on A Place in the Sun, creating fast-turnaround promos for global networks, and navigating high-pressure workflows with precision and clarity. She also discusses what it takes to produce compelling short-form content in a world where audiences may never turn the sound on — and how music, rhythm, editorial choices, and graphic design all work together to deliver powerful messaging in under 30 seconds.  A highlight of the conversation is her work on CNBC’s digital-first franchise Built for Billions, and how collaboration, trust, and editorial instinct helped elevate the promos beyond expectation. She also shares her experiences with software like Avid, Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, Baselight, and her philosophy on clean, organised projects that support entire teams. Outside her broadcast work, she speaks candidly about her award-supported short film Give Me Your Phone — a story born from a deeply personal and frightening moment. She reveals how she turned that experience into a thoughtful exploration of privilege, vulnerability, and perspective, bringing the film from concept to completion through grit, community, and creative conviction.  This episode offers inspiring insight for filmmakers, editors, post-production professionals, and anyone building a creative career based on skill, dedication, and self-belief. Key Topics Covered How Itunu transitioned from acting to a sustainable career in post-productionWorking across Channel 5, Discovery, MTV, Warner Bros., and CNBCNavigating high-speed editorial environments and promo productionCreating impactful short-form content for news, business, and digital audiencesDetailed insights into editing workflows, graphics integration, QC, AAF/EDL handling, and version controlPremiere Pro vs Avid vs DaVinci Resolve vs Baselight — honest comparisonsCrafting the promos for CNBC’s Built for BillionsThe story behind her first short film Give Me Your Phone and turning trauma into artHow organisation, humility, and collaboration strengthen post-production workStaying adaptable and relevant in a fast-changing creative industry Call to Action.  If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share the podcast. Follow Damien Swaby for more filmmaker interviews and insights into the craft and business of storytelling. Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link: 25% Off More Labshttps://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Strong Coffee Companyhttps://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off Tusslehttps://www.tusslegear.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Eric Javitshttps://ericjavits.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 25% Off Quantum Energy Squarehttps://quantumsquares.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Long Tablehttps://longtablepancakes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off HyperNaturalhttps://hypernaturalstyle.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off wearplaygroundhttps://wearplayground.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off STAND+https://www.standshoes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 10% Off Molly Bzhttps://mollybz.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 41% Off Cozy Earthhttps://cozyearth.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABYX (Twitter): @DamienSwaby https://x.com/DamienSwaby/status/1864468655582437405Instagram: @filmmaker__damien_swaby. https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker__damien_swaby/?hl=en

    53 min

  6. 12/15/2025

    Ep 276: Rob Reiner and the Lost Art of Making Films Like Sleepless in Seattle

    Last night, I watched Sleepless in Seattle. This morning, I woke up to the news that Rob Reiner and his wife, producer Michele Singer Reiner, had been found dead at their Los Angeles home, as police investigate what they’ve described as an apparent homicide.In this episode, we sit with grief, uncertainty, and legacy — and we look closely at what Rob Reiner’s career teaches us about filmmaking craft. From All in the Family to This Is Spinal Tap, The Princess Bride, When Harry Met Sally… and A Few Good Men, Reiner’s work shaped American culture across decades and genres.We examine the technical construction of Sleepless in Seattle — its use of 35mm film, Panavision lenses, parallel editing, practical production design, and emotional restraint — and ask a larger question: Could a film like this be made today, independently, in London?The technology exists. But does the culture still make room for quiet stories, adult romance, and patient storytelling? This episode explores legacy, loss, and the conditions required to make films that endure — not through spectacle, but through tone, timing, and humanity. Call to Action.  If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share the podcast. Follow Damien Swaby for more filmmaker interviews and insights into the craft and business of storytelling. Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link: 25% Off More Labshttps://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Strong Coffee Companyhttps://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off Tusslehttps://www.tusslegear.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Eric Javitshttps://ericjavits.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 25% Off Quantum Energy Squarehttps://quantumsquares.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Long Tablehttps://longtablepancakes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off HyperNaturalhttps://hypernaturalstyle.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off wearplaygroundhttps://wearplayground.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off STAND+https://www.standshoes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 10% Off Molly Bzhttps://mollybz.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 41% Off Cozy Earthhttps://cozyearth.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABYX (Twitter): @DamienSwaby https://x.com/DamienSwaby/status/1864468655582437405Instagram: @filmmaker__damien_swaby. https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker__damien_swaby/?hl=en

    5 min

  7. 12/10/2025

    Ep 275: How One Filmmaker Made a Studio-Level Fantasy on a $100K Budget

    In this episode, Damien speaks with filmmaker Christopher, the creator of Princess Hally and the Jester, a groundbreaking ultra-low-budget fantasy feature made with a hybrid workflow of green screen, virtual production, traditional VFX, and AI-enhanced imagery.Christopher shares how he went from NYU Tisch to building an animation studio, mentoring artists who would later work on Avatar and with Christopher Nolan, and ultimately pioneering new methods of independent filmmaking. Highlights From the Conversation Early Beginnings: From birthday-party camcorder experiments to applying (twice!) to NYU Tisch.Film School Insights: NYU in the early 2000s — shooting on 16mm, learning craft over tech, and being ahead of the digital curve.First Company Success: His Nashville-based interactive animation studio where future Oscar-level talent got their start.The Birth of Princess Hally and the Jester:Conceiving a classical fairytale inspired by Technicolor films like The Wizard of Oz.Shooting an epic fantasy for under $100k — often as a literal one-man crew.Convincing actors the project wasn’t impossible (many initially thought it was).Managing set builds, lighting, and performances inside a garage turned green-screen stage.AI + VFX Hybrid Workflow:Completing 600 new VFX shots in 30 days with no crew.How AI expanded existing handmade work rather than replacing it.Why this approach will likely become the norm for independent and studio filmmaking alike.Casting & Performance:Building the relationship between Princess Hally and Henry.Working with actors who sometimes never shared the stage in real life due to the shooting constraints.Challenges on Set:A near-disastrous second day of filming.Emotional moments of doubt — and how the director’s wife kept the production alive.Sound recording issues leading to 90% of the film being looped in post.The Role of Family:Christopher’s wife made every costume — essential for elevating the world-building.Tools for Indie Filmmakers:Emphasis on Unreal Engine 5, Maya, freelance marketplaces, and early experimentation with AI prompts.Where Independent Film Is Headed:How YouTube, TikTok, and gaming have shifted audience habits.Why indie filmmakers will soon match studio visuals thanks to evolving tools.What’s Next:A new period adventure film in early development.Hopes of working with a full crew after this one-man epic.🎬 Film Mentioned Princess Hally and the Jester Currently available on Amazon Prime (director’s cut), with releases on additional platforms coming soon. TRAILER: https://vimeo.com/1112925787 📌 Three Words Christopher Uses to Describe the Film“21st century filmmaking.

    51 min

  8. 12/06/2025

    Ep 274: Caprice on Fame, Films, and Creating Feel-Good Christmas Stories

    In this episode of Filmmaking Conversations, Damien Swaby sits down with Caprice Bourret — award-winning model, actress, entrepreneur, and now film producer — to discuss her powerful career reinvention and the making of her new Christmas movie, A Scottish Christmas Secret.Known worldwide for her iconic modelling career, Caprice has graced over 350 magazine covers, starred in major West End productions, built a successful business empire, and now leads JJLove Productions, where she produces heartfelt seasonal TV films for global audiences.Damien attended the premiere of A Scottish Christmas Secret and reflects on the warm, intimate atmosphere — popcorn, sofas, friendly faces, and the big screen bringing everyone together. This episode explores why Christmas films matter, how Caprice transitioned from supermodel to producer, and why she’s committed to creating movies that bring people comfort and joy.WHAT WE COVER: Caprice Bourret’s career transformation from global supermodel to film producerThe founding and mission of JJLove ProductionsBehind the scenes of A Scottish Christmas SecretWhy Christmas films are still culturally importantProducing, acting, and balancing creative controlHow personal reinvention can spark new creative chaptersThe importance of telling feel-good stories in uncertain timesWhat’s next for Caprice and her growing film slateABOUT CAPRICE BOURRETCaprice is an award-winning model, successful entrepreneur, actress, philanthropist, and the founder of JJLove Productions. Her work spans over 300 TV/film appearances and more than 350 magazine covers. She now produces internationally released movies including A European Christmas, A Toast to Love, and A Scottish Christmas Secret.WHY THIS EPISODE MATTERSIf you’re interested in filmmaking, producing, acting, or the process of reinventing your career, Caprice’s story is a blueprint for possibility. Her move into film production shows how creative ambition can evolve, grow, and find new expression later in life.LISTEN IF YOU LIKE: Christmas filmsFilm producer interviewsActing and filmmaking insightsReinvention & career growth storiesBehind-the-scenes filmmaking conversationshttps://www.capricebourret.com Call to Action. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share the podcast. Follow Damien Swaby for more filmmaker interviews and insights into the craft and business of storytelling. Use Promo Code "FILMMAKINGSWABY" for all my deals or just click the link: 25% Off More Labshttps://www.morelabs.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Strong Coffee Companyhttps://strongcoffeecompany.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off Tusslehttps://www.tusslegear.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Eric Javitshttps://ericjavits.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 25% Off Quantum Energy Squarehttps://quantumsquares.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off Long Tablehttps://longtablepancakes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off HyperNaturalhttps://hypernaturalstyle.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 20% Off wearplaygroundhttps://wearplayground.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 15% Off STAND+https://www.standshoes.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 10% Off Molly Bzhttps://mollybz.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABY 41% Off Cozy Earthhttps://cozyearth.com/discount/FILMMAKINGSWABYX (Twitter): @DamienSwaby https://x.com/DamienSwaby/status/1864468655582437405Instagram: @filmmaker__damien_swaby. https://www.instagram.com/filmmaker__damien_swaby/?hl=en

    40 min
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4.9
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About

Step into the world of independent film with Filmmaking Conversations with Damien SwabyFrom established industry voices to the filmmakers of tomorrow, Damien Swaby opens up conversations that spark ideas, share experiences, and celebrate creativity in all its forms. Each episode offers listeners both inspiration and practical takeaways, leaving them better equipped to bring their own stories to life.With a loyal and growing audience of passionate filmmakers and film lovers, Filmmaking Conversations has become a trusted space for authentic dialogue and fresh perspectives on the art of storytelling. Join us—and discover why this podcast is resonating with the community shaping the future of film. Proud Member of the IFH Podcast Network 

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