The Conference Collective - Event Management Podcast

Professional Conference Organisers Association
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Welcome to the 'The Conference Collective' Podcast, celebrating the best in innovation and leadership from those who are creating a positive change in the business events industry. A podcast brought to you by the Professional Conference Organisers Association Inc. and hosted by Libbie Ray from Connected Event Group. This podcast provides listeners with behind the scenes access to some of the key innovators in our industry as they share their honest and raw insights. It highlights how collaboration, innovation and resilience are at the core of the events industry and the reasons we have managed to survive through the most challenging time our industry has faced. Get ready to learn more about the brave new world of the business events industry.This season of 'The Conference Collective' Podcast was primarily recorded live at the PCOA24 conference, in Connected Event Group’s portable recording studio. We will be back recording new episodes at PCOA25, so please reach out to The PCOA if you are interested in starring as a guest for next season! About The PCOA: The PCO Association Inc. is the leading body representing the interests of Professional Conference Organisers and Event Managers in Australia and New Zealand.The Association’s objectives are to increase the standard of professionalism of its members and promote a better understanding of the roles, functions and contributions of Professional Conference Organisers and Event Managers and other practitioners in the conference and event sector.Website: www.pco.asn.au About Connected Event Group: At Connected Event Group we offer innovation and creativity in audio-visual services and event production, employing technical solutions that help people and businesses communicate with each other. We’ve been translating event technologies for our clients for over two decades specialising in AV equipment and service, technical event production management and broadcasting, across a range of industries. We’re experts in making the impossible possible.Website: www.connectedeventgroup.comAbout Libbie Ray:Libbie Ray is the Director of Connected Event Group, a full-service technical production company that utilises creative AV solutions to produce innovative and meaningful event experiences. With 20 years of experience across marketing, events, technology, and broadcast production, Libbie brings a well-rounded approach to the new world of events. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, Libbie is particularly enthusiastic about the potential of AI to transform the industry and is dedicated to sharing her wealth of knowledge with her sector. She also serves as a Global Learning Ambassador for the Entrepreneurs' Organisation, further amplifying her impact on the industry.Libbie’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/libbie-ray/ 

  1. Next Horizon Thinking: How to Future-Proof Your Events with Ashton Bishop

    11/09/2025

    Next Horizon Thinking: How to Future-Proof Your Events with Ashton Bishop

    In this episode of The Conference Collective, we’re joined by Ashton Bishop, strategy expert and award-winning keynote speaker, to explore how event professionals can apply Next Horizon Thinking to stay competitive in a fast-moving landscape. We dive into the power of AV technology as a strategic tool, the importance of long-term innovation in event planning, and how Predatory Marketing can help your event messaging stand out. Ashton shares actionable insights on how to elevate your events with smarter tech decisions, stronger messaging, and a clearer vision for the future. About Ashton Bishop:  When it comes to speakers, Ashton is of the rare variety, in that he’s actually out in the field applying his theories and working the tools with some of Australia’s largest brands every day. This is because he believes that with things changing so quickly the only way to constantly provide value to audiences is to be a part of the madness. Ashton has spent over 20 years working internationally on some of the world’s biggest brands, running million-dollar campaigns for billion-dollar brands - specialising in Predatory Marketing - pinpointing how brands can grow by outsmarting their competitors. He’s a business owner and serial entrepreneur, always challenging, often controversial, and always focused on what gets results. Step Change website: https://www.hellostepchange.com/ Ashton's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashtonbishop/  About The PCOA: The PCO Association is the leading body representing the interests of Professional Conference Organisers and Event Managers in Australia and New Zealand. The Association’s objectives are to increase the standard of professionalism of its members and promote a better understanding of the roles, functions and contributions of Professional Conference Organisers and Event Managers and other practitioners in the conference and event sector. Website: www.pco.asn.au About Connected Event Group: Connected Event Group delivers innovative audio-visual services, event production, and digital experiences that help people and businesses connect in meaningful ways. With over two decades of experience, the team specialises in AV equipment and services, technical event production management, broadcasting, and interactive event technology across a wide range of industries. In 2026, Connected Event Group expanded its offering with the launch of Connected Apps, a dedicated branch focused on custom event apps, business platforms, fast websites, and AI-powered automation. Designed for live environments, these solutions bridge the gap between creative vision and real-world delivery, ensuring technology performs on site, on the day. Website: www.connectedeventgroup.com About Libbie Ray: Libbie Ray is the Director of Connected Event Group and Founder of Connected Apps. With 20 years of experience spanning marketing, events, technology, and broadcast production, Libbie brings a holistic and forward-thinking perspective to the evolving events landscape. A strong advocate for innovation, Libbie is particularly passionate about the role of digital platforms and AI in shaping the future of live and hybrid events. She is committed to sharing knowledge across the industry and works closely with Skills IQ and TAFE to support the development of training and education frameworks that prepare the next generation of event professionals. Libbie’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/libbie-ray/  Send a text

    46 min
  2. Decoding Human Behaviour: Anthony Laye on Mastering Client Relationships

    10/12/2025

    Decoding Human Behaviour: Anthony Laye on Mastering Client Relationships

    Anthony Laye reveals the power of understanding human behavior in business and events. In this episode, he shares strategies for reading body language, responding to client feedback, and ensuring your communication resonates deeply. He emphasizes the importance of embodying the words you speak and developing consistent, small habits to improve your communication skills. About Anthony Laye: Behaviour Expert, Anthony Laye has an exceptional ability to understand how we think and behave. Through Anthony's insights, you can elevate your professional communication to stand out, win trust and amplify your influence. Imagine becoming so attuned to your customers' needs that you can deliver experiences that far exceed their expectations. But there's more to Anthony than just reading and influencing people. He also shows you how to understand and influence the way you are thinking too, so you can build more self confidence and awareness. Anthony’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonylaye/ Website: https://www.anthonylaye.com/ About The PCOA: The PCO Association is the leading body representing the interests of Professional Conference Organisers and Event Managers in Australia and New Zealand. The Association’s objectives are to increase the standard of professionalism of its members and promote a better understanding of the roles, functions and contributions of Professional Conference Organisers and Event Managers and other practitioners in the conference and event sector. Website: www.pco.asn.au About Connected Event Group: Connected Event Group delivers innovative audio-visual services, event production, and digital experiences that help people and businesses connect in meaningful ways. With over two decades of experience, the team specialises in AV equipment and services, technical event production management, broadcasting, and interactive event technology across a wide range of industries. In 2026, Connected Event Group expanded its offering with the launch of Connected Apps, a dedicated branch focused on custom event apps, business platforms, fast websites, and AI-powered automation. Designed for live environments, these solutions bridge the gap between creative vision and real-world delivery, ensuring technology performs on site, on the day. Website: www.connectedeventgroup.com About Libbie Ray: Libbie Ray is the Director of Connected Event Group and Founder of Connected Apps. With 20 years of experience spanning marketing, events, technology, and broadcast production, Libbie brings a holistic and forward-thinking perspective to the evolving events landscape. A strong advocate for innovation, Libbie is particularly passionate about the role of digital platforms and AI in shaping the future of live and hybrid events. She is committed to sharing knowledge across the industry and works closely with Skills IQ and TAFE to support the development of training and education frameworks that prepare the next generation of event professionals. Libbie’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/libbie-ray/  Send a text

    36 min
  3. Entrepreneurial Insights and Building Lasting Partnerships with Jacqui Bates

    09/14/2025

    Entrepreneurial Insights and Building Lasting Partnerships with Jacqui Bates

    Jacqui shares her journey from hotels to starting her own business, revealing the lessons learned along the way. She talks about the importance of training, mentorship, and fostering relationships in the event industry. Jacqui also discusses the challenges of running a business in an industry with frequent turnover, the value of word-of-mouth marketing, and the importance of turning down clients that don’t align with your business vision. About Jacqui Bates: Jacqui Bates is Director of The Conference Manager, a Melbourne based professional conference organising company established in 2008. She has worked in the meetings and events industry for over 30 years, holding both senior sales/marketing and operational management positions in the hospitality industry before becoming a Conference Organiser. Jacqui’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacqui-bates-53ba3915/ Website: https://www.theconferencemanager.net.au/ About The PCOA: The PCO Association is the leading body representing the interests of Professional Conference Organisers and Event Managers in Australia and New Zealand. The Association’s objectives are to increase the standard of professionalism of its members and promote a better understanding of the roles, functions and contributions of Professional Conference Organisers and Event Managers and other practitioners in the conference and event sector. Website: www.pco.asn.au About Connected Event Group: Connected Event Group delivers innovative audio-visual services, event production, and digital experiences that help people and businesses connect in meaningful ways. With over two decades of experience, the team specialises in AV equipment and services, technical event production management, broadcasting, and interactive event technology across a wide range of industries. In 2026, Connected Event Group expanded its offering with the launch of Connected Apps, a dedicated branch focused on custom event apps, business platforms, fast websites, and AI-powered automation. Designed for live environments, these solutions bridge the gap between creative vision and real-world delivery, ensuring technology performs on site, on the day. Website: www.connectedeventgroup.com About Libbie Ray: Libbie Ray is the Director of Connected Event Group and Founder of Connected Apps. With 20 years of experience spanning marketing, events, technology, and broadcast production, Libbie brings a holistic and forward-thinking perspective to the evolving events landscape. A strong advocate for innovation, Libbie is particularly passionate about the role of digital platforms and AI in shaping the future of live and hybrid events. She is committed to sharing knowledge across the industry and works closely with Skills IQ and TAFE to support the development of training and education frameworks that prepare the next generation of event professionals. Libbie’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/libbie-ray/  Send a text

    35 min
  4. Building Resilient Teams and Leading Through Change with Dr. Sean Richardson

    08/17/2025

    Building Resilient Teams and Leading Through Change with Dr. Sean Richardson

    Dr. Sean Richardson draws from his experience in high-intensity sports to discuss how to perform at the highest level under pressure. In this episode, he reveals strategies for managing stress, preventing burnout, and creating successful, resilient teams. He also explores the importance of clearly defined company values and how leadership can model these values for their teams, all while navigating the uncertainties and last-minute changes often faced in the events industry. About Dr. Sean Richardson: High performance and leadership consultant to professional athletes, performing artists, and successful CEOs, Sean brings an Olympic level of commitment to excellence to his work with clients. Combining 30 years as an athlete in competitive sports with a PhD, MA & BA in psychology, ongoing research & professional development in brain and behaviour functionality, and 22 years in practice, Sean has found that the principles of mental discipline, and mental & physical health, required for performance at the highest levels in sport apply similarly to performance at the highest levels in business & life. Sean’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drseanr/ About The PCOA: The PCO Association is the leading body representing the interests of Professional Conference Organisers and Event Managers in Australia and New Zealand. The Association’s objectives are to increase the standard of professionalism of its members and promote a better understanding of the roles, functions and contributions of Professional Conference Organisers and Event Managers and other practitioners in the conference and event sector. Website: www.pco.asn.au About Connected Event Group: Connected Event Group delivers innovative audio-visual services, event production, and digital experiences that help people and businesses connect in meaningful ways. With over two decades of experience, the team specialises in AV equipment and services, technical event production management, broadcasting, and interactive event technology across a wide range of industries. In 2026, Connected Event Group expanded its offering with the launch of Connected Apps, a dedicated branch focused on custom event apps, business platforms, fast websites, and AI-powered automation. Designed for live environments, these solutions bridge the gap between creative vision and real-world delivery, ensuring technology performs on site, on the day. Website: www.connectedeventgroup.com About Libbie Ray: Libbie Ray is the Director of Connected Event Group and Founder of Connected Apps. With 20 years of experience spanning marketing, events, technology, and broadcast production, Libbie brings a holistic and forward-thinking perspective to the evolving events landscape. A strong advocate for innovation, Libbie is particularly passionate about the role of digital platforms and AI in shaping the future of live and hybrid events. She is committed to sharing knowledge across the industry and works closely with Skills IQ and TAFE to support the development of training and education frameworks that prepare the next generation of event professionals. Libbie’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/libbie-ray/  Send a text

    40 min
  5. Events as a Catalyst for Change with Karen Bolinger

    07/13/2025

    Events as a Catalyst for Change with Karen Bolinger

    In this episode, Karen Bolinger shares her journey through the events industry and discusses how events can be more than just a good time - they can be a catalyst for intellectual and social impact. She talks about the importance of educating government bodies about the long-term value events bring to communities, how bold thinking from other industries can inspire the event sector, and how sustainability measures will impact the future of events. About Karen Bolinger: Karen Bolinger is an innovative, outcome-driven C-suite executive with over 30 years of experience across government, commercial, public-private partnerships, and not-for-profit sectors in the Visitor Economy. She has held senior roles in convention bureaus, hotels, and major events, including developing some of Australia’s largest trade shows. Karen’s strategic leadership has transformed businesses in highly contested markets, delivering results beyond traditional measures. Karen’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-bolinger/ Website: https://goldcoastevents.com.au/ About The PCOA: The PCO Association is the leading body representing the interests of Professional Conference Organisers and Event Managers in Australia and New Zealand. The Association’s objectives are to increase the standard of professionalism of its members and promote a better understanding of the roles, functions and contributions of Professional Conference Organisers and Event Managers and other practitioners in the conference and event sector. Website: www.pco.asn.au About Connected Event Group: Connected Event Group delivers innovative audio-visual services, event production, and digital experiences that help people and businesses connect in meaningful ways. With over two decades of experience, the team specialises in AV equipment and services, technical event production management, broadcasting, and interactive event technology across a wide range of industries. In 2026, Connected Event Group expanded its offering with the launch of Connected Apps, a dedicated branch focused on custom event apps, business platforms, fast websites, and AI-powered automation. Designed for live environments, these solutions bridge the gap between creative vision and real-world delivery, ensuring technology performs on site, on the day. Website: www.connectedeventgroup.com About Libbie Ray: Libbie Ray is the Director of Connected Event Group and Founder of Connected Apps. With 20 years of experience spanning marketing, events, technology, and broadcast production, Libbie brings a holistic and forward-thinking perspective to the evolving events landscape. A strong advocate for innovation, Libbie is particularly passionate about the role of digital platforms and AI in shaping the future of live and hybrid events. She is committed to sharing knowledge across the industry and works closely with Skills IQ and TAFE to support the development of training and education frameworks that prepare the next generation of event professionals. Libbie’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/libbie-ray/  Send a text

    37 min
  6. The Art of Performance: How Confidence Shapes Communication with Dr. Louise Mahler

    06/18/2025

    The Art of Performance: How Confidence Shapes Communication with Dr. Louise Mahler

    Dr. Louise Mahler discusses the intersection of performance and communication, emphasising how to incorporate confidence-building techniques into everyday business practices. She talks about how your voice, tone, and body language can influence customer trust and experience, and how confidence isn’t just a mindset - it’s a skill that must be practiced. She also delves into how communication has evolved and why it’s essential to train and develop these skills. About Dr. Louise Mahler: After moving from the Vienna State Opera back to Australia, Louise observed a ‘missing ingredient’ in corporate leadership and completed an award - winning PhD around the unsung wisdom of the mind-body-voice connection she named Vocal Intelligence. Her highly participative sessions mean you leave knowing, understanding and even embodying the change. In 2006 Louise was the recipient of RMIT’s award for innovation in PhD research and in 2023, she was awarded the title of Adjunct Professor and an official member of Forbes Coaches Council. Louise’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louisemahler/ Website: http://www.louisemahler.com.au/  About The PCOA: The PCO Association is the leading body representing the interests of Professional Conference Organisers and Event Managers in Australia and New Zealand. The Association’s objectives are to increase the standard of professionalism of its members and promote a better understanding of the roles, functions and contributions of Professional Conference Organisers and Event Managers and other practitioners in the conference and event sector. Website: www.pco.asn.au About Connected Event Group: Connected Event Group delivers innovative audio-visual services, event production, and digital experiences that help people and businesses connect in meaningful ways. With over two decades of experience, the team specialises in AV equipment and services, technical event production management, broadcasting, and interactive event technology across a wide range of industries. In 2026, Connected Event Group expanded its offering with the launch of Connected Apps, a dedicated branch focused on custom event apps, business platforms, fast websites, and AI-powered automation. Designed for live environments, these solutions bridge the gap between creative vision and real-world delivery, ensuring technology performs on site, on the day. Website: www.connectedeventgroup.com About Libbie Ray: Libbie Ray is the Director of Connected Event Group and Founder of Connected Apps. With 20 years of experience spanning marketing, events, technology, and broadcast production, Libbie brings a holistic and forward-thinking perspective to the evolving events landscape. A strong advocate for innovation, Libbie is particularly passionate about the role of digital platforms and AI in shaping the future of live and hybrid events. She is committed to sharing knowledge across the industry and works closely with Skills IQ and TAFE to support the development of training and education frameworks that prepare the next generation of event professionals. Libbie’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/libbie-ray/  Send a text

    35 min
  7. Promoting Business Events: Kelly Maynard on Australia’s Global Appeal

    05/11/2025

    Promoting Business Events: Kelly Maynard on Australia’s Global Appeal

    Join us as we chat with Kelly Maynard about her unique journey from working in hotels to leading Business Events Australia. Kelly takes us through her experiences traveling the world and attending events as a customer, using those insights to shape how Tourism Australia supports and promotes business events. She dives into the impact of the business events sector on Australia's economy, the success of their campaigns, and how event organisers can leverage grants to promote events in Australia. About Kelly Maynard: General manager, business events, commercial and industry at Tourism Australia, she is an experienced and passionate professional who delivers outstanding results in tourism distribution, partnerships and event management. A specialist in business events who is a strong leader of people with a strategic focus on the key deliverables of customer service excellence, team management, sales and client account management. Kelly’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-maynard-54570421/  Website: https://businessevents.australia.com/en About The PCOA: The PCO Association is the leading body representing the interests of Professional Conference Organisers and Event Managers in Australia and New Zealand. The Association’s objectives are to increase the standard of professionalism of its members and promote a better understanding of the roles, functions and contributions of Professional Conference Organisers and Event Managers and other practitioners in the conference and event sector. Website: www.pco.asn.au About Connected Event Group: Connected Event Group delivers innovative audio-visual services, event production, and digital experiences that help people and businesses connect in meaningful ways. With over two decades of experience, the team specialises in AV equipment and services, technical event production management, broadcasting, and interactive event technology across a wide range of industries. In 2026, Connected Event Group expanded its offering with the launch of Connected Apps, a dedicated branch focused on custom event apps, business platforms, fast websites, and AI-powered automation. Designed for live environments, these solutions bridge the gap between creative vision and real-world delivery, ensuring technology performs on site, on the day. Website: www.connectedeventgroup.com About Libbie Ray: Libbie Ray is the Director of Connected Event Group and Founder of Connected Apps. With 20 years of experience spanning marketing, events, technology, and broadcast production, Libbie brings a holistic and forward-thinking perspective to the evolving events landscape. A strong advocate for innovation, Libbie is particularly passionate about the role of digital platforms and AI in shaping the future of live and hybrid events. She is committed to sharing knowledge across the industry and works closely with Skills IQ and TAFE to support the development of training and education frameworks that prepare the next generation of event professionals. Libbie’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/libbie-ray/  Send a text

    33 min
  8. Thriving Under Pressure: Mindset, Resilience, and Well-Being in the Event Industry with Lauren Parsons

    04/02/2025

    Thriving Under Pressure: Mindset, Resilience, and Well-Being in the Event Industry with Lauren Parsons

    In this episode, we sit down with Lauren Parsons to explore the art of thriving under pressure, particularly in the fast-paced and often stressful world of events. Lauren shares how resilience, mindset, and self-care techniques—like exercise, breathwork, and creating non-negotiables—are essential for boosting productivity without burning out. She also discusses how leaders can foster emotional connections and make a lasting impact at events by cutting through the noise and creating moments of significance. About Lauren Parsons: Lauren is a multi-award-winning Wellbeing Specialist who believes that everyone deserves to thrive. With over 20 years’ experience, she is passionate about helping busy people re-discover how to feel vibrant, confident and energised. Awarded NZ Keynote Speaker of the Year and Educator of the Year 2023/24 by the Professional Speakers Association. Lauren is a sought-after international speaker and one of only a dozen Certified Speaking Professionals in New Zealand, who integrates her wellness and business background to help leaders find the sweet spot between boosting both wellbeing and productivity. Lauren’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenparsonsnz/ Website: https://laurenparsonswellbeing.com/ About The PCOA: The PCO Association is the leading body representing the interests of Professional Conference Organisers and Event Managers in Australia and New Zealand. The Association’s objectives are to increase the standard of professionalism of its members and promote a better understanding of the roles, functions and contributions of Professional Conference Organisers and Event Managers and other practitioners in the conference and event sector. Website: www.pco.asn.au About Connected Event Group: Connected Event Group delivers innovative audio-visual services, event production, and digital experiences that help people and businesses connect in meaningful ways. With over two decades of experience, the team specialises in AV equipment and services, technical event production management, broadcasting, and interactive event technology across a wide range of industries. In 2026, Connected Event Group expanded its offering with the launch of Connected Apps, a dedicated branch focused on custom event apps, business platforms, fast websites, and AI-powered automation. Designed for live environments, these solutions bridge the gap between creative vision and real-world delivery, ensuring technology performs on site, on the day. Website: www.connectedeventgroup.com About Libbie Ray: Libbie Ray is the Director of Connected Event Group and Founder of Connected Apps. With 20 years of experience spanning marketing, events, technology, and broadcast production, Libbie brings a holistic and forward-thinking perspective to the evolving events landscape. A strong advocate for innovation, Libbie is particularly passionate about the role of digital platforms and AI in shaping the future of live and hybrid events. She is committed to sharing knowledge across the industry and works closely with Skills IQ and TAFE to support the development of training and education frameworks that prepare the next generation of event professionals. Libbie’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/libbie-ray/  Send a text

    33 min
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About

Welcome to the 'The Conference Collective' Podcast, celebrating the best in innovation and leadership from those who are creating a positive change in the business events industry. A podcast brought to you by the Professional Conference Organisers Association Inc. and hosted by Libbie Ray from Connected Event Group. This podcast provides listeners with behind the scenes access to some of the key innovators in our industry as they share their honest and raw insights. It highlights how collaboration, innovation and resilience are at the core of the events industry and the reasons we have managed to survive through the most challenging time our industry has faced. Get ready to learn more about the brave new world of the business events industry.This season of 'The Conference Collective' Podcast was primarily recorded live at the PCOA24 conference, in Connected Event Group’s portable recording studio. We will be back recording new episodes at PCOA25, so please reach out to The PCOA if you are interested in starring as a guest for next season! About The PCOA: The PCO Association Inc. is the leading body representing the interests of Professional Conference Organisers and Event Managers in Australia and New Zealand.The Association’s objectives are to increase the standard of professionalism of its members and promote a better understanding of the roles, functions and contributions of Professional Conference Organisers and Event Managers and other practitioners in the conference and event sector.Website: www.pco.asn.au About Connected Event Group: At Connected Event Group we offer innovation and creativity in audio-visual services and event production, employing technical solutions that help people and businesses communicate with each other. We’ve been translating event technologies for our clients for over two decades specialising in AV equipment and service, technical event production management and broadcasting, across a range of industries. We’re experts in making the impossible possible.Website: www.connectedeventgroup.comAbout Libbie Ray:Libbie Ray is the Director of Connected Event Group, a full-service technical production company that utilises creative AV solutions to produce innovative and meaningful event experiences. With 20 years of experience across marketing, events, technology, and broadcast production, Libbie brings a well-rounded approach to the new world of events. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, Libbie is particularly enthusiastic about the potential of AI to transform the industry and is dedicated to sharing her wealth of knowledge with her sector. She also serves as a Global Learning Ambassador for the Entrepreneurs' Organisation, further amplifying her impact on the industry.Libbie’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/libbie-ray/ 

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