The Serving the Future Show

Ryan Redondo & Steve Adamson
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Serving the Future is a podcast dedicated to exploring the people, pathways, and possibilities that shape the future of tennis and racquet sports. Hosted by Ryan Redondo, CEO of Youth Tennis San Diego, and renowned coach Steve Adamson, the show brings together players, coaches, parents, industry leaders, and innovators to share the stories, experiences, and lessons that drive success both on and off the court. From junior development and college recruiting to professional tennis, pickleball, padel, and the evolving landscape of youth sports, Serving the Future dives into the journeys that define champions. Through insightful conversations and real-world perspectives, the podcast highlights the power of opportunity, resilience, mentorship, and community in helping athletes reach their full potential while developing skills that last far beyond the game.

Episodes

  1. 1 day ago

    Ep. 9: Beyond the Rating (Guest James McKie)

    In Episode 9, hosts Ryan Redondo and Steve Adamson welcome James McKie, Director of College and Pro Player Development at UTR, to discuss player development, college tennis, the role of UTR, and why ratings and rankings should never become more important than the process of becoming a better player. James McKie brings a unique perspective shaped by his journey from Scotland to Division I college tennis, 12 years of college coaching, and his current role helping connect collegiate and professional player development at UTR. James McKie reflects on beginning tennis at four years old in Scotland, including being coached by Judy Murray, before eventually coming to the United States to play at Drake University. He shares how his experiences as a player shaped his approach to development, including one lesson he wishes he had understood earlier: the importance of truly believing in yourself and developing the confidence to compete against anyone. The conversation then turns to James McKie's coaching career at Fresno State, Tulane, and Tennessee and the environments that help players develop. James McKie explains why athletes need to become comfortable being uncomfortable, why coaches shouldn't make everything easy for their players, and why competing, relationships, character, and enjoying the game are critical parts of long-term development. In this episode, they explore: ✅ Growing up playing tennis in Scotland and being coached by Judy Murray ✅ Playing Division I college tennis at Drake University ✅ Why James McKie wishes he had believed in himself more as a player ✅ How confidence, competitiveness, and environment shape player development ✅ Coaching at Fresno State, Tulane, and Tennessee ✅ Why players need to become comfortable being uncomfortable ✅ The importance of making tennis challenging while keeping the game fun ✅ Why parents need to trust the coaches and environments they choose for their children ✅ How UTR is being used throughout junior, collegiate, and professional tennis ✅ How the changing landscape of college tennis is affecting junior players and recruiting ✅ Why young players should use increased competition for college roster spots as motivation ✅ How the UTR Pro Tennis Tour can help aspiring professionals develop through meaningful match play ✅ Why players and parents shouldn't obsess over their UTR rating ✅ Why character can sometimes tell coaches more about a player than rankings or ratings James McKie also offers a particularly important message for players and parents: stop checking the number all the time. While UTR can provide an accurate benchmark of a player's level, James McKie argues that development should remain focused on environment, coaching, competition, enjoyment, and consistently showing up to improve. The episode closes with a powerful example from James McKie's recruiting career about taking a chance on a player because of his character rather than simply his rating. That player entered Tennessee as a 12.1 UTR and eventually developed into a 14.5-level player ranked around No. 200 in the world. Whether you're a junior tennis player, parent, coach, college athlete, or aspiring professional, this episode offers an inside look at what ratings can tell you, what they can't, and why the person and player you become matters more than the number next to your name. Connect with The Serving the Future Show Follow us for clips, behind-the-scenes content, guest highlights, and conversations about tennis, pickleball, padel, athlete development, and the future of racquet sports. Instagram: @servingthefutureshow X: @TSTF_Show TikTok: @servingthefutureshow Facebook: Serving the Future Show YouTube: @ServingtheFutureShow Hosted by Ryan Redondo and Steve Adamson and recorded at the Barnes Tennis Center, home of Youth Tennis San Diego. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast. Your support helps us reach more players, parents, coaches, and fans across the racquet sports community.

  2. 29 Aug

    Ep. 8: From Tennis to Pickleball (Guest Jay Devilliers)

    In Episode 8, hosts Ryan Redondo and Steve Adamson welcome the show’s first professional pickleball guest, Jay Devilliers, a professional pickleball player, former APP Tour No. 1, and Major League Pickleball athlete. Jay shares his journey from growing up in France and pursuing a career in professional tennis to becoming one of the top players in professional pickleball. Jay reflects on growing up as the youngest of seven children in an intensely competitive family, choosing tennis over soccer at age 14, and leaving France to train at a tennis academy in Spain. He discusses how different training environments shaped him as an athlete, the injuries that changed his tennis career, and his eventual move to the United States to play Division I college tennis at Wichita State. The conversation then turns to the unexpected opportunity that introduced Jay to pickleball. After college, Jay accepted a job as a pickleball director despite having never played the sport. As pickleball began to grow, he discovered an opportunity to revive his dream of becoming a professional athlete and took a chance on pursuing the sport full-time. In this episode, they explore: ✅ Growing up in France as the youngest of seven children in an extremely competitive family ✅ Choosing between high-level soccer and tennis at just 14 years old ✅ Leaving home to train at a tennis academy in Spain and developing a "warrior" mentality ✅ How injuries changed his path toward becoming a professional tennis player ✅ The decision to come to the United States and play Division I college tennis at Wichita State ✅ How college tennis improved his doubles game and helped prepare him for pickleball ✅ Taking a job as a pickleball director before he had ever played the sport ✅ Why Jay decided to gamble on professional pickleball while the sport was still developing ✅ How his tennis background, preparation, and competitive mindset gave him an edge in professional pickleball ✅ Why Jay is willing to do whatever it takes to compete and win ✅ The importance of parents understanding what their children truly want from sports ✅ Why every young athlete has their own path to development and success Ryan, Steve, and Jay also discuss the differences between tennis development in France, Spain, and the United States, what it takes to create a professional mindset, and how the competitive landscape of pickleball has evolved. Jay shares his perspective as both a professional athlete and a parent, emphasizing the importance of supporting young athletes without trying to live your own dreams through them. Whether you're a tennis or pickleball player, parent, coach, or sports fan, this episode offers a fascinating look at competition, development, adaptability, and what can happen when one athletic dream leads to an entirely new opportunity. Connect with The Serving the Future Show Follow us for clips, behind-the-scenes content, guest highlights, and conversations about tennis, pickleball, padel, athlete development, and the future of racquet sports. Instagram: @servingthefutureshow X: @TSTF_Show TikTok: @servingthefutureshow Facebook: Serving the Future Show YouTube: @ServingtheFutureShow Hosted by Ryan Redondo and Steve Adamson and recorded at the Barnes Tennis Center, home of Youth Tennis San Diego. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast. Your support helps us reach more players, parents, coaches, and fans across the racquet sports community.

  3. 19 Aug

    Ep. 7: Tennis Should Not Define Who You Are (Guest Brandon Nakashima)

    In Episode 7, hosts Ryan Redondo and Steve Adamson welcome Brandon Nakashima, ATP Tour professional, San Diego native, ATP Tour champion, and current World No. 31. Brandon shares the journey that took him from local courts in San Diego to competing among the world's best, offering an inside look at the mindset, habits, and support system that have shaped his career. Brandon reflects on his early years in tennis, the importance of building strong fundamentals, and why enjoying the process mattered more than chasing rankings or trophies. He discusses the role his family and first coach played in his development, his experiences in junior tennis, his decision to attend the University of Virginia before turning professional, and the lessons he's learned from competing on the ATP Tour. Throughout the conversation, Brandon emphasizes that success is built through consistency, humility, and a commitment to improving every day. In this episode, they explore: ✅ Growing up in San Diego and discovering a love for tennis at an early age ✅ Why strong fundamentals and great coaching lay the foundation for long-term success ✅ The role his family played in supporting his journey while keeping the focus on enjoyment and development ✅ Why junior players should prioritize development over rankings and move up only when they're ready ✅ The value of college tennis and how it prepared him for life on the ATP Tour ✅ The challenges of transitioning from junior tennis to the professional game ✅ What separates the world's best players from everyone else, both mentally and physically ✅ Why focusing on the process instead of results leads to long-term success ✅ Staying humble, giving back to the community, and remembering where you came from ✅ Why tennis should never define who you are as a person Ryan, Steve, and Brandon also discuss the importance of mental resilience, learning to handle pressure, trusting your preparation, and surrounding yourself with people who keep you grounded. Brandon shares practical advice for players, parents, and coaches on creating healthy environments for development and why true success extends far beyond wins, losses, and rankings. Whether you're a player, parent, coach, or sports fan, this episode offers valuable insights on player development, mindset, resilience, and the habits that create lasting success, both on and off the court. Connect with The Serving the Future Show Follow us for clips, behind-the-scenes content, guest highlights, and conversations about tennis, pickleball, padel, athlete development, and the future of racquet sports. Instagram: @servingthefutureshow X: @TSTF_Show TikTok: @servingthefutureshow Facebook: Serving the Future Show YouTube: @ServingtheFutureShow Hosted by Ryan Redondo and Steve Adamson and recorded at the Barnes Tennis Center, home of Youth Tennis San Diego. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast. Your support helps us reach more players, parents, coaches, and fans across the racquet sports community.

  4. 9 Aug

    Ep. 6: The Process Behind a Wimbledon Champion (Guest Sem Verbeek)

    In Episode 6, hosts Ryan Redondo and Steve Adamson welcome Sem Verbeek, Wimbledon Mixed Doubles Champion, ATP Tour professional, former ITF World No. 1, and one of the most inspiring stories in professional tennis. Sem shares his remarkable journey from discovering tennis at age 10 in Amsterdam to winning Wimbledon, proving that success isn't determined by how early you start; it's built through discipline, purpose, and a relentless commitment to the process. Sem opens up about his unconventional path through junior tennis, training at IMG Academy, competing in NCAA Division I tennis at the University of the Pacific, and the strategic four-year plans that guided every stage of his professional career. Throughout the conversation, he shares why focusing on daily improvement, rather than results, became the foundation for reaching the highest levels of the sport. In this episode, they explore: ✅ Starting tennis at age 10 and choosing it over soccer at 12 ✅ Training at IMG Academy and overcoming the challenges of being overlooked as a recruit ✅ How college tennis transformed his confidence, discipline, and professional aspirations ✅ Why creating long-term strategic plans helped shape his career ✅ The mental side of professional tennis and managing pressure through process goals ✅ Winning the 2025 Wimbledon Mixed Doubles Championship and embracing the biggest moments in tennis ✅ Building resilience through setbacks, injuries, and years on the professional tour ✅ The importance of mentorship, emotional intelligence, and surrounding yourself with the right people ✅ Lessons for players, parents, and coaches on development, mindset, and long-term success ✅ His goals beyond Wimbledon, including pursuing the 2028 Olympic Games and continuing to grow both on and off the court Ryan, Steve, and Sem also discuss why emotions should be trained just like forehands and serves, how preparation creates confidence, and why success comes from consistently investing in the process rather than obsessing over results. Sem's journey is a powerful reminder that greatness isn't about where you begin; it's about the habits, people, and mindset you build along the way. Whether you're a player, parent, coach, or sports fan, this episode delivers valuable lessons on resilience, discipline, leadership, and what it truly means to keep Serving the Future. Connect with The Serving the Future Show Follow us for clips, behind-the-scenes content, guest highlights, and conversations about tennis, pickleball, padel, athlete development, and the future of racquet sports. Instagram: @servingthefutureshow X: @TSTF_Show TikTok: @servingthefutureshow Facebook: Serving the Future Show YouTube: @ServingtheFutureShow Hosted by Ryan Redondo and Steve Adamson and recorded at the Barnes Tennis Center, home of Youth Tennis San Diego. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast. Your support helps us reach more players, parents, coaches, and fans across the racquet sports community.

  5. 30 Jul

    Ep. 5: The Mindset That Created a 29-Time Grand Slam Champion (Guest David Wagner)

    Welcome back to The Serving the Future Show, recorded at the Barnes Tennis Center, home of Youth Tennis San Diego. In Episode 5, hosts Ryan Redondo and Steve Adamson welcome one of the most accomplished athletes in tennis history, David Wagner, a 29-time Grand Slam Champion, multiple Paralympic medalist, former World No. 1, and one of the pioneers who helped transform wheelchair tennis on the global stage. David shares his remarkable journey from discovering tennis as a college student, overcoming a life-changing spinal cord injury, to becoming one of the greatest wheelchair tennis players of all time. David reflects on the mindset, resilience, and support system that carried him through unimaginable adversity. He discusses how his family, coaches, and community helped shape his outlook, why preparation became his greatest competitive advantage, and how embracing challenges, not avoiding them, led to decades of success. He also shares behind-the-scenes stories from the Paralympics and Grand Slams, including friendships with Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, Novak Djokovic, Serena Williams, and other legends of the sport. In this episode, they explore: ✅ David's journey from aspiring basketball player to wheelchair tennis legend ✅ Recovering from a life-changing spinal cord injury at just 21 years old ✅ How mindset, resilience, and community shaped his championship career ✅ The evolution of wheelchair tennis and helping bring the sport to the Grand Slams ✅ Winning 29 Grand Slam titles and multiple Paralympic medals ✅ Managing pressure, overcoming setbacks, and sustaining excellence for decades ✅ The importance of preparation, self-belief, and continuous improvement ✅ Stories from competing alongside Federer, Nadal, Djokovic, Serena Williams, and other tennis greats ✅ Why coaching and mentoring the next generation has become David's new mission ✅ Advice for players, parents, and coaches on building resilience, confidence, and long-term success Ryan, Steve, and David also discuss the growth of wheelchair tennis, the importance of creating opportunities for young athletes with disabilities, and how sports can transform lives far beyond competition. David's story is a powerful reminder that greatness isn't defined by circumstances—it's built through perseverance, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to becoming the best version of yourself. Whether you're a player, parent, coach, or sports fan, this episode delivers inspiring lessons on resilience, leadership, mindset, and what it truly means to keep Serving the Future. 🎾 📺 Watch David's documentary, "Lines of Determination," from Your Everyday Heroes to learn more about his incredible journey. https://youreverydayheroes.com/hero/david-wagner-hero-story/ Connect with The Serving the Future Show Follow us for clips, behind-the-scenes content, guest highlights, and conversations about tennis, pickleball, padel, athlete development, and the future of racquet sports. Instagram: @servingthefutureshow X: @TSTF_Show TikTok: @servingthefutureshow Facebook: Serving the Future Show YouTube: @ServingtheFutureShow Hosted by Ryan Redondo and Steve Adamson and recorded at the Barnes Tennis Center, home of Youth Tennis San Diego. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast. Your support helps us reach more players, parents, coaches, and fans across the racquet sports community.

  6. 20 Jul

    Ep. 4: Public School, Private School, or Online School?

    Welcome back to The Serving the Future Show, recorded at the Barnes Tennis Center, home of Youth Tennis San Diego. In this episode, hosts Ryan Redondo and Steve Adamson tackle one of the most common questions they hear from parents of junior athletes: What's the best educational path for my child? Public school, private school, an academy, or online learning? Drawing from their own experiences in tennis and decades of coaching junior players, Ryan and Steve dive into the realities of balancing education, player development, tournament travel, and long-term success. Ryan shares his personal journey through public school, tennis academies, and online education, while Steve offers insight from coaching players who have gone on to compete at top colleges and on the professional tour. In this episode, they explore: ✅ The advantages and challenges of public school, private school, academies, and online learning ✅ How parents can realistically assess their child's goals, development, and opportunities ✅ Why there is no single "right" pathway for every athlete ✅ The importance of social development, relationships, and life experiences outside of tennis ✅ How the modern junior tennis landscape has changed with ITF rankings, international competition, and college recruiting ✅ Why environment, culture, accountability, and personal growth matter as much as results ✅ When online schooling may be the right choice, and when traditional school may provide greater long-term benefits The conversation also examines the increasing professionalization of youth sports, the evolving college tennis landscape, and the difficult decisions families face when pursuing high-level athletic goals. Whether you're a parent, player, coach, or educator, this episode offers honest perspectives and practical insights into finding the pathway that best supports both athletic success and personal development. Because the goal isn't just to develop great players, it's to develop great people. Connect with The Serving the Future Show Follow us for clips, behind-the-scenes content, guest highlights, and conversations about tennis, pickleball, padel, athlete development, and the future of racquet sports. Instagram: @servingthefutureshow X: @TSTF_Show TikTok: @servingthefutureshow Facebook: Serving the Future Show YouTube: @ServingtheFutureShow Hosted by Ryan Redondo and Steve Adamson and recorded at the Barnes Tennis Center, home of Youth Tennis San Diego. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast. Your support helps us reach more players, parents, coaches, and fans across the racquet sports community.

  7. 10 Jul

    Ep. 3: The Journey from Junior Tennis to Stanford (Guest Alyssa Ahn)

    In Episode 3, hosts Ryan Redondo and Steve Adamson welcome their first-ever guest, Alyssa Ahn - two-time USTA National Champion, US Open main draw wild card recipient, and rising sophomore at Stanford University. Alyssa shares her inspiring journey from hitting balls with her father as a young child to competing on one of tennis’s biggest stages. Along the way, she reflects on the lessons, challenges, and mindset that helped shape her success both on and off the court. Alyssa opens up about the role her family played in her development, the importance of falling in love with the process rather than focusing solely on results, and how maintaining balance through traditional school helped her avoid burnout. She also discusses handling pressure, overcoming difficult stretches in her game, navigating the college recruiting process, and transitioning from junior tennis to Stanford's nationally competitive program. In this episode, they explore: ✅ How Alyssa first fell in love with tennis and why she chose it over soccer ✅ The importance of enjoying the process and developing a strong work ethic ✅ Why balance and attending traditional school were critical to her development ✅ Managing pressure during junior tennis, recruiting, and major tournaments ✅ Lessons learned from winning the USTA Girls' 16s and 18s National Championships ✅ What it was like competing in the US Open main draw against the world's best players ✅ How optimism, resilience, and self-belief help navigate difficult periods in tennis ✅ The transition from junior tennis to Stanford's team environment ✅ Advice for aspiring players on work ethic, improvement, and controlling the controllables ✅ Guidance for parents on supporting long-term athletic development Ryan, Steve, and Alyssa also discuss the realities of college tennis, team culture, overcoming adversity, and the unique experiences that come from balancing elite competition with academics. Alyssa offers thoughtful insights into what separates successful players, emphasizing that growth comes from consistent effort, embracing challenges, and maintaining perspective throughout the journey. Whether you're a player, parent, coach, or sports enthusiast, this episode provides valuable lessons on perseverance, balance, mindset, and what it takes to thrive at the highest levels of junior, collegiate, and professional tennis. Follow along and join the conversation as we continue exploring the people, pathways, and principles that are truly Serving the Future. Connect with The Serving the Future Show Follow us for clips, behind-the-scenes content, guest highlights, and conversations about tennis, pickleball, padel, athlete development, and the future of racquet sports. Instagram: @servingthefutureshow X: @TSTF_Show TikTok: @servingthefutureshow Facebook: Serving the Future Show YouTube: @ServingtheFutureShow Hosted by Ryan Redondo and Steve Adamson and recorded at the Barnes Tennis Center, home of Youth Tennis San Diego. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast. Your support helps us reach more players, parents, coaches, and fans across the racquet sports community.

  8. 1 Jul

    Ep. 2: Learning to Suffer, Learning to Grow

    Welcome back to The Serving the Future Show, recorded at the Barnes Tennis Center, home of Youth Tennis San Diego. In Episode 2, hosts Ryan Redondo and Steve Adamson dive into one of the most important and often misunderstood aspects of athletic development: mindset. Drawing from their own experiences as junior players, collegiate athletes, coaches, and mentors, they explore how resilience, discipline, adversity, and environment shape both athletes and people. Ryan shares stories from his journey as a nationally ranked junior and international competitor, while Steve reflects on the challenges of leaving Canada at 17 to pursue professional tennis in Southern California. Together, they discuss how growth happens through discomfort, why learning to embrace adversity is essential, and how the right environment can unlock a player's full potential. In this episode, they explore: ✅ The difference between a fixed mindset and a growth mindset ✅ How resilience and adversity shape long-term success ✅ Why discipline and self-efficacy matter more than confidence alone ✅ The role coaches and parents play in creating healthy developmental environments ✅ Why learning to be uncomfortable is critical for growth ✅ How results-focused thinking can limit development ✅ The importance of passion, work ethic, and intrinsic motivation in high performers ✅ What today's players can learn from past generations of competitors Ryan and Steve also discuss the challenges facing young athletes today, from rankings and ratings to social media pressures, and why helping players detach from outcomes and focus on the process may be one of the most valuable lessons coaches can teach. Whether you're a player, parent, coach, or sports enthusiast, this episode offers practical insights into building mental toughness, fostering growth, and creating environments where athletes can thrive both on and off the court. Follow along and join the conversation as we continue exploring the people, pathways, and principles that are truly serving the future. Connect with The Serving the Future Show Follow us for clips, behind-the-scenes content, guest highlights, and conversations about tennis, pickleball, padel, athlete development, and the future of racquet sports. Instagram: @servingthefutureshow X: @TSTF_Show TikTok: @servingthefutureshow Facebook: Serving the Future Show YouTube: @ServingtheFutureShow Hosted by Ryan Redondo and Steve Adamson and recorded at the Barnes Tennis Center, home of Youth Tennis San Diego. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast. Your support helps us reach more players, parents, coaches, and fans across the racquet sports community.

  9. 22 Jun

    Ep. 1: There’s More Than One Pathway

    Welcome to the very first episode of The Serving the Future Show, recorded at the Barnes Tennis Center, home of Youth Tennis San Diego. Hosts Ryan Redondo and Steve Adamson kick off the podcast by sharing their remarkably different journeys through junior tennis, Ryan as a top-ranked junior with international experience, and Steve as a late starter who played multiple sports before discovering tennis. Despite their contrasting paths, both ultimately competed at San Diego State University and dedicated their careers to developing the next generation of players. In this introductory episode, they explore: ✅ Why there is no single "right" pathway to success in tennis ✅ How tennis builds grit, resilience, discipline, and life skills ✅ The evolving journey from junior tennis to college and professional tennis ✅ The role parents, coaches, and opportunities play in player development ✅ Why San Diego has become one of the premier tennis communities in the world ✅ How Youth Tennis San Diego and the Barnes Tennis Center are creating opportunities for players of all backgrounds The hosts also preview future episodes featuring professional players, college coaches, recruiters, parents, industry leaders, and innovators from the worlds of tennis, pickleball, and padel. Whether you're a player, parent, coach, or fan of racquet sports, The Serving the Future Show is your inside look at the people, pathways, and principles that shape success on and off the court. Follow along and join the conversation as we explore what it truly takes to develop champions and great people. Connect with The Serving the Future Show Follow us for clips, behind-the-scenes content, guest highlights, and conversations about tennis, pickleball, padel, athlete development, and the future of racquet sports. Instagram: @servingthefutureshow X: @TSTF_Show TikTok: @servingthefutureshow Facebook: Serving the Future Show YouTube: @ServingtheFutureShow Hosted by Ryan Redondo and Steve Adamson and recorded at the Barnes Tennis Center, home of Youth Tennis San Diego. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast. Your support helps us reach more players, parents, coaches, and fans across the racquet sports community.

  • 9 Episodes

About

Serving the Future is a podcast dedicated to exploring the people, pathways, and possibilities that shape the future of tennis and racquet sports. Hosted by Ryan Redondo, CEO of Youth Tennis San Diego, and renowned coach Steve Adamson, the show brings together players, coaches, parents, industry leaders, and innovators to share the stories, experiences, and lessons that drive success both on and off the court. From junior development and college recruiting to professional tennis, pickleball, padel, and the evolving landscape of youth sports, Serving the Future dives into the journeys that define champions. Through insightful conversations and real-world perspectives, the podcast highlights the power of opportunity, resilience, mentorship, and community in helping athletes reach their full potential while developing skills that last far beyond the game.

Information

  • Creator
    Ryan Redondo & Steve Adamson
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    9
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Serving the Future Show
  • Show Website
    The Serving the Future Show

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