The Stan R. Mitchell Show

Stan R. Mitchell

A place for balanced takes on politics and world news — without the anger or hype. I believe we can stay informed and stay hopeful. Plus, a few mins of Biblical encouragement to remind us that faith, peace, and perspective still matter. stanrmitchell.substack.com

  1. 17h ago

    Trump's midterm reckoning approaches | Russia, Ukraine and Iran

    Politics, military, and world events — explained clearly, without the outrage. Join Marine veteran, journalist, and author Stan R. Mitchell for independent analysis and honest conversation about the stories shaping our world. Each episode closes with a few minutes of Biblical encouragement — because faith and perspective matter, too. Learn more about the show. 👉 Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app. Podcast hub — all platforms With the midterm elections just days away, President Trump faces growing political frustration, economic concerns, and questions about his administration’s actions. This week, I examine the political climate heading into Election Day, the latest developments in Ukraine’s war against Russia, and new reporting about Russia’s possible assistance to Iran and its allies. I also discuss the controversy surrounding Russian oil shipments, rising energy prices, and the consequences of America’s foreign policy decisions. Finally, I close with some Biblical encouragement from Proverbs 17 on forgiveness, friendship, trusting God, and maintaining a cheerful heart during difficult times. ⏱️ Timestamps / main stories covered: * 0:00 — Intro stuff * 1:19 — Election news * 9:50 — Ukraine * 22:42 — Iran * 26:56 — Faith & Encouragement * 31:07 — About the Show and My Mission If this episode was helpful, please share it with someone who would benefit — and consider leaving a rating on Apple or Spotify. That small action helps the show reach more thoughtful listeners. 📌 Sources, articles, and clips: [View the complete episode notes on Substack.] Faith reminder: Real peace isn’t found in a country, a party, or an earthly leader. It’s found in God. Don’t know where to start? Check out my Bible resource page here. Or my podcast that focuses solely on faith called The Search for God. Dealing with depression, PTSD, or thoughts of suicide? Please listen to this. Support the show: If you’d like to support the show, you can become a free or paid subscriber here on Substack, or support me on Patreon. You can also send a one-time gift via Venmo or PayPal. My goals are simple: more unity for our country, less anger (and fear) in the news, and a steady reminder that though we live in a noisy world, we all need God in our lives. Questions or Comments: Email me at stanrmitchell2012@gmail.com. Include your first name and city if you’d like your message possibly included in a future episode. Short voice memos are welcome (and preferred). To God be the Glory, Stan R. Mitchell Books: I write compelling stories that matter — about courage, faith, and the fight for what’s right. I’ve written twelve fast-paced thrillers, with more than 70,000 copies sold. My military and political thrillers are similar to those written by Vince Flynn and Jack Carr, while my police thrillers are similar to Robert B. Parker’s Spenser series. All these book are available on Amazon. (Paid link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stanrmitchell.substack.com/subscribe

  2. Oct 22

    Trump Turns Toward Putin, Elon Faces Questions, and Republicans Brace for the Midterms

    Politics, military, and world events — explained clearly, without the outrage. Join Marine veteran, journalist, and author Stan R. Mitchell for independent analysis and honest conversation about the stories shaping our world. Each episode closes with a story of courage and a few minutes of Biblical encouragement — because faith and perspective matter, too. Learn more about the show. 👉 Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app. Podcast hub — all platforms President Trump is moving closer to Vladimir Putin, raising serious questions about America’s commitment to Ukraine and its allies. Meanwhile, Elon Musk faces growing scrutiny over Starlink’s role in Ukraine’s defense, even as questions mount about his business empire. We’ll also look at signs that the Iran war could be expanding, with Egypt and Britain becoming more involved in the region. And with the midterm elections approaching, Republicans are facing increasingly difficult political terrain — while Trump’s latest comments are raising eyebrows. Plus, this week’s Story of Courage remembers Clara Barton, the remarkable woman who risked her life helping wounded Civil War soldiers before founding the American Red Cross. And in Faith & Encouragement, we’ll talk about spiritual complacency, the importance of Christian community, and why none of us should try to navigate life’s challenges alone. Politics, military, and world events — explained clearly, without the outrage. ⏱️ Timestamps / main stories covered: * 0:59 — Trump turns to Russia * 10:01 — Can Elon be trusted? * 19:02 — Is the Iran war expanding? * 22:51 — The election has arrived, and the Republicans are on the ropes * 39:32 — Story of Courage * 41:55 — Faith & Encouragement * 49:03 — About the Show and My Mission If this episode was helpful, please share it with someone who would benefit — and consider leaving a rating on Apple or Spotify. That small action helps the show reach more thoughtful listeners. 📌 Sources, articles, and clips: [View the complete episode notes on Substack.] Story of Courage For this week’s Story of Courage, I wanted to highlight Clara Barton. Faith notes: Faith reminder: Real peace isn’t found in a country, a party, or an earthly leader. It’s found in God. Don’t know where to start? Check out my Bible resource page here. Or my podcast that focuses solely on faith called The Search for God. Dealing with depression, PTSD, or thoughts of suicide? Please listen to this. Support the show: If you’d like to support the show, you can become a free or paid subscriber here on Substack, or support me on Patreon. You can also send a one-time gift via Venmo or PayPal. My goals are simple: more unity for our country, less anger (and fear) in the news, and a steady reminder that though we live in a noisy world, we all need God in our lives. Questions or Comments: Email me at stanrmitchell2012@gmail.com. Include your first name and city if you’d like your message possibly included in a future episode. Short voice memos are welcome (and preferred). To God be the Glory, Stan R. Mitchell Books: I write compelling stories that matter — about courage, faith, and the fight for what’s right. I’ve written twelve fast-paced thrillers, with more than 70,000 copies sold. My military and political thrillers are similar to those written by Vince Flynn and Jack Carr, while my police thrillers are similar to Robert B. Parker’s Spenser series. All these book are available on Amazon. (Paid link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stanrmitchell.substack.com/subscribe

  3. Oct 15

    Trump's Iran War, his Russia problem, and a warning from Joe Rogan

    Hey guys! I’m Stan, and this is the place for balanced takes on politics, military, and world events — explained clearly, without the outrage. I believe we can stay informed and stay hopeful. Plus, every episode wraps up with a story of courage to inspire you, plus a few mins of Biblical encouragement to remind us that faith, peace, and perspective still matter. Learn more about the show here. 👉 Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app. Podcast hub — all platforms If this episode was helpful, please share it with someone who would benefit — and consider leaving a rating on Apple or Spotify. That small action helps the show reach more thoughtful listeners. 📌 Sources, articles, and clips: [View the complete episode notes on Substack.] Faith reminder: Real peace isn’t found in a country, a party, or an earthly leader. It’s found in God. Don’t know where to start? Check out my Bible resource page here. Or my podcast that focuses solely on faith called The Search for God. Dealing with depression, PTSD, or thoughts of suicide? Please listen to this. Support the show: If you’d like to support the show, you can become a free or paid subscriber here on Substack, or support me on Patreon. You can also send a one-time gift via Venmo or PayPal. My goals are simple: more unity for our country, less anger (and fear) in the news, and a steady reminder that though we live in a noisy world, we all need God in our lives. Questions or Comments: Email me at stanrmitchell2012@gmail.com. Include your first name and city if you’d like your message possibly included in a future episode. Short voice memos are welcome (and preferred). To God be the Glory, Stan R. Mitchell Books: I write compelling stories that matter — about courage, faith, and the fight for what’s right. I’ve written twelve fast-paced thrillers, with more than 70,000 copies sold. My military and political thrillers are similar to those written by Vince Flynn and Jack Carr, while my police thrillers are similar to Robert B. Parker’s Spenser series. All these book are available on Amazon. (Paid link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stanrmitchell.substack.com/subscribe

  4. Oct 8

    Iran, China, Russia, and a World Growing More Dangerous

    Hey guys! I’m Stan, and this is the place for balanced takes on politics, military, and world events — explained clearly, without the outrage. I believe we can stay informed and stay hopeful. Plus, every episode wraps up with a story of courage to inspire you, plus a few mins of Biblical encouragement to remind us that faith, peace, and perspective still matter. Learn more about the show here. 👉 Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app. Podcast hub — all platforms The world isn’t slowing down, and there’s plenty happening that deserves our attention. This week, we’re covering the latest developments in the Iran war, concerns about a possible plague outbreak in Russia, America’s withdrawal from Iraq, and China’s expanding military reach. We’ll also look at Russia’s escalating attacks on Ukraine, the rapidly changing technology of modern warfare, growing concerns about America’s economy, and what the latest political developments could mean for November’s elections. And in our Story of Courage, we’ll remember a Tennessee soldier who stood up to the Nazis and risked his life to protect more than 200 fellow Americans. As always, my goal is simple — to help you understand what’s happening, why it matters, and what it could mean for the future. No manufactured outrage, no unnecessary fear. Just the news, some perspective, and a little encouragement along the way. ⏱️ Timestamps / main stories covered: * 1:12 — America pulls back bombers from Britain, while Iran feels the strain * 5:22 — Russia plague fears unsettle many * 10:11 — Bond market hits new highs (and not in a good way) * 15:29 — After two decades, U.S. forces leave Iraq to an uncertain future * 18:38 — Dems confident heading into November * 21:48 — China expands its military reach as Asian neighbors strengthen defenses * 27:02 — Ukraine continues to stand strong against Russian aggression * 32:19 — Some tech news on the military front * 37:24 — Story of Courage * 43:25 — Faith & Encouragement * 59:20 — About the Show and My Mission If this episode was helpful, please share it with someone who would benefit — and consider leaving a rating on Apple or Spotify. That small action helps the show reach more thoughtful listeners. 📌 Sources, articles, and clips: [View the complete episode notes on Substack.] Faith reminder: Real peace isn’t found in a country, a party, or an earthly leader. It’s found in God. Don’t know where to start? Check out my Bible resource page here. Or my podcast that focuses solely on faith called The Search for God. Dealing with depression, PTSD, or thoughts of suicide? Please listen to this. Support the show: If you’d like to support the show, you can become a free or paid subscriber here on Substack, or support me on Patreon. You can also send a one-time gift via Venmo or PayPal. My goals are simple: more unity for our country, less anger (and fear) in the news, and a steady reminder that though we live in a noisy world, we all need God in our lives. Questions or Comments: Email me at stanrmitchell2012@gmail.com. Include your first name and city if you’d like your message possibly included in a future episode. Short voice memos are welcome (and preferred). To God be the Glory, Stan R. Mitchell Books: I write compelling stories that matter — about courage, faith, and the fight for what’s right. I’ve written twelve fast-paced thrillers, with more than 70,000 copies sold. My military and political thrillers are similar to those written by Vince Flynn and Jack Carr, while my police thrillers are similar to Robert B. Parker’s Spenser series. All these book are available on Amazon. (Paid link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stanrmitchell.substack.com/subscribe

  5. Oct 1

    The GOP’s Midterm Problems Are Getting Worse — And Some Are Self-Inflicted

    Hey guys! I’m Stan, and this is the place for balanced takes on politics, military, and world events — explained clearly, without the outrage. I believe we can stay informed and stay hopeful. Plus, every episode wraps up with a story of courage to inspire you, plus a few mins of Biblical encouragement to remind us that faith, peace, and perspective still matter. Learn more about the show here. 👉 Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app. Podcast hub — all platforms Republicans are sounding increasingly worried about the midterms — and there are some legitimate reasons why. This week, I look at Speaker Mike Johnson’s warnings about what could happen if Democrats take control of the House, the GOP’s lack of congressional oversight during the Trump administration, and some potentially troubling signs for Republicans in places they probably never expected to be worried about. I also dig into several issues Republicans once thought would work in their favor but that may now be creating political problems of their own. That includes the continuing Epstein controversy, the war with Iran and its effect on fuel prices, aggressive immigration enforcement, and President Trump’s continuing claims about elections and political “lawfare.” We’ll also look at what’s happening with Hispanic voters in Texas and why the GOP’s aggressive redistricting strategy could prove more complicated than expected. Then, for this week’s Story of Courage, we go back to the winter of 1775 and the remarkable story of Henry Knox — a 25-year-old Boston bookseller who somehow moved roughly 60 tons of artillery more than 300 miles through a brutal New England winter. Those guns ultimately helped George Washington force the British out of Boston, and Knox’s story is an incredible reminder of what preparation, persistence, and the willingness to step forward can accomplish. Finally, we close with Faith & Encouragement and a simple message from Scripture: salvation isn’t something we earn by being good enough. It is a gift from God through Jesus Christ. And whether you’re struggling with faith, returning to it after years away, or simply overwhelmed by the noise around us, I hope this week’s episode gives you a little perspective — and reminds you to keep moving forward. ⏱️ Timestamps / main stories covered: * 0:48 — The Republican case for putting them back in the House and Senate, as laid out by Speaker Mike Johnson * 7:11 — Texas could be a big problem for the GOP, and I’m not just talking about Talerico * 16:09 — More proof of just how much trouble the Republicans are in * 18:31 — Three things that blew up that Republicans thought would help in November * 34:53 — Story of Courage * 41:16 — Faith & Encouragement * 50:39 — About the Show and My Mission If this episode was helpful, please share it with someone who would benefit — and consider leaving a rating on Apple or Spotify. That small action helps the show reach more thoughtful listeners. 📌 Sources, articles, and clips: [View the complete episode notes on Substack.] Faith reminder: Real peace isn’t found in a country, a party, or an earthly leader. It’s found in God. Don’t know where to start? Check out my Bible resource page here. Or my podcast that focuses solely on faith called The Search for God. Dealing with depression, PTSD, or thoughts of suicide? Please listen to this. Support the show: If you’d like to support the show, you can become a free or paid subscriber here on Substack, or support me on Patreon. You can also send a one-time gift via Venmo or PayPal. My goals are simple: more unity for our country, less anger (and fear) in the news, and a steady reminder that though we live in a noisy world, we all need God in our lives. Questions or Comments: Email me at stanrmitchell2012@gmail.com. Include your first name and city if you’d like your message possibly included in a future episode. Short voice memos are welcome (and preferred). To God be the Glory, Stan R. Mitchell Books: I write compelling stories that matter — about courage, faith, and the fight for what’s right. I’ve written twelve fast-paced thrillers, with more than 70,000 copies sold. My military and political thrillers are similar to those written by Vince Flynn and Jack Carr, while my police thrillers are similar to Robert B. Parker’s Spenser series. All these book are available on Amazon. (Paid link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stanrmitchell.substack.com/subscribe

  6. Sep 24

    Six Weeks to Go — and Republicans Are in Trouble

    Politics, military, and world events — explained clearly, without the outrage. Independent analysis, honest conversation, and Biblical encouragement for difficult times. Learn more about the show here. 👉 Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app. Podcast hub — all platforms Republicans have a major financial advantage heading into the midterms — but money may not be enough to overcome rising fuel prices, the Iran war, and growing frustration over the cost of living. This week, I break down where things stand with just six weeks until Election Day and why the political environment may be getting increasingly difficult for the GOP. Plus, this week’s Story of Courage takes us to the brutal Wyoming winter of 1856 and the remarkable story of Ephraim Hanks. And I close with a few simple reminders about faith, Scripture, perseverance, and trusting God when life gets difficult. ⏱️ Timestamps / main stories covered: * 0:00 — Intro * 6:50 — Bad News for Trump and the GOP’s Distractions * 15:29 — Republicans Have a Big Money Advantage, But It’s Complicated * 22:08 — Are the Midterms Already Baked In? * 29:58 — Story of Courage * 34:21 — Faith & Encouragement * 40:35 — About the Show and My Mission If this episode was helpful, please share it with someone who would benefit — and consider leaving a rating on Apple or Spotify. That small action helps the show reach more thoughtful listeners. 📌 Sources, articles, and clips: [View the complete episode notes on Substack.] Donald Trump Jr.’s Bahamas Wedding Was Secretly Bankrolled by Russian Oligarch Close to Putin Story of Courage For this week’s Story of Courage, I wanted to stay in Wyoming and highlight Ephraim Hanks. Faith notes: Faith reminder: Real peace isn’t found in a country, a party, or an earthly leader. It’s found in God. Don’t know where to start? Check out my Bible resource page here. Or my podcast that focuses solely on faith called The Search for God. Dealing with depression, PTSD, or thoughts of suicide? Please listen to this. Support the show: If you’d like to support the show, you can become a free or paid subscriber here on Substack, or support me on Patreon. You can also send a one-time gift via Venmo or PayPal. My goals are simple: more unity for our country, less anger (and fear) in the news, and a steady reminder that though we live in a noisy world, we all need God in our lives. Questions or Comments: Email me at stanrmitchell2012@gmail.com. Include your first name and city if you’d like your message possibly included in a future episode. Short voice memos are welcome (and preferred). To God be the Glory, Stan R. Mitchell Books: I write compelling stories that matter — about courage, faith, and the fight for what’s right. I’ve written twelve fast-paced thrillers, with more than 70,000 copies sold. My military and political thrillers are similar to those written by Vince Flynn and Jack Carr, while my police thrillers are similar to Robert B. Parker’s Spenser series. All these book are available on Amazon. (Paid link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stanrmitchell.substack.com/subscribe

  7. Sep 17

    Russia, We Have a Problem

    Politics, military, and world events — explained clearly, without the outrage. Independent analysis, honest conversation, and Biblical encouragement for difficult times. Learn more about the show here. 👉 Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app. Podcast hub — all platforms This week, we start with a reminder that where you begin doesn’t have to determine where you finish — through the remarkable story of Ann-Marie Campbell, who started as a Home Depot cashier and worked her way into the highest levels of the company. Then we move quickly through some of the week’s biggest stories: the Houthis’ dramatic advances in Yemen and what they could mean for the Red Sea and the wider Iran war; the Federal Reserve raising interest rates as inflation remains stubborn; the enormous potential cost of President Trump’s proposed $5,000 dividend checks; and another strange week in Congress. But the main story this week is Russia. Federal prosecutors say a Russian intelligence-linked network was willing to pay someone to assassinate a Russian dissident here in the United States. Meanwhile, new reporting raises questions about Russian intelligence support for Iran, and Russia’s war against Ukraine continues to push dangerously close to NATO. Taken together, these stories deserve far more attention than they’re getting. Then we step away from the ugliness for this week’s Story of Courage: the incredible story of Nicholas Bostic, a 25-year-old pizza delivery driver who saw a burning house, ran inside, rescued four children — and then went back into the flames when he learned a six-year-old girl was still trapped. Finally, we close with Faith & Encouragement — talking about prayer, the danger of becoming too attached to this world, what it means to actually look like Christ, and why opening the Bible for yourself can change everything. ⏱️ Timestamps / main stories covered: * 0:56 — Yes, a lot has changed and it’s tough to make it, but here’s proof anyone can make it. * 5:38 — The Iran War just got way worse. * 8:20 — The Fed raises interest rates for the first time in three years. Here’s what that means for you. * 13:24 — Russia, we’ve got a problem. * 17:59 — Story of courage. * 23:12 — Faith & Encouragement * 31:17 — About the Show and My Mission If this episode was helpful, please share it with someone who would benefit — and consider leaving a rating on Apple or Spotify. That small action helps the show reach more thoughtful listeners. 📌 Sources, articles, and clips: [View the complete episode notes on Substack.] Proof anyone can make it! From cashier to multi-millionaire! Story of Courage Before we get to the faith section, I want to leave you with something good. Because for all the ugliness we talk about on this show, there are still people who step forward when everyone else steps back. People who do the hard thing. The dangerous thing. The right thing. And those stories are worth remembering. This week’s Story of Courage is about Nicholas L. Bostic. Faith notes: Faith reminder: Real peace isn’t found in a country, a party, or an earthly leader. It’s found in God. Don’t know where to start? Check out my Bible resource page here. Or my podcast that focuses solely on faith called The Search for God. Dealing with depression, PTSD, or thoughts of suicide? Please listen to this. Support the show: If you’d like to support the show, you can become a free or paid subscriber here on Substack, or support me on Patreon. You can also send a one-time gift via Venmo or PayPal. My goals are simple: more unity for our country, less anger (and fear) in the news, and a steady reminder that though we live in a noisy world, we all need God in our lives. Questions or Comments: Email me at stanrmitchell2012@gmail.com. Include your first name and city if you’d like your message possibly included in a future episode. Short voice memos are welcome (and preferred). To God be the Glory, Stan R. Mitchell Books: I write compelling stories that matter — about courage, faith, and the fight for what’s right. I’ve written twelve fast-paced thrillers, with more than 70,000 copies sold. My military and political thrillers are similar to those written by Vince Flynn and Jack Carr, while my police thrillers are similar to Robert B. Parker’s Spenser series. All these book are available on Amazon. (Paid link. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases) This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stanrmitchell.substack.com/subscribe

  8. Sep 10

    Iran, Ukraine, Courage, and Faith

    Politics, military, and world events — explained clearly, without the outrage. Independent analysis, honest conversation, and Biblical encouragement for difficult times. Learn more about the show here. 👉 Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app. Podcast hub — all platforms This week, I take a closer look at the rapidly escalating war with Iran — and why President Trump’s description of it as “small potatoes” may come back to haunt him. With 18 Americans dead, nearly 800 wounded, Iranian missiles targeting U.S. forces, American strikes on Iran’s oil fleet, and enormous numbers of Patriot interceptors being expended, this conflict is looking increasingly difficult to dismiss as minor. The bigger question may be one nobody can answer yet: Which side can withstand the pressure longer? Then we turn to Ukraine, where some important developments have been largely buried beneath the Iran headlines. Ukraine has made gains on the battlefield and continued striking Russia’s shadow fleet and other strategically important targets, even as Russia continues brutal missile attacks against Ukrainian cities. I also look at the Trump administration’s latest attempt at diplomacy, the troubling idea of helping Vladimir Putin achieve his “aspirations,” and signs that Putin may not be getting an honest picture of how the war is actually going. For this week’s Story of Courage, I tell the remarkable story of Rick Rescorla, the Morgan Stanley security chief who prepared thousands of people for an attack on the World Trade Center long before September 11. When that terrible morning finally came, his preparation helped save nearly everyone under his care. Rescorla could have escaped himself. Instead, he went back into the South Tower looking for others and never returned. It’s a reminder that courage isn’t always spontaneous — sometimes it’s built through years of preparation, responsibility, and doing the right thing when nobody else understands why it matters. Finally, we step away from politics for some Faith & Encouragement. This week, I talk about our need for God, what Christianity actually teaches about salvation, and why being a Christian ultimately isn’t about choosing the right denominational label or somehow becoming good enough. It’s about recognizing our need for forgiveness and putting our faith in what Jesus Christ did for us on the cross. ⏱️ Timestamps / main stories covered: * 0:51 — Iran * 18:04 — Ukraine * 26:27 — Story of Courage * 32:04 — Faith & Encouragement * 38:28 — About the Show and My Mission If this episode was helpful, please share it with someone who would benefit — and consider leaving a rating on Apple or Spotify. That small action helps the show reach more thoughtful listeners. 📌 Sources, articles, and clips: [View the complete episode notes on Substack.] To God be the Glory, Stan R. Mitchell This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stanrmitchell.substack.com/subscribe

4.9
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

A place for balanced takes on politics and world news — without the anger or hype. I believe we can stay informed and stay hopeful. Plus, a few mins of Biblical encouragement to remind us that faith, peace, and perspective still matter. stanrmitchell.substack.com

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