The Elevate Experience

Elevate Experience
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Welcome to the Elevate Experience! From addict to running her own rehab for over 20 years, CEO of Elevate Addiction Services, Angie Manson’s journey through recovery is an inspiring tale of overcoming adversity and finding redemption. She first experimented with drugs and alcohol at age 11 and by age 15 had dropped out of high school and was using hard drugs on a daily basis. After being arrested 7 times as a juvenile, and having an unsuccessful attempt at rehab, she continued to spiral further into addiction. As an adult, facing a 10 year prison sentence, she was forced back into rehab at the age of 20. Through the compassion of her judge and recovery mentors, Angie found her true passion and purpose for helping others like herself overcome their struggles with addiction and live an empowered life.

  1. NOV 26

    The Science of Gratitude: Rewire Your Brain from Addiction

    Struggling with addiction, anxiety, or holiday stress? Discover how the science of gratitude can rewire your brain, boost feel-good chemicals, and be your most powerful tool for sustainable recovery. In this episode of The Elevate Experience, we break down the neuroscience of gratitude and how it directly counters addiction, relieves stress, and builds a foundation for long-term sobriety. We explore: - The 3 key neurochemicals (Dopamine, Serotonin, Oxytocin) released by gratitude - How gratitude directly counteracts the "negativity bias" and "reward deficiency" of addiction - Practical "habit-stacking" techniques to build a daily gratitude practice - Using gratitude as an instant tool to manage cravings and relapse triggers - Why expressing gratitude to others creates a powerful "double oxytocin boost" If you're feeling isolated, stressed, or trapped in negative thought patterns, this episode provides a science-backed, actionable path to a brighter mindset and a stronger recovery. Ready to rewrite your story? You don't have to do it alone. 📞 Call our recovery experts now: 833-33-SOBER 🌐 Learn more about our program: https://www.elevaterehab.org --- CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - Introduction: The Power of Gratitude 2:18 - Podcast Start: Welcome to The Elevate Experience 3:09 - What is the Science of Gratitude? 4:24 - The 3 Neurochemicals of Gratitude 5:43 - Gratitude vs. The Negativity Bias 7:15 - Oxytocin: The Bonding Hormone in Recovery 9:51 - Gratitude During the Holidays & Tough Times 11:30 - Shifting Focus: Gratitude for Sobriety & Inner Strength 13:35 - "Fake It Till You Make It" & Retraining Your Brain 14:53 - How Gratitude Fights Relapse, Resentment & Isolation 16:23 - Gratitude as a Stable Source of Reward 16:57 - 3 Practical Ways to Practice Gratitude 20:09 - "Habit Stacking" Your Gratitude Practice 21:08 - Using Gratitude for Instant Mood Changes 24:00 - Conclusion & A Message of Hope --- Keywords: gratitude and addiction, science of gratitude, rewire your brain, recovery tools, sobriety tips, mental health, dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, negativity bias, how to stay sober, relapse prevention, holiday stress recovery, mindfulness for addiction, elevate rehab, gratitude journal, what is gratitude, feel good chemicals, brain chemistry, addiction recovery podcast, long term sobriety, anxiety relief, isolation recovery #Gratitude #AddictionRecovery #Sobriety #MentalHealth #Neuroscience #RewireYourBrain #RecoveryPodcast #ElevateRehab #ElevateAddictionServices #Dopamine #Serotonin #Oxytocin #Mindfulness #RelapsePrevention #HolisticRecovery #Thankful #SoberLiving #RecoveryJourney #ScienceOfGratitude

    24 min

  2. NOV 20

    SMART Recovery vs AA: Why the "Powerless" Model Fails (Empowerment Alternative)

    The 12-Step model requires admitting you're "powerless," but what if that approach is actually triggering? In this essential episode, we break down why SMART Recovery is a modern, science-based, and empowering alternative to AA that focuses on personal responsibility and forward-thinking goals—not reliving past "war stories." SMART Recovery (Self-Management and Recovery Training) aligns perfectly with Elevate Addiction Services' non-12-step philosophy. We discuss the major differences, why SMART meetings work, and how they provide the tools you need to manage thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to overcome addiction. --- TOPICS COVERED: * Why the powerlessness concept and spiritual focus of AA can be a barrier. * Why sharing "war stories" can be triggering for people early in recovery. * How SMART uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and REBT principles. * The structure of a SMART meeting (cross-talk and collaboration allowed). * The SMART 4-Point Program (Motivation, Coping, Managing Thoughts, Balanced Life). --- ADDICTION HELP Ready for an Empowerment-Based Recovery? Call our dedicated intake team 24/7 for confidential help and admissions: 833-33-SOBER --- LINKS TO LEARN MORE: * What is SMART Recovery? Learn how it works: https://elevaterehab.org/experience/smart-recovery/ * Non-12-Step Alternatives to AA: https://elevaterehab.org/available-options-alcoholics-anonymous/ * Elevate's #1 Ranked Non-12-Step Program: https://elevaterehab.org/programs/inpatient/ --- TIMESTAMPS 0:00 Intro & The Problem with Traditional Meetings 1:42 The Need for SMART Recovery (Self-Management & Recovery Training) 2:23 What is SMART Recovery? The Acronym Explained 3:37 How to Become a SMART Facilitator (Low Barrier to Entry) 4:48 The Importance of In-Person Meetings and Community 5:36 Major Difference #1: Powerlessness vs. Personal Responsibility 6:59 Major Difference #2: Spiritual Focus vs. Scientific/Secular (CBT/REBT) 8:57 Major Difference #3: War Stories vs. Forward-Looking Goals 10:27 SMART Meeting Format: Crosstalk, Collaboration, and Objectivity 15:20 The SMART 4-Point Program 18:11 Why Speaker Meetings Can Be Triggering for Some 21:13 Why Elevate Utilizes the SMART Model 23:17 How to Find a Local SMART Recovery Meeting --- HASHTAGS #SMARTRecovery #AAAlternatives #Non12StepRehab #AddictionTreatment #Empowerment --- KEYWORDS SMART Recovery, AA alternatives, non 12 step rehab, empowerment based recovery, self-management and recovery training, addiction is not a disease, 12 step vs SMART recovery, CBT for addiction, REBT for addiction, secular addiction recovery, scientific based rehab, forward thinking recovery, manage thoughts feelings behaviors, coping with urges, living a balanced life, non spiritual rehab, speaker meeting triggering, Elevate Addiction Services, addiction help

    24 min

  3. NOV 13

    Alcohol Poisoning & Detox Dangers: 4 Urgent Signs You Need to Know | #AlcoholismHelp

    4 Signs You Need to Call 911 (P.U.R.S. Acronym) Alcohol poisoning is a life-threatening medical emergency often mistaken for severe drunkenness. In this critical episode, we break down the 4 urgent signs of alcohol poisoning using the simple PURS acronym and expose the deadly risks of quitting alcohol "cold turkey" (detox danger). Did you know alcohol-related deaths are skyrocketing? Our data shows 79% of our program's demographic is now seeking treatment for alcohol. Don't mistake dangerous symptoms for just being drunkâit could cost a life. In this video, you will learn: * The life-saving PURS acronym to identify alcohol poisoning symptoms. * Why mixing alcohol with prescription meds, stimulants, or opiates is lethal. * The extreme dangers of attempting alcohol detox at home (seizures, DTs, cardiac risk). * Shocking statistics on alcohol mortality and overdose in the US. * Why young people are at dangerously high risk. If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol misuse, please don't wait. Getting safe, professional help is the crucial first step. Reach out for confidential help now: 833-33-SOBER (833-337-6237) --- RESOURCES * Blog: Signs of An Alcoholic: https://elevaterehab.org/5-signs-drinking-too-much/ * Alcohol Treatment Options: https://elevaterehab.org/treatments/alcohol/ --- HASHTAGS: #AlcoholPoisoning #AlcoholDetox #AlcoholWithdrawal #SignsOfAnAlcoholic #ElevateRehab #AlcoholismHelp #SubstanceAbuse #DTS #Recovery --- KEYWORDS alcohol poisoning, signs of an alcoholic, alcohol detox, detox dangers, quitting alcohol cold turkey, delirium tremens, alcohol withdrawal, alcohol overdose, alcohol use disorder, alcohol addiction, alcohol treatment, how to tell if someone has alcohol poisoning, alcohol symptoms, pers acronym --- Video Time Stamps & Subjects 0:00 Intro & Urgent Warnings 1:34 The Shocking Rise in Alcohol Use Disorder (Our Demographic Shift) 3:16 How to Tell the Difference: Drunk vs. Alcohol Poisoning 4:18 The Life-Saving PERS Acronym (Puking, Unresponsive, Respiration, Skin) 7:49 Alcohol Overdose & Mortality Statistics (140,000 Deaths/Year) 8:26 Why Younger People Are at Extreme Risk 11:07 The Lethal Danger of Mixing Alcohol with Other Drugs (Opiates, Xanax, Stimulants) 15:52 The Extreme Danger of Quitting Alcohol Cold Turkey 17:18 Delirium Tremens (DTs) and Seizure Risk Explained 18:27 Mortality Rate for DTs (5-15%) 20:18 Why Professional Medical Detox is Crucial 22:23 The Importance of Emotional/Spiritual Work Beyond Detox 23:57 Age is NOT a Deterrent for Alcohol Use Disorder 25:05 Final Review of the PERS Acronym & How to Get Help

    26 min

  4. NOV 5

    Non-12 Step Addiction Recovery: Why The Disease Model Fails & Empowerment Works

    Is the 12-Step Disease Model holding you back? In this candid discussion, Elevate Addiction Services breaks down the philosophical and practical differences between traditional AA/NA programs and the modern Empowerment/Choice Model of recovery. Learn why the permanent "addict" label and the concept of "powerlessness" can be a barrier for many—especially the 75% of secular individuals who reject the spiritual requirements. We discuss the fundamental shift from viewing addiction as a chronic relapsing disease to seeing it as a learned behavior rooted in trauma. Discover why Elevate focuses on self-responsibility, holistic health (mind & body), and skill acquisition to deliver lifelong sobriety. Don't surrender your power. Learn how to take control of your recovery. TIME STAMPS: [00:00] Introduction: Why We Need a New Approach to Recovery [01:54] Non-12 Step Model: A Program Differentiator [02:20] Philosophical Differences with AA/NA [03:51] Disease Model vs. Empowerment Model [04:33] The Problem with the Permanent 'Addict' Label [05:51] Addiction as a Learned Behavior & Choice Model [07:04] Self-Created Condition: You Can Fix This [09:26] The 28-Day Rehab Myth (Insurance-Driven) [10:31] Spiritual Hurdle & Identity Conflict for Secular Clients [15:06] Identifying Trauma as the Root Cause [18:16] Why We Tackle Trauma First in Treatment [20:07] Secular Alternatives: SMART Recovery & More [21:53] The Power of Community & Collaborative Support [25:51] Mindfulness: Finding Your Center in Crisis [28:10] Emotions Are Not Bad: Working Through Feelings Next Step: Verify Your Coverage Today! If you are looking for an in-network, non-12 step rehab that puts you in control, contact Elevate. Call 24/7: (831) 440-3568 Website: https://elevaterehab.org/ LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR NON-12-STEP APPROACH: https://elevaterehab.org/experience/non-12-step/ #Non12Step #AAAlternative #AddictionRecovery #TraumaInformedCare #EmpowermentModel #SmartRecovery #HolisticHealth #ElevateExperience #Mindfulness #SoberLiving KEYWORDS Non-12 Step Recovery, AA Alternative, Non 12 Step Rehab, Empowerment Model, Disease Model Fails, Trauma Informed Addiction Treatment, Secular Recovery, SMART Recovery, Addiction Learned Behavior, Why 12 step doesn't work, Non-religious sobriety, Addiction Powerlessness, Dual Diagnosis Rehab, Holistic Addiction Treatment, Mindfulness in Recovery, Emotional Regulation Skills, Self-Responsibility Addiction

    44 min

  5. OCT 30

    Mental Health Hacks That Actually Work to Feel Better Fast

    Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck? You’re not broken — and this isn’t forever. In this honest, no-BS episode of The Elevate Experience, recovery experts reveal why 90% of people in treatment show depression or anxiety, how addiction disguises itself as mental illness, and — most importantly — simple, science-backed habits you can start today to take back control: - Mindfulness proven to work like medication - Exercise that grows new brain cells (in just 10 mins) - Nutrition — stop the weekend crash ruining your week - Journaling as free, private therapy - Why checking in on the quiet ones saves lives This is a warning sign — not a life sentence. You can feel better. Start now. NEED HELP NOW? Struggling with addiction AND mental health? Get dual diagnosis treatment that works: https://elevaterehab.org/programs/dual-diagnosis/ Call 24/7: 833-33-SOBER for same-day help or verify insurance FREE. Our Website: www.elevaterehab.org TIME STAMPS 0:00 Introduction: Why Mental Health Matters More Than Ever 1:32 – Welcome to The Elevate Experience 2:29 – Breaking the Silence: It’s Okay Not to Be Okay 3:31 – 90% of People in Recovery Show Depression or Anxiety 4:21 – Red Flags: When Normal Struggles Turn Serious 5:52 – The Quiet Ones Suffer Most – Check In 8:23 – Mindfulness 101: Start with 5 Minutes a Day 11:29 – Science: Mindfulness Prevents Relapse Like Meds 14:50 – Walking Meditation: Nature + Movement = Reset 16:20 – Exercise Grows New Brain Cells (Yes, Really) 19:36 – How Food Controls Your Mood (Gut-Brain Truth) 21:22 – Real Story: Weekend Junk Food = Monday Crash 26:43 – Journaling: Your Free, Private Therapist 30:36 – Stop Shame: Align Actions with Your Values 32:41 – Name Your Emotions (It Rewires Your Brain) 33:41 – Ditch the Scroll: Stop the Dopamine Crash 34:43 – Social Connection = Natural Antidepressant 36:00 – Early Help Wins: Reach Out Before Crisis 37:33 – You Can Heal – This Is NOT Forever 38:11 – Get Support at ElevateRehab.org HASHTAGS #MentalHealth #MentalHealthTips #Mindfulness #ExerciseForMentalHealth #NutritionAndMood #AnxietyRelief #DepressionHelp #SelfCare #MentalWellness #BreakTheStigma #ItsOkayNotToBeOkay #AddictionRecovery KEYWORDS dual diagnosis treatment, dual diagnosis rehab, addiction and mental health, co-occurring disorders, holistic dual diagnosis, elevate addiction services, 831-440-3568, same day admissions, insurance verified rehab mental health tips, mindfulness meditation, exercise for mental health, nutrition and mood, anxiety relief, depression help, self care tips, break the stigma, its okay not to be okay, addiction recovery, walking meditation, gut brain connection, dopamine crash, journaling therapy, elevate experience podcast, mindfulness for beginners, exercise and depression, food and mood, social connection mental health, reach out for help, you can heal, mental wellness, mindfulness as effective as medication, exercise grows brain cells, weekend junk food crash, stop shame, name your emotions, limit scroll time, oxytocin vs dopamine, early intervention mental health

    39 min

  6. OCT 22

    7 Secret Signs of Addiction: Is Your Casual Use a Problem?

    The signs of addiction are often misunderstood, subtle, or hidden—especially when casual use becomes a serious problem. This is one of the most-searched topics on the internet, and for good reason: families are looking for answers! In this deep-dive episode, we break down the 7 major signs of addiction (based on the Elevate Addiction Services guide) across physical, behavioral, and emotional categories. We discuss the slippery slope from recreational use to full-blown addiction and give you the essential steps to take for yourself or a loved one today. KEY TOPICS WE COVER: - When does casual drinking or drug use cross the line into addiction? - The behavioral signs of addiction: lying, making excuses, and losing reliability. - Physical signs to watch for: weight change, inflammation, and pinpoint pupils (opiates). - Emotional symptoms: extreme defensiveness, shame, and inability to manage small stressors. - What to do next: inpatient vs. outpatient treatment options and finding support. Don't wait—early intervention greatly improves recovery. You don't have to carry this burden alone. NEED HELP NOW? Contact Elevate Addiction Services immediately, or explore our comprehensive resources: Call 24/7: 833-33-SOBER Our Website: www.elevaterehab.org Learn More About the 7 Signs: https://elevaterehab.org/7-signs-addiction/ Explore Treatment Options by Substance: https://elevaterehab.org/treatments/ HASHTAGS #signsofaddiction #addictionrecovery #elevateaddictionservices #substanceabuse #isitalcoholism #addictionsymptoms #inpatientrehab TIME STAMPS 0:00 Introduction: Why We Must Talk About the Signs of Addiction 1:08 Casual Use vs. Addiction: Where is the Line? 2:32 Behavioral Signs: Lying, Unpredictability, and Missing Appointments 4:02 Financial Signs: The Loss of Money and Needing to Borrow 4:37 Physical Signs: Weight Changes, Puffy/Bloated Look, and Odor 7:09 Emotional Signs: Defensiveness, Rage, and "Walking on Eggshells" 10:14 First Steps: What to Do If You See These Signs (For Yourself or Others) 13:54 Finding the Right Treatment: Inpatient vs. Outpatient Care 17:41 The Ripple Effect: How Addiction Harms Physical Health 19:56 Substance-Specific Signs (Depressants, Opiates, Stimulants, Marijuana) 27:56 The Slippery Slope of Alcohol Use 29:08 Closing Message: The First Step Towards Change KEYWORDS signs of addiction, addiction signs, what are the signs of addiction, elevate addiction services, elevate rehab, casual use vs addiction, behavioral signs of addiction, physical signs of addiction, emotional signs of addiction, alcohol addiction signs, opiate signs, fentanyl signs, stimulant signs, marijuana signs, addiction help, addiction recovery, inpatient vs outpatient, how to tell if someone is an addict, recovery resources, loved one addiction, substance abuse, when to seek help for addiction, drug abuse symptoms, am I an addict, 7 signs of addiction, addiction treatment

    32 min

  7. OCT 8

    DANGEROUS COUGH MEDICINE: DXM "Robotripping" | Signs of Robitussin & Coricidin Abuse in Teens

    Are you worried about a loved one misusing common over-the-counter medications? 💊 This is an URGENT conversation. Learn about the hidden dangers of Dextromethorphan (DXM) abuse, known as "Robotripping" or "Skittling," using products like Robitussin, Mucinex, and Coricidin. Join Angie Manson, the CEO of Elevate Addiction Services, and Client Care Navigator, Tommy Legan, as they break down the serious health risks, the psychological effects (similar to PCP and Ketamine), and the subtle warning signs for parents and families, especially as cold and flu season approaches. Learn how this accessible drug can be a sneaky trigger for relapse in recovery.   🚨 Need Immediate Help for Inhalant or DXM Addiction? We're here 24/7 to help you or a loved one take the next step. Call Tommy Legan, Client Care Navigator, directly for personalized help: 831-566-1248 Main Addiction Help Line: 833-33-SOBER (833-337-6237) Visit us on the web:elevaterehab.org     ⏱️ Timestamps / Video Chapters 0:00 Welcome: The Hidden Danger in Your Medicine Cabinet 0:37 What is DXM (Dextromethorphan) and the Slang Term "Robotripping"? 1:22 The Illusion of Safety: Why Over-the-Counter is Still Dangerous 2:11 DXM in Pill vs. Syrup Form: It's Sneaky 2:58 High Dose Effects: Why DXM is like PCP and Ketamine 4:12 Shocking DXM Abuse Statistics (NIDA & ER Visits) 4:44 The Devastating Impact on Teens and Families 5:50 Common Brands to Look Out For (Robitussin, Mucinex, Vicks) 7:01 Critical Warning Signs of DXM Misuse in Your Home 9:47 How DXM Abuse Suppresses Immunity and Leads to Worsening Health 11:37 The Hidden Danger of Acetaminophen (Tylenol) Overdose in Cold Meds 14:48 DXM and Relapse Risk for People in Recovery 16:16 The Difference Between Accidental Misuse and Intentional Relapse 17:50 Get Help Now: Resources for DXM Addiction   🔗 Resources & Next Steps Learn more about Inhalant Addiction and Treatment: https://elevaterehab.org/treatments/inhalants/ Subscribe for more addiction education and recovery insights!   🏷️ Hashtags #DXMabuse #Robotripping #CoughMedicineAddiction #Dextromethorphan #TeenDrugAbuse #AddictionRecovery #Robitussin #Coricidin #OtcDrugAbuse #InhalantAbuse #ElevateExperience #DrugEducation #DXMDangers #SubstanceAbuse #Non12Step   Keywords DXM abuse, Robotripping, DXM addiction treatment, Dextromethorphan, Robitussin high, Signs of cough medicine abuse, Cough medicine addiction, Skittling / Skittles, Dangers of Dextromethorphan, Over-the-counter drug abuse, Triple C, Teen DXM misuse, Inhalant addiction, CCC abuse, Tussin addiction help, Relapse prevention, Robo, Cough syrup overdose

    18 min

  8. OCT 1

    Silent Killer in Your Home: The Deadly Truth About Dust-Off | The Elevate Experience Podcast

    ⚠️ WARNING: The Most DANGEROUS Household Item You Own ⚠️ In this critical episode of The Elevate Experience Podcast, Angie Manson, the CEO of Elevate Addiction Services sits down with Client Care Navigator Tommy Logan to expose the deadly truth about "Dust Off" (compressed air duster) and inhalant abuse. Often viewed as a harmless cleaning product, "Dust Off" is a highly addictive, easily accessible, and deadly substance that is leading to tragic, preventable deaths—sometimes on the very first use. We dive into the science of the rapid, lethal high that causes hypoxia and instant heart failure, the shocking statistics on adolescent use, and the crucial warning signs every parent and loved one must know. What You Will Learn: The science behind the "high" and why it causes instant death. A personal story of a loved one who died from "Dust Off." The long-term, irreversible damage (brain, nerve, organ toxicity). How to detect this form of substance abuse when the high is short-lived. The unique danger "Dust Off" poses to individuals in addiction recovery. This is the eye-opening education that could save a life. Knowledge is power—don't wait until it's too late. TIME STAMPS 0:00 Introduction to the hidden danger: "Dust Off" 1:26 The science of the high: Hypoxia, heart failure, and instant death 1:49 A personal story of death from "Dust Off" abuse 2:48 Shocking statistics on inhalant misuse and Sudden Sniffing Death Syndrome 5:37 Why "Dust Off" is a deceptive "safer" alternative to drugs like Fentanyl 7:33 Warning Signs: How to spot inhalant abuse (cans, chemical smell, mood shifts) 11:52 Long-term effects: Brain damage, nerve damage, and organ toxicity 12:45 The unique danger for people in recovery: Justifying relapse 14:00 Final warning and where to get immediate help   Get Help Now: If you or a loved one is struggling with inhalant addiction or any substance use disorder, please reach out. 📞 Call Tommy Legan directly for help (Client Care Navigator): 831-566-1248 📞 Elevate Addiction Services National Helpline: 833-33-SOBER (833-337-6237) 🌐 Visit us on the web: www.elevaterehab.org More Information on Inhalant Addiction and Treatment: https://elevaterehab.org/treatments/inhalants/   HASHTAGS #DustOffDanger #InhalantAbuse #SuddenSniffingDeath #ElevateExperience #AddictionAwareness #DrugEducation #Teenagers #CompressedAirDuster #Huffing #InhalantTreatment   KEYWORDS dust off abuse, inhalant addiction, huffing, compressed air huffing, sudden sniffing death syndrome, dust off danger, inhalant treatment, addiction warning signs, household drugs, youth substance abuse, freon huffing, Elevate Addiction Services, inhalants, brain damage huffing

    15 min
See All (80)

4.8
out of 5
54 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Elevate Experience! From addict to running her own rehab for over 20 years, CEO of Elevate Addiction Services, Angie Manson’s journey through recovery is an inspiring tale of overcoming adversity and finding redemption. She first experimented with drugs and alcohol at age 11 and by age 15 had dropped out of high school and was using hard drugs on a daily basis. After being arrested 7 times as a juvenile, and having an unsuccessful attempt at rehab, she continued to spiral further into addiction. As an adult, facing a 10 year prison sentence, she was forced back into rehab at the age of 20. Through the compassion of her judge and recovery mentors, Angie found her true passion and purpose for helping others like herself overcome their struggles with addiction and live an empowered life.

Information

  • Creator
    Elevate Experience
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    80
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2020 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Elevate Experience

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