Episode 33: Lessons in Grit and Growth on the AT with Steve Bradshaw


In this episode, I sit down with Steve Bradshaw, a lifelong adventurer and outdoor enthusiast from Western North Carolina. Steve’s story is one of pushing boundaries, from growing up in West Virginia to becoming a collegiate championship swimmer, and ultimately to hiking the entire Appalachian Trail. Steve shares how he stepped out of his comfort zone to take on the grueling 2,200-mile trail, and we explore the mental and physical resilience it takes to complete such an endeavor. Whether you’re into hiking, or simply looking for inspiration on how to challenge yourself in new ways, Steve’s journey offers a wealth of insight.

We dive into Steve’s upbringing and how his early experiences in the outdoors shaped his life. We also chat about his experiences with starting and selling a successful business, how he balanced family life with adventure, and the unexpected lessons he learned on the trail. This episode is packed with stories of adventure, perseverance, and growth, so buckle up!

Timeline Summary:

[2:22] – Steve’s introduction and how his love for the outdoors began in West Virginia
[8:45] – How collegiate swimming shaped Steve’s mindset and approach to challenges
[14:50] – The story behind Steve’s trail name and why he decided to thru-hike the Appalachian Trail
[23:30] – Navigating the hardest sections of the Appalachian Trail and how the weather played a role
[31:10] – The importance of “hiking your own hike” and the unique culture of trail communities
[40:55] – Lessons learned from the grind of hiking and how they translate to everyday life
[47:15] – What’s next for Steve: From elk hunting in Colorado to new adventures on the horizon

Links & Resources:

Closing:

If you enjoyed this conversation with Steve, be sure to rate, follow, and share the podcast with your friends. Every review helps us reach more listeners who are ready to embark on their own great adventures. Thanks for listening, and we’ll catch you next time!

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Episode 32: Epic Adventures and Life Lessons with Skip Schweiss


In this episode of the On Adventure podcast, I sit down with Skip Schweiss, a seasoned executive in the financial services industry and a passionate adventurer. Known for his years of leadership at TD Ameritrade, Skip has seamlessly woven his professional life with a personal quest to push physical and mental boundaries in the great outdoors. We dive into Skip’s career journey, from his work in advisor advocacy to how he’s now dedicating more time to his love of the wilderness.

But Skip isn’t just about hiking the occasional trail—he organizes an annual group hike called “Excellent Adventures,” attracting dozens of people to tackle challenging hikes across some of the most beautiful landscapes in the U.S. From the majestic peaks of Colorado’s 14ers to this year’s adventure in Telluride, Skip shares his motivation for doing hard things, the camaraderie that comes from shared suffering, and why he believes that testing our limits makes us better.

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or someone looking for inspiration to push past your comfort zone, Skip’s stories will encourage you to set bigger goals, embrace the challenge, and find joy in the journey.

Episode Highlights:

[2:42] – Skip’s journey in the financial industry, his role at TD Ameritrade, and how his love for adventure began.

[7:00] – How the Rockies ignited Skip’s passion for hiking, leading him to complete all 54 of Colorado’s 14ers.

[12:15] – The origin of Skip’s “Excellent Adventures” group hikes, which have now grown to include 70 people, and the importance of camaraderie in adventure.

[29:00] – Handling adversity on the trail: The lessons Skip has learned about staying calm when things go wrong, and how to apply that mindset to life.

[40:30] – A recap of the most recent “Excellent Adventure” in Telluride, where Skip led a group on a brutal 26-mile hike with 8,000 feet of elevation gain.

[52:00] – What’s next for Skip and the group? A sneak peek into next year’s adventure to Zion National Park and some of the epic hikes planned.

Links & Resources:

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please take a moment to rate, review, and share the podcast! Don’t forget to follow us so you don’t miss out on upcoming episodes filled with more inspiring adventures.

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Episode 31: Turning Tragedy Into Purpose – An Adventurous Journey with Clay Sanders


In this deeply moving and inspiring episode, I sit down with Clay Sanders, a man whose life is marked by profound adventures, resilience, and purpose. Clay shares stories of his adventurous spirit, from crossing the country on an Elliptigo to running the Leadville 100 ultra marathon, all while balancing a successful career as a dentist. But beyond the adventures, Clay opens up about the tragic loss of his son, Joel, to opioid addiction, and how that event spurred him into action, continuing his son’s legacy by raising awareness about addiction stigma.

We dive into Clay’s perspective on how adventure can be both structured and unpredictable, and how his journey to honor his son led him to discover even deeper connections with others, both in the U.S. and across the globe. You won’t want to miss Clay’s powerful reflection on the process of navigating life’s challenges and the wisdom he has gained along the way.

Timeline Summary:

[2:22] – Clay shares his move from Western North Carolina to Colorado and how he adjusted to life at higher altitudes.
[6:17] – Adventures in ultra-running and what led Clay to tackle the notorious Leadville 100.
[14:30] – The impact of high altitude on ultra-endurance races and how Clay trained for the Leadville 100 while living at sea level.
[28:19] – Tragedy strikes: Clay discusses the loss of his son Joel and how that transformed his life and purpose.
[32:00] – The journey across the U.S. on an elliptical bike to raise awareness about addiction stigma.
[43:10] – Clay’s global adventure: how traveling to 20 countries opened his eyes to the shared humanity across cultures.
[56:23] – The metaphor of the Great Barrier Reef: how diversity and unity coexist harmoniously in nature and in life.
[1:05:34] – Reflections on the power of the journey versus the destination.

Links & Resources:

Closing Remarks:

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to rate, follow, and share it with others who might be inspired by Clay’s story. Your support helps spread these powerful messages. See you next time as we continue to explore life’s greatest adventures!

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Episode 30: From Boardroom to Backwoods with Jeff Ames


 

In this episode of the On Adventure Podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Jeff Ames, aka Rambler, a true “everyday explorer” who took on the challenge of a lifetime by through-hiking the Appalachian Trail. Jeff’s journey is a story of preparation, endurance, and self-discovery as he trekked 2,200 miles from Georgia to Maine over several months. We dive into what inspired him to embark on such an ambitious adventure after retiring in his mid-50s, the highs and lows of his journey, and the unforgettable characters he met along the way. Whether you’re an aspiring long-distance hiker or just love hearing tales of personal transformation, this conversation is packed with insights and inspiration.

Join us as we explore the planning and execution of Jeff’s hike, the camaraderie found on the trail, and the lessons learned from spending months in the wilderness. You’ll also hear some wild stories about the colorful personalities that Jeff encountered on the trail, and why he believes that hiking is much more than just a physical challenge.

Episode Highlights:

  • [00:00] Introduction to the episode and Jeff’s background
  • [01:48] Jeff’s preparation and inspiration for hiking the Appalachian Trail
  • [04:00] The seed of adventure: how Jeff’s interest in the AT grew over the years
  • [09:19] Hiking solo vs. finding a “trail family” on the journey
  • [13:00] Memorable encounters: Jeff’s experience with a Russian hiker named Navigator
  • [18:00] Crazy hiker stories and the unique characters of the Appalachian Trail
  • [26:00] Meeting Kristian Morgan, an elite ultra-marathoner aiming for the fastest known time on the AT
  • [40:00] The importance of preparation, gear, and respecting the trail’s challenges
  • [55:00] Reflections on the simplicity and focus that long-distance hiking brings
  • [01:06:00] What’s next for Jeff after completing the Appalachian Trail?

Links & Resources:

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and share the podcast. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to adventurers like you!

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Episode 29: Reconnecting the World, One Letter at a Time with Jonny Beardmore, the Galapagos Postman


Welcome back to the On Adventure Podcast! In this episode, I chat with Jonny Beardmore, now famously known as the Galapagos Postman. Jonny’s unique quest involves delivering handwritten letters left in an ancient Galapagos Islands postbox to various locations worldwide. But this adventure is more than just about delivering mail; it’s about exploring a deeper question about whether we are disconnected as a species and how we can rebuild those crucial human connections.

Throughout his journey, Jonny has met a diverse array of people, each with their own fascinating stories. From reuniting a couple in Belize through a heartfelt love letter to delivering a touching note from a daughter to her mother in Mexico City, Jonny’s mission has brought surprises,  unexpected joy and reconnections (to him and the receipients). He shares stories of spontaneous hospitality, like the family in Mexico City who welcomed him with tequila and dried crickets, and the emotional reunions that have occurred as a result of his deliveries. Join me as Jonny shares his serendipitous encounters, the challenges he faces, and the incredible impact his journey is having on people’s lives and the charities he is fundraising for.

Episode Highlights:

  • [00:00] Introduction: Josh introduces Jonny Beardmore, explaining how he discovered Jonny’s story and what intrigued him about it.
  • [02:20] The Galapagos Postman: Jonny explains his nickname and details the tradition of the Galapagos Islands postbox that dates back to 1793.
  • [05:17] The Challenge: Jonny talks about the inception of the Galapagos Postman Challenge, collecting 50 letters from the Galapagos and his year-long journey to deliver them.
  • [07:45] Personal Motivation: Jonny discusses his personal motivations, including the impact of his father’s battle with motor neurone disease (ALS).
  • [15:05] Planning and Logistics: The process of planning this ambitious global adventure, including the support systems in place and the challenges faced.
  • [24:03] Human Connections: Jonny reflects on the commonalities he has found among diverse cultures and the importance of personal connections in an increasingly digital world.
  • [38:00] Inspiring Stories: Jonny shares some of the most touching and inspiring stories of delivering letters, including reuniting people and the emotional impacts.
    • Belize: Reuniting a couple through a heartfelt love letter.
    • Mexico City: Delivering a daughter’s letter to her mother, recovering from surgery, resulting in an emotional family reunion.
    • Central America: Overcoming challenges to deliver letters, experiencing spontaneous hospitality, and hearing incredible life stories.
  • [47:50] Funding and Support: Insight into how Jonny funds his adventures and the work-life balance required to manage such an undertaking.
  • [55:00] The Bigger Picture: Jonny’s thoughts on whether the world is truly disconnected despite technological advancements and how this challenge has impacted his views.

Links & Resources:

Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, share, and review the podcast. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to light. For more content, visit Ridgeline Wealth Advisors and sign up for our newsletter, The Money Trail Guide. Until next time, pursue your own great adventure!

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How to Live Like a Local…in London

London, England is a city brimming with history, culture, and adventure. For those planning to make the most of their time in any vibrant metropolis, it’s essential to live like a local. This approach not only provides a richer experience but can also be more cost-effective, a key consideration for any Everyday Explorer traveling to a new place. Here’s a guide to help you navigate London with a spirit of adventure and a savvy financial mindset.

Embrace Public Transportation

London’s public transportation system is extensive and efficient. Locals rely heavily on the Tube (London Underground), buses, and trains to get around. Purchase an Oyster card or use contactless payment for seamless travel across the city. Not only will this save you money compared to taxis or ride-sharing services, but it also immerses you in the daily rhythm of London life.  If you’d rather get from point to point a little more quickly, using the famous Black Cabs will do it for you.  You can definitely spend a small fortune getting around the city, but it’s fast and pretty fun if you get a good driver.

Discover Hidden Gems

While iconic landmarks like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace are must-sees, living like a local means seeking out hidden gems. Explore neighborhoods like Shoreditch, known for its street art and eclectic vibe, or Hampstead Heath, a vast green space offering panoramic views of the city. For a unique experience, visit the Leighton House Museum in Kensington, an opulent Victorian home filled with art and history.  As soccer fans (sorry, futbol), we had to visit a stadium and so we picked Stamford Bridge to see the home of Chelsea Futbol Club.  We are now big fans!

Shop at Local Markets

Londoners love their markets, and these bustling hubs are perfect for immersing yourself in local culture. Borough Market, near London Bridge, offers a feast of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and culinary delights. For vintage finds and quirky treasures, head to Portobello Road Market in Notting Hill. Covent Market was one we visited and loved the shops, food and live music…an amazing vibe.  Shopping at markets not only supports local vendors but also provides a more authentic and budget-friendly shopping experience.  And for some extra flare, visit in December so you can experience the amazing Christmas markets.

Enjoy the Outdoors

Despite its urban nature, London boasts an array of parks and outdoor spaces. Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, and Richmond Park are just a few of the green havens where locals unwind. Rent a bike through Santander Cycles and explore these parks on two wheels. For a more adventurous outing, take a walk along the Thames Path or venture to the outskirts of the city for a hike in the Epping Forest.

Eat Like a Londoner

Dining out in London can be expensive, but locals know where to find great food without breaking the bank. Visit neighborhood pubs for traditional British fare like fish and chips or a hearty Sunday roast. Discover the city’s diverse culinary scene by exploring food halls such as Mercato Metropolitano in Elephant and Castle or Boxpark in Shoreditch, where you can sample dishes from around the world.  We found ourselves in a pub (especially for the World Cup final which was absolutely electric!) almost every day in the city, but the fav…and evening dinner at the Sky Garden overlooking the entire London Skyline.  Make your reservation well in advance. 

Take Advantage of Free Attractions

London is home to numerous world-class museums and galleries, many of which offer free entry. Spend an afternoon at the British Museum, the National Gallery, or the Tate Modern.   For an even more immersive experience, hire a guide to take you through for a few hours.  It will change the entire experience!  Wander through the charming streets of Covent Garden (again, great at Christmas time) or take in the lively atmosphere of Southbank, all without spending a penny. These free attractions provide cultural enrichment and entertainment, making them perfect for the budget-conscious traveler.

Live Like a Local, Plan Like a Pro

Living like a local in London involves more than just seeing the sights—it’s about immersing yourself in the city’s culture and lifestyle. As financial planners, we understand the importance of balancing adventure with financial prudence. By embracing local habits, seeking out hidden gems, and making the most of free attractions, you can enjoy an enriching and cost-effective stay in London.

Financial Tips for the Adventurous Traveler
  • Budget Wisely: Allocate funds for daily expenses and stick to your budget. Use apps to track spending and find deals.  Check in on your progress each day.
  • Local Banking: Consider opening a local bank account if staying for an extended period. This can save on foreign transaction fees.  I haven’t done this personally so do your research.
  • Public Transport: Utilize weekly or monthly travel cards for the best rates on public transportation.
  • Cultural Memberships: Some museums and attractions offer memberships that provide free or discounted entry.

By following these tips, you can experience the best of London. Living like a local not only enriches your travel experience but also ensures you make the most of your adventures in this incredible city.

Simplify for a Better Return on Life

“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication,” proclaimed an Apple Computer marketing brochure back in 1977. In the ensuing decades, Steve Jobs’ commitment to this ideal resulted in technology products that were as beautiful as they were easy use, and in Apple becoming one of the most valuable companies in the world.

The clutter we accumulate in our lives often prevents us from fully experiencing the adventure and freedom that life offers. At some point, our possessions can become chains, anchoring us and stifling our spirit of adventure. Think about how paring down to the essentials in these four areas could improve your Return on Life (ROL) and fuel your adventurous spirit.

1. Simplify your space.

Imagine your home as a base camp for your next adventure. Surrounding yourself with too much stuff can weigh you down and inhibit your readiness for new experiences.  Surrounding yourself with too much stuff can also have serious effects on your mental and physical health, including stress, depression, lack of focus, and higher risks of household injuries. Cleaning can have the opposite effects, filling you with positive feelings as you open up more physical space for yourself. As you organize things you want to keep and let go of those you don’t, you might feel nostalgia and gratitude for people and experiences that have enriched your life. And giving away items you’ve outgrown will make you feel good about helping someone else as you also make room for the exciting things that will be coming next.  I consider myself pretty simple and not materialistic, but every time I go to do a clean out, I realize just how much I like my stuff.  It is one thing to decide to simplify, but it is much harder work to actually do it.  Just remember that simplifying is not just about reducing; it’s about making space for what truly ignites your passion.

2. Simplify your schedule.

 Your calendar should be a roadmap to adventure, not a to-do list that leaves no room for spontaneity.  Despite your many personal and professional responsibilities, you probably have more control over your days than you realize. With a little forethought, it’s usually possible to make time for exercise, reading, or a quiet cup of coffee, especially if you incorporate some of these activities into your morning or bedtime routine. But if you really can’t find time for a run or a dinner date with your spouse for the ‘big rocks’ in your life, you might need to take a hard look at your whole schedule and reassess your priorities. Are you staying up too late and sleeping in longer than you should? Are you taking more meetings at work than you really need to?  If your schedule is constantly packed and stuck in the fast lane, there will never be space to chase your own great adventure.  Simplifying your schedule can open up opportunities to chase new experiences and explore uncharted territories, both literally and metaphorically.  As you probably know by now, I think having this pursuit is a must.

3. Simplify your thinking.

The running dialogue in your head that’s constantly dredging up regrets about the past and spreading anxiety about the future is robbing you of the present. It can be like fog on your path, obscuring the beautiful vistas ahead.  Incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine to keep yourself focused on what you can and will accomplish today. Try meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to root your mind and body in the here and now. Keeping a gratitude journal can also help you appreciate all of the good things in your life instead of dwelling on negative thoughts.

4. Simplify your finances.

 What, ultimately, is your money for?  Truly, the only value of money is in its use.  Think of your finances as a toolkit for your explorations.

 Yes, we all have to pay the bills and provide the essentials for our families. But the way we use our money should also be tied to specific, actionable life goals and upcoming transitions. When we don’t earn, spend, save, and invest on purpose, our money tends to scatter across possessions we don’t really need, subscriptions we don’t really use, debt that we could have avoided, and short-term solutions to problems that will continue to linger in the long run. Vacations get skipped, old cars get older and more unreliable. Then, suddenly, your family has outgrown your home but you can’t afford to move, or your kids are looking at colleges you can’t pay for, or you and your spouse are both wishing you had the means to retire.

 When you eliminate what’s not essential, you’ll have more resources to commit to the people, places, and activities that make you truly happy. You can allocate more resources to experiences that bring joy and excitement. Want to have an authentic conversation about these things that really matter?  Schedule an appointment with us and let’s talk about how our Life-Centered Planning process can simplify complex financial issues and keep you and your money organized so you can pursue your own great adventure now.

 

 

Episode 28: The Psychology of Adventure with Matt Walker


Welcome back to The On Adventure Podcast! I’m your host, Josh Self, and today, my conversation is with Matt Walker. Matt is a unique blend of psychologist and adventurer, who has spent nearly 30 years leading expeditions on multiple continents. In this episode, we dive deep into the psychology behind adventure, the importance of doing hard things, and why integrating adventure into our lives is vital. Matt shares his insights on how discomfort can be a powerful tool for growth and how adventure helps us build resilience and find clarity. We also touch on his upcoming webinar that I will be hosting, so stay tuned for that!

Timeline Summary

  • [00:00] – Introduction to Matt Walker, his unique background, and the upcoming webinar on integrating adventure into our lives.
  • [02:07] – Matt talks about his journey into adventure and psychology, and the connection between the two.
  • [05:00] – Discussing the real “why” behind adventure and how it ties into personal and professional growth.
  • [10:12] – Reflecting on the potential disruptions of changing sleep habits.
  • [14:24] – Matt explains the five elements of adventure: High Endeavor, Uncertain Outcome, Total Commitment, Tolerance for Adversity, and Great Companionship.
  • [19:00] – The role of great companionship in meaningful adventures and how solo endeavors still require support.
  • [25:00] – Overcoming fear in mountaineering and how it parallels with facing life’s challenges.
  • [32:00] – The importance of intentionality and purpose in manhood and how adventure helps achieve this.
  • [43:00] – Matt’s personal adventures, including building a house and planning solo ascents of 8,000-meter peaks.
  • [47:00] – Closing remarks and how to connect with Matt Walker for more insights and support.

Links & Resources

Closing Remarks

Thank you for joining us on this episode of The On Adventure Podcast. If you enjoyed our conversation with Matt Walker, please rate, follow, and share the podcast. Your support helps us bring more inspiring content to you. Don’t forget to check out the links and resources mentioned, and as always, pursue your own great adventure!

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Episode 27: Using adventure for self-discovery and feeling fully alive with Scott MacKillop


Welcome back to the On Adventure Podcast! I’m your host, Josh Self, and today I had the pleasure of speaking with Scott MacKillop, a seasoned financial professional and avid outdoorsman. Despite our shared background in finance, our conversation veered away from the boardroom and delved into the thrilling world of outdoor adventures. Scott shared how his passion for the outdoors was self-developed rather than instilled by his parents, and how fear serves as a clarifying force for him, whether on the mountain or in the boardroom.

Throughout our discussion, Scott talked about his extensive career, innovative achievements, and the invaluable lessons he has learned from pushing his limits in nature. From climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to the peaks of Colorado, Scott’s adventures have given him a profound sense of being fully alive, experiencing all emotions and embracing the challenges that come with pushing oneself to the edge. We also explored the significance of self-discovery and the joy of living, which Scott finds in every adventure he undertakes. This episode is packed with inspiration and insights into the intertwining of adventure and personal growth.

Timeline Summary:

  • [00:00] – Introduction to Scott MacKillop and his background in finance and outdoor adventures.
  • [01:00] – Scott’s unique perspective on fear and clarity.
  • [03:00] – Early life and the development of Scott’s love for the outdoors.
  • [06:00] – Memorable outdoor experiences and the influence of his childhood.
  • [14:00] – Transition from DC to Colorado and the role of running in Scott’s life.
  • [20:00] – Facing and overcoming physical and mental challenges in adventure.
  • [27:00] – Scott’s near-death experience during a solo hike in Colorado.
  • [35:00] – The mental aspect of pushing limits and setting goals.
  • [45:00] – Reflecting on past adventures and the continuous pursuit of new challenges.
  • [50:00] – Upcoming adventures and the importance of staying active.

Links & Resources:

 

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the On Adventure Podcast. If you enjoyed this conversation, please rate, follow, share, and review the podcast. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to you. Until next time, keep pushing your limits and pursuing your own great adventures!

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Episode 26: Life is an Adventure, Plan for It with Terry Foxworth


Get ready for an exhilarating ride in this episode of the On Adventure Podcast, where I chat with Terry Foxworth. Terry’s journey is a testament to persistence, an unquenchable thirst for adventure, and a masterful balance between a professional career and an adventurous lifestyle. From the picturesque landscapes of South Carolina to the roaring rapids of whitewater kayaking, grueling ultramarathons, and the pristine slopes of skiing, Terry’s tales will ignite your adventurous spirit. We also dive into his epic cross-country bicycle journey with his daughter, filled with highs, lows, and unforgettable memories. Tune in and let Terry’s stories inspire your next adventure!

Timeline Summary:

  • [00:04:18] Terry returns to Asheville and recounts the challenge of navigating a massive snowstorm.
  • [00:05:20] Unpacking connections with Brew Davis, a mutual friend from university days, and how these relationships fuel adventure.
  • [00:09:00] Terry’s educational journey and the pivotal experiences that shaped his career and love for the outdoors.
  • [00:27:01] Growing up in South Carolina: How a small-town boy developed a passion for adventure.
  • [00:36:00] The life-changing backpacking trip in the Smokies that sparked Terry’s lifelong love for the great outdoors.
  • [00:42:00] Diving into Terry’s whitewater kayaking adventures and his transformative move to Greenville.
  • [00:56:00] Josh shares a thrilling tale of a backpacking trip with his son, filled with unexpected lessons.
  • [01:12:00] The epic story of Terry’s cross-country bike trip with his daughter: Planning, perseverance, and priceless memories.

Links & Resources:

Closing Remark:

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and review the On
Adventure Podcast. Share it with friends and family who might find Terry’s
story as inspiring as we did. Join us next time for more incredible
journeys and motivational tales!

 

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