Podcast
Founders' Forum
Hosted by Marc Bernstein · EN
Great business stories and great people come together on Marc Bernstein’s Founders’ Forum! Marc Bernstein sits down with business founders across the country to discuss their lives, successes, lessons, and their vision for the future. It’s all about the success they’ve earned and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. These are American success stories and they’re not done yet!
Your Host, Marc Bernstein
Marc Bernstein is an entrepreneur, author, and consultant. He helps high performing entrepreneurs and business owners create a vision for the future, accomplish their business and personal goals, financial and otherwise, and on helping them to see through on their intentions. Marc recently co-founded March, a forward-looking company with a unique approach to wealth management. He captured his philosophy in his #1 Amazon Bestseller, The Fiscal Therapy Solution 1.0. Marc is also the founder of the Forward Focus Forum, a suite of resources tailored specifically to educate and connect high performing entrepreneurs, and helping them realize their vision of true financial independence. Find out more about Marc and connect with him at marcjbernstein.com.
Are you a visionary founder with a compelling success story that deserves to be shared with our audience? We're on the lookout for accomplished business leaders like you to be featured on the Founders' Forum Radio Show and Podcast. If you've surmounted challenges, reached significant milestones, or have an exciting vision for the future, we'd be honored to have you as a guest on our show. Your experiences and insights can inspire and enlighten others in the business world. If you're eager to share your journey and the invaluable lessons you've learned along the way, we invite you to apply here. Connect with us, and let's discuss the possibility of featuring you in an upcoming episode. Join us in celebrating your success and contributing to the legacy of the Founders' Forum!
Securities offered through DFPG Investments, LLC (“DFPG”) Investment Advisory Services offered through Diversify Advisory Services, LLC (“Diversify”). DAS and DFPG are affiliated entities. March is unaffiliated with DAS and DFPG. Member FINRA/SIPC
The information provided in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as investment advice. The views expressed are those of the host an...
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Episodes
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Marta Sylvester: When Conscience Becomes Your Business Plan
2w ago00:28:00Tap to summarizeHer son asked her one question that changed everything. How many tons of plastic are you personally responsible for sitting in a landfill right now? For Marta Sylvester, founder and CEO of NuGen Packaging, that moment didn't just sting. It sparked a company.After 20 years climbing the ranks of the traditional packaging industry, Marta walked away from a VP of Sales role to build something she actually believed in. Today, NuGen Packaging is a leading sustainable packaging solutions provider and the first company in the U.S. to introduce aluminum bottles to the nutraceutical and OTC markets.Key Takeaways:Breaking into B2B sales without a degreeWhy she left a VP role after 20 years in corporateSurviving pandemic supply chain chaosConvincing skeptical brands to ditch plasticBuilding a learning culture in a lean teamHer three-year vision for disrupting packagingMarta also opens up about imposter syndrome, navigating a male-dominated industry as a woman founder, and her plans to support other women in business through WeBank.About Marta Sylvester:Marta is the Founder and CEO of NuGen Packaging, a packaging solutions provider changing the way brands think about sustainability. With more than three decades of experience, she brings both expertise and fresh perspective to how packaging can drive impact in today’s market.Connect:Website nugenpackaging.comLinkedIn linkedin.com/in/martasylvester/; linkedin.com/company/nugen-packagingInstagram @nugen_packagingThis episode is brought to you by NuGen Packaging, Modern Solutions, Sustainable Impact. Go to nugenpackaging.com to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.
Transcribe →Amy Wicks on What Sustainable Engineering Really Looks Like
3w ago00:29:45Tap to summarizeWhat does it really take to build a brand people trust and remember? In this episode of Founders Forum, Amy N. Wicks, P.E. shares how she turns insight into impact and helps founders create meaningful connections that support long term growth.Joined by guest co-host Chris Donnelly, the conversation explores Amy’s journey through business growth, brand strategy, and staying authentic in a crowded market. She opens up about early challenges, key turning points, and what it really takes to build something sustainable, not just something that launches.You’ll also hear practical insights on how founders can position themselves more clearly, communicate their value, and stay aligned with their bigger vision as they scale.Key Takeaways: Clear messaging matters Authenticity builds trust Storytelling strengthens connection Growth comes from key pivots Positioning sets you apartAbout Amy Wicks:Amy Wicks, P.E., is the Founder and President of Wicks Consulting Group, a civil engineering and planning firm focused on resilient land development and sustainable infrastructure. She specializes in stormwater management, flood resiliency, and helping communities grow responsibly in rapidly changing environments. Amy is passionate about building projects — and teams — that create lasting impact for both clients and communities.Connect:Website wickscg.comLinkedIn linkedin.com/in/amy-wicks-149aa911/; linkedin.com/company/wicks-consulting-group/Marc Bernstein's Founders' Forum is brought to you by March Forward, LLC, and this episode is sponsored by Wicks Consulting Group; where innovation meets sustainability in civil engineering. Go to www.wickscg.com to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.
Transcribe →Why Entrepreneurs Should Start Earlier with Bill Sprague
4w ago00:28:06Tap to summarizeBill Sprague didn't wait for the perfect moment — he built one. Starting Risk Averse Insurance in 2015 with no clients and a blank slate, Bill and his childhood best friend turned a bold idea into one of Philadelphia's leading commercial insurance brokerages.Bill Sprague, President and founder of Risk Averse Insurance, shares how he grew a firm built on proactive service, strategic acquisitions, and a culture of accountability. From saying no to the wrong clients to navigating culture clashes during mergers, Bill gets real about what it takes to scale with intention.Key Takeaways:Clarity is a moving target — stepping back regularly to realign with your vision is essential during rapid growth.Moving upstream changes everything — transitioning to larger commercial clients required bold decisions and full team buy-in.Organic growth fuels staying power — acquisitions are great, but investing in sales training builds the foundation that lasts.Culture is built on accountability — Bill's firm runs on a can-do attitude and a winning mentality.Start earlier — Bill's biggest advice to his younger self is that the risk of starting a business never gets smaller.About Bill Sprague:Bill is the founder and president of Risk Averse Insurance which is a commercial insurance brokerage serving clients in construction, manufacturing, wholesale, and commercial real estate. In business since 2015, Bill and team have turned Risk Averse into a leading brokerage in the area by providing clients a more proactive approach to protecting their business. Connect:Website riskaverseinsurance.comLinkedIn linkedin.com/company/risk-averse-insurance/Facebook facebook.com/RiskAverseInsurance/This episode is sponsored by The Satell Institute; the leading CEO organization dedicated to Corporate Social Responsibility. Go to satellinstitute.org to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.
Transcribe →Hiring the Right Number Two Leader with Alec Broadfoot
Apr 2900:29:15Tap to summarizeIf you feel like your company can’t grow unless you work harder, you’re not broken. You’re probably missing the right second-in-command. In this episode of Founders Forum, Alec Broadfoot, Founder and CEO of Vision Spark and author of Hiring Your Right Number Two Leader, joins Marc Bernstein and guest co-host Anthony Naccarato to break down how the right leadership hire can completely change the trajectory of a business.Alec shares his journey from a short stint in banking to buying businesses at 25 and the hard lesson that even strong operations fall apart with poor hiring. He explains the “science of hiring,” why data and structured assessments outperform gut feel, and how one costly hiring mistake reshaped his entire approach.Together with Marc and Tony, the conversation also unpacks EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) in simple terms, from 90-day goals to weekly meeting rhythms, and highlights the critical role of the integrator, the number two leader who turns vision into execution. For founders stuck at a ceiling, this episode offers a practical path to reclaim time, improve decisions, and scale with clarity.Key Takeaways: Why hiring mistakes hold businesses back The shift from instinct to data-driven hiring A simple breakdown of EOS and how it works The role and ROI of a strong number two leader How founders can scale without burnoutAbout Alec Broadfoot:Alec Broadfoot leads VisionSpark® - a consulting firm that has successfully completed over 200 #2 leader searches for entrepreneurial companies, many of whom run on EOS®, and searches for other leadership roles with a 98% placement rate. VisionSpark® is recognized in the 2023, 2024, and 2025 Inc. 5000 lists as one of the fastest growing companies in the country. Alec is a member of Strategic Coach®, a sought-after speaker, and the author of the #1 Amazon bestseller “Hiring Your Right #2 Leader.” In his free time, Alec enjoys playing tennis, collaborating with fellow entrepreneurs, and spending time with his family. Connect:Website https://visionsparksearch.com/LinkedIn linkedin.com/company/vision_spark/; linkedin.com/in/alecbroadfootFacebook: facebook.com/visionspark/Marc Bernstein's Founders' Forum is brought to you by March Forward, LLC, and this episode is sponsored by The Satell Institute; the leading CEO organization dedicated to Corporate Social Responsibility. Go to satellinstitute.org to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.
Transcribe →How A Father And Son Built A National Engineering Firm with Anthony & Pete Naccarato
Apr 2200:29:51Tap to summarizeFamily, trust, and grit are the foundations behind one of the country’s leading structural engineering firms.Anthony and Pete Naccarato share the story behind O'Donnell & Naccarato Structural Engineers, from its early days built on long hours and strong relationships to becoming a national, employee-owned company. Pete reflects on building the firm with deep trust in his partner, while Tony shares his journey from entry-level engineer to CEO, earning his leadership along the way.They talk about embracing new technology, building lasting client relationships, and making bold decisions like transitioning to an ESOP, all while staying true to their values. At its core, this is a conversation about stewardship and building something that lasts.Key Takeaways: Trust builds strong partnerships Relationships drive repeat business Start from the ground up Innovation creates opportunity ESOPs support long-term growth Leadership is stewardshipAbout Anthony and Pete Naccarato:Anthony Naccarato is a lifelong Philadelphia resident and a graduate of Villanova University’s College of Engineering. He has spent his entire career at O’Donnell and Naccarato, working his way up from an entry-level role to now serving as Chairman and CEO.He was born and raised in the Tacony section of Philadelphia, where he lived for over five decades, and now resides in Bella Vista with his wife, Kathee, who he’s been with for 40 years and married to for 35. Together, they have two children, Pete and Grace, and are proud grandparents to Anthony, Declan, and Amelia.Pete Naccarato is the co-founder of O’Donnell and Naccarato, a nationally recognized structural engineering firm. With decades of experience in the industry, he helped grow the company from a three-person startup into a trusted partner on major projects across multiple markets. Known for his strong work ethic, commitment to client relationships, and values rooted in family and trust, Pete played a key role in building a firm designed for long-term success. He later helped guide the company through its transition to an employee-owned structure, ensuring continuity for both its people and its legacy.Connect:Website www.o-n.comLinkedIn linkedin.com/in/anthony-naccarato-04371a6Facebook facebook.com/odonnellandnaccarato/Marc Bernstein's Founders' Forum is brought to you by March Forward, LLC, and this episode is sponsored by O’Donnell and Naccarato, a national structural engineering firm. Visit o-n.com to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.
Transcribe →Building a 600+ Employee Company Without a Playbook with Mitch Gyger
Apr 1500:28:06Tap to summarizeMost founders don’t start with a clear plan. They start by figuring things out as they go.In this episode, we’re joined by Mitch Gyger, President and Co-Founder of OPS Security Group, with Vera Hempel as guest co-host. Mitch shares how graduating into the 2009 recession led him to take a security guard role, an opportunity that ultimately shaped his entire career. What started as a stopgap turned into a long-term path as he built experience, earned credibility, and eventually co-founded a company from the ground up.Mitch opens up about the early days of entrepreneurship, doing every role, making mistakes, and learning without a playbook. He also breaks down how OPS scaled into a 600+ employee organization by focusing on one key principle, putting employees first. From hiring to pricing, that philosophy drives how they operate, even when it means losing short-term deals.We also explore how Mitch thinks about growth today, from building structured sales systems to staying patient in government contracting, and how he defines success across business, faith, and family.Key Takeaways:Start where you are and build from experienceExpect chaos early, clarity comes laterPay people well to build stronger teamsShort-term losses can create long-term winsStay patient when timing isn’t in your controlPlan intentionally across business and lifeAbout Mitch Gyger:Mitch has over 20 years of experience in the security industry and currently serves as the President of OPS Security Group. Since co-founding the company, he has played a central role in shaping its growth and evolution. In his role as President, Mitch is responsible for setting the company’s strategy, overseeing finance, sales, human resources, and service delivery. His leadership ensures OPS continues to deliver high-quality service while building a culture rooted in integrity and high performance.Connect:Website opssecuritygroup.comLinkedIn linkedin.com/in/mitchgyger/This episode is brought to you by The Satell Institute; the leading CEO organization dedicated to Corporate Social Responsibility. Go to satellinstitute.org to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.
Transcribe →How to Scale Your Business Without Doing Everything Yourself with Deanna Robinson
Apr 800:27:53Tap to summarizeSuccess doesn’t always come from a perfectly mapped out plan. Sometimes it starts with simply showing up and sharing what you know. In this episode of Founders Forum, Deanna Robinson reveals how a few pieces of marketing advice and a batch of cupcakes sparked the beginning of her entrepreneurial journey.As the founder of Social Impression, Deanna walks us through her evolution from working in a male dominated industry to building a full service marketing agency and stepping into a fractional CMO role. Joined by guest co-host Nik Mondo, Founder and CEO of Mondo Media Solutions, the conversation brings added perspective as they explore real-world business challenges and growth strategies. Deanna shares how she scaled her business while raising three kids, why she chose a contractor based team model, and how staying authentic became her biggest advantage. The discussion also dives into real world marketing challenges like aligning sales and marketing teams, choosing the right clients, and using AI without losing your brand voice.Key Takeaways: Be confident and authentic Start before you feel ready Build the right team Align sales and marketing AI is a tool, not the answer Protect your time and energyAbout Deanna Robinson:Deanna is the founder of Social Impression, a full-service marketing agency established in 2012 that helps businesses stand out through strategic planning, creative campaigns, and digital marketing. As a Fractional CMO, she combines big-picture strategy with hands-on execution, guiding clients to reach their goals with a unique laddered marketing approach.Connect:Website www.socialimpression.orgLinkedIn linkedin.com/in/deannaleerobinson/Facebook facebook.com/socialimpressionInstagram instagram.com/socialimpressionThis episode is brought to you by CamaPlan, A Different Way to Invest. Go to camaplan.com/foundersforum to learn more.Marc maintains a personal account relationship with CamaPlan. The advisor does not solicit, recommend, or endorse CamaPlan’s products or services in his capacity as an investment advisor, and receives no compensation or other benefit in connection with this relationship. Diversify Advisory Services and DFPG Investments has no affiliation with CamaPlan.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.
Transcribe →Turning Complex Technology into Human-Centered Experiences with Vera Hempel
Apr 100:27:33Tap to summarizeCommitment can feel heavy, especially when you think it means locking into one path forever. In this episode, Vera Hempel offers a simpler approach: choose a direction, take action, and adjust as you go.We’re joined by Vera Hempel, co-founder of KissUX and Cactus Club Creative. Vera shares the mission driving her work today, helping aging adults and underserved communities access technology in a way that feels simple, secure, and usable. She explains how that purpose shapes everything from product development to long-term vision, including her goal of impacting millions through digital literacy and better user experiences.We also dig into the realities of building two companies at once. Vera talks about the challenge of clearly communicating what they do, especially when combining website and app development with AI-driven user experience and security. She shares how staying committed to the mission, not just chasing funding, helps guide decisions and keep momentum.The conversation also explores company culture and why trust and transparency are essential, not only within teams but also in how users experience technology. Vera emphasizes that what you build should reflect how you want people to feel when they interact with your product.Key Takeaways:Commit to the goal, not just the processFocus on impact over fundingSimplify how you communicate your workBuild trust into both culture and productTake action and adjust as you goAbout Vera Hempel:Vera grew up in Munich, Germany, and has been an entrepreneur since she was 18, helping businesses with their marketing and translating books before moving to the U.S. in 2017. In 2021 she teamed up with UI/UX designer Kuba Kerner to launch Cactus Club Creative, helping startups turn ideas into products and brands. Their work soon revealed a bigger challenge: businesses struggling to prioritize accessibility which lead them to found KissUX in 2023 to help bridge the digital divide with Agentic AI, so everyone can be part of the digital world.Connect:Website cactusclubcreative.com; withkissux.comLinkedIn linkedin.com/in/vera-hempel/; linkedin.com/company/kiss-ux/; linkedin.com/company/cactus-club-creative/This episode is brought to you by Workshop Strategy; Merging experience, innovation, and purpose. Go to workshopstrategy.com to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.
Transcribe →What Smart Entrepreneurs Do in Uncertain Times with Kerry Benson
Mar 2500:28:52Tap to summarizeUncertainty is everywhere—but what if it’s actually an opportunity? In this episode of Founders Forum, recorded in July 2025, Marc Bernstein sits down with Kerry Benson, alongside guest co-host Karla Trotman, to unpack how leaders can navigate constant change with clarity and confidence.Kerry, President & CEO of Big Edge Advisors, shares his journey from humble beginnings in Queens to becoming a trusted advisor to executives and boards. With over 35 years of experience in technology, finance, and leadership, he offers a grounded perspective on thriving through disruption—without losing sight of what truly matters.Together, they explore how today’s uncertainty—driven by global shifts, AI, and economic changes—differs from the past, and what leaders can do to stay steady in the chaos.Key Takeaways: Why uncertainty feels more intense today The power of having a constant anchor How early hustle shaped Kerry’s path Lessons from scaling and transformation The “Seeds and Seasons” life framework Why people-first leadership mattersAbout Kerry Benson:Kerry is a seasoned technology executive, business advisor, private investor, board member, and mentor who has built a 35+ year career driving digital transformation and enterprise value. As former Chief Information Offer of PFM and now President and CEO of Big Edge Advisors, he helps senior executives, business owners, and boards solve complex challenges through leveraging his expertise, strategic partnerships, and powerful network. Known for his leadership, operational excellence, and people-first approach, Kerry is a trusted advisor to C-suite leaders and colleagues alike.Connect:Website bigedgeadvisors.comLinkedIn linkedin.com/in/kerry-benson-a5417aThis episode is brought to you by Great Lakes Adaptive Sports Association; empowering people with disabilities through adaptive outdoor recreation. Visit glasa.org to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.
Transcribe →Building a Design Business Rooted in Community with Rebecca Addington
Mar 1800:29:31Tap to summarizeEntrepreneurship rarely follows a straight path. For Rebecca Addington, founder of Ville & Rue in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, the journey blends farm roots, a passion for design, and a deep belief in the power of community.In this episode of Founders Forum, host Marc Bernstein is joined by co-hosts Ray Loewe, founder of The Luckiest Guy in the World, and Deborah Brandt, founder and CEO of Fig Industries, for a conversation about entrepreneurship, creativity, and the role community plays in building successful local businesses.Rebecca shares how growing up on a family farm shaped her entrepreneurial mindset and how her experiences in retail and design helped her discover her true calling. After working with both major brands like Pottery Barn and independent retailers, she gained the knowledge and confidence to launch her own business.She opened Ville & Rue in late 2019—just months before the pandemic. What followed was a true test of resilience. Thanks to strong community support in Lancaster, Rebecca was able to navigate the challenges and continue growing a business focused on thoughtful design, high-quality furniture, and personalized service.Key Takeaways:How farm life shaped Rebecca’s entrepreneurial mindsetLessons learned from corporate and small business retailThe power of community support during challenging timesWhy creating meaningful customer experiences mattersRebecca’s advice to entrepreneurs: stay encouragedAbout Rebecca Addington:Born and raised in the Susquehanna Valley, I later moved around the region—from Baltimore to the Lehigh Valley—before settling in Lancaster.I hold a B.A. in Communications, an AST in Interior Design, and a real estate license.I opened my business in 2019, and although it’s been a rollercoaster, I’ve loved every day.I currently live in the city with my husband, Wes, our Bernese Mountain Dog, Maverick, and our Maine Coon cat, Søren.Connect:Website villeandrue.comLinkedIn linkedin.com/in/rebecca-addington-63638b35/Facebook facebook.com/villeandrueInstagram instagram.com/villeandrue/This episode is brought to you by Ville & Rue, contemporary interior design styled for your life. Go to villeandrue.com to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.
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