Joseph: The Merciful

Summary

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Podcast Summary: "Joseph: The Merciful"

Podcast: The Chosen People
Host: Pray.com
Episode Date: December 24, 2025

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Episode Overview

This episode of The Chosen People explores one of the most emotionally charged and redemptive stories in the Old Testament: the reconciliation of Joseph and his brothers. Through dramatic narration and dialogue, the episode delves into themes of forgiveness, transformation, and the sovereign workings of God in the lives of Joseph, his brothers, and the future of Israel. Listeners are invited to reflect on mercy, redemption, and family, set against the backdrop of famine and survival in ancient Egypt.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Joseph's Test and His Brothers' Transformation

• (01:06–07:44)
  • Joseph, now a powerful leader in Egypt, enacts a final test to reveal whether his brothers have truly changed since they betrayed him and sold him into slavery. He frames Benjamin, his younger brother, for theft, threatening to enslave him.
  • In a key moment, Judah offers himself as a substitute, pleading, “Take me instead.” (06:54) and expressing the deep regret and pain he carries for his past actions against Joseph (~07:05).
  • Joseph’s emotional response marks a turning point: “That Joseph knew in his heart that Judah and the rest of his brothers had truly changed. The heart of God had reached them.” (08:16)

2. Revelation and Reconciliation

• (09:17–14:47)
  • Joseph reveals his true identity to his stunned brothers: “Look at me, brother… You know who I am. Joseph.” (10:02–10:15)
  • Joseph reassures them, reframing their betrayal in God’s providence: “Do not hold your heads low in shame because you sold me here. God sent me here to preserve life.” (11:59)
  • There’s a moving embrace as Judah’s shame melts under Joseph’s mercy, underscoring forgiveness.
  • Joseph urges them to bring their families to Egypt to survive the famine, underscoring that he now wields both power and mercy for their benefit.

3. Family, Forgiveness, and Healing Old Wounds

• (15:23–18:51)
  • The brothers, reunited, spend the night sharing personal stories, mourning lost years, and recognizing how God’s will used even their darkest decisions for good.
  • Sibling rivalry and parental favoritism are addressed frankly: “We hated you for your dreams, Joseph. We couldn’t stand the thought of bowing to you… Yet here we are, and the entire world is bowing down to you. God had chosen you from the very beginning.” (16:42)
  • Joseph recounts the hardships and lessons of his journey from slavery to stewardship, testifying to God’s faithfulness.

4. Joseph’s Petition to Pharaoh and Pharaoh’s Favor

• (22:08–26:26)
  • Joseph formally requests Pharaoh to allow his family to settle in Egypt and survive the famine.
  • Pharaoh, though initially questioning (“You would request this for men who sold you into slavery?” 23:25), ultimately grants them the “best of the land” and expresses gratitude for Joseph’s contributions, acknowledging, “Our entire nation owes your God a great debt. I intend to repay it.” (26:13)
  • The episode highlights God using Joseph’s suffering for the good of many, affecting powerful nations and securing Israel’s survival.

5. Practical Preparations, Lasting Lessons

• (26:43–28:23)
  • Joseph provides his brothers with supplies, clothes, and specific instructions, cautioning them not to argue on their return journey: “The days of useless quarreling are over. On your way back to our father, do not argue over pointless things. I will not have bitterness enter my home. Do you understand?” (28:12)
  • Subtle reminders remain that, although Joseph forgives, the relationship is changed—he is no longer simply their younger brother, but a ruler and benefactor.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Judah’s Sacrifice:
  “Take me instead.” — Judah, pleading for Benjamin’s life (06:54)

• Recognition and Remorse:
  “You know who I am. Joseph.” — Joseph, revealing himself (10:02)

• Mercy and Providence:
  “Do not hold your heads low in shame because you sold me here. God sent me here to preserve life.” — Joseph (11:59)

• Sibling Reflections:
  “We hated you for your dreams, Joseph… God had chosen you from the very beginning.” — Simeon, reflecting on their envy and its consequences (16:42)

• Pharaoh’s Acknowledgment:
  “Our entire nation owes your God a great debt. I intend to repay it.” — Pharaoh (26:13)

• Joseph’s Counsel:
  “The days of useless quarreling are over… I will not have bitterness enter my home.” — Joseph (28:12)

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Segment Timestamps

• Testing the Brothers & Judah’s Proposal — 01:06–08:16
• Joseph Reveals Himself — 09:17–11:30
• Mercy, Reconciliation, and Invitation to Egypt — 11:30–14:47
• Brothers’ Reflections and Family Stories — 15:23–18:51
• Joseph Appeals to Pharaoh — 22:08–26:26
• Preparations for the Journey Home — 26:43–28:23

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Tone and Storytelling

The episode’s narration and dramatic re-enactments are deeply compassionate and contemplative, giving full weight to the pain of betrayal and the triumph of grace. Dialogue is natural, heartfelt, and often poetic, drawing listeners into the emotional world of each character. The music and soundscape amplify the sense of spiritual reflection and ancient wonder.

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Summary Takeaways

• Forgiveness transforms both the giver and the recipient. Joseph’s willingness to forgive is not just about letting go of pain, but about freeing his entire family from generational patterns of jealousy and animosity.
• God’s providence works even through human failings. Joseph’s words and actions demonstrate a belief that God orchestrates events for a greater good, regardless of human intentions.
• Restoration requires both acknowledgment of wrongdoing and genuine change. Judah’s willingness to sacrifice himself signals true repentance, opening the door for healing.
• Mercy and wisdom can heal old wounds and shape the destiny of nations. Joseph sets an example for leadership rooted not in retribution, but in compassion and discernment.

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This episode of The Chosen People masterfully reimagines the biblical narrative of Joseph with fresh insight and emotional depth, inspiring listeners to reflect on the power of mercy, redemption, and the mysterious hand of providence in their own lives.

Transcript

[Narrator]

This is an iHeart podcast.

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[Joseph]

I can't simply let them leave. The famine will be deadly for more years to come. They won't survive on their own. They need me.

[Narrator 2 / Nexplanon Ad]

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[Narrator / Storyteller]

Every cruelty, every hardship had been redeemed by God turned into a tapestry of grace and purpose. Could the same be true for his brothers?

[Joseph]

Perhaps they must go through a test of their own.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

It was at that moment Joseph had an idea. An idea began to form in his mind. A way to test their hearts and reveal their true nature.

[Joseph]

This is my Lord's cup. Do you not know that this is.

[Pharaoh]

The cup he uses for prophecy?

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Perhaps you desire to steal this for his gifts.

[Joseph]

I didn't take that. I don't know how it got there. Please, you must believe. Silence. No. It must be a mistake. I am the voice that speaks for God, the deliverer of this land and the one who conquered the blight. And. And you Hebrews dare steal from me? Sapit, not the Neop. Please believe me. I did nothing. Seize the boy.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

They took Benjamin and began to drag him away. But the brothers rebelled. They were quickly beaten down by the guards and held in place.

[Joseph]

Take me instead.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Joseph's heart stopped beating when he heard the words flying fall from Judah's lips.

[Joseph]

What did you say?

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[Joseph]

Seize the boy.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

They took Benjamin and began to drag him away. But the brothers rebelled. They were quickly beaten down by the guards and held in place.

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No.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Judah ran after Benjamin only to be struck by one of the guards. His face hit the stone floor. He winced in pain and blood ran down his temple. The entire room was silent. The other brothers had spears to their necks and watched helplessly as Judah stood back up to his feet. He wiped his chin and ran back towards Benjamin again. Again he was struck in the head and returned to the floor. Judah lay there on the floor. Joseph did nothing. He watched his older brother desperately try and fight for Benjamin's life. Judah began to weep on the floor. He stood, legs quivering and face swollen.

[Joseph]

Please have mercy. His life is bound up with my father's life. Why is your father's life a concern of mine?

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Blood dripped down Judah's head as he looked Joseph in the eyes. Joseph noticed something profoundly different in Judah. Something he had not yet noticed. Pain. Years and years of pain. Behind Judah's eyes was the shame of his past sins. It was he who had decided to sell Joseph into slavery. He was the one who led the brothers against him. Since then, he had lived a life of regret and anguish. Judah shook his head and lifted his arms to Joseph. With labored breathing, Judah begged.

[Joseph]

Take me instead.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Joseph's heart stopped beating when he heard the words fall from Judah's lips.

[Joseph]

What did you say? Have me remain as a slave on Benjamin's behalf. Let me suffer so he can live.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

You.

[Joseph]

You don't mean that. I do. Take me. Take my life if you must. Benjamin, whether innocent or guilty, must return. I will. I will give my life up as ransom for his.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Judah fell to his knees and crawled to Joseph's feet. With his arms stretched outward, he gave himself up to suffer so the one he loved could live. He would take on the bondage so his brother could be free. It was in that moment that. That Joseph knew in his heart that Judah and the rest of his brothers had truly changed. The heart of God had reached them. Judah's sacrifice pierced through Joseph's hardened heart. The dam of his emotions broke and tears streamed down his cheeks. He raised his voice, trembling with raw emotion. Leave us the guards lowered their spears and departed, followed by the servants. Even Asenath and their two sons retreated into their chambers. Joseph stepped forward, his arms open, tears flowing freely.

[Joseph]

You won't be a slave, Judah.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Joseph's voice cracked with emotion. He slowly raised his hand and and removed his headdress, letting his brown curls fall across his forehead. He knelt before Judah, who kept his head bowed in shame. For a long moment, they remained there in the silence, the weight of years pressing down upon them.

[Joseph]

Look at me, brother.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Judah's eyes, filled with pain and confusion, searched Joseph's face. The realization dawned slowly, like the breaking of a new day. Who are you?

[Joseph]

You know who I am, Joseph.

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[Narrator / Storyteller]

No.

[Joseph]

It can. I am your brother, Joseph.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

The brothers gasped, their eyes widening in disbelief. They saw Joseph's familiar amber eyes and brown curls. They heard his voice speaking in their native tongue. The realization struck them like a thunderbolt. Before them stood their long lost brother, the one they had betrayed and abandoned. Judah's bloodied face trembled at the sight of him.

[Joseph]

Joseph. Joseph. Joseph. Yes, Judah. Yes. Judah, it's me. It's me. Is my father still alive? Is he well? How are the flocks? How are your children?

[Narrator / Storyteller]

The brothers were stunned into silence. The breath had been stolen from their lungs. They backed away in fear, as if seeing a ghost. To them, Joseph had been dead for years, yet here he stood, resurrected from the grave they had buried him in.

[Joseph]

Don't be afraid. You can come near me.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

The brothers inched closer, their heads bowed with regret. Seeing Joseph's face filled them with a mixture of joy and shame. The brother they had once sold into slavery was now the second most powerful man in the known world. Yet he knelt before them as an equal, tears in his eyes, joy in his voice.

[Joseph]

Look at me, Judah. Look at me. Look at everything you see around you. Egypt is safe from famine because of what God has done. Do not hold your heads low in shame because you sold me here. God sent me here to preserve life. He knew that one day a famine would endanger the land, and one of us would have to prepare the way to deliverance.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Judah's shame melted under the warmth of Joseph's mercy. Slowly, he embraced his brother, tears mingling with the blood on his face.

[Joseph]

I guess we ended up bowing to you after all. You see, that's it. You didn't send me here, brothers. It was God all along. He has made me lord of all Egypt.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Reuben, standing a few feet away, was stoic and still, his head low and his countenance weary. Joseph approached him, placing his hands On Reuben's shoulders.

[Joseph]

My eldest brother. For years, you were my only ally. I knew you felt that you had failed me. But take heart, for God has redeemed everything.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Reuben crumbled into Joseph's arms, the weight of his regret lifting. He had carried the burden of failing to protect his brother. But now he felt the healing touch of God's grace. Joseph raised his voice to his brothers.

[Joseph]

I am here for a reason, brothers. This famine will continue to blight the land and strip it of all life. There is no survival outside the border of Egypt. Come here. Stay with me and I will protect you. Go now to Father and tell him his son Joseph is alive. Tell him to bring everyone here so we might begin anew. How long will this famine last, Joseph? Have you not given us enough grain to wait out the worst of it? This famine will go on for another five years. It will only get worse. Please come under my wing and allow me to redeem you from harm. I will provide all that you need for your families. Bring your flocks and herds. Bring your children and their children. Together we shall prosper in this land. My brother is here. So we choose the path of Abraham. We flee to Egypt and away from the land God promised us? For a time, yes. Then when we have recovered, we will return. All of us.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

The brothers agreed, making plans to return home and deliver the news to their father. They were in awe of Joseph's wisdom and favour with God. He was not the arrogant child they had once hated. The hardships he had endured had softened his heart and sharpened his character. Before them stood a leader worth following. That night, they spoke as brothers. They laughed and shared stories. The Sons of Israel were united again under the bond of love and a shared vision for the future.

[Joseph]

What was it like being a slave here? I would lay awake at night dreaming about Canaan. I closed my eyes and thought about the rolling hills and green pastures. I thought about the stream that flowed beside the fields of grain. I would often try and remember the sound of Father's laughter beside the fire and the smell of Mother's hair. Then they made you a ruler. I worked hard, diligently, and God gave me favor in all I did. I became the steward over the captain's household first. Then I found myself in prison for over five years for a crime I didn't commit. It was in that place where God truly showed me what dreams are really for.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Joseph felt himself growing more aware of God's faithfulness in his life. He closed his eyes and leaned against Benjamin. Joseph recounted his life from Slavery up until that point, in great detail to his brothers. They were enthralled by his story. They were finally able to see how God had used the imperfect and wicked intentions of his brothers to accomplish something great. Simeon grinned and chuckled. The rest of the group wondered at what was so amusing.

[Joseph]

We hated you for your dreams, Joseph. We couldn't stand the thought of bowing to you. We knew that you were special. We hated that you knew you were special, too. Yet here we are, and the entire world is bowing down to you. God had chosen you from the very beginning.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

The other brothers nodded in agreement. Their hatred of him was fueled by ancient and prevailing sins, jealousy, favoritism, and pride. Joseph's arrogance coupled with Jacob's favoritism made for a perfect sin storm of spite and backbiting. However, Joseph now stood before them as a humble king, an honest ruler. He was a man worthy of praise and admiration, and they were proud to call him their brother and king. They spoke into the night, sharing their stories and reconnecting. Joseph's children met their uncles, and he listened earnestly as each brother spoke of their families. He had missed so much. The birth of nephews and nieces, the death of his mother, and watching his father grow old. Yet as they talked, Joseph felt as though he was regaining the years that had been stolen from him. The hardened part of his heart began to soften. Though surrounded by the splendors of a palace, he had always felt imprisoned. But now he dwelled in the palace of forgiveness. It was growing late, and Joseph was keenly aware that Pharaoh would have to be notified of everything that had transpired. Joseph gathered his brothers once again.

[Joseph]

In the morning, I will speak to Pharaoh on your behalf. I will secure a place for you here in Egypt. Once I do, you can leave and go get Father. Do you think he'll survive the journey? Knowing he'll get to see you will age him back 10 years, I'm sure of it.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

That night, Joseph sank into his bed and slept. It was a sleep unlike any other. He was free from the burdens of his past and finally able to rest.

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[Narrator]

Chapter 18 Prince Lorian's voice gently wakes you from your dreams of him.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

I can't face one more sunset without you by my side Come with me and I vow your desires will be my North Star forevermore.

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[Narrator / Storyteller]

The next morning, Joseph entered the courts of Pharaoh. The gentle rays of dawn stretched over the palace, painting the tiled steps in brilliant colors. Joseph was always a welcomed guest, greeted with the highest honor. Dancers swayed in the halls to elegant music, and an array of food was laid out for him and Pharaoh to dine together.

[Pharaoh]

Zephanith Peneah, to what do I owe the honor of your presence?

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Pharaoh gestured for Joseph to sit at a table in the courtyard just outside the throne throne room. Dried fruits, nuts, and cheeses were arrayed for the two of them to dine together. Joseph reclined and took a bite from a dried fig. Pharaoh sat regally at the other end of the table.

[Pharaoh]

So what are these matters of family you wish to speak of? Is something wrong with Asenath?

[Joseph]

No, my king. My wife and children are well. As you know, I am a Hebrew. I was brought here as a slave from Canaan. My brothers have come here on behalf of my father to purchase grain from us. I desire for them to take refuge here in Egypt.

[Pharaoh]

You would request this for men who sold you into slavery?

[Joseph]

Yes, my lord.

[Pharaoh]

Zaphoneth Panea, your ways have always been somewhat mysterious to me, and I rarely question them. But to let your betrayers into your home seems unwise. Surely you don't owe them anything.

[Joseph]

I suppose this entire country owes them something, my king. For if I had not been sold to be a slave in Potiphar's house, we would not be prepared for a famine and this land would have perished.

[Pharaoh]

Ah, yes. The backward logic of your God continues to confuse and delight me all at once. How large is your family?

[Joseph]

I have 11 brothers and a sister. All of them have children, livestock, and riches of their own. They are farmers and tend to livestock. There are male and female servants in my father's house, as well as his remaining wives.

[Pharaoh]

Zaphoneth Panea, what you're asking from me is to allow foreigners to dwell in my land during a time of famine.

[Joseph]

Pharaoh, if I may? My family is special. My father, grandfather, and great grandfather were holy set apart. We are chosen people, handpicked by God for blessing. Look at the blessing one Hebrew has brought your kingdom. Now imagine what having hundreds, potentially thousands, would do for Egypt.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Pharaoh leaned back in place, pleased at the notion of more wealth and blessing entering into his Country. He had no reason to fear them, since they were the family of his most trusted ally. Pharaoh smiled and placed an almond in his mouth.

[Pharaoh]

Summon your brothers and give them strict orders from me. Thus says Pharaoh. The morning and evening star of Egypt and the image of Ra. Load your donkeys and go back to the land of Canaan. Prepare you, your family and your father to dwell here in the land of Egypt. I will give you the best of the land I can offer. You shall eat of the fat of the land and grow to be prosperous under my wing.

[Joseph]

You are as kind as you are powerful, my king. I pray your son, sons and grandsons inherit your wisdom and favor.

[Pharaoh]

Order your servants to supply your brothers with more donkeys and wagons. Make sure they are well equipped to travel here.

[Joseph]

Of course, my lord.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Pharaoh stood and stepped onto a throne held up by servants. Before departing, Pharaoh looked Joseph in the eyes intently.

[Pharaoh]

Before leaving, the best of my land will be given to you, your family. Our entire nation owes your God a great debt. I intend to repay it.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

With those words, Pharaoh departed to his daily military strategizing. Joseph made his way back to his brothers. They were anxiously awaiting word from Pharaoh. Joseph's head was held high and his arms were stretched open wide.

[Joseph]

My brothers, journey back to our father. We will supply you with more donkeys and wagons to travel with your families. For Pharaoh has granted us favor. Will you go with us to retrieve father? No. No. Do not forget I'm still the ruler of Egypt. I will welcome you when you return.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Joseph supplied each of them with additional wagons and provisions for the journey. He gave each of them a change of clothes, Egyptian linen. But to Benjamin, he gave five changes of clothes and 300 shekels of silver. Joseph was determined to be the generous older brother he never had. Benjamin was his only full brother after all, so he felt a profound connection to him. As the brothers were packing, he could hear them bicker about how to load the donkeys properly.

[Joseph]

Asher, you donkey brained fool. I should strap a saddle to you. Give me those. Those are my packs. I'll load them how I please. Both of you have sand between your ears. Here. Give.

[Pharaoh]

Give the packs to me. It's not supposed to face that way. Judah, you're making it worse.

[Narrator / Storyteller]

Joseph marched forward, ripped the packs from their hands and loaded them himself. He fastened each pack tightly and perfectly with frustrated force. The brothers stood silently as Joseph attended to each animal. He looked at them and lifted a finger.

[Joseph]

The days of useless quarreling are over. On your way back to our father. Do not argue over pointless things. I will not have bitterness enter my home. Do you understand?

[Narrator / Storyteller]

The brothers nodded. They were continually reminded that although Joseph was their younger brother, he was not their equal. He was Zaphanath Panea, the ruler of Egypt. Although they were forgiven by him, there would still be a lingering sense of hurt that would need to heal. Joseph smiled and reassured them of his goodwill towards them. He sent them off with 10 donkeys loaded with grain, bread and provisions for his father on their journey. Joseph waved them away and began to prepare a place for his family to return. This prey.com production is only made possible by our dedicated team of creative talents. Steve Cattina, Max Bard, Zach Schellewager and Ben Gammon are the executive producers of the Chosen People. Narrated by Paul Coltofianu. Characters are voiced by Jonathan Cotton, Aaron Salvato, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Stephen Ringwald, Sylvia zaradoc, Thomas Copeland Jr. Rosanna Pilcher and Mitch Leschinsky. Music by Andrew Morgan Smith. Written by Aaron Salvato, Bree Rosely and Chris Baig. You can hear more prey.com productions on the prey.com app available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. If you enjoyed the chosen people, please rate and leave a review.

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There the last one.

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We're back for season four to talk to some incredible small business owners.

[Podcast Hosts / Advertisers]

The big thing about working at tech is that it's ever evolving, ever changing.

[Joseph]

Everyone's a rookie, that's how fast the industry is changing.

[Podcast Hosts / Advertisers]

So what I'm really excited about is to be part of that change. So listen on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

[Joseph]

This is Julian Edelman from Dudes on Dudes with Gronk and Jewels. Sunday mornings I've got my game day ritual, coffee, lucky socks and now new Morning Uncrustable Sandwiches. It's all about that 12 gram protein boost with the new Uncrustables Bright Eyed Berry or Up and Apple flavors. Bright Eye Berries got a feisty receiver energy up and Apple. Your classic Do it all tight end, soft, pillowy, packed with protein and easy enough for Gronk to grab from the freezer. Whether you're on the couch, driving to the tailgate or heading to the locker room, New Morning Uncrustable Sandwiches are the MVP of snacks. Your new Sunday kickoff ritual starts here with New Morning Uncrustable sandwiches packed with 12 grams of protein.

[Advertiser 1]

Running a business is hard enough. Don't make it harder with a dozen apps that don't talk to each other. One for sales, another for inventory, a separate one for accounting. That's software overload. Odoo is the all in one platform that replaces them all. CRM, Accounting, Inventory, E Commerce, hr. Fully integrated, easy to use and built to grow with your business. Thousands have already made the switch. Why not you try Odoo for [e-mail] that's odoo.com this is an iHeart podcast.

[Narrator]

Guaranteed Human.