In this episode of 'We're Only Human,' host Ben Eubanks engages in a detailed conversation with Alicia Jones, a senior HR business partner for a global medical company. They delve into the complex role of an HR business partner, discussing essential skills like understanding the business context, influencing, and synthesizing data insights. Alicia shares her career experiences, the importance of integrity and resiliency, and the challenges HR teams face today. The discussion provides valuable advice for current and aspiring HR business partners keen on making a significant impact in their organizations.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:41 Alicia Jones' Background and Experience
01:26 Defining HR's Role and Context
04:32 Challenges Facing HR Today
05:57 The Importance of Organizational Agility
07:35 Alicia's Personal Learning Journey
13:01 Aligning HR with Business Needs
22:47 Key Skills for HR Business Partners
28:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In this episode of We're Only Human, host Ben Eubanks chats with Matt Leitzman, VP of Talent Acquisition at MasterCard, and Craig Drysdale, VP of Talent and Engagement at Leonardo. The discussion delves into the role of AI in hiring, effective candidate screening techniques, and the evolving landscape of talent acquisition. Both guests highlight their organizations' experiences with AI-driven tools for screening, such as automated interview scheduling and video assessments, and emphasize the importance of testing, human connection, and strategic alignment with hiring managers. The episode provides valuable insights for improving candidate experience, recruiter efficiency, and making data-driven hiring decisions.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:26 Guest Introductions and Backgrounds
02:39 The Evolution of Candidate Screening
07:04 High Volume and Early Career Hiring Challenges
10:10 Technology and Screening Tools
20:50 Data-Driven Talent Acquisition
32:48 AI in Recruitment: Opportunities and Cautions
39:23 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways
Connect with Craig on LinkedIn
Thanks to Phenom for connecting us for this episode
In this episode of We're Only Human, host Ben Eubanks connects in an insightful discussion with Debra Squyres from Bonusly and Hope Weatherford from Fountain. They delve into strategies to improve workplace performance and the evolving nature of performance management. The conversation covers the significance of real-time feedback, building trust between managers and employees, leveraging recognition platforms, and the importance of addressing the human element in work environments. Both guests share practical tips for managers to enhance employee engagement, foster personal growth, and create meaningful relationships within teams.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
00:45 Hope Weatherford's Background and Insights
01:55 Debra Squyres' Background and Insights
04:08 Challenges in Current Performance Management
07:08 Solutions and Best Practices for Performance Management
12:03 The Importance of Real-Time Feedback and Recognition
24:36 Engaging Managers in the Performance Process
30:25 Final Thoughts and Top Recommendations
Connect with Debra on LinkedIn
Check out the 2025 State of Recognition report from Bonusly
In this episode of We're Only Human, host Ben Eubanks sits down with Michael Cleavely, founder of CoComply, to discuss the complexities of compliance in contingent workforce management. Michael shares the journey of CoComply, a platform that assists organizations in classifying, managing, and discovering their contingent and non-permanent workforce. The conversation delves into the challenges companies face with worker classification, common compliance risks, and the two-fold benefits of leveraging AI in compliance tools for both risk mitigation and strategic workforce optimization. They also explore the broader implications of having a total workforce view, encompassing all talent acquisition channels. Michael provides practical insights and suggests how firms can better manage compliance and make informed workforce decisions. This episode offers valuable perspectives for HR leaders and procurement professionals looking to enhance compliance and workforce efficiency.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:57 Michael Cleavely's Background and CoComply's Mission
02:31 The Importance of Compliance
04:02 Common Compliance Challenges
15:44 AI in Compliance Management
21:18 Strategic Benefits of Compliance
24:50 Conclusion and Contact Information
Connect with Michael on LinkedIn
In this episode, Kellee Webb shares the remarkable journey of Cenikor Foundation since 2009, growing from 82 employees across three locations to nearly 600 employees today, with 75 people in their corporate office (or "operations support," as they call them at Cenikor). The discussion highlights significant milestones such as the adoption of technology, the creation of a robust back office support system including a call center, and the strategy behind twelve acquisitions. The conversation delves into leadership development programs, employee motivations, and the importance of compassion and servant leadership in a service-oriented organization. The transformative impact of expanding services like detox, outpatient programs, and recovery support specialists is also discussed. Finally, the episode touches on HR challenges and strategies, the importance of aligning organizational and individual goals, and the rewarding experience of helping employees grow and thrive.
00:00 Introduction and Initial Growth
01:32 Challenges and Strategic Moves
04:09 Leadership Development and Employee Engagement
07:19 Substance Abuse Treatment Services
11:06 HR Strategy and Cultural Integration
17:23 Performance Metrics and Bonus System
27:18 Personal Reflections and Leadership Insights
32:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
This episode is part of the Insperity SMB HR Challenges podcast series.
Learn more about our research with Insperity on SMB HR challenges
Connect with Kellee on LinkedIn
In this episode of 'We're Only Human,' host Ben Eubanks engages in a dynamic conversation with Ryan Faught, HR leader at Milo's Tea Company. Ryan shares insights into Milo's unique culture, emphasizing values like safety, responsibility, and integrity, along with their 'HAT' values: Hungry, Agile, and Together. The discussion delves into how Milo's fosters cross-departmental collaboration, continuous improvement, and leadership development through authentic leadership pillars and comprehensive feedback mechanisms. Ryan highlights the importance of having a 'teachable spirit,' celebrating wins, and maintaining humility while growing both personally and professionally within the company. Whether discussing the joy of discovering hidden talents or the power of genuine care and concern for team members, this conversation is packed with actionable insights for creating a people-centric workplace that drives both individual and company success.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:45 Milo's Tea Company Culture and Values
02:21 Employee Growth and Cross-Departmental Opportunities
05:50 Discovering and Nurturing Talent
12:48 Leadership and Teachable Spirit
19:26 Authentic Leadership and Feedback Culture
34:26 Celebrating Wins and Continuous Improvement
38:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
This episode is part of the Insperity SMB HR Challenges podcast series.
Learn more about our research with Insperity on SMB HR challenges
In this episode of ‘We’re Only Human,’ host Ben Eubanks sits down with Jen McCann and Maria Jugin from Insperity to discuss the evolving landscape of human resources. The conversation covers a range of topics including the increasing interest and uncertainty surrounding AI, strategies for recruiting and retaining top talent, and the differences in priorities between business and HR leaders. Jen and Maria also highlight the importance of aligning company vision with HR practices and the challenges companies face as they expand and adapt. The episode offers actionable insights for HR leaders looking to move from administrative tasks to strategic initiatives, emphasizing the critical role of HR in driving business success.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions
01:41 Current HR Challenges and AI
04:49 Recruitment and Retention Strategies
06:35 HR Conversations with Business Leaders
12:07 Adapting to Remote Work and Compliance
19:16 Strategic HR and Outsourcing Benefits
25:42 Final Thoughts and Takeaways
Get the free HR research report
In this episode of 'We're Only Human,' host Ben Eubanks welcomes Nikhil Arora, CEO of Epignosis, the parent company of TalentLMS. They explore various facets of learning and development, focusing on mindsets, supporting employee growth, and the impact of AI. Nikhil shares insights from TalentLMS's data, revealing that over 50% of employees prioritize growth opportunities and discusses the importance of transitioning from fixed to growth mindsets. Additionally, they discuss strategies for incorporating soft skills training, leveraging AI ethically, and maintaining employee mental wellness in a hybrid work environment. The episode offers practical advice for leaders aiming to enhance their organization's learning culture and technological adaptation.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:34 Nikhil's Background and Mission
01:45 Challenges in Learning and Growth Mindset
05:10 Strategies for Transitioning to a Growth Mindset
10:31 The Role of AI in Learning and Development
16:15 Soft Skills and the Future of Work
20:03 Mental Wellness and Learning
22:12 Conclusion and Contact Information
In this episode of We're Only Human, host Ben Eubanks engages in an enlightening conversation with Jason Lawson, an HR veteran with over 30 years of experience. They delve into the importance of building strong relationships with leaders, the critical role of trust in the workplace, and the evolving views on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Jason shares profound insights on making HR policies more humane and treating employees as individuals. He highlights the significance of moving beyond administrative tasks to become a strategic partner in the business. Jason also stresses the role of creating a community at work, even in remote environments, and the impact of being one's authentic self. The episode is a master class in HR leadership, focusing on making an impact through humane treatment, trust-building, and fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:40 Meet Jason Lawson
01:09 Why HR?
02:17 Real Stories, Real Impact
05:44 The Human Side of HR
12:40 Building Relationships and Trust
23:05 Creating Community in the Workplace
28:10 Challenges in HR and DEI
33:24 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Connect with Jason on LinkedIn
In this episode of 'We're Only Human,' host Ben Eubanks sits down with Jeff Palkowski, an HR leader with the University of Wisconsin-Madison and an active volunteer with SHRM. They discuss the unique challenges of public sector HR, the importance of mental health and employee well-being, and how to support managers in addressing these issues. Jeff also shares insights from his role as the incoming state director for Wisconsin SHRM, emphasizing the value of creating connections at HR events. Additionally, he offers advice on being proactive in HR rather than just a 'fire extinguisher,' drawing from his popular blog post and recent Disrupt HR talk.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:40 Meet Jeff Palkowski: HR Leader and Volunteer
01:36 Public vs. Private Sector HR
03:08 Challenges in HR: Mental Health and Wellbeing
05:25 The Impact of Remote Work on HR
10:33 Supporting Employees: Tips and Advice
17:51 The Importance of Networking and Conferences
24:06 HR as More Than a Fire Extinguisher
29:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Link to Jeff's blogJeff's DisruptHR talkConnect with Jeff on LinkedIn
With so many employers thinking about the coming year and how to create a positive workplace, we have to consider leadership and manager selection since that is a crucial part of the big picture. In this illuminating rebroadcast episode of 'We're Only Human,' host Ben Eubanks delves into effective leadership selection with Ji Yun Kang, Senior Advisor for Leader Assessment and Development at Mayo Clinic. The discussion covers Mayo Clinic's specific criteria for assessing leadership qualities, the importance of values alignment, and the substantial impact of good leadership on employee well-being and retention. Kang also explores the onboarding process, transition coaching, and the unique demands of leadership within a healthcare context. Drawing from Mayo Clinic’s longstanding tradition of excellence, this episode provides invaluable insights and practical advice for organizations aiming to improve their leadership selection and development processes.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:06 The Importance of Leadership Selection
00:46 Insights from Mayo Clinic's Leadership Selection
00:54 Research Findings on Leadership Impact
01:27 Deep Dive into Leadership Support
01:44 Understanding Managerial Support
02:31 Introduction to Today's Episode
03:14 Guest Introduction: Ji Yun Kang from Mayo Clinic
04:01 Values Alignment in Leadership
06:18 Mayo Clinic's Leadership Values
07:54 Succession Planning and Leadership Selection
11:03 Transition Coaching for New Leaders
11:55 Challenges in Leadership Transition
16:10 Supporting Leaders for Success
20:13 Navigating Organizational Culture
21:47 Personal Insights and Conclusion
Connect with Ji Yun on LinkedIn
In this episode of 'We're Only Human', host Ben Eubanks welcomes Patrika Hardnett, the Customer Eminence Leader at Kyndryl, to discuss the innovative concept of customer eminence. Patrika shares how companies can use this approach to create deeper connections and build powerful, lasting relationships with their customers. She emphasizes the importance of focusing on the customer's journey, passion, and personal story rather than just the outcomes of a project. Patrika also provides insights into creating a culture that keeps the customer's voice at the forefront and offers her expertise on implementing customer eminence in organizational practices. Tune in to learn the nuances of unlocking the true value behind customer stories.
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
00:53 Guest Introduction and Role
01:49 Understanding Eminence
03:02 Challenges and Misconceptions
03:37 Building Customer Relationships
07:34 The Importance of Passion
11:11 Practical Advice for Companies
13:22 Connecting with the Guest
14:36 Personal Insights and Conclusion
Connect with Patrika on LinkedIn
In this episode of 'We're Only Human,' host Ben Eubanks engages in an illuminating discussion with David Wilkins, Chief Product and Marketing Officer at Talent Neuron. They explore the use of data to drive insights into strategic workforce planning and talent acquisition. David delves into Talent Neuron's innovative practices, including their proprietary EVP sentiment analysis framework, which helps companies understand and compete more effectively in the labor market. They touch on various real-world applications, including skill evolution, location planning, and diversity hiring tactics. The conversation underscores the importance of aligning employer value propositions with brand consistency and sentiment analysis to attract and retain top talent.
00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome
00:30 Guest Introduction: Dave Wilkins from Talent Neuron
00:55 Understanding Talent Neuron's Labor Market Analytics
02:39 Exploring EVP Sentiment Analysis
05:23 Tactical and Strategic Applications of EVP Data
09:07 Case Studies and Real-World Examples
13:11 Innovative Uses and Future Directions
17:42 Conclusion and How to Learn More
Connect with David on LinkedIn
In this engaging episode of 'We Are Only Human,' host Ben Eubanks converses with Larry Kelly, an experienced HR leader and storyteller. Larry shares his journey from leading HR at Intel and Pfizer to founding his own consulting business, Attract Wonder, which focuses on integrating awe and curiosity into organizations through storytelling. The discussion covers the significance of storytelling in leadership, the emotional impact of sharing personal and organizational stories, and the innovative methods Larry employs in his workshops, including the transformative power of unscripted narratives. Highlights include Larry’s experiments with blank jigsaws and puppets in team-building exercises, demonstrating the importance of playfulness and emotional connection in corporate environments. This episode provides valuable insights for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of effective communication and team dynamics.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:35 Larry Kelly's Background
01:11 The Power of Storytelling
01:33 Family and Personal Life
02:20 Storytelling in Care Homes
03:57 Magic Wand Session
04:39 Collaborative Projects and Spontaneity
05:57 Storytelling Workshops in Organizations
08:51 The Importance of Stories in Leadership
12:01 The Origin of Larry's Storytelling Journey
16:05 The Power of Storytelling
16:34 Larry's Transformation
18:00 Celebrating Leadership Stories
18:56 Human Moments in Leadership
22:01 Taking Risks in Recruitment
23:02 Innovative Workshop Techniques
27:01 The Puppet Experiment
29:02 The Importance of Playfulness
29:54 Connecting with Larry Kelly
30:22 Conclusion and Farewell
Connect with Larry on LinkedIn
In this episode of We’re Only Human, host Ben Eubanks converses with Louise Willoughby, Chief People Officer at Beekeeper, to explore the groundbreaking strategies Beekeeper has employed to enhance employee retention. The discussion underscores the importance of aligning company and employee values, and introduces impactful initiatives such as 'frontline days', mental health support platforms, and flexible learning budgets. Louise highlights programs like paid sabbaticals for personal learning projects, proactive business continuity planning, and fostering a people-centric culture through regular check-ins and manager involvement in comprehensive career conversations. These insights offer actionable advice for HR professionals aiming to cultivate supportive and effective workplace environments.
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:42 Meet Louise: Career Journey and Role at Beekeeper
04:09 The Big Resignation and Retention Strategies
07:47 Innovative Benefits for Employee Retention
11:45 Addressing Business Continuity Challenges
12:20 Learning Opportunities and Coverage Plans
12:59 Customer-Facing Team Challenges
13:48 Impact on Attrition Rates
14:12 Proactive Culture and Team Support
14:41 Breaking Down Stereotypes Through Proximity
15:50 Creating a People-Centric Culture
17:51 Approachability and Empathy in HR
18:41 Building Trust with Managers and Employees
20:40 Practical Tips for HR Professionals
21:23 Connecting with Louise and Beekeeper
21:50 Final Thoughts and Takeaways
Building Trust in HR: Kathy White on Compensation and Communication
In this episode of 'We're Only Human', host Ben Eubanks talks with Kathy White, VP of HR for Habitat for Humanity Philadelphia, about the critical aspects of compensation and communication in the workforce. Kathy shares her experiences from the World at Work conference and her role in developing a transparent compensation strategy at her organization. The conversation covers the importance of making HR work tangible, the necessity of clear communication and building trust, and discusses methods for enabling managers to effectively handle compensation discussions. Kathy also highlights the need for continuous refinement and learning in HR processes, emphasizing the significance of patience, dedication, and alignment with organizational values.
00:00 Introduction and Preview
01:26 Meet Kathy White: HR Leader at Habitat for Humanity
03:41 The Role of Compensation in HR
05:00 Communicating Compensation Strategies
09:36 Training and Supporting Managers
16:36 Lessons Learned and Best Practices
19:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Check out the FREE HR Summer School replay for 7.5 HRCI/SHRM Credits
Connect with Kathy on LinkedIn
In this episode of We Are Only Human, host Ben Eubanks is joined by Poornima, Chief Product Officer at Rival. Together, they discuss the latest research in Talent Acquisition, focusing on the importance of flexibility and agility within organizations. They delve into the challenges employers face in forecasting hiring needs, the necessity of personalized onboarding processes, and the evolving role of AI in talent acquisition. The conversation highlights the significance of having integrated systems to maintain data accuracy and compliance. They also touch on the evolving landscape of ATS and the critical role of skill development in maintaining an adaptable workforce. Poornima emphasizes the importance of engaging deeply with vendors and understanding the real capabilities of their solutions.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:43 Guest Introduction: Poornima from Rival
01:20 Research Insights: Workforce Agility and Flexibility
02:22 Challenges in Talent Acquisition and Onboarding
03:16 The Importance of Data Integration and Accuracy
06:50 Personalized Onboarding: Best Practices and Examples
14:02 The Role of ATS in Talent Acquisition
20:57 AI and Skills in Talent Management
26:08 Final Thoughts and Advice
Connect with Poornima
In this episode of We're Only Human, Ben Eubanks interviews Marcus Thorpe, Global Head of Talent Acquisition (TA) at ThoughtWorks, during the Starcircle Supernova Conference in Cork, Ireland. Marcus shares his experiences and strategies for scaling TA functions across 20 countries, centralizing recruiting processes, and leveraging data to make informed hiring decisions. Key topics include the importance of calibration, data-driven decisions, and building a cohesive global TA strategy. Marcus also provides actionable advice for TA leaders facing similar challenges in alignment and data utilization.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:03 Overview of the Conference
00:57 Conversation with Marcus Stuart Begins
01:17 Marcus Thorpe's Background at Google and other companies
01:50 Challenges and Strategies in Talent Acquisition
04:05 Centralization of Talent Acquisition
05:15 Importance of Data in Talent Acquisition
08:32 Advice for Talent Acquisition Leaders
16:54 Connecting with Marcus Thorpe
Connect with Marcus on LinkedIn
In this episode of We're Only Human, Ben Eubanks discusses with Jessica Teitjen about her journey from law to executive leadership in HR and IT. Jessica shares her personal experience of burnout and her subsequent deep dive into the neuroscience of human performance. They explore the disconnect between current workplace practices and positive human outcomes, emphasizing the need for practices that balance both business and human results. Jessica outlines practical steps for HR professionals to align and optimize the nervous system for better performance, advocating for balanced breathing and a holistic approach to integrating creativity, compassion, and courage in the workplace.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:28 Jessica's Career Journey
01:26 The Disconnect in Work Design
04:02 Impact of Performance Reviews
06:56 Human Body and Workplace Stress
10:09 Aligning Neural Networks for Better Performance
13:32 Practical Tips for HR Leaders
16:53 Connecting with Jessica
17:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Connect with Jessica on LinkedIn
In this episode of 'We Are Only Human,' host Ben Eubanks is joined by Amy Mosher, Chief People Officer at isolved. They discuss the crucial elements of building a company culture where employees are eager to join and reluctant to leave. Amy shares insights from her experience transforming isolved's culture, emphasizing high trust, transparency, and a focus on diversity and inclusion. The conversation also covers practical advice for HR leaders on driving business success through culture and excellent leadership. Ben and Amy share laughs and personal stories, making for an engaging and insightful discussion.
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:05 Meet Amy Mosher from isolved
00:31 Exciting Plans and Personal Stories
01:07 HR Summer School Replay
02:10 Creating a Workplace People Love
02:35 Building a Strong Company Culture
04:16 Challenges and Strategies in HR
09:16 Transforming Established Companies
17:05 Encouragement for HR Leaders
See the HR Summer School replay for free
In this engaging episode of 'We Are Only Human', host Ben welcomes Paul Norman, a seasoned TA leader and consultant. Paul shares his extensive experiences in talent acquisition across diverse industries like financial services, technology, and healthcare. The discussion covers TA strategy, aligning recruitment with business goals, user experience in recruiting, and building credibility with hiring managers. Paul also emphasizes the importance of listening, contracting during intake meetings, and simplifying the hiring process to be successful at scale. Tune in for practical tips on enhancing your talent acquisition function.
Key moments
00:41 Paul Norman's Career Journey
02:00 Challenges and Success in Talent Acquisition
03:50 Aligning TA with Business Goals
06:51 Strategies for High Volume Hiring
13:57 Improving Candidate and Hiring Manager Experience
19:37 Building Credibility and Effective Processes
31:34 Final Thoughts and Contact Information
In this episode of 'We're Only Human,' host Ben Eubanks converses with James Galvin, founder of Starcircle. They discuss key aspects of talent acquisition, including being data-driven, understanding market dynamics, and achieving internal alignment within organizations. James introduces Starcircle’s 12-component Hiring Friction Model, which addresses various elements such as demand alignment, candidate experience, and technology enablement. The discussion emphasizes proactive planning and continuous improvement in hiring practices to meet business objectives successfully.
Connect with James on LinkedIn
See the Starcircle Hiring Friction Model
Rebroadcast note: For the first time in We're Only Human's 8-year history, we're rebroadcasting some of our most popular episodes to share them with new listeners. That means sometimes the speakers will have moved to a new company in the interim, but the lessons they shared are still relevant, topical, and valuable. Enjoy!
In this episode of We're Only Human, Ben Eubanks talks with Kristi Jones, a former Talent Acquisition leader at H&R Block, about their innovative approaches to seasonal recruitment and workforce planning. Kristi shares insights on building strong hiring manager relationships, the transition from recruiter to manager, and the importance of data and metrics in talent acquisition. She also discusses how H&R Block uses technology, including AI tools, to improve recruiting processes and stay ahead of industry trends. The conversation explores the challenges of high-volume recruitment, the importance of strategic planning, and the need for transparency and collaboration between recruiters and hiring managers.
Connect with Kristi on LinkedIn
This episode of We're Only Human features a keynote panel discussion with Ben Eubanks, Broc Edwards, and Dana Ullom-Vucelich. The panel focuses on the importance of creating cultures centered around giving, seeking, and receiving feedback regularly. The discussion highlights how performance reviews should be routine and uneventful if feedback has been consistently shared throughout the year. The episode stresses the need for regular communication to avoid the pitfalls of ineffective performance reviews.
Speakers:
1. Ben Eubanks
2. Broc Edwards, Director of Learning and Leadership at Baylor University
3. Dana Ullom Vucelich, CHRO of Ohio Living
Three Takeaways:
1. Establishing a culture of regular feedback is crucial for effective communication and growth.
2. Performance reviews should merely encapsulate ongoing discussions, making them less daunting.
3. Regular feedback prevents performance reviews from becoming painful experiences.
In this episode of We're Only Human, Ben talks with Alli Ford, VP of HR at Assembly Software, about how they have created an off-the-charts employee NPS (eNPS) score. The discussion emphasizes the necessity for HR leaders to understand and articulate the strategy of their company. Alli underscores that knowing why the company exists, its history, and future direction is essential for success in an HR role. The episode provides several takeaways:
First, HR leaders should have a deep understanding of the company's mission and vision.
Second, they must be able to communicate the strategic goals clearly and effectively.
Third, aligning HR practices with the company's overarching strategy is crucial for fostering a cohesive and productive work environment.
This episode is a replay from HR Summer School 2024.
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