• How to Handle Airbnb Guests + Issues Without Being On-Site | Jarrett Chouinard
    Nov 21 2024
    In this episode, I’m joined by Jarrett Chouinard, the founder of Stellar Retreats, who shares his inspiring journey into the short-term rental world. Starting with just one arbitrage unit in Connecticut, Jarrett has grown his business into a thriving operation spanning multiple properties in New York, Rhode Island, and beyond. We’ll dive into his experiences with the challenges of the arbitrage model, how he navigates working with landlords, and the lessons he’s learned about guest demographics and client relationships. Jarrett also shares his approach to technology, systems, and building a team that supports growth. And as if that’s not enough, we’ll also talk about Jarrett's ambitious plans for the future and his entrepreneurial ideas that go beyond short-term rentals. This is a must-listen for anyone looking to learn, grow, and succeed in the short-term rental industry. Let’s get started! Things we discussed in this episode: Jarrett's transition from media and advertising into short-term rentals and real estate. The challenges and risks of the Airbnb arbitrage model, including dealing with landlords. The differences in guest demographics and communication styles across Jarrett's properties in different locations. Jarrett's approach to saying no to potential clients who don't fit his standards and the importance of working with the right partners. The technology and systems Jarrett uses, including smart locks, cameras, property management software, and supply delivery. Jarrett's plans to expand Stellar Retreats to 15 clients by the end of the year and his interest in other entrepreneurial ventures. The value of building a reliable ground team and the challenges of managing properties remotely. The benefits of hosting a short-term rental meetup in New York City to build a local network and community. The lessons Jarrett wishes he had known when starting, including the importance of not being intimidated by challenges. The role of trial and error, making mistakes, and learning in growing a successful short-term rental business. Get in touch with Jarrett: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/jarrett.chouinard Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jarrettchouinard/ Website - https://www.stellaretreats.com/ #SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbManagement #ShortTermRentals #AirbnbArbitrage #PropertyManagement #EntrepreneurialMindset #HospitalityTechnology #RemoteTeamBuilding #CommunityBuilding #GuestExperience #ScalingSTRBusiness #HospitalityInsights Follow Us! Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show! Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide. SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn Jason Muth on LinkedIn Hospitality.FM SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!
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    40 mins
  • Say Goodbye to Strangers Renting Your Second Home | Brent Hieggelke
    Nov 19 2024
    In this episode, we’re thrilled to sit down with Brent Hieggelke, the visionary founder of Trustr, a groundbreaking platform redefining the short-term rental experience. Brent brings decades of experience in the vacation rental world, and together, we dive into how Trustr taps into the power of social networks to create trusted, more personal guest-host connections. Say goodbye to renting to total strangers and hello to curated "guest lists" of friends, family, and acquaintances! We explore how this innovative model leverages word-of-mouth recommendations, integrates with property management tools, and even uses an affiliate-style approach to enhance platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. Whether you're a property owner hesitant to list or a guest seeking more authentic stays, this episode is packed with insights into the future of short-term rentals. Tune in now to hear how Truster is bridging the gap and opening new doors! Things we discussed in this episode: Truster's mission to enable more trusted short-term rental experiences by leveraging people's existing social networks. The hesitation some property owners have about renting to complete strangers, and Truster's solution of curated "guest lists." The power of word-of-mouth and personal recommendations over generic online reviews. Truster's plans to integrate with property management software and leverage an affiliate-style model. The challenges of convincing some owners to list their properties, especially if they view them as personal retreats. Brent's personal experiences navigating the vacation rental industry as a property owner. The evolution of the short-term rental market and the potential for platforms like Truster to unlock new opportunities. The concept of "serendipitous" property recommendations through social media and community groups. Truster's approach to offering different levels of privacy for property listings, from completely private to public. The idea of Truster serving as a "pipeline builder" for larger vacation rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. Get in touch with Brent: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/brenth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bhieggelke/ Website - https://trustr.com/ #SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbManagement #ShortTermRentals #TrustedConnections #SocialNetworkRentals #PersonalizedHospitality #VacationRentalInnovation #PropertyOwnerEmpowerment #WordOfMouthMarketing #RentalMarketDisruption #TrustedRecommendations #CuratedGuestExperience Follow Us! Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show! Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide. SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn Jason Muth on LinkedIn Hospitality.FM SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!
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    34 mins
  • Land High-Quality Content Creators for Your Rentals (Step-by-Step) | Jordan Kahana
    Nov 14 2024
    In this episode, we explore the intersection of travel, content creation, and short-term rental marketing with special guest Jordan Kahana, founder of Stayamo. As the lines between work and vacation blur, today’s creators are reimagining how destinations are experienced and showcased. Jordan explains how Stayamo connects properties with creators, making it easier for hosts to collaborate with storytellers and bring their spaces to life. Host Jason Muth, a 29-time Airbnb Superhost, has firsthand experience listing his property on Stayamo, with results that speak for themselves. Joined by real estate broker Rory Gill, they discuss the shift from traditional real estate photography to lifestyle-driven visuals that capture what it’s really like to stay at a property. From staging seasonal scenes to negotiating with creators, Jordan shares top strategies for short-term rental owners. Whether you’re a host wanting to enhance your marketing or a content creator looking for new opportunities, this episode is packed with insights. Don’t miss it! Things we discussed in this episode: The blurred lines between work and travel for content creators How content creators are changing the way unique destinations are marketed The difference between "influencers" and "content creators" The founding story and purpose behind the Stay AMO platform The types of properties that benefit most from content creator partnerships The evolution of real estate photography vs. lifestyle photography for short-term rentals Best practices for property owners when working with content creators Negotiating the scope of deliverables and duration of stays with creators The long-term value of building a content library for property owners The incentives and benefits for content creators to collaborate on the Stayamo platform Get in touch with Jordan: Website - https://stayamo.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jordankahana Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@JordanKahana/videos #SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvesting #realestateinvestor #RealEstateEntrepreneur #remotework #digitalnomad #travelinfluencer #stayation #vacationrental #airbnb #shorttermrental #visualstorytelling #dronephotography #influencermarketing Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for another episode of The Real Estate Law Podcast! Following and subscribing to The Real Estate Law Podcast not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide. The Real Estate Law Podcast Website and on Instagram and YouTube Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn Jason Muth on LinkedIn This podcast and these show notes are not legal advice, but we hope you find both entertaining and informative. Hospitality.FM The Real Estate Law Podcast is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!
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    33 mins
  • Entrepreneurs Thriving in Co-Living Spaces | Jesse Ray
    Nov 12 2024
    Ever wondered what it’s like to live in a house full of entrepreneurs all driven to succeed? Meet Jesse Ray, the mind behind the "Growth House" concept, where like-minded professionals live, learn, and grow together under one roof. In this episode, Jesse Ray shares his journey from corporate America to real estate investing and the game-changing decision that sparked his success: building a community that fuels ambition. From shared masterclasses to daily accountability, the Growth House isn’t just a place to live; it’s a place to thrive. Jesse explains how residents like Derek went from managing a few properties to scaling up to 60+ rentals, all thanks to the connections and support within the house. Join us as we dive into the power of intentional living, the importance of community, and how surrounding yourself with the right people can ignite your path to success. Whether you’re an entrepreneur or just curious about real estate innovation, this episode has something for you. Don’t miss it! Things we discussed in this episode: The origin and concept behind the Growth House model Jesse's transition from corporate America to real estate investing and entrepreneurship The importance of surrounding yourself with like-minded, growth-oriented individuals The Harvard study on the impact of the 5 people you surround yourself with Jesse's experience of moving out of his hometown in his 20s to pursue entrepreneurial opportunities The challenge of adult loneliness and the need for in-person connections Jesse's vetting process for selecting Growth House residents The evolution of the Growth House model, including the potential for a cohort-based program Monetization strategies for the Growth House, such as rent, sponsorships, and a potential investment fund The power of proximity and its impact on mindset, belief, and success Get in touch with Jesse: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100010717680041 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/_thegrowthhouse/ Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/journey-from-%240-to-%2410-million-business-solo-jesse-ray-37/id1713820406?i=1000648515810 #realestatepodcast #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestatelaw #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #Entrepreneurship #CoLiving #BusinessCommunity #PassiveIncome #StartupGrowth #MindsetShift #CorporateExit #Resilience #EntrepreneurialJourney ***** Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for another episode of SmartStay Show! ***** SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn SmartStay Coaching Website and on Instagram Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn Jason Muth on LinkedIn ***** This podcast and these show notes are not legal advice, but we hope you find both entertaining and informative. Hospitality.FM SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!
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    26 mins
  • Cracking the Code to Profitable Midterm Rentals | Mike Stone
    Nov 5 2024
    Have you ever wondered if the skills you’ve developed in your day job could translate into a thriving business? Meet Mike Stone—a former corporate attorney who transformed his career, channeling his expertise into building a successful short- and medium-term rental empire. Mike’s journey began with an ambitious leap from the legal world into vacation rentals, and his success speaks to the power of leveraging industry insights in new ways. In this episode, Mike opens up about his pivot from attorney to rental entrepreneur, sharing how he secures high-yield, mid-term bookings by targeting insurance companies rather than traditional vacation renters. He provides insider tips on navigating the rental space, detailing his experience with Airbnb arbitrage—a venture that proved costly but ultimately led him to a co-hosting model he’s convinced is far more sustainable and profitable. Tune in as Mike reveals essential strategies for building credibility, tapping into your network, and finding unique opportunities in the rental industry, including landing a $12,000/month contract for a 12,000-square-foot property. Whether you’re curious about the transition into real estate or looking to expand your rental business, Mike’s story offers invaluable lessons and inspiration! Things we discussed in this episode: Mike Stone's transition from corporate attorney to short-term rental entrepreneur His experience with Airbnb arbitrage, including a costly failed deal The benefits of co-hosting over arbitrage, including equity, appreciation, and tax advantages Pro tips for mitigating risk in arbitrage deals The importance of leveraging group reputation to secure initial co-hosting opportunities Mike's recent success in securing a $12,000/month contract for a 12,000 sq ft home The process of building relationships with insurance companies for medium-term rentals The negotiation dynamics when working with insurance companies vs. individual renters Strategies for targeting medium-term rentals during short-term rental slow seasons The value of asking for higher prices and not accepting lower offers from individual renters Get in touch with Mike: Website -https://www.strignite.com / https://allstr.com Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-stone-5a303b31/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/mstone219/about #SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvesting #realestateinvestor #realestatelaw #realestateagent #socialmedia #realestatemarketing #ShortTermRentals #MediumTermRentals #Airbnb #RealEstateInvesting #PropertyManagement #CareerChange #PersonalDevelopment #InsuranceCompanies #Masterminds #EntrepreneurLife ***** Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for another episode of SmartStay Show! Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide. ***** SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn SmartStay Coaching Website and on Instagram Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn Jason Muth on LinkedIn ***** This podcast and these show notes are not legal advice, but we hope you find both entertaining and informative. Hospitality.FM SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!
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    20 mins
  • Secrets to Managing Large Rentals (Stay Booked Method) | Andrew Rodriguez
    Oct 31 2024
    Today, we're thrilled to welcome Andrew Rodriguez, the co-owner of Stay Booked, a full-service short-term rental management company. Andrew and his wife, Lindsay, have built an impressive portfolio of larger, unique vacation homes in sought-after destinations like the Poconos. What sets Andrew and his team apart is their unwavering commitment to quality over quantity. From the moment a guest lays eyes on one of their properties to the second they check out, Andrew and his crew strive to deliver an exceptional experience. With a background in sales and a keen eye for detail, Andrew has developed a unique approach to short-term rental management that has earned him a loyal following. He's here today to share his insights on building a successful STR business, navigating the challenges of managing larger properties, and fostering a strong sense of community within the industry. So, let's dive in and learn from Andrew's wealth of knowledge and experience. Things we discussed in this episode: Andrew Rodriguez's emphasis on "quality over quantity" in his short-term rental business The story of how Andrew and his wife Lindsay got into the short-term rental industry Their use of FHA and second home loans to acquire properties, including a 6-bedroom cabin in the Poconos The importance of professional design and attention to detail in their properties The challenges of managing larger short-term rental properties, including the need for a trusted "runner" Strategies for handling guest feedback, both positive and negative The evolving expectations of short-term rental guests and the value of empathy The role of community and networking within the short-term rental industry Andrew's belief that anyone can achieve their short-term rental dreams with dedication The meetup group Andrew and a fellow mastermind member started in New York City Get in touch with Andrew: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552248421123 Linkedin - https://www.instagram.com/yourstaybooked/ Website - https://www.stay-booked.com/ #SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvestor #realestateagent #RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbManagement #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentals #GuestExperience #PropertyManagement #EntrepreneurLife #CommunityBuilding #HospitalityIndustry #SuccessStories Follow Us! Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for the first episode of SmartStay Show! Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide. SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website and on Instagram Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn Jason Muth on LinkedIn Hospitality.FM SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!
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    40 mins
  • The Secret to 80% Direct Bookings & Happy Guests! | Rose Tipka
    Oct 29 2024
    In today’s episode, I’m excited to introduce you to a truly inspiring figure in the vacation rental industry, Rose Tipka. Rose isn't just a successful short-term rental host; she's a homeschooling mom of six who's managed to build a multi-million-dollar portfolio while maintaining an admirable work-life balance. Her journey into vacation rentals started unexpectedly when her husband purchased their first property just a day before she gave birth to their fifth child! Instead of seeing this as a challenge, Rose embraced the opportunity with incredible determination. With 80% of her bookings coming directly through her website and 60% of her guests being repeat customers, Rose's approach to hospitality is clearly working. In this conversation, we’ll explore how she’s built her brand, diversified her booking sources, and balanced entrepreneurship with motherhood. Whether you're a seasoned host or new to the game, Rose’s insights offer a fresh, inspiring perspective on thriving in the vacation rental world. Let’s dive in! Things we discussed in this episode: Rose Tipka's background as a homeschooling mom of six and how that has shaped her entrepreneurial drive. The unexpected start of her vacation rental business when her husband purchased their first property without her initial knowledge. The importance of maintaining a work-life balance and being present for her family while growing a successful business. Rose's strategic decision to focus on high-end vacation rentals with average daily rates between $600-$1000. The power of branding and how Rose has built a cohesive brand experience across her properties, marketing, and customer interactions. Rose's use of "magic phrases" to reinforce her brand values, such as friendliness and hospitality. The personalized customer service tactics Rose employs, including video greetings, handwritten thank-you notes, and branded fridge magnets. The significance of diversifying booking sources beyond third-party platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo to build a sustainable business. The challenges of unpredictability and account suspensions on OTA platforms, and the importance of having a standalone business. The lessons Rose has learned in balancing entrepreneurship and parenthood, and the "ferocity" that comes with being a mom in business. Get in touch with Rose: Website - https://yourfamilysplace.com/ Email - rose@yourfamilysplace.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/yourfamilysplace YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCP79fgBZ2vzH2dGUuLavY6A Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/yourfamilysplace_/ #SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvesting #realestateinvestor #realestatelaw #realestateagent #RealEstateNegotiation #ShortTermRentals #VacationRentalMarketing #VacationRentalBranding #VacationRentalHospitality #VacationRentalManagement #VacationRentalSEO #VacationRentalInfluencers #WorkLifeBalanceEntrepreneur #RemotePropertyManagement #VacationRentalCustomerService #WomenInBusiness ***** Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for another episode of SmartStay Show! ***** SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn SmartStay Coaching Website and on Instagram Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn Jason Muth on LinkedIn ***** This podcast and these show notes are not legal advice, but we hope you find both entertaining and informative. Hospitality.FM SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!
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    27 mins
  • The Bold Business Move That DOUBLED His STR Business Overnight | Eric Lewis
    Oct 24 2024
    Welcome to today’s episode, where we’re diving deep into the world of scaling a short-term rental business. I'm really excited to introduce our guest, Eric Lewis, the founder and owner of Nashville Stays. Eric’s story is one that’s sure to inspire anyone in the vacation rental industry. He started with just one property and grew his portfolio by leaps and bounds, eventually making the bold move to acquire an entire rental management company. In this episode, we’ll explore how Eric built his business in the highly competitive Nashville market, the challenges he faced while scaling, and the strategies he used to maintain a high standard of service for both guests and homeowners. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow your own rental business, you won’t want to miss Eric’s insights and practical advice. Let’s jump in!" Things we discussed in this episode: Scaling a short-term rental business beyond a single property Eric Lewis' journey from managing one property to acquiring a multi-property company The strategic benefits of acquiring another short-term rental management company The process of networking and identifying potential acquisition targets Navigating the legal and structural aspects of the acquisition deal Strategies for retaining and building loyalty with the acquired clients/homeowners Eric's transition from a side hustle to a full-time short-term rental entrepreneur The importance of continuous education and peer support in building confidence Challenges of balancing a full-time job with running a growing short-term rental business Eric's plans for solidifying processes, building a strong team, and focusing on future acquisitions Get in touch with Eric: Website - https://nashvillestays.com/ Email - eric@nashvillestays.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nashvillestays/ Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-lewis-cpa-07638749/ #SmartStayShow #realestate #realestateinvesting #realestateinvestor #realestatelaw #realestateagent #RealEstateNegotiation #ShortTermRentals #AirbnbHost #PropertyManagement #Entrepreneurship #BusinessAcquisition #Nashville #RealEstateInvesting #SideHustletoBusiness #BusinessGrowth #ScalingOperations ***** Join Jason Muth of Prideaway Stays and Straightforward Short-Term Rentals and Real Estate Attorney / Broker Rory Gill for another episode of SmartStay Show! Following and subscribing to SmartStay Show not only ensures that you'll get instant updates whenever we release a new episode, but it also helps us reach more people who could benefit from the valuable content that we provide. ***** SmartStay Show Website and on Instagram and YouTube Prideaway Stays Website and on Facebook and LinkedIn SmartStay Coaching Website and on Instagram Straightforward Short-Term Rentals Website Attorney Rory Gill on LinkedIn Jason Muth on LinkedIn ***** This podcast and these show notes are not legal advice, but we hope you find both entertaining and informative. Hospitality.FM SmartStay Show is part of Hospitality.FM, a podcast network dedicated to bringing the best hospitality-focused podcasts to those in and around the industry, from Food + Beverage, Guest Experience, Diversity & Inclusion, Tech, Operations, Hotels, Vacation Rentals, Real Estate Law, and so much more!
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    36 mins