David Hooper's Blog: Build A Big Podcast

Audacity 4 is here (sort of), and David takes you inside the alpha version, sharing why it's a game-changer for podcasters and how you can help shape its future in this episode of Big Podcast Playbook ...

Big Ideas in This Episode

Audacity 4: the free DAW pros will envy Upgrade your workflow, unlock hidden podcast power Take control, shape your tools Sound like a pro ... minimal gear, maximum impact Get inside: break, report, and shape Podcasters influencing software ... how your wish becomes reality

Why You Should Listen

How switching your podcast workflow can shatter your creative rut — steal this music industry trick The "spaghetti code" curse that's killing software How Audacity 4's destructive-free editing lets you reverse mistakes… even 50 steps later Sound professional with hardware under $200 My plugin arsenal that can transform even dull recordings into something that sounds great What the alpha release of Audacity 4 really means for early adopters How to get on the ground floor of Audacity 4's development — and quietly shape a tool used by thousands How you, even as a hobbyist, can gain power over the podcasting world by having your voice heard The lazy podcaster's hack: let passionate coders build the perfect DAW for you — all you do is ask How to infiltrate top podcast workflows and steal their best features (this will make your own show unstoppable) The irresistible allure of open source

Episode Timestamps

[01:17] The songwriter's trick for instantly transforming your podcast workflow and defeating creative ruts [02:27] Is Audacity just for amateurs? The real story behind its reputation (and what's about to change) [03:47] Why Audacity 4 is finally a "real" DAW: the inside scoop on the dramatic rewrite and what it unlocks [04:25] How RX 11 plugins and $150 of gear can deliver studio-level audio—proof inside [06:10] The unusual opportunity podcasters have right now to shape Audacity's future—before anyone else [08:19] Why seasoned podcasters are "flipping out" about Audacity 4 ... and what you'll miss if you ignore the buzz

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What really makes a podcast guest great (and why it's not just about filling out forms, sharing tips, or being a great speaker) in this episode of Big Podcast Playbook ...

Big Ideas in This Episode

Your story's impact: would your audience miss you? Does vulnerability really trump selling in interviews? The secrets behind unforgettable guest energy Famous guests: does likability even matter? Reinvent your story? Or bore with "greatest hits"? The red light effect: overcoming instant stage fright Celebrity interviews: don't expect a glowing review

Why You Should Listen

The dirty little secret to landing podcast interviews (even if you're a total nobody) by mastering just three words How to hypnotize even the most famous guest into working as hard as YOU to make your show shine Why being "vulnerable" and "authentic" might be the most overrated advice in podcasting (and what REALLY moves listeners to action) The effortless way to make celebrities beg to be on your podcast (hint: no forms, no groveling, no nonsense) The only question you must ask before ever releasing a guest episode (miss this and risk sabotaging your entire show) How to sniff out guests who are only there to sell (and what to do if the "product over people" formula just might serve you) The "energy-hacker" move that gets slouchy, tired, reluctant guests buzzing with secrets they've never revealed anywhere else Why you should never, ever expect (or care) if your guest shares your episode ... and what to demand instead The shocking truth about "trusted podcast networks" (and why trying to make friends with your guests could be killing your power) Stories vs. Perfection: The twisted reason your listeners lust for messy, memorable anecdotes (and how to get guests to spill them all) The evil genius way to make even jaded "greatest hits" guests unleash fresh, envy-inducing stories that light your audience on fire "Red Light Syndrome" exposed—how to shatter a guest's crippling stage fright and turn nervous wrecks into captivating interview gold How to banish boring "transparent and authentic" interviews forever by invoking ancient gluttony for dramatic tales, confessions, and regrets The little-known trick to controlling any interview ... even when sleazy PR reps and bored celebrities try to turn your show into a snooze-fest Why focusing on one listener (not thousands) gives you an unfair, almost greedy hold over your audience's loyalty, pocketbook, and mind

Episode Timestamps

[00:01:41] The one email test: How a guest's vulnerability and authenticity decide "Yes" or "Pass" for interviews [00:03:02] The homeless man's untold story: Why every person on the street could be your podcast's most unforgettable guest [00:06:01] Mic legends and faceless reps: Should you ever choose the product over the person when booking guests? [00:08:17] "Tin can and a string" — Why Dolly Parton never had to fill out a guest form (and why the rules change for superstars) [00:10:22] A secret guest-hacking trick: The backstage moment that gets rock stars excited in interviews [00:16:23] The Dennis DeYoung debacle: Why "playing Broadway tunes for a Styx crowd" is a podcasting mistake you must avoid [00:19:33] The "red light syndrome": How guests transform when the record button is hit (and what hosts must do to get the real story)

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Want to know what really makes a podcast host great? David Hooper breaks down the secrets to setting the space, guiding guests, and running unforgettable interviews in this episode of Big Podcast Playbook ...

Big Ideas in This Episode

The truth about co-author interviews Guests that kill episode momentum How big-name guests hog all attention Insider secrets for making podcast guests shine Why publicists ruin unforgettable interviews Good hosts aren't born, they're made

Why You Should Listen

The secret weapon to making your podcast unforgettable (even your mom will brag about it) The forbidden hosting mistake that kills guest chemistry How to harness guest envy to supercharge your podcast's impact (and your own authority!) The host's power move for dealing with pushy publicists ... and why Howard Stern never deals with this Are you making the "value meal blunder" on your show? How to avoid it ... The little-known trick for setting the stage so guests deliver their most brilliant insights (without begging) The easiest way to make every guest desperately want to impress you Build instant trust with even the most nervous first-timer (they'll follow your lead all episode) The dangerous temptation of scripted questions ... how to break free and ignite deeper conversations Why great podcast hosts are forged in the flames of failure (and how laziness can help you shortcut the process) The seductive art of listening: why stealing singer secrets will make your hosting irresistible Use the "closet trick" to sound like a pro ... even if you're broke and recording at home How to exploit guest greed for exposure by giving them social media "bling" they'll lust after The psychology of power: Why you must command the energy before the mics get hot The glutton's guide to extracting maximum value from every guest (without letting them hijack your show)

Episode Timestamps

[00:02:35] Why having more than one guest can sabotage your interview ... and the secret "guest differential" mistake most podcasters don't see coming [00:03:45] The time a big-name musician brought "sidecar" [00:05:31] Why "value meal" interviews don't work [00:06:32] The forbidden role of publicists [00:07:47] The real art of "setting the space"—sneaky ways to make guests shine and why pre-interviews aren't just for question lists [00:09:03] "You're the chauffeur, the Sherpa" ... the surprising reason your energy as a host can make or break your guest's performance [00:11:34] Why being a great podcast host is exactly like being a great singer ... and the key lesson from an acapella legend that will transform your interviews

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Why spending big money on ads, chasing viral fame, or following every new platform isn't the answer (and what really builds a podcast audience that matters) in this episode of Big Podcast Playbook ...

Big Ideas in This Episode

Luck, ads, or fame: podcast growth myths exposed Viral moments: why fame doesn't equal loyalty $15,000 spent, only 178 downloads ... now what? Famous parents, forgotten children Coaches promising millions Build longing: make a podcast worth missing Small hinges, big doors

Why You Should Listen

How podcasters burn thousands on ads Why "famous" is worthless (and what really drives listener obsession) The jaw-dropping viral video contract The real reason coaches push "the basics" (and why the lazy are secretly drawn to them) When $15,000 in ads only gets you 178 listeners How podcast consultants charge $7500 The seductive power of a giant antenna (and why you'll never buy your way to the top) What social media "gurus" won't tell you about YouTube, TikTok, Instagram and podcast growth Why unlocking listener loyalty unleashes total control over your audience (and their wallets) The envy-fueled drama behind working with "competitors" (and why it's no real competition) How churches and religious groups quietly dominate media ... and the secrets you can steal What Fox News-style audience swapping reveals for hungry podcasters The lazy podcaster's shortcut: Think you can survive without changing? Think again How "air checks" from the pros create radio envy ... and a path to dominating your niche Why the "small hinges, big doors" formula can make power, greed, and loyalty swing YOUR way

Episode Timestamps

[00:02] The letter from a frustrated podcaster: Is there really very little you can do to grow a show unless you're lucky or famous? [06:05] "Viral moments won't get you loyal listeners" ... the Nashville Hawk Tuah girl story and the myth of overnight success [07:18] Spending $15,000 on ads for 178 downloads per day: Is audience growth really for sale? [09:16] Why even the daughter of the King of Rock and Roll can't leverage fame into real influence ... and what that teaches us about podcasting [13:16] The hard truth about religious and niche shows: why your topic might get you ignored no matter how much you spend [15:06] The $4000 guitar mistake: Why buying the fanciest tools won't make your podcast sing if you skip this one thing [22:24] The secret to becoming a better podcaster that most will never try ... what SiriusXM jocks do that you probably don't

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After nearly 700 episodes, David Hooper made the bold decision to change this podcast's name. Why he did it, how it impacts his listeners, and what you should consider before a rebrand in this episode of Big Podcast Playbook ...

Big Ideas in This Episode

Change your name, change your momentum The grass is greener: podcasters crave novelty Big mistakes: don't buy your own hype Sunk cost: abandon your old podcast identity? Relentless rebranding: how Shaq forced my hand Scud Busters ... why trendy names die fast Your audience isn't loyal (they barely notice)

Why You Should Listen

Why changing your podcast name might be the breakthrough you crave ... discover when to strike for maximum momentum (even if you're 700 episodes in!) The dangerous false hope behind "just one name change" ... and how the real pros use rebrands to seize power and control over their audience (and competition!) The 5-question "naming test" top podcasters use to bulletproof their brand for years—most quit after question #2 (you won't!) How to seduce bored listeners back to your show (without spending a dime or recording a single extra episode) The secret curse of "linear" podcast names and how they trap you in startup mode forever (and what to do about it!) When the thrill is gone: the dirty truth about why most podcasters can't keep up—plus a play to outlast your laziest rivals A classic "relaunch" play ripped from the WWE's billion-dollar script to conquer confusion and cement listener loyalty for life The hidden power in a boring podcast title—why placing one special letter at the front can rocket you to the top of every directory (and block giants like Shaq) The "asset audit" checklist that reveals all the secret places your old podcast name is still haunting you…and how to erase it for good The ruthless mindset shift: how to kill sunk cost perfectionism (and why loyal listeners actually envy the bold who change course) The most overlooked source of seduction in podcasting—how your internal motivation can make your show irresistible in any market The glutton's guide to reusing old content—stack your best hits and fool new listeners into binging your "fresh" format The step-by-step rollout to ensure your rebrand dominates every directory, email, and feed (miss one, and you'll lose your herd) The forbidden lesson from celebrity podcasts and why blindly chasing their success leads straight to exhaustion and obscurity The real reason listeners miss name changes for months (even superfans)—and the sneaky, persistent way to implant your new identity in their brains forever

Episode Timestamps

[00:01:49] Why most podcasters change their show name five or six times—and how it might sabotage your success [00:03:26] The little-known "B at the front" strategy for podcast names and how alphabetical sorting can change your show's fate [00:04:12] Why "big" and "podcast" are the riskiest words to put in your podcast title (and how Shaquille O'Neal almost stole the show) [00:09:16] The brutally honest advice: "Don't stay in a bad relationship with your podcast" (and why sunk cost should never trap you) [00:10:53] The secret story behind WWE's epic rebrand from WWF and what it teaches about perfect timing for change [00:13:40] The cautionary tale of "Big Podcast Daily" ... how a name can attract the wrong audience, and why it pays to ignore downloads [00:25:27] The hilarious "Scud Busters" morning show blunder ... how fleeting trends can ruin your brand for years

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Ever wonder if you should really pay attention to your instincts—or if chasing excitement will only burn you out? David Hooper breaks down the final step to finding your podcasting voice (and what NOT to do with your flaws) in this episode of Big Podcast Playbook ...

Big Ideas in This Episode

Change your podcast name, ignite listener curiosity Exploit your flaws ... but don't overshare your failures Dopamine addiction: how podcasts spiral into extremes Most podcasters sabotage themselves with fake "voice" Data-driven shows: fun-killers or growth hacks? Show up relentlessly; earn envy, respect, loyalty Ready to commit? Podcasting tests your willpower

Why You Should Listen

The dirty little secret behind finding your podcasting "voice" (most podcasters never figure this out) Why obsessing over your own flaws will make you irresistible ... or ignite envy in rivals who wish they had your vulnerability The simple introspection hack that exposes what actually excites, repels, and thrills you (so you can binge-feed your audience's gluttony for authenticity) The ironclad way to tell if you should show off your skeletons … or bury them forever How to use "failure porn" to command eyeballs (but why it's a trap for the lazy weaklings of the podcasting world) Trusting your instincts: the power move that gives you complete control, even when your numbers say you shouldn't Why chasing dopamine spikes is a recipe for podcast mediocrity ... plus what to do instead if you crave influence and power The subtle distinction most podcasters miss between talking about who you were … and showing off who you are NOW (envy alert: this is how the pros do it) The truth about voicing your private conversations ... what if "the real you" threatens to sabotage your own growth? The notorious "two camps" podcaster dilemma: Are you a cold-blooded stat-watcher or a gut-driven visionary? How to build a cult-like audience that spreads your message for you—all while making your critics drool with jealousy The ultimate litmus test for podcaster success ... are you brave enough to set boundaries and define your own rules? Why the raw agony of being ignored is your secret weapon for outlasting every wannabe who gives up too soon How to plan five years ahead and engineer a binge-worthy empire people lust after… starting from today's episode The mystique of rebranding after 700+ episodes: What you can steal from a master podcaster's bold move (and why it might set you free)

Episode Timestamps

[00:00] Meet the new podcast ... same as the old podcast? Why David switched names after 700+ episodes! [00:01] "People don't care about your flaws." Why showcasing your failures might actually hurt your podcast. [00:01:49] The shocking truth about "failure porn" ... why stories of hitting rock bottom get clicks, but may destroy your message. [00:02:33] When paying attention to yourself backfires ... what happens if you listen to your past, not your future? [00:03:17] Are you trapped by the dopamine hit? The dark side of chasing listeners using extreme stories. [00:04:27] The #1 question every podcaster must ask: could you commit to your show for three years (or even five)? [00:05:32] How showing up again and again builds respect and finds your true audience, even if you're not a household name.

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Should you copy what other successful podcasters do, or blaze your own trail—and does paying attention to others really help you find your unique voice? David breaks it down in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ...

Big Ideas in This Episode

How "pay attention to others" triggers creative envy Ignore the rules ... why breaking them brings power Don't copy Rogan: fame's unfair advantage exposed Secret signal: Why listeners follow the herd The hidden danger of "famous microphone" obsession Seduced by conversation: media events as social status Elevate your voice by understanding audience desires

Why You Should Listen

The hidden shortcut top podcasters use to "find their voice" and leave silent competitors choking in the dust Why copying what celebrity podcasters do kills your growth ... and a trick for using their moves to your advantage How to piggyback on what the world's already obsessed with so your podcast instantly commands attention The dirty little secret about the "status quo" nobody tells podcasters ... and how ignoring it lets you break out of obscurity The simple listening habit that quietly separates six-figure hosts from the wannabes scrambling for scraps Why blindly imitating best practices from the radio elite could sabotage your show ... unless you spot this ONE glaring flaw The jaw-dropping mic blunder major TV hosts make ... and how fixing it gives you the irresistible sound of authority How to "read the crowd" like a showbiz king, so your episodes tap into the primal urges listeners can't resist The TRUTH about why people listen to Joe Rogan ... and how to lure their audience without selling your soul How to tap into the envy and herd mentality swirling around trending topics ... and ride it to effortless downloads The sneaky marketing tactic to find out exactly what the world wants (and shove your podcast to the front of the line) Why listening to conversation leaders is your backdoor to mass influence (and how to worm your way into the talk of the town) The shocking reason great podcasts fail to get noticed ... and what you must do differently, starting today How to spot whether a "pro" podcaster is faking it (and the secret power move that makes you bulletproof) The power play for turning casual listeners into die-hard fans who'll gladly spend money to enter your world

Episode Timestamps

[00:01:14] Why paying attention to others might be overrated ... and David's challenge to the status quo for podcasters [00:02:12] The surprising truth about what it really takes to "speak to the world" through your podcast [00:03:03] The ESPN sports channel mic mistake: How broadcast pros get it totally wrong (and what podcasters can learn) [00:03:34] Why copying famous podcasters' techniques could hurt you ... instead of help you [00:04:22] The hidden advantage of reality TV and traditional media for creators (and what you can do if you don't have it) [00:05:12] The real reason people join trends even when the content doesn't interest them [00:05:31] Why "Atlas Shrugged" is a masterclass in conversational marketing (despite its flaws)

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Why simply practicing your podcast isn't enough and how the right kind of focused practice will actually help you find your authentic voice in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ...

Big Ideas in This Episode

Are you brave enough to speak your fears? Use your flaws ... listeners secretly envy authenticity Ignore podcasting "rules" and seize control Practice isn't enough ... "perfect practice" breeds power Creative limits spark unexpected, lust-worthy brilliance Content isn't king ... exceptional content wins greed Make every episode art, not just "more"

Why You Should Listen

The powerful reason why "perfect practice" beats aimless repetition ... and how 99% of podcasters waste time spinning their wheels Why copying "content kings" guarantees mediocrity ... steal this twist to finally stand out The secret artists use to force creativity (and how it can weaponize your podcast voice) How imposing strict limitations on yourself actually makes you more original … and magnetic The simple mental move for lazy improvement—use it and bury your competition What podcasting "rules" to ignore … and which ones to master so you can break them with confidence The musician's mind trick that will have listeners envying your unique sound How boring practice sessions keep you broke ... and the stealth tactic for transforming every recording into gold The hidden danger of "just letting the tape roll" (It's killing your growth ... and here's what to do instead) How the world's most-played song proves not all content is created equal ... and how to hijack this secret for yourself The "Sausage Factory" routine that breeds fast confidence and control behind the mic What pro musicians know about switching instruments that podcasters MUST steal to stay ahead How to force yourself into creating your most addictive content ever ... without working harder The dirty little reason why most branded shows are forgettable … and how to instantly fix yours The ultimate power move: Practice with a greedy goal in mind ... and watch your voice (and audience) grow ravenous

Episode Timestamps

[00:00:19] Speak what you're scared to speak: The advice that could help you unlock your true podcasting voice ... and why David partially disagrees. [00:01:01] Why "practice makes perfect" is a myth (and what kind of practice actually works for podcasters). [00:01:58] The strange songwriting trick musicians use to spark creativity ... and how podcast hosts can steal it to find their voice. [00:02:46] Want to get creative? The power of setting bizarre limitations on yourself (and why breaking the rules isn't always the answer). [00:03:41] "Content is king." Or is it? The harsh truth about why not all podcasts ... or content—are equal. [00:04:11] The tale of "Happy Birthday": Why writing more podcasts is not enough to find lasting success. [00:05:16] Inside the "sausage factory" ... David's daily, unfiltered practice routine that reveals the real way great hosts get better.

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Should you break podcasting rules or learn them first? David dives into how knowing the rules helps you find your voice and when it's time to break them in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ...

Big Ideas in This Episode

Change your podcast name—power move or mistake? Break podcasting rules and dominate your niche Podcast what scares you—your audience craves it Leverage your darkest flaws for listener loyalty Stand out: ignore "safe" advice, dominate minds Hit podcast fame: don't chase creativity, chase impact Listeners expect structure—defy it, but beware crashes

Why You Should Listen

How breaking the rules of podcasting can make you irresistible to listeners (and when it backfires spectacularly) The forbidden secret: why the best podcasters podcast what terrifies them ... could this unlock cult-like loyalty? The lazy podcaster's shortcut to standing out: no effort, only guts Why showcasing your flaws can trigger envy and magnetize influence. They'll wish they had your courage! The greedy way to leverage your weirdest experiences for massive audience growth (even if you've "failed" before) The all-powerful "ignore the rules" mindset—how rule-breakers seduce listeners and scare rivals How to wield creative control and make your show legendary (no permission needed) What to do when the experts say "don't" and why following your own playbook can make you unstoppable The true reason people expect structure (intro, meat, conclusion) and how to use it to hypnotize their ears Power move: switch your podcast's name after 700 episodes, and make listeners lust after what's next The gluttonous method to feed your show with controversy … while your competition plays it safe How to stun the podcast world by rewriting the rules on-air leaving listeners hooked and begging for more Why shattering expectations instantly gives you the upper hand and why control freaks envy your freedom What the music industry taught about "hits" that top podcasters steal to stay filthy rich The golden opportunity to break rules ONLY when you know them ... how ignorance turns into profit for the truly cunning

Episode Timestamps

[00:01:32] Ignore the rules. There are none? Provocative advice for finding your podcasting voice. [00:02:01] Why breaking podcasting "rules" can cost you listeners (and how to do it thoughtfully). [00:02:45] The real reason audiences expect a beginning, middle, and end in every episode revealed! [00:03:08] "I'm the most creative person you've ever met" ... the story of a songwriter who learned a hard lesson about creativity vs. connection. [00:03:20] The surprising 'rules' for hit-making: creativity alone isn't enough if you can't perform and get along! [00:03:48] Is changing your podcast's name after 700 episodes a bold move or a mistake? David reveals his reasoning. [00:04:32] "Don't ignore rules. Know them. Choose to break them." ... David Hooper's controversial take on podcasting success.

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Should you try to stand out or fit in—and can you do both at once? David shares how bringing your own voice and experience to podcasting is the real key to being noticed (without reinventing the wheel) in this episode of Build a Big Podcast ...

Big Ideas in This Episode

Stand out: fitting in feeds your podcast's death Breaking rules? Learn them first, then rebel Mention your scars, but don’t parade them Your podcast voice: envy-worthy or echo chamber? Copy the crowd? Producer or star? Control your on-mic destiny Flaunt your skills quietly—power is subtle

Why You Should Listen

The strange power of standing out—even if you’re secretly terrified of being in the spotlight How to reap the rewards of success without ever going on camera (let your voice do the work) The single broadcasting mistake keeping you shouting into the void—and how to rise above the crowd Why “fitting in” could be strangling your podcast’s influence ... and the simple way to break free The forbidden shortcut: Skip years of trial and error by hijacking proven podcasting best practices How exposing a tiny flaw (not a trainwreck) makes listeners addicted to your show The overlooked law that lets average podcasters appear like industry “giants” Why trying to be the opposite of everyone else is a sucker’s trap ... here’s what to do instead The sad but true reason most wild innovators crash and burn (and how you can win by playing it smarter) The subtle art of “copying and twisting” ... how to profit by borrowing and bending what already works How a musician’s dirty secret can explode your audience size and keep you in control Why some podcasts get showered with fame while others languish ... unseen and unloved The little-known move podcast pros use to engineer unforgettable interviews (even before hitting record) How to use envy and authority to magnetize high-value listeners (without looking desperate) The real way to get noticed—without bragging, oversharing, or burning yourself out on social media

Episode Timestamps

[00:00] Have you ever seen a Prius with a “drill baby, drill” bumper sticker? Why David Hooper relates to contradictory identities—and what that reveals about podcasting. [00:01:16] “We’re raised to fit in with the crowd…” The bold argument for standing out as a podcaster—and why doing things your own way can be a double-edged sword. [00:02:35] The music industry myth: Why “not doing what everybody else is doing” could actually backfire in podcasting (and what tuning guitars has to do with your podcast). [00:04:24] Should you break all the podcasting rules? The surprising truth about best practices and why copying others might be your secret weapon. [00:04:48] The controversial debate: Are pre-interviews for guests a waste of time, or the key to a better show? David reveals what thousands of episodes have taught him. [00:06:37] From producing 200+ audiobooks to pioneering web audio before Spotify—how David’s unique background shapes his podcasting voice (and why it matters for you). [00:07:41] The Tesla and the Rolex: Why you don’t need to “showcase” your unique value, and what really makes you stand out to your audience.

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