DEAD Talks

David Ferrugio
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Aug 4, 2025 • 1h 12min

What the Bible Really Says About Death, Heaven & the Afterlife (#220)

What does the Bible really say about death, heaven, and the afterlife? In this episode of DEAD Talks, David Ferrugio sits down with New Testament scholar Dr. Eric Zito to uncover the Bible’s true teachings on life after death, resurrection, and what Christian hope actually means.They explore some of the most misunderstood—and controversial—topics, including:The Bible’s real view on death, heaven, and resurrectionHow near-death experiences fit (or don’t) with scriptureWhat the Bible says about hell and judgmentReincarnation debates in Christian thoughtWhether mediums and spiritual communication align with the BibleThis episode sheds light on the spiritual, theological, and cultural debates surrounding death and the afterlife from a biblical perspective—helping you rethink what faith, scripture, and eternity really mean.Follow Dr. Eric Zito on Instagram: @zeetstagramSupport the Show:Join the DEAD Talks Patreon for just $2 to support the mission—and get episodes early & ad-free: https://www.patreon.com/c/deadtalks?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLinkHats, Shirts, Hoodies + More: https://cottonbureau.com/people/dead-talksExclusive Discounts 10 % of Neurogum powered by natural caffeine, L-theanine, and vitamins B6 & B12 to boost focus and energy: https://neurogum.com/?utm_commission=deadtalkspodcast&platform=grin&link_id=1654933&token=WtumfL5E9dMY2DxZOVhMDDU7Z1f0OkyV&contact_id=8c837874-1ae8-4097-96fb-4809bfd0b22f&attribution_window=30About DEAD Talks DEAD Talks with David Ferrugio approaches death differently. Each guest shares raw stories of grief, loss, or unique perspectives that challenge the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn’t end—it evolves. After losing his father on September 11th at just 12 years old, David discovered the power of conversation. Through laughter, tears, and honest dialogue, DEAD Talks helps make it a little easier to talk about death, mourning, trauma, and the life that continues beyond it.Connect with DEAD Talks:Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCB_jnuH15XMk2Vx_7_-aIAwFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DeadTalkingPodcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deadtalkspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@deadtalkspodcastWebsite: https://www.deadtalks.net/
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Jul 28, 2025 • 54min

3 Years After Her Husband’s Death, Whitney Lyn Allen Shares What Really Helps (#219)

When Whitney Lyn Allen’s husband died suddenly in her arms, her entire world shattered. In this powerful episode of the DEAD Talks Podcast, Whitney opens up about the shock of sudden death, the raw pain of early grief, and the signs that convinced her her husband was still with her.Now, three years later, Whitney reflects on what really helps in the journey through loss—offering wisdom, compassion, and hope to anyone navigating grief.In this episode, Whitney shares:The night everything changed when her husband passedThe unbearable pain of sudden death and early griefThe signs and spiritual moments that brought her comfortHow she found purpose and resilience in lossWhat she’s learned about healing and moving forwardWhitney is also the author of What Must Be Carried: Living a Beautiful Life Beyond Loss, where she continues to guide others through the journey of grief.Check out Whitney's second book "What Must Be Carried: Living a Beautiful Life Beyond Loss"For more on Whitney Allen: www.whitneylynallen.comCheck out episode 94 to listen to the first time Whitney was on the show.Join the ⁠DEAD Talk Patreon⁠ for only $5/mo to support our mission & and gain access to exclusive content and features. "Dead Dad Club" & "Dead Mom Club" hats and shirts: ⁠Shop Here⁠Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping:👉  ⁠https://deadtalks.myshopify.com/⁠10% off Neurogum⁠ made with sustainably-sourced natural caffeine, L-theanine, as well as vitamins B6 and B12, which have been scientifically shown to boost attention and enhance focus. Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping: ⁠Shop Here⁠ ⁠All links to everything DEAD Talks⁠ DEAD Talks with David Ferrugio engages death a little bit differently. Each new guest shares their experience with grieving or perspective on death in a way that shatters the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn't end; it evolves. Having lost his father on September 11th when he was 12, he learned the importance of discussion and sharing other people's stories. DEAD Talks Podcast hopes to make it a little easier to talk about grief, loss, death, mourning, trauma, or whatever it may be. You may cry, but you also may laugh. ⁠Follow DEAD Talks Podcast on ⁠YouTube⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠, ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠TikTok⁠ + ⁠more⁠⁠⁠⁠www.deadtalks.net⁠⁠
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Jul 21, 2025 • 1h

Gary Sinise on losing his son and his grief journey (#218)

Actor and humanitarian Gary Sinise opens up about the heartbreaking loss of his son Mac to a rare cancer and the personal grief journey that followed. In this moving episode of the DEAD Talks Podcast, Gary shares how service has kept him grounded, the role of fatherhood in shaping his healing, and the power of vulnerability in the face of loss.Through raw reflections on grief, love, purpose, and storytelling, Gary reveals why sharing our stories can be one of the most powerful ways to heal and to honor those we’ve lost.In this episode, Gary discusses:Losing his son Mac to a rare cancerHow grief reshaped his life as a fatherThe grounding power of service and purposeEmotional resilience in the face of unimaginable lossWhy telling your story is a pathway to healingThis conversation is both heartbreaking and hopeful—a reminder that even in deep grief, service, love, and connection can create meaning.www.garysinisefoundation.comJoin the ⁠DEAD Talk Patreon⁠ for only $5/mo to support our mission & and gain access to exclusive content and features. "Dead Dad Club" & "Dead Mom Club" hats and shirts: ⁠Shop Here⁠Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping:👉  ⁠https://deadtalks.myshopify.com/⁠10% off Neurogum⁠ made with sustainably-sourced natural caffeine, L-theanine, as well as vitamins B6 and B12, which have been scientifically shown to boost attention and enhance focus. Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping: ⁠Shop Here⁠ ⁠All links to everything DEAD Talks⁠ DEAD Talks with David Ferrugio engages death a little bit differently. Each new guest shares their experience with grieving or perspective on death in a way that shatters the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn't end; it evolves. Having lost his father on September 11th when he was 12, he learned the importance of discussion and sharing other people's stories. DEAD Talks Podcast hopes to make it a little easier to talk about grief, loss, death, mourning, trauma, or whatever it may be. You may cry, but you also may laugh. ⁠Follow DEAD Talks Podcast on ⁠YouTube⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠, ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠TikTok⁠ + ⁠more⁠⁠⁠⁠www.deadtalks.net⁠⁠
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Jul 14, 2025 • 1h 7min

Surviving Against All Odds: Tom Nash on Life, Loss & Resilience (#217)

Tom Nash was given just a 2% chance to live when meningococcal septicemia changed his life forever at 19. The disease cost him both arms and legs, but instead of despair, Tom discovered a radical new perspective—reframing tragedy as a gift.In this powerful episode of the DEAD Talks Podcast, Tom shares how surviving near-certain death gave him a new outlook on life, mortality, and meaning. From learning to play guitar again with hooks, to becoming a DJ and international speaker, Tom proves that resilience can transform even the harshest challenges into strength.In this episode, Tom discusses:Facing death at 19 and losing all four limbsWhy “Why me?” is the wrong question in grief and tragedyHow he rebuilt his identity and life purposeFinding meaning through music, storytelling, and humorWhat near-death taught him about living fullyThis is a story of unimaginable loss turned into resilience, courage, and hope.To learn more about todays guest Tom Nash please visit hereJoin the ⁠DEAD Talk Patreon⁠ for only $5/mo to support our mission & and gain access to exclusive content and features. "Dead Dad Club" & "Dead Mom Club" hats and shirts: ⁠Shop Here⁠Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping:👉  ⁠https://deadtalks.myshopify.com/⁠10% off Neurogum⁠ made with sustainably-sourced natural caffeine, L-theanine, as well as vitamins B6 and B12, which have been scientifically shown to boost attention and enhance focus. Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping: ⁠Shop Here⁠ ⁠All links to everything DEAD Talks⁠ DEAD Talks with David Ferrugio engages death a little bit differently. Each new guest shares their experience with grieving or perspective on death in a way that shatters the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn't end; it evolves. Having lost his father on September 11th when he was 12, he learned the importance of discussion and sharing other people's stories. DEAD Talks Podcast hopes to make it a little easier to talk about grief, loss, death, mourning, trauma, or whatever it may be. You may cry, but you also may laugh. ⁠Follow DEAD Talks Podcast on ⁠YouTube⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠, ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠TikTok⁠ + ⁠more⁠⁠⁠⁠www.deadtalks.net⁠⁠
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Jul 7, 2025 • 47min

Keri Hilson on Grief, Losing Her Father & Signs From the Afterlife (#216)

Grammy-nominated singer Keri Hilson joins the DEAD Talks Podcast to share her deeply personal journey of grief after losing her father in 2020. With raw honesty, Keri reflects on the pain of loss, the unexpected signs she’s received from the afterlife, and how her father’s presence continues to shape her life and career.From mystical encounters with butterflies, geese, and cardinals to the emotional weight of writing her father’s obituary, Keri offers an unfiltered look at the complexity of grief. She speaks candidly about the unspoken burden of being “the strong one,” the healing power of spiritual messages, and what loss has taught her about love, family, and resilience.In this episode, Keri shares:The grief of losing her father in 2020Signs and messages she believes came from the afterlifeHow grief has influenced her life, family, and musicThe struggle of being the “strong one” for othersWhat loss taught her about love, healing, and moving forwardThis conversation is heartfelt, vulnerable, and full of hope—a reminder that even in deep grief, love continues to connect us beyond death.⁠@kerihilson⁠ on IGJoin the ⁠⁠DEAD Talk Patreon⁠⁠ for only $5/mo to support our mission & and gain access to exclusive content and features. "Dead Dad Club" & "Dead Mom Club" hats and shirts: ⁠⁠Shop Here⁠⁠Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping:👉  ⁠⁠https://deadtalks.myshopify.com/⁠⁠⁠10% off Neurogum⁠⁠ made with sustainably-sourced natural caffeine, L-theanine, as well as vitamins B6 and B12, which have been scientifically shown to boost attention and enhance focus. Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping: ⁠⁠Shop Here⁠⁠⁠⁠All links to everything DEAD Talks⁠⁠ DEAD Talks with David Ferrugio engages death a little bit differently. Each new guest shares their experience with grieving or perspective on death in a way that shatters the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn't end; it evolves. Having lost his father on September 11th when he was 12, he learned the importance of discussion and sharing other people's stories. DEAD Talks Podcast hopes to make it a little easier to talk about grief, loss, death, mourning, trauma, or whatever it may be. You may cry, but you also may laugh. ⁠Follow DEAD Talks Podcast on ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠, ⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠ + ⁠⁠more⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.deadtalks.net⁠⁠
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Jun 30, 2025 • 46min

Grief, Healing & the Power of Perspective (#215)

Medium Alysa Conger joins David Ferrugio on the DEAD Talks Podcast for an honest and unfiltered conversation about grief, healing, and the power of perspective. Together, they explore why the idea that grief can “get better” often triggers anger, and how belief systems shape the way we process loss.From trauma identity to the “glimmers” that bring hope, Alysa dives into the uncomfortable truths and unexpected lessons of grief. With humor, honesty, and spiritual insight, this episode challenges the way we think about loss while offering real tools for transformation.In this episode, Alysa and David discuss:Why people resist the idea that grief can improveHow belief shapes the healing journeyThe role of trauma identity and breaking free from itFinding “glimmers” of hope in everyday lifeTools for transforming grief into growthThis conversation is insightful, funny, and uncomfortably honest—a refreshing take on grief and healing.For more on our guest Alysa Conger follow her at ⁠@alysamconger⁠ on instagram or ⁠www.hellowhosaidthat.com⁠Join the ⁠⁠DEAD Talk Patreon⁠⁠ for only $5/mo to support our mission & and gain access to exclusive content and features. "Dead Dad Club" & "Dead Mom Club" hats and shirts: ⁠⁠Shop Here⁠⁠Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping:👉  ⁠⁠https://deadtalks.myshopify.com/⁠⁠⁠10% off Neurogum⁠⁠ made with sustainably-sourced natural caffeine, L-theanine, as well as vitamins B6 and B12, which have been scientifically shown to boost attention and enhance focus. Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping: ⁠⁠Shop Here⁠⁠ ⁠⁠All links to everything DEAD Talks⁠⁠ DEAD Talks with David Ferrugio engages death a little bit differently. Each new guest shares their experience with grieving or perspective on death in a way that shatters the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn't end; it evolves. Having lost his father on September 11th when he was 12, he learned the importance of discussion and sharing other people's stories. DEAD Talks Podcast hopes to make it a little easier to talk about grief, loss, death, mourning, trauma, or whatever it may be. You may cry, but you also may laugh. ⁠Follow DEAD Talks Podcast on ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠, ⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠ + ⁠⁠more⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.deadtalks.net⁠⁠⁠
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Jun 23, 2025 • 1h 28min

What He Saw on the Other Side Changed Everything (#214)

After flatlining multiple times and surviving a traumatic brain injury, Landon Dennis shares his unforgettable near-death experience. From watching his own body in the back of an ambulance to standing in a glowing field where “even the grass loved him,” Landon’s story is a vivid glimpse into the afterlife.This raw, emotional, and deeply spiritual conversation explores the power of prayer, the presence of unconditional love, and why death is not the end.In this episode, Landon shares:What he saw while flatlining and leaving his bodyThe glowing field where love radiated through everythingThe role of prayer in his survival and healingWhy near-death experiences reveal the truth about love and eternityHow his NDE changed his perspective on life and deathThis episode is a moving reminder that even in the face of death, love never dies.Join the ⁠DEAD Talk Patreon⁠ for only $5/mo to support our mission & and gain access to exclusive content and features. "Dead Dad Club" & "Dead Mom Club" hats and shirts: ⁠Shop Here⁠Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping:👉  ⁠https://deadtalks.myshopify.com/⁠10% off Neurogum⁠ made with sustainably-sourced natural caffeine, L-theanine, as well as vitamins B6 and B12, which have been scientifically shown to boost attention and enhance focus. Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping: ⁠Shop Here⁠ ⁠All links to everything DEAD Talks⁠ DEAD Talks with David Ferrugio engages death a little bit differently. Each new guest shares their experience with grieving or perspective on death in a way that shatters the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn't end; it evolves. Having lost his father on September 11th when he was 12, he learned the importance of discussion and sharing other people's stories. DEAD Talks Podcast hopes to make it a little easier to talk about grief, loss, death, mourning, trauma, or whatever it may be. You may cry, but you also may laugh. Follow DEAD Talks Podcast on ⁠YouTube⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠, ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠TikTok⁠ + ⁠more⁠⁠⁠⁠www.deadtalks.net⁠⁠
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Jun 16, 2025 • 55min

9/11 South Tower Survivor: Brian Clark’s Incredible Escape (#213)

Brian Clark is one of the few people who escaped from above the impact zone of the South Tower on 9/11. In this powerful episode of the DEAD Talks Podcast, host David Ferrugio sits down with Brian to hear his extraordinary firsthand account of survival from the World Trade Center.From being on the 84th floor on September 11th when Flight 175 struck just below him, to hearing mysterious voices that guided him to a stairwell, Brian recounts the decisions and moments that saved his life—and the man he helped rescue along the way.In this episode, Brian shares:What it was like inside the South Tower during the attacksThe split-second decisions that determined survivalThe man he helped save and the bond that followedThe inexplicable moments that still defy explanationLessons of survival, humanity, and resilience from 9/11This conversation is raw, emotional, and unforgettable—a story of survival, fate, and humanity on one of history’s darkest days.Join the ⁠DEAD Talk Patreon⁠ for only $5/mo to support our mission & and gain access to exclusive content and features. "Dead Dad Club" & "Dead Mom Club" hats and shirts: ⁠Shop Here⁠Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping:👉  ⁠https://deadtalks.myshopify.com/⁠10% off Neurogum⁠ made with sustainably-sourced natural caffeine, L-theanine, as well as vitamins B6 and B12, which have been scientifically shown to boost attention and enhance focus. Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping: ⁠Shop Here⁠ ⁠All links to everything DEAD Talks⁠ DEAD Talks with David Ferrugio engages death a little bit differently. Each new guest shares their experience with grieving or perspective on death in a way that shatters the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn't end; it evolves. Having lost his father on September 11th when he was 12, he learned the importance of discussion and sharing other people's stories. DEAD Talks Podcast hopes to make it a little easier to talk about grief, loss, death, mourning, trauma, or whatever it may be. You may cry, but you also may laugh. ⁠Follow DEAD Talks Podcast on ⁠YouTube⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠, ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠TikTok⁠ + ⁠more⁠⁠⁠⁠www.deadtalks.net⁠⁠
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Jun 9, 2025 • 1h 15min

Near-Death on Ayahuasca & the Lessons of Buddhism | Jaymee Carpenter (#212)

Jaymee Carpenter shares a raw and soul-shaking story of addiction, near-death, and spiritual rebirth. After hitting rock bottom, a psychedelic ayahuasca experience left him face-to-face with death and changed everything. Through Tibetan Buddhism, Jaymee rewired his life, moving from darkness and despair to reflection, healing, and renewal.From his early days as a rising musician to living homeless on Skid Row, Jaymee’s journey shows how even the lowest moments can lead to awakening.In this episode, Jaymee shares:His near-death experience through ayahuascaThe lessons death teaches us about lifeHow Tibetan Buddhism reshaped his healingThe fight with addiction and hitting rock bottomMoving from Skid Row to a life of purpose and rebirthThis is a conversation about death, spirituality, and transformation—one that proves even in darkness, there’s a path to light.For more on Jaymee Carpenter, today's guest, follow him on Instagram @loveistheauthorInterested in Mentorship with Jaymee? Email: lacee@loveistheauthor.com for more information or to set up a free consultation, or visit: www.loveistheauthor.com/mentorship🔔 Subscribe for more raw conversations🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & everywhere else.Join the DEAD Talk Patreon for only $5 to support our mission & and gain access to exclusive content and features:👉  https://patreon.com/deadtalks?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLinkPurchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping:👉  https://deadtalks.myshopify.com/10% off Neurogum made with sustainably-sourced natural caffeine, L-theanine, as well as vitamins B6 and B12, which have been scientifically shown to boost attention and enhance focus: https://neurogum.com/?utm_commission=deadtalkspodcast&platform=grin&link_id=1654933&token=WtumfL5E9dMY2DxZOVhMDDU7Z1f0OkyV&contact_id=8c837874-1ae8-4097-96fb-4809bfd0b22f&attribution_window=30All links to everything DEAD Talks:👉  https://linktr.ee/deadtalksDEAD Talks with David Ferrugio engages death a little bit differently. Each new guest shares their experience with grieving or perspective on death in a way that shatters the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn't end; it evolves. Having lost his father on September 11th when he was 12, he learned the importance of discussion and sharing other people's stories. DEAD Talks Podcast hopes to make it a little easier to talk about grief, loss, death, mourning, trauma, or whatever it may be. You may cry, but you also may laugh.⁠Follow DEAD Talks Podcast on YouTube, Instagram, TikTok + more⁠⁠www.deadtalks.net⁠
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Jun 2, 2025 • 50min

What Death Taught Me About Life & Love with ALOK (#211)

In this powerful and soul-stirring episode of DEAD Talks, David Ferrugio sits down with ALOK—internationally acclaimed author, poet, and performer—for one of the most profound conversations we’ve ever had. Together, they dive deep into death, grief, identity, the illusion of control, the meaning of presence, and how love and loss are forever intertwined.ALOK shares how confronting mortality has shaped their art and activism, revealing why humor, honesty, and radical vulnerability are essential to navigating grief and fully living.⁠⁠For more on ALOK click here⁠⁠ We also explore:Why death is essential to understanding lifeThe spiritual and political power of griefUsing comedy to break the silence around painThe beauty of impermanenceThe societal fear of feeling — and how to fight itHow to love without fear of lossWhether you're grieving, curious about mortality, or looking for meaning in the chaos — this is the episode for you.Join the ⁠DEAD Talk Patreon⁠ for only $5/mo to support our mission & and gain access to exclusive content and features. "Dead Dad Club" & "Dead Mom Club" hats and shirts: ⁠Shop Here⁠Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping:👉  ⁠https://deadtalks.myshopify.com/⁠10% off Neurogum⁠ made with sustainably-sourced natural caffeine, L-theanine, as well as vitamins B6 and B12, which have been scientifically shown to boost attention and enhance focus. Purchase “Not Dead Yet” or DEAD Talk trucker hats here with free domestic shipping: ⁠Shop Here⁠ ⁠All links to everything DEAD Talks⁠ DEAD Talks with David Ferrugio engages death a little bit differently. Each new guest shares their experience with grieving or perspective on death in a way that shatters the “don’t talk about death” taboo. Grief doesn't end; it evolves. Having lost his father on September 11th when he was 12, he learned the importance of discussion and sharing other people's stories. DEAD Talks Podcast hopes to make it a little easier to talk about grief, loss, death, mourning, trauma, or whatever it may be. You may cry, but you also may laugh. ⁠Follow DEAD Talks Podcast on ⁠YouTube⁠, ⁠Facebook⁠, ⁠Instagram⁠, ⁠TikTok⁠ + ⁠more⁠⁠⁠⁠www.deadtalks.net⁠⁠

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