Episodes

  • Randall Avery: Hacking the System for Financial Success
    Dec 26 2024
    Randall Avery is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and Chartered Financial Analyst. His mission is to help the communities he serves to increase their wealth and use it to achieve their dreams. Randall specializes in guiding individuals toward their version of financial freedom.He is the author of Hacking the System by Creating Your Own System, a self-help guide for those looking to improve their financial outlook. Randall frequently speaks to a diverse range of audiences—from youth organizations and schools to corporate executives and professional associations—emphasizing the importance of good financial stewardship.In this episode, Dante and Randall discuss:Transitioning from corporate finance to empowering communities through wealth-buildingImportance of fiduciary duty and continuous education in financial certificationsStrategies for "hacking the system" by cultivating awareness and self-controlTransformative effects of financial freedom on original thinking and delayed gratificationInsights on budgeting, automatic investing, and integrating AI in financeKey Takeaways: A journey from the corporate world to community-centered wealth-building highlights the transformative power of using financial knowledge to uplift others.The importance of fiduciary duty, continuing education, and mastery of investment management is emphasized through the CFA and CFP certifications.By fostering awareness, self-control, and community investments, individuals can challenge societal systems designed to extract wealth and create their own path to prosperity.Achieving financial freedom unlocks original thinking, while the inability to delay gratification can obstruct personal and financial growth.Practical strategies like budgeting, automatic investing, self-investment, niche specialization, and AI integration provide actionable steps toward sustainable wealth creation.“First, have a budget. Tell your money what you want it to do—list your expenses and track them monthly. This is crucial for married couples; when you align financial goals, you strengthen your relationship. Second, utilize automatic investing. Sign up for your employer’s retirement plan and invest consistently. Many people become accidental millionaires just by following this simple step early in their careers. Finally, invest in yourself—your health, skills, and knowledge. These investments will pay dividends later in life.” - Randall AveryConnect with Randall Avery:Website: https://deasilwm.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/randallavery/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/randall.avery.7 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rsadeasil50/ Randall’s BOOK: https://www.amazon.com/Hacking-System-Creating-Your-Own/dp/0999403508 Connect with Dante Royster:Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRPLinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedInTwitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoysterYouTube: Epic Spotlight Email: dante@epic.mortgageThe 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/TexasShow notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul TagamaAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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    13 mins
  • Evan Wheeler: Compassionate Solutions for Insurance Challenges
    Dec 12 2024
    Evan Wheeler, the Founder and Owner of Wheeler Insurance Solutions and Expertise. With a keen understanding of the insurance industry and a commitment to personalized service, Evan has built a reputable business dedicated to providing tailored insurance solutions for individuals and businesses alike. His extensive knowledge and innovative approach have made Wheeler Insurance Solutions a trusted name in the field, ensuring clients receive the best coverage to meet their unique needs. Passionate about empowering others through financial protection and security, Evan continues to lead his company with integrity and a client-centric focus.In this episode Dante and Evan discuss:Personalized insurance consulting for property damage claimsAdopting technology to meet expectations for rapid claims processingGuiding laypersons through interpreting complex insurance policiesMinimizing out-of-pocket costs for denied or underpaid claimsImportance of adequate coverage over lower premiums, especially in ColoradoKey Takeaways: The importance of adopting technology in insurance consulting, enabling firms to meet client expectations for faster results despite the inherent complexity of the claims process.A key focus is on empowering property owners to navigate claims for disasters like floods, hurricanes, and fires, offering expert guidance to interpret policy language and maximize benefits.Operating nationwide but with a primary presence in Colorado, the firm minimizes out-of-pocket costs by leveraging free contracting services, financial advisor connections, and governmental assistance opportunities.Thorough research, asking the right questions, and comparing reviews are essential to prioritizing comprehensive coverage over cheaper premiums, especially given Colorado's high insurance rates.The firm escalated a claim to secure both temporary and long-term housing for a single mother of six after a flood, showcasing the human impact of their services.“I believe the type of person I am is here for service—to help people and make life a little bit easier, because life is hard. Point blank, if you're living life, it's hard. We all have our issues, and just being able to be here, to help people out and make life a little easier, has been incredibly rewarding for me.” - Evan WheelerConnect with Evan Wheeler:Website: https://wiseconsultation.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-wheeler-fcls-ccls-pcls-5ab87444/ Connect with Dante Royster:Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRPLinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedInTwitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoysterYouTube: Epic Spotlight Email: dante@epic.mortgageThe 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/TexasShow notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul TagamaAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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    23 mins
  • Donna Rogers: Path to Generational Wealth Through Real Estate Exposure
    Nov 28 2024
    Donna J. Rogers, owner of R’ Legacy Realty LLC and R’ Legacy Academy Real Estate School, brings over 17 years of real estate expertise. A licensed Managing Broker, Real Estate Instructor, Investor, and Project Manager, she holds certifications as a HUD Housing Counselor and Seller Representative Specialist. With a background in education, Donna is a former Adjunct Business Professor and the author of the #1 Amazon book Who Got the Keys? Her commitment to youth education in real estate has impacted thousands nationwide. Currently serving as President of the Young Realists Division, Chicago Chapter, Donna’s dedication to community service has earned her numerous awards, continuing her late father’s legacy of empowerment.In this episode Dante and Donna discuss:Building generational wealth through real estate investment and educationImportance of early exposure to real estate for informed decision-makingExpanding "Who Got the Keys?" with summits, camps, and licensing classesStaying authentic and educated in real estate pursuitsEncouraging purposeful conversations about goals and real estateKey Takeaways: Real estate investing is a powerful pathway for building generational wealth, especially when approached wisely through research, networking, and education.Introducing young adults to real estate and homeownership early on empowers them to make informed choices and develop wealth-building skills.The "Who Got the Keys?" program educates and inspires youth about real estate investing through workbooks, summits, online camps, and realtor licensing classes.Donna embodies the value of authenticity and purposeful action in real estate, dedicating herself to writing bestselling books during the pandemic through an early morning routine.Inspired by her parents’ experiences in real estate, Donna is driven to educate others about using real estate to boost Black homeownership and generational wealth.“Exposure makes a difference. You have no idea what your possibilities are unless you see it. For me, it's important to expose as many young people as possible to change the narrative before credit is messed up, before you have all this debt. Later in life, you don’t have to go back and fix these things because you didn’t get exposure. You can make well-informed decisions from the start as a young person, as a teenager going into adulthood with a game plan in mind—a game-changing plan that will put you on the path to building generational wealth through real estate.” - Donna RogersConnect with Donna Rogers:Website: https://www.whogotthekeys.com/ Phone: (312) 276-5111Donna’s BOOK: https://www.whogotthekeys.com/?page_id=231 Connect with Dante Royster:Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRPLinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedInTwitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoysterYouTube: Epic Spotlight Email: dante@epic.mortgageThe 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/TexasShow notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul TagamaAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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    16 mins
  • Matt Sutika: Tailored Insurance for Smarter Property Protection
    Nov 14 2024
    Matthew Sutika is an accomplished entrepreneur and CEO at Nimble, a leading multifamily insurance company based in Sarasota, Florida. With a proven track record of success in the insurance sector, Matthew is recognized for his innovative approach and commitment to excellence. Prior to founding Nimble, Matthew distinguished himself as the #1 ranked State Farm agent nationwide, showcasing his expertise and leadership in the field. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Nimble, where he continues to drive growth and innovation in the industry.Outside of his professional pursuits, Matthew is a dedicated philanthropist, actively supporting initiatives focused on education and community development. In his leisure time, he enjoys exploring Sarasota's vibrant cultural scene and engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking and sailing. With a passion for entrepreneurship and a vision for the future of insurance, Matthew Sutika remains a dynamic force in both the business world and his local community.In this episode Dante and Matt discuss:Building innovative insurance programs for rental propertiesNavigating insurance challenges in natural disaster-prone areasAssessing risks and coverage needs for aging propertiesStrategic planning to adapt to shifts in the insurance marketBalancing competitive online rates with personalized broker guidanceKey Takeaways: Emphasizing innovation in insurance programs can drive both customer satisfaction and business growth, especially when aligned with proactive service.Tackling challenges, such as natural disasters, requires adaptable strategies, prioritizing clear communication and creative problem-solving.Assessing property risks involves a thorough understanding of variables like building age, construction type, and geographic location, highlighting a tailored approach.Strategic planning and cash flow management are pivotal as the insurance market evolves, underscoring the need for flexibility and preparation.While online carriers offer appealing rates, expert brokers stand out by delivering personalized advice and optimized coverage for individual needs.“Insurance can no longer be something you take lightly. It needs to be something you consider when finding properties—where insurance is actually good. Not just finding a property and hoping the insurance works out; you really need to concentrate on it, because it can make or break your refi or your deal.” - Matt SutikaConnect with Matt Sutika:Website: https://nimbleins.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewsutikanimbleins/ Phone: 312-877-2692Email: matthew@nimbleins.com Connect with Dante Royster:Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRPLinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedInTwitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoysterYouTube: Epic Spotlight Email: dante@epic.mortgageThe 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/TexasShow notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul TagamaAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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    24 mins
  • Samir and Darlene Rashed: Enriching Communities through Homeownership Education
    Oct 31 2024
    Samir and Darlene Rashed, the dynamic duo behind Crefco Financial Group. With over 27 years in the mortgage industry, they built a reputation for their commitment to educate, uplift, and inspire communities through home ownership. Their journey began with the purchase of their first home in their early twenties, sparking a passion for helping others achieve the dream of home ownership. Samir transitioned from corporate sales to become a loan officer, with Darlene following suit after a distinguished 26-year corporate career. For the past 15 years, they've been partners at Crefco Financial Group, where their expertise in real estate and dedication to customer satisfaction have driven success. Married for 30 years, their commitment to each other extends to their shared mission of making a positive impact in their community.In this episode, Dante, Samir & Darlene discuss:Founding Crefco Financial Group and empowering homebuyers through educationEconomic challenges impacting homebuyers and the importance of planningPopularity of multi-unit buildings and co-signing strategies for young buyersEfficient communication and debunking homebuyer myths through transparencyResearching AI trends and enhancing digital capabilities while maintaining a human touchKey Takeaways: Founders emphasize the importance of empowering homebuyers through education and personalized attention, setting Crefco apart in the mortgage industry.Economic challenges require strategic education and planning, particularly for lower-income borrowers seeking affordable homeownership.Multi-unit buildings are highlighted as an investment option, offering both rental income and mortgage support for homeowners.Co-signing with parents emerges as a key solution for young buyers struggling with affordability in the housing market.Embracing technology, Crefco enhances the customer experience with digital tools while maintaining a human touch, focusing on education and transparency.“We educate, uplift, and inspire through home ownership by humanizing the customer experience. From start to finish, we guide people with education, helping them feel comfortable so they can confidently reach the finish line.” - Samir & Darlene RashedConnect with Samir & Darlene Rashed:Website: https://www.cfgohio.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cfgohio Twitter: https://x.com/CFGOhio Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cfgohio/ Connect with Dante Royster:Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRPLinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedInTwitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoysterYouTube: Epic Spotlight Email: dante@epic.mortgageThe 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/TexasShow notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul TagamaAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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    25 mins
  • Jess Ford: Coaching with Integrity – Building Leaders and Ethical Salespeople
    Oct 17 2024
    Jess Ford is a seasoned professional in the mortgage industry. Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, she began her career in 2010 as a loan officer after studying business at Eastern Michigan University. During her time at one of the largest consumer direct mortgage lenders in the country, she discovered her passion for learning and development, gaining experience in training, sales coaching, and underwriting.In 2013, Jess expanded her knowledge by earning credit certifications as a homeownership coach, where she educated potential borrowers, especially those with below-average FICO scores, preparing them for mortgages. Later, she transitioned to business-to-business mortgage lending, training and coaching hundreds of account executives and assisting mortgage brokers nationwide to expand and grow their businesses. She is known by her colleagues as hardworking and ethical, with an unwavering dedication to excellence and integrity. She has a solid reputation for meeting her clients' needs in a pleasant, prompt, and professional manner, maintaining confidentiality and providing a transparent process. Currently, Jess serves as a business development consultant and a licensed loan originator.In this episode, Dante and Jess discuss:Leadership approaches in sales accounting for personal factors and adult learning stylesEmphasizing ethics and integrity by prioritizing client interests over profitsDeveloping diverse salespeople and grooming future trainersMaintaining a growth mindset through consistent training and tailored communicationCoaching with a focus on being a "good human" in business practicesKey Takeaways: A successful career is built on passion, ethics, and a commitment to client service, forming the foundation for long-term success.Effective leadership hinges on understanding the personal lives of salespeople, identifying issues, and guiding them back to core principles.Recognizing and adapting to individual learning styles is essential, as adult brain development significantly impacts learning capacity.Differentiating through superior client service, integrity, and ethics ensures a business thrives by prioritizing customer interests over profit.Leaders who prioritize consistent training and clear communication foster growth in their teams, enabling diverse salespeople to reach their potential and become future trainers.“So, when it comes to coaching, training, and leadership, it's all about the attention to detail and the cadence of the coaching cycles. Each person needs something a little different, and it's our job as coaches and leaders to figure out what it is on that individual level and then build them a multilevel coaching platform to work through. If we can do that, as coaches and leaders, we're going to produce some really, really good salespeople—some honest salespeople—but we're also going to build a lot of leaders at the same time.” - Jess FordConnect with Jess Ford:Website: https://www.kscopeconsultants.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jess-ford-0020955/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JFordConsulting Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jford_consulting/ Email: jessford@kscopeconsultants.com Connect with Dante Royster:Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRPLinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedInTwitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoysterYouTube: Epic Spotlight Email: dante@epic.mortgageThe 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/TexasShow notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul TagamaAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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    25 mins
  • Paige Zautcke: Mastering Non-QM: The Path to Homeownership and Real Estate Success
    Oct 3 2024
    Paige Zautcke is an experienced Account Executive for Open Mortgage Wholesale, specializing in Non-QM and Portfolio Non-Agency programs. With over 20 years in the mortgage industry, Paige has spent the majority of her career working with mortgage brokers and bankers, helping them guide borrowers toward homeownership and building stronger communities. Her background also includes roles as a licensed Real Estate Salesperson and Senior Mortgage Operational Specialist at a global bank. An alumna of the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville, Paige currently resides in Florida with her family. When she’s not helping clients achieve their dreams of homeownership, you’ll likely find her beachside or poolside with a good book, or enjoying the company of friends.In this episode, Dante and Paige discuss:Non-QM loans help self-employed buyers own homesMortgage brokers guide and educate on non-QM optionsHomeownership strengthens communitiesUnderstanding rates and underwriting eases the mortgage processSmart real estate investing requires research and control over emotionsKey Takeaways: Non-QM and portfolio programs provide flexible lending options for self-employed borrowers, offering alternatives to traditional financing.Mortgage brokers and loan officers play a vital role in guiding borrowers toward homeownership while also transforming communities through their expertise.Getting pre-approved and receiving financial counseling before house hunting ensures smoother transactions and sets realistic expectations for buyers.Understanding the mortgage process—from focusing on payments over rates to the role of underwriters—can reduce stress and help avoid common misconceptions.Thorough research and careful planning are essential for real estate investing, helping avoid impulsive decisions based on emotions.“It's my job to provide the opportunity for loan officers and processors to learn my products, system, and process, which helps create a smoother, more enjoyable loan experience. I love teaching loan officers and processors something new, especially when someone comes to me who has never done a Non-QM product before. It excites me to help clear up the misconceptions about Non-QM products. And when it comes to buying a house, before you find a realtor or even look at homes, find a loan officer like Dante—someone you can talk to thoroughly about your finances, job history, and everything that can impact the underwriter's decision.” - Paige ZautckeConnect with Paige Zautcke:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paige-zautcke-ab17a149/ Phone: 414-699-8333Email: paigezautcke@openwholesale.com Connect with Dante Royster:Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRPLinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedInTwitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoysterYouTube: Epic Spotlight Email: dante@epic.mortgageThe 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/TexasShow notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul TagamaAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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    21 mins
  • H. Edward Gallatin: Proactive Tax Strategies for Real Estate Success
    Sep 19 2024
    H. Edward Gallatin, MBA, CPA, CTRS, a lifelong resident of the Wabash Valley is a distinguished professional with extensive academic background and a profound commitment to his community. With a foundation from Indiana State University including a Bachelor of Science in Political Science (1980), Bachelor of Science in Accounting (1996), and a Master of Business Administration (1998), Mr. Gallatin imparts wisdom as an Accounting and Finance educator at Indiana State University and is a sought-after guest speaker on Personal Finance and Tax Strategies. Operating under the banner of H Edward Gallatin CPA, his firm is situated at 18 S. 5th Street, Terre Haute, Indiana, serving the diverse needs of individuals and small businesses within the Wabash Valley. With a distinguished certification as a Certified Tax Resolution Specialist (CTRS), Mr. Gallatin offers personalized, confidential assistance in addressing IRS-related issues, standing in stark contrast to the impersonal promises of national firms.In this episode Dante and Edward discuss:Tax-saving strategies like cost segregation and 1031 exchangesThe value of proactive CPA partnerships and regular meetingsTax benefits of cost segregation and stepped-up basis at inheritanceReal estate professional status and rental loss deductionsChoosing advisors who offer proactive advice, not just compliance workKey Takeaways: Real estate investors can leverage tax-saving strategies like cost segregation and 1031 exchanges, which offer significant benefits to reduce taxable income.Regular, proactive CPA meetings are essential, helping real estate investors navigate tax laws and make informed financial decisions throughout the year.Qualifying as a "real estate professional" provides investors the advantage of deducting rental losses against income, bypassing AGI limitations.Advisors should be chosen not just for their compliance skills but for their ability to offer strategic, forward-thinking advice tailored to real estate investments.Ignoring tax filings can lead to severe consequences, including forfeited refunds and potential legal action; professional assistance is crucial in avoiding these risks.“I think the biggest thing is cost segregation. Even those who are aware of it often think, ‘Well, I don’t own a big office complex or a mall.’ However, you can use cost segregation on residential rentals as well, which is often overlooked and can result in significant tax savings. For those playing the long game in real estate, the 1031 exchange is probably the best strategy for generating what I call generational wealth. It’s perfect for that.” - H. Edward GallatinConnect with H. Edward Gallatin:Website: https://www.heg-taxrelief.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/h-edward-gallatin-mba-cpa-ctrs-312a1354/ Phone: (812) 233-3989Email: hgallatin@aol.com Connect with Dante Royster:Website: https://www.danteroyster.com/Epic Mortgage Website: Epic Mortgage, Inc. NMLS 1885086Facebook: EpicMortgage1885086Epic Mortgage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicmortgage/“The Ultimate Mortgage Guide” book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKTRWLRPLinkedIn: Dante Royster | LinkedInTwitter: https://twitter.com/DanteRoysterYouTube: Epic Spotlight Email: dante@epic.mortgageThe 9 states that Epic Mortgage is licensed are: Illinois/Indiana/Michigan/Colorado/Maryland/Virginia/Florida/Georgia/TexasShow notes by Podcastologist: Angelo Paul TagamaAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
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    24 mins