Episodes

  • Barack Obama: The 44th President of The United States on values, leadership, family, sports & future of America, talks evolution of black QBs in the NFL, bond with wife Michelle, his daughters and empowering all of us to Vote!

    Barack Obama: The 44th President of The United States on values, leadership, family, sports & future of America, talks evolution of black QBs in the NFL, bond with wife Michelle, his daughters and empowering all of us to Vote!
    Oct 29 2024
    "What I'm constantly trying to do is to expose people to how stuff works, and let them know that they have power and they have agency. Any person and any young man that I meet is...you have power. And the question is, how can you use it?" Over two years ago when we set out to start The Pivot Podcast, We wanted it to be a platform for everyone and a place where ANYONE could come have a conversation and feel comfortable. We have been grateful to have hundreds of inspiring and impactful discussions over the years sitting with athletes, champions, A-list entertainers, musicians, comedians, business leaders and now the 44th President of The United States. In a groundbreaking episode of The Pivot, in partnership with Fanatics, we're honored to welcome former President Barack Obama who shares his insight, experiences, and leadership which has inspired millions around the world. We reflect back on his journey to the White House and everything in between while listening to his words on life, politics, family, and the ever-evolving landscape of sports and society. The authenticity of our conversation is powerful, as President Obama opens up with candor, humor, and wisdom, reminding us why he's not only a transformative leader but also a man who’s navigated his life’s Pivots with heart and humility. Ryan, Fred, and Channing open the episode chopping it up about sports with the Chicago fan. President Obama reflects on the evolution of Black quarterbacks in the NFL, noting how the game continues to adapt to the times and how instrumental it is that race doesn’t define these athletes as it once did. Obama shares how the NFL is often a mirror to society, embodying our advancements and the persistent need to challenge stereotypes. Just as the game of football has changed, he emphasizes how America has, too—but there’s still work to be done, and he challenges us all to keep pushing forward. We also get a rare glimpse into his personal life behind the scenes, especially the role his family has played in keeping him grounded and providing perspective. Talking about his partnership with Michelle, he acknowledges how her unwavering support allowed him to tackle the relentless demands of the presidency while still being the father and husband he dreamt. From family dinners at the White House to raising his daughters with humility, President Obama shares heartfelt insight into the blending act between family and public service and how he aimed to give his kids as “normal” a childhood as possible, even under the global spotlight. And with one of the most anticipated and crucial times in our country's history, Election Day is a week away on Tuesday, November 5, and the former president shares reflections on the importance of using our voice and our power, reminding us that our role as citizens is critical—whether it’s in voting or in staying informed about who’s truly looking out for our interests. Ryan asks why should people relate to his words and influence while Fred asks about the urgency of this election as a black man. President Obama’s response resonates in his message on every level as citizens, humans, family members, men and women of all races and religions setting the score of what's at stake for all of us, encouraging us to use our personal influence wisely, challenge assumptions, stay informed, and have empathy for all communities. Voting is our birthright, use it and understand we have power in our voice. For us at The Pivot, this was more than just an interview; more than just a conversation and more than just a guest...it's a moment in time that showcases why we love doing what we do and why certain voices carry so much weight. Let's just say, if we had a "Mt. Rushmore" wish list of Pivot guests, we now have reached one of those monuments. Please comment, like and share this conversation and let us know what you think. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr
  • Saquon Barkely Eagles Running Back on the viral moment he wish stayed private, Fueled by the Boo's from NY fans, exposes the reality of NFL business, talks Derrick Henry, Inside Philly's locker room & his true thoughts on Nick Sirianni

    Saquon Barkely Eagles Running Back on the viral moment he wish stayed private, Fueled by the Boo's from NY fans, exposes the reality of NFL business, talks Derrick Henry, Inside Philly's locker room & his true thoughts on Nick Sirianni
    Oct 25 2024
    "I don't really believe in failing. I believe in just lessons, you learn from it and you move on...It's I got your back you got my back mentality, and I think it''s a beautiful thing we have right now and that's why you see me slowly starting to find my groove." Saquon Barkley Eagles Running Back On this episode of The Pivot Podcast in partnership with Fanatics, Saquon Barkley gives a raw and personal look into his ups and downs through the NFL and life beyond the game. Pivot family, Saquon opens up to Ryan, Fred and Channing about the pressure of being in the spotlight, and how everything can be transformed into clickbait these days, shaping a narrative that doesn’t always reflect who he is-as seen with his most recent mic'd up viral moment against the NY Giants, a moment he wished stayed private but only shows more of who he really is at the core. Life in the public eye tends to be a lot, but for him, it’s all about staying focused on the bigger picture—his team, his work ethic, and staying true to himself. Coming off the game against his former Giants team, the Eagles star player shares how the the Boo's in NY may have caught him off guard but only fueled his motivation and how he finds strength in moving forward, believing in his talent and staying true to his core. Saquon speaks on the power of self-confidence, but also how critical it is to look outside yourself and have a strong support system of family, friends, teammates, and coaches to steady his journey. Despite an opportunity to break several rushing records, Saquon opted to sit out towards the end of the game to let younger guys get playing time and he reflects back on that choice sharing how he never wants a single moment to outweigh the mission and always moves with humility and a full heart. That humility was born out his family's openness to making mistakes, which gave Saquon the tools necessary to learn from his own. Although he was on top of the football world this week, last month, he felt the pressures of Monday football, with a missed opportunity on a play he makes 10 out of 10 times, Saquon talks about bouncing back from that and the reaction from Quarterback Jalen Hurts and the entire vibe of Philadelphia's locker room. Ryan asks about the current relationship between the team and Head Coach Nick Sirianni in which Saquon responds in a way you wouldn't expect but even more reason to appreciate his authenticity and perspective. He gets honest with the guys on how his relationship with Siriani taught him to never judge a book by its cover, and he's truly an incredible coach and great listener with an open door policy that's seriously affected his game. Being at the center of one of the NFL's biggest offseason sagas, Saquon takes us inside the real business of the league, where the fun of playing the game often meets the harsh reality of negotiations, contracts, and drama. He tells Ryan, Fred, and Chan his version of how the dealings in NY really played out and digging deep to find peace in his growth not to expose it all during the process but somberly shares how the reality of it can sometimes kill the spirit of the little kid in you who just wants to play the game. Saquon realizes how blessed he is to be healthy and doing what he loves as He breaks down the differences between New York and Philly- from the one thing he misses about the Giants and what he has bought into with the intensely passionate Philly fan base. And of course, We couldn't let him go without asking about the league's current rusher and how he views the success of his fellow running back Derrick Henry...a wholesome but true competitor's response. For more conversations like this, tap in every Tuesday at 12pm and on Friday's for special conversations with the world's top athletes, entertainers, leaders and a unique first person perspective on all storylines from sports to music to culture to news and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    54 mins
  • Rex Ryan: A football family, Coaching legacy, Going toe to toe with on of the best defensive minds, NY Jets, the best part of a NFL Locker room, making mistakes, happy feet, one regret & Unfinished business,

    Rex Ryan: A football family, Coaching legacy, Going toe to toe with on of the best defensive minds, NY Jets, the best part of a NFL Locker room, making mistakes, happy feet, one regret & Unfinished business,
    Oct 22 2024
    “How different would our world be if every single person played football and grew up in a damn locker room...” Rex Ryan current ESPN Analyst and former NFL Head Coach We got a treat for you today...or as he would some say a God Dam Snack! In today's episode of The Pivot Podcast in partnership with Fanatics, former NFL head coach Rex Ryan, filling in for Fred who’s away in London, joins Channing and Ryan for a conversation we never expected to be so in-depth and captivating. An episode full of humor and humility, this discussion isn’t just a football fan’s dream but it’s one to tap into for anyone who’s a believer in people, overcoming struggles and fighting internal battles privately while maintaining a tough demeanor on the outside and never being afraid to go toe to toe with anyone. Known for his brash personality, Rex Ryan has always unapologetically been himself which comes with a lot of highs and positives but behind the walls is a story and journey we can all learn from. From growing up in Canada with his mom to dealing with bullies at school to moving with his father Buddy one of the best defensive minds in NFL history to forging his own coaching legacy to being a dad, a husband and locker room leader, Rex opens up like never-before on all the chapters of his life and the ones still unwritten… As the current NY Jets navigate team controversy, Rex takes us through some of the most pivotal moments for him as a man and head coach sharing never-before-heard football stories, defensive mind, motivational tactics, Hard Knocks moments and answering for some of his questionable choices. The one thing Channing wants to know is, why isn't he coaching now? An answer that may surprise you... Having a little fun, Ryan gets Coach to explain some crazy comments he made about Channing back during Dolphins Jets rivalries as Rex peels back the layers of a three-decade-long coaching journey, recounting the highs of taking the Jets to the playoffs and the lingering regret of never winning a Super Bowl. He breaks down his unique coaching style, as seen on Hard Knocks, and emphasizes the importance of physicality and toughness on the field. Rex also shares a personal side of his story, talking about how growing up with dyslexia influenced his creative approach to the game and his ability to problem-solve as a coach. Tackling some unwanted headlines over the years, Rex addresses his infamous private matters leaking publicly and doubles down on how even to this day he loves his wife's feet and isn't afraid to say it. As we wrap the episode, Ryan strikes a chord and the conversation turns emotional as Rex reflects on the pride he feels watching his son follow in his coaching footsteps, continuing the Ryan family legacy and reveals one regret that still weighs on him now. Save 50% on your system, plus a free indoor security camera and your first month is free when you sign up for Core Monitoring. Visit https://SimpliSafe.com/pivot to customize yours! Try SimpliSafe risk-free. If you don’t love it, return it for a full refund within 60 days.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Considered a Bust? Former NFL star Running Back 3rd overall pick and Alabama legend Trent Richardson opens up about his football journey, tough lessons, losing over $1.6M, importance of OGs, parenting & finding peaceNew episode

    Considered a Bust? Former NFL star Running Back 3rd overall pick and Alabama legend Trent Richardson opens up about his football journey, tough lessons, losing over $1.6M, importance of OGs, parenting & finding peaceNew episode
    Oct 18 2024
    "We need the OGs. We need people like us who went through it and had the ups and downs in the game that's gonna tell you the truth..." This conversation is one we highly recommend as parents, athletes, coaches, those who have had the highest of highs and lowest of lows, and for people who feel they have failed at something and may have got lost in our purpose at one time and now look to forgive ourselves as we right the wrongs....We sit as men reflecting on tough times, regrets, learning from one another, accepting accountability and being able to apologize when we own up to things we could have said or done differently. On this episode of The Pivot Podcast, apart of Fanatics, Ryan, Channing and Fred sit with former NFL star running back, the No. 3 overall pick in 2012 and Alabama legend Trent Richardson to talk about his football journey and respond to people who look at his career as a bust as we gain understanding inside the mindset of a young athlete and what went wrong: How did the NFL go from being a dream come true to football becoming a nightmare? Trent shares his experiences growing up in a household with a single mother to becoming a young father at 16 while balancing being a star football player at Alabama and how it affected his NFL career. With high expectations as a player entering the league as a high draft pick and trusting people with his finances, Trent saw over $1.6M of his money unaccounted for quickly while dealing with an unguided start as a rookie. Trent was traded from Cleveland to Indianapolis without personal knowledge, only finding out on the radio and often criticized for not playing up to standards despite having decent numbers and breaking some rookie records. Diving into his journey, Fred, who was seen as a mentor and idolized by the young running back at one time, talks through some of the struggles and misconceptions Trent dealt with. Trent opened up on the criticisms he faced while sharing how he felt his issues stemmed from not having the right tools to succeed and discussed the personal matters he was dealing with in private while trying to get his football career on track. Ryan and Trent share a powerful moment of accountability and forgiveness as RC shares how Trent taught him a lesson in analyzing sports after making a comment about his play in a way that Ryan wouldn't do today. Being a good father and role model for young people today is something Trent prides himself in, admitting that having his kids is one thing that kept him going in the dark times. Opening a facility in Alabama and trying to be a voice for athletes to help them not make the same mistakes or fall into similar traps he did is Trent's mission today. Tap into this episode of a story filled with obstacles and struggle but one that's important we hear as we navigate our lives today and influence young people along the way. We appreciate Trent opening up and trusting us with his journey, hoping to change lives by sharing. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Michael Bennett Super Bowl Champion opens up about retiring from NFL worrying about his brain, Marshawn Lynch not getting ball in Super Bowl, turning passion into purpose, using his platform to influence culture, humanizing black men and architecture

    Michael Bennett Super Bowl Champion opens up about retiring from NFL worrying about his brain, Marshawn Lynch not getting ball in Super Bowl, turning passion into purpose, using his platform to influence culture, humanizing black men and architecture
    Oct 15 2024
    "It's okay to start over, but it's not okay to complain about what it takes to start over." Michael Bennett Super Bowl Champion On this episode of The Pivot in partnership with Fanatics, we’re sitting down with Super Bowl champ and 3x Pro Bowler Michael Bennett. Building a reputation in professional sports for being unique, Bennett shares with Ryan, Channing and Fred his journey from a young man growing up in Louisiana to getting into football to his close bond with his brother to being outspoken for black men and culture to the highs and lows of winning and losing a Super Bowl....but now life looks a little different for Michael —he’s living in Hawaii with his family, traveling the world, and diving deep into architecture and design. But being able to start over took some time, as Michael shares with the guys how he struggled to step away from the game he loved so much but knew deep down his worry about his brain and fear to never walk his daughter down the isle pushed him to retire from the NFL and refocus his efforts differently. Michael talks about how much he loved every moment of the game, but ultimately made the selfless decision to say good bye to it so he could stay healthy knowing football was his passion but family is his purpose. Michael was part of some of football's toughest defensive cores in NFL history and part of building the 2013 Super Bowl Championship team in Seattle as he breaks down some of his top ranked defenses of all time and gives his thoughts on today's game. He gives his take on one of the biggest enigmas of Seattle's Super Bowl loss, which is why did Marshawn Lynch not get the ball as the game winded down with a chance to win a 2nd Super Bowl...Michael shares the inside talk of what really happened that play call and what he saw happening if Marshawn was given the ball that play. Considered a controversial career by some, Fred, Ryan and Channing commend him for always taking a stand on important issues and ask how Michael found the courage to stand up for black people, being in locker rooms where his outspokenness was often frowned upon by fans, the franchise and teammates. Michael explains how growing up him and his brother would receive punishments to read encyclopedias, so learning was always a key part of their lives. That intellectual curiosity shaped how he approached football, and his love for the X’s and O’s as He didn’t just want to be a great player; he wanted to study the game and master it. But his interests stretched way beyond the field which Michael became known for speaking out on important issues, from activism to social justice, never afraid to stand up for what he believed in or try to spread his message in creative ways not hostility, even writing a book, "Things that Make White People Uncomfortable". Since retiring from football, Michael's focused on spreading a different message: the importance of design, especially in black communities, and creating opportunities for his culture. Humanizing black men, making it okay for them to be vulnerable and emotional is one of his main goals as he explains how, as an athlete, people try to put you in a box, but for him it’s all about breaking those stereotypes. To him, intellect and emotion are just as vital as the toughness and grit it takes to make it in both the NFL and life after the game. Tap in now on YouTube to watch full episode and hit Subscribe. New episodes every Tuesday at 12pm est and Friday at 3:30pm est. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Ryan Clark, Fred Taylor & Channing Crowder thoughts on NFL Season, Missing what you love, Life regrets, Struggles, Parenting, Birthday reflections & How will you be remembered when you are gone?

    Ryan Clark, Fred Taylor & Channing Crowder thoughts on NFL Season, Missing what you love, Life regrets, Struggles, Parenting, Birthday reflections & How will you be remembered when you are gone?
    Oct 11 2024
    For so long, so many of our Pivot followers have asked when we will interview each other and share our own takes on certain personal questions we often wonder about but never have time to dig in and find out ... .so we are finally doing it! That’s right, on this episode of the Pivot, in partnership with Fanatics, Ryan, Fred, and Channing switch it up and dive into one another’s stories by interviewing each other, leaning into their own vulnerabilities while learning the how and why of who they are today and where they see themselves in the future. The conversation kicks off with football, talking about the early youth years to how each got their big NFL break to the things they would have done differently to any regrets and how their respective teams shaped their legacy. Ryan opens up about his undrafted journey to battling Sickle Cell to winning a Super Bowl, and how those experiences furthered his "underdog mentality"—something that still fuels him today. Fred is honest about missing the game and wishing he could still play while Channing doesn't miss it at all. Channing finds it ironic that Fred feels a void because in the history books, Fred is one of the best to ever play his position. But despite Fred's legendary career, he opens up on his own struggles, through dealing with the "Fragile Freddy" stages to not yet making the Hall of Fame and the emotional toll public perception took on him. Channing gets real about the balance (or lack of) between football and everything else he did away from the game…revealing some regrets about the choices he made and how it affected his career. Understanding that life always moves at a fast pace, doesn't mean we shouldn’t stop and realize the reach of our choices is far beyond the field and what we contribute each day is how we will be remembered long after we are gone. On the eve of Ryan’s 45th birthday, he reflects on where he is today and the mission he tries to live out in all his life moments not wanting his Super Bowl win to be the single accomplishment everyone references with more focus on the impact he makes each day and how he’s seen for his contributions as well as how he’s viewed by the people closest to him. Ryan shares a personal story of a childhood friend recently passing away and how age is creeping up on us and that when it’s all said and done, he doesn’t want to be defined by his past or a single accomplishment but by who is today and his current mission. Posing the same question to the guys, Ryan asks what the future holds for each of his co-hosts. Channing shares his vision about making the Crowder name mean something, both for his family and business, while Fred’s focus is on his kids and teaching them to be strong minded and live with integrity. The depth of vulnerability and authenticity displayed in the voice of Ryan, Channing and Fred is something that will resonate with all of us as we continue to Pivot through our own lives and journeys. Make progress towards your financial goals with Chime. Visit https://www.chime.com/PIVOT Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    57 mins
  • Culture meets Sports,: Wallo267 & Gillie Da Kid, Impact of shared information, Armed with Good Intentions, Most valuable advice shared & Received and evolution as men, fathers, friends & entrepreneurs

    Culture meets Sports,: Wallo267 & Gillie Da Kid, Impact of shared information, Armed with Good Intentions, Most valuable advice shared & Received and evolution as men, fathers, friends & entrepreneurs
    Oct 8 2024
    "Everyone's looking at your glory, not your story." Wallo, podcast host of Million Dollaz Worth of Game, Author and Motivational speaker BIG Pivot today....The Podcast Collab of the year! In this episode of The Pivot Podcast, in partnership with Fanatics, Ryan, Channing and Fred sit down with the Philadelphia duo, Wallo and Gillie, who are trailblazers in new media, utilizing life experiences from music, the streets, life and loss to shape black culture and excellence through their various platforms and their hit podcast "Million Dollaz Worth Of Game." This is truly long overdue and much needed, bringing together our two massive platforms and five men who see life differently but all have the same goal and path forward is one of the most powerful conversations you can tap into right now. The conversation weaves in and out of funny moments that will have you hysterically laughing to somber moments of reflection and impact, where wisdom and game is exchanged. The authenticity of who Wallo and Gillie are at their core reigns through in everything they do as most of the conversation is joking around with their gift to take serious subjects and make light of them in order to bring awareness. Bickering on just about every wild topic, from sports to music to prison showers to the best brand of soap to which athletes party harder, and even how their own podcast started. Gillie and Wallo take the guys through their interactions with fans and how they believe they've managed to become such a force in both black culture and podcasting because of their relatability with other people. "We remind people of their uncles," said Gillie. Much of what we learn in life is through experiences and the value of shared information is key to growth in all areas which is something Wallo and Gillie stress to Ryan, Channing and Fred. Having powerful platforms is important but how the guys use their platforms to provide messaging and how people, young and old, see them is shaping culture and future generations. Talking top headlines, the guys chat about the current landscape of sports, present-day NFL, the culture surrounding today’s highly paid athletes, and the challenges that come with the game’s evolution. Gillie gives some personal advice to his beloved Philadelphia Eagles, breaking down what they need to do to win, which had all the guys heeled over laughing. Wallo, on the other hand, opens up about opportunity and writing "Armed With Good Intentions", a book detailing his journey of mistakes, mishaps and lessons from his time in prison to the invaluable lessons he learned. His story of resilience and redemption offers powerful takeaways that resonate with anyone going through tough times or feel lost in what they are doing. The strength of Wallo and Gillie is to have tough conversations regarding race in America, manifesting in the smallest ways with big impact, the everyday struggles of black men down to how the black experience isn't perfect but stress ways of prioritizing protection and hoping to show paths of growth and alternate approaches to success. The conversation wraps reflecting on everyone's journey, navigating the unforeseeable future and power in the Pivot....It's never too late to Pivot and that's a Million Dollaz Worth Of Game. New Episodes out every Tuesday at 12pm EST and Fridays 3:30pm EST. Wallo's Book, "Armed With Good Intentions" is out now and a must read! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 34 mins
  • Savage Mentality: Masai Russell 24 year old Olympic Gold Medalist 100M Hurdles, winning mindset, being the underdog in Paris, Kentucky Wildcats, Track and Field competition, Real stories of Olympic Village and growing up as a young black woman

    Savage Mentality: Masai Russell 24 year old Olympic Gold Medalist 100M Hurdles, winning mindset, being the underdog in Paris, Kentucky Wildcats, Track and Field competition, Real stories of Olympic Village and growing up as a young black woman
    Oct 4 2024
    "No one had me making the Olympic team, no one definitely had me winning, and in that moment I felt I proved myself right and I proved everyone else wrong." Masai Russell On this episode of the Pivot Podcast in partnership with Fanatics, we sit down with Olympic gold medalist Masai Russell, who shocked the world when she took home the gold in the 100m hurdles at just 24 years old after finishing third in the Olympic qualifiers. Masai opens up to Ryan, Fred, and Channing about her journey, sharing how she pushed through the toughest mental and physical moments when quitting felt like her only option. Masai shares the mindset shift that helped her overcome the haters and self-doubt, and ultimately prove herself right- even when no one else had her making the Olympic team, let alone winning Gold in Paris. The Kentucky Wildcat star is the NCAA record holder in the event, Masai has been incredibly dedicated to track and field since she was eight years old. Her passion for the sport runs deep, and she explains to the guys why her motivation has nothing to do with the money or the fame, but doing what she loves and letting the rest fall into place. The conversation is full of fun and genuine moments, giving us a glimpse into a young black woman with determination, discipline and reveals her future goals, from breaking world records to continuing to grow as an athlete and role model. But as sweet and well spoken as Masai is, don't let the cheery spirit fool you, Masai makes it clear, when it comes to competing, being a savage is all she knows. Humbled by the opportunities and success in her young life, Masai is grounded by her family roots and uses her life experiences to offer insight into the future of sports, college NIL deals, promoting a personal brand using TikTok- where she shows off a more playful, personal side of herself to her 744K followers as a way of connecting with fans off the track, and feels the platform is beneficial for up-and-coming athletes in the space. She also reveals the most famous person in her Instagram, fills in Channing on what the Olympic Village is really like and the "anti-sex beds" as well as other stories that will lead you to wanting to hear more and more. Masai ultimately wants to be the athlete role model she didn't always have growing up, and prove to the world that with hard work and the right mindset, anything is possible. Tap in to today's episode for an inside look at the next generation of Olympic athletes- if they're anything like Masai the USA is in good hands! Thank you SoFi for sponsoring the video! Go to https://www.sofigamechangers.com to enter for a chance to win. Our friends at SoFi are giving away $100k to public high school sports teams around the country. If you got a team who could use an assist, enter for a chance to win! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 4 mins