#Reallife Podcast

Abbie & Daniélle were so inspired chatting with the one and only Jennifer Jayne this week. Her story began in 2011 as a lifestyle blogger, evolving swiftly into a thriving Social Media Management and Virtual Assistance agency by 2014. However, Jennifer arrived at a turning point in 2020, compelling her to transition fully into brand strategy and coaching, helping small business owners and female entrepreneurs crystallize their core values and redefine success on their terms.

It's that time of year again - Abbie and Daniélle are once again geeking out about their favorite content of the season. Movies! Books! And Shows...OH MY! (And don't forget about those podcasts). Listen to what we've been most enjoying, and let us know YOURS!

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No matter who you are...where you're from...or what you did (*cue BSB chorus now*)- there's a way you communicate with others. People everywhere express their thoughts, feelings and grievances by (but are certainly not limited to) speaking, body language, active listening, texting, and so much more. Abbie & Daniélle even get into a recent disagreement among a group of friends where miscommunication resulted in a lot of things left unsaid. Side tangents (but also completely related to said topic) include: the movie Mean Girls, Gossip, Constructive feedback, Defense mode, Love Languages, the Israel/Hamas war, and even Couples' therapy. There's something for everyone in this one - stay tuned for the #InstagramVsReality to learn why gender stereotypes in dance, especially in the year 2023, have GOT. TO. GO!

Books to learn More

4 Essential Keys to Effective Communication

https://amzn.to/3QsEx3d

How to win friends and influence people

https://amzn.to/46BKoZE

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Meet Jamie Hayen, your Get on Camera Video Coach! She helps you create better videos for social media, as well as attract and connect with new clients. Abbie & Daniélle got to experience firsthand Jamie’s enthusiasm for this work, and we couldn't stop writing down the many epic quotes she was throwing down in this episode! Hear how she transitioned from being a math major, to instead being INSPIRED by past educators to help make an impact in others' lives.

Julie Lavia is a Female Empowerment Coach, passionate about helping other women with their online presence through digital content marketing.  She discusses her beginnings in blogging, why being an Introvert is actually her superpower, and all her creative pivots along the way to solo entrepreneurship. she is using her pain to turn into passion and purpose.

In her limited free time, Julie also hosts the She Means Impact podcast, to inspire female entrepreneurs to "Get visible, Increase Impact, Create Content, and Go From Trial to Triumph." she has overcome obstacles that allowed her to start using her voice to speak up and share her story and wants to inspire others to do the same.

Connect with Julie in a number of ways to take advantage of her networking opportunities, blog strategy packages, and other upcoming events!

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Abbie & Daniélle had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Intuitive Business Coach, Nadia Gargallo, to learn more about using human design as a self-growth tool. She shares with vulnerability how recovering from an eating disorder has led her to being a coach in this space; educating women how to balance both their masculine with feminine energies.

If you had to choose….Are you a summer ☀️ or an autumn 🍁 girly!?

While Abbie & Daniélle are both excited for the upcoming change in season, we don't want to rush through the last few weeks of summer weather! Listen to us discuss some of our favorite fall activities, then transition to what our ideal summer camp (and camping) activities would be. Abbie even gets candid on her inner hatred of the outdoors....Lots of laughs in this one!

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Cindy Vallone is born and raised and now raising her own family in Southern California. She is a busy wife, mom to 2 teenaged boys, and an entrepreneur. She and her family have been using essential oils for over 6 years and have made over their medicine cabinet. Today, they use essential oils for their first line of defense for head to toe wellness. Whether it’s for physical, emotional or mental wellness, doTERRA has ‘an oil for that!’Currently, Cindy has an international team of Wellness Advocates who help people around the globe meet their wellness goals with safe, natural, and toxin-free products. Recently she and her family have become volunteer puppy raisers for the non-profit organization: Guide Dogs for the Blind. They are currently raising their 3rd puppy, Amalfi, who is a wonderful addition to the family and we hope that he’ll behave during this podcast! Cindy enjoys hiking yoga and is looking forward to learning how to paddle board this summer. Her weakness is cinnamon gummy bears and she’d like to dedicate this podcast to all of her teachers who wrote “Cindy talks too much in class,” because now she talks for a living

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Back to school is not just for the children!

Abbie reports how early school drop-offs have been going for her, Eli and Bagel the dog; while Daniélle shares why sitting and watching a TV show with someone else is the perfect example of her love language (quality time)

This episode was recorded pre- our Chicago trip together, and we were both UBER excited for the second friendship hang in less than a week! (But this time - Abbie travels to Daniélle's home base for some fun and debauchery - stay tuned for that update)!

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Abbie & Daniélle share this mini episode with you - recording for the first time TOGETHER and IN-PERSON!! Listen to the hosts recap the Ludacris concert from the Iowa State Fair, while simultaneously preparing for Abbie's house(warming) party that night. (At the end of the podcast, you even get to hear our real-time reactions to a few friend arrivals). Other tangents include concerts and pet adoptions before our quick departure!

**But don't you worry - we'll be back next with with our regularly scheduled programming :)

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Come along for the ride as Abbie & Daniélle basically time travel back to the year 2003. It is here where Daniélle can rewatch (while Abbie for the VERY FIRST TIME watches) an episode of hit Fox TV show "The O.C." The hosts lovingly (and with some critiques) chat about the pilot episode, character arcs, plot lines, and discuss whether or not the show writing holds up 20 years later. Because Abbie has truly never seen a single episode, you best believe she has some thoughts! This was a fun nostalgia recap, and the hosts quickly realize it is going to be harder than originally thought to to reverse roles in this experiment (AKA: find a show that Daniélle has never seen before)!

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Leya Van Doren is a writer, creativity coach, and podcaster...but in her own words (and descriptors Abbie & Daniélle are most drawn to) - she is also "A maker of medicines, singer of songs, and collector of stories and seashells." Even in this brief sentence, her creative spirit shines!

During the episode, Leya weaves together many stories from her life - between growing up with 7 siblings, living in an ashram, to studying musical theatre and the arts - and how she now guides others to their own creative magic. If you need a motivator for your own creative ventures (and how to overcome self-limiting beliefs) this one is for you!

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TW: Racism, transphobia, and sexual abuse allegations

Right before this recording, Abbie witnessed an overt racial profiling at the grocery store - which led the hosts discussing numerous topics about white privilege, racial profiling, and so many other BULL$#!+ things that (unfortunately) BIPOC and marginalized individuals have to experience on the daily.

Abbie also shares a few podcasts that cover some heavy topics surrounding celebrities. Abbie & Daniélle process if it's appropriate or not to separate the art from the artist, and why nuanced conversations on trauma cycles are SO important to have.

Links from this episode:

We (Abbie and Daniélle) go everywhere in this episode - We talk about different projects we're involved in for our businesses, trauma-informed care, procrastination and anxiety being our own worst enemies, even inner AND world peace! Truly, no topic is left unturned. And because we can't make up our minds...we will let you the listeners decide who the real #QuoteQueen is of #RealLife.

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People truly love to hate on artificial intelligence (AI)......but what IS it exactly!?

Well, look no further! This episode is for you - whether you're an avid Chat GPT (or other similar search engine) user like Daniélle, or are fearful that tech inventions will soon be taking over the world (like Abbie at the beginning of the episode) - there's a little something for everyone in this one. Hang out with the #RealLife hosts as they give their "armchair expert" opinions on something that truly still goes over our (...*Abbie's*....) heads a little bit. We also couldn't end an episode without sharing some favorite pop culture references that contain AI plot points.

So who knows - maybe one of us learns that embracing new things doesn't have to be so scary after all! :) Links from the Episode:

Empathy Chatbot Study:

Have you watched the popular Netflix show "How to Get Rich" yet??? Or maybe, you've been a longtime stan of Ramit Sethi, and have devoured his book & podcast (both titled "I Will Teach you to Be Rich")?  On this episode, join Abbie and Daniélle where they get candid about their relationships to finances - or what Ramit likes to coin as a "money story."  All traditionally taboo topics are on the table: income, debt, investments, savings (or lack thereof)...and of course student loans.  The hosts are sharing their individual successes and struggles with money, in hopes to open up the conversation with the #RealLife community.  Join us in getting vulnerable!

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The internet is filled to the max with memes about aging, and millennial influencers complaining about their aches and pains....but Daniélle & Abbie are here and ready to debate with the collective: we HAVE to stop putting this energy in the universe! In the episode, the hosts discuss and share the reasons why we all should stop saying "I'm too old for this;" - because NOTHING is more off-putting than a self-limiting belief! Get some inspiration from this conversation of ways to re-think and reframe those thoughts, (and why STRESSING about aging is actually more harmful than anything else).

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To celebrate ONE HUNDRED episodes of #RealLife, Abbie & Daniélle are taking a look back at our top 5 most popular episodes! Hear us reflect on some special conversations, hear snippets of each episode, and just enjoy this trip down memory lane. And of course, here's to 100 more...CHEERS!

Links to the OG episodes:

On today's episode, we (Abbie & Daniélle) catch up with our good friend, Catherine Koth. We chat about dancing our years away at Iowa State University, what it's like to move across the country, parenting, and of course...embracing social awkwardness. Catherine discusses her career transition from the accounting world, to now working as an independent travel advisor. In her role, Catherine specializes in all things Disney, as well as destinations to Europe and the Caribbean (including cruises)! Abbie & Daniélle cannot wait to use her services for their future vacations! But more importantly, we loved re-connecting we our fellow Cyclone alum, Midwesterner, and lover of all things DISNEY. Connect with Catherine:

With Abbie's upcoming move back to Iowa, the #RealLife hosts regale and share funny memories from their years of constantly moving......AKA: basically ever since college. Abbie & Daniélle discuss the pros and cons of living on their own vs. roommates, which amenities are necessities, and why you should also pack an extra pair of shoes and bug spray everywhere you go.

It should go without saying, but May 4th was a very important day this year! First, congrats to Abbie and her family for closing on their first home! (Well really, thanks to her husband Dee for doing all the hard work).

But more importantly - HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY to the one and only, DHill!

Abbie & Daniélle kick off Mental Health Month with a quick catch up on all things self-care.

They discuss their favorite past and current self-care habits, how to navigate the ebbs and flows of anxiety, ways to slow down in your day....and even why water is the most basic (and important) thing you can do for your physical AND mental health.

Tune in to learn more about the power of self-care for mental health and how you can start taking better care of yourself today.

Let us know how you are honoring your mental health this day (and every) month!

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Abbie & Daniélle are back at it again with a solo episode - this time discussing our first jobs, the pros and cons of work uniforms, funny memories at the workplace....and of course, we somehow switch gears & go down a rabbit hole that includes silly memories being children of single moms. If you've ever wondered what DHill means by a "party backpack," or why Abbie's mom made her be a pooper scooper in a parade...you'll wanna check this one out!

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What does the weather, New York City, Washington D.C., & Celebrity Death Match all have in common? Other than being completely random, they each get their own tangent in this episode! Abbie & Daniélle give their thoughts on the world-famous "I

STAY WEIRD EVERYONE!

Episode Resources:

https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-mayor-adams-and-partnership-new-york-city-launch-citywide-civic-action

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Marveliz Polanco - aka @coachmarveliz - is a self-love and empowerment coach whose goal is to help clients "break free from the anchors holding them back from living a life of fulfillment and excitement." This conversation was MOTIVATIONAL AS HELL! Tune in to hear Marveliz educate on so many topics, including the importance of mindset in transformation work, support systems, trusting your intuition, and following your dreams.

I mean, this girl manifested not only her dream career and move to Miami....but also her current partner! Listen here to learn from the expert herself.

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Abbie & Daniélle start off the show having a VERY necessary conversation (deciding whether The Hills is truly a guilty pleasure, or just good TV) - and we unpack how our perceptions of TV villains have changed since high school. The rest of the episode, the friends recap their recent busy weeks, and give a few exciting life updates to our listeners!

f.y.i: You'll just have to listen to find out what's in store! :)

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On Thursday March 23rd there was a congressional hearing with the CEO of tik-tok. Leading to a potential ban of tik-tok. Causing scares from creators, businesses and individuals all over the US. 

There are multiple layers to this topic. 

US Security Safety 

Censorship 

Accessibility 

Income 

Generational gaps 

Race/equity 

Daniélle discusses her hot takes on these topics.  What this means for the US and users of the app moving forward also what it is like to be a creator on the tik-tok app. 

Daniélle breaks down her thoughts on reality television and how it impacts our society at large.

What is your definition of a guilty pleasure? Why is it always reality tv?

What can you learn from your favorite tv shows on television. Why cable syndication is dying and streaming services are really taking over. How has main stream media covered topics such as diversity inclusion and interracial dating.

How are you consuming main stream media?

-Shows referenced 

The perfect match 

Love is blind 

The bachelor 

Top Reality shows of 2023 ⏬

TW: Cults, Domestic Abuse, Gangs, Gun Violence

Abbie & Daniélle were VERY excited to sit down with Podcast Nation's Facebook group founder, Brian Harris, as we both have found many valuable connections in this space! During the conversation, Brian is candid about his traumas from youth to adulthood, and how he has since found the benefits of self-reflection and constant learning. Brian is an inspiring individual who uses his life lessons for good today - not only as a religious cult & gang survivor living now with a disability, but also a partner, father, and community member. We cover so many topics in our discussion, such as his hobbies in music and horror popculture, his past and current work as an author and co-publisher of the magazine Wengs Chop, and of course navigating the endless online trolls. Just know that if you are EVER planning to start a Facebook Community, first take some pointers from our new friend, Brian!

Part 2 of our 2023 interview with Travis Horn. To hear the first half of this conversation, (and to avoid any confusion) you can check that out below:

**TW: domestic violence, physical/emotional abuse, trauma survival

Abbie & Daniélle had the absolute pleasure and honor of speaking with Lianne Torres for this episode.  She is the Founder, CEO & Host of the Watch us Thrive podcast, and in 2021 she began her personal development journey after escaping a physically & emotionally abusive relationship. At that time (and in her own words) she knew it was time for a hard reset in order to begin healing her inner shadows.

In the process of her journey to healing, Lianne started her podcast to share the life stories of what she’s gone through. It has since become a beautiful & safe platform where guests come on to share their own life experiences of turning their pain into power and trauma into triumph.  

Watch Us Thrive is a personal development podcast that talks about mental health, healing from trauma that keeps us stuck in toxic, sh*tty relationships & how we can reconnect with our inner magic.  Lianne is passionate AF about helping listeners heal from their own life experiences by candidly sharing her own and the stories of others....and we know by the end of the episode you will feel Lianne's contagious energy through your speakers! 

One of Lianne's favorite quotes is: "We're gonna talk about the sh*t you don't want to talk about...but it NEEDS to be talked about!" She holds nothing back in this conversation, and we're so blessed that Lianne shared her time with the #RealLife family. While our virtual hug at the end of the recording will do for now, we truly can't wait for a future meet up where we can soak up all of Lianne's bad bitch vibes in person :) 

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Clare Loughran is a self identified *Fun Enthusiast* ....and we couldn't agree more! She has her hands in so many creative avenues, including improv comedy, voice over acting, podcasting, and an undying love for Broadway musicals.  Clare shares with  Abbie & Daniélle what it was like to attend clown college after studying theatre, followed by moving to L.A. to pursue a variety of passions. We are so grateful our (kids at heart) paths crossed on the socials, and if you're ever looking for laughter or just straight fun - check out any and all of Clare's content!

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Instagram & Tik Tok: @clary_poppins 

Podcast: Inside the Disney Vault

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Instagram @Reallifepodad

Facebook- Reallife Podcast With Abbie & Daniélle

Don't let the episode title fool you - this convo is ANYTHING but dark!  Abbie & Daniélle sit back and have a girls' chat with Chi-Town friend, Christa Beck.  Topics range from astrology stereotypes, moving across the country, passion projects, future career dreams, and so much more. Our cheeks hurt from laughing too hard in this recording...ENJOY :)

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Instagram @Reallifepodad

Facebook- Reallife Podcast With Abbie & Daniélle

Abbie & Daniélle take another swing at trivia - but this time the nostalgic theme is 2000's TV!  The episode is also very special, as it features our most excited & adorable guest yet...Abbie's 7-year-old son, Eli!  Hear Abbie's lil' man introduce the show, ask a question (or 2), make random noises in the background, and caps off his debut episode by sending out our listeners at the end. We hope you enjoy the fun! #peaceout :)

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Facebook- Reallife Podcast With Abbie & Daniélle

--Although this episode covers tough topics such as grief, loss, funerals, and death, Abbie & Daniélle truly feel this is more of an uplifting conversation, which honors the memory of their loved ones.The hosts of #RealLife both experienced losses of family members early January, and in this conversation come together to be candid and vulnerable with their emotions (now that both funerals are a few weeks removed). As per usual, Abbie & Daniélle use a mixture of both heart-to-hearts AND laughter to process the pure awkwardness that visitations/funerals present. And if nothing else, we are here to tell you that there is not one perfect way to grieve...If you have recently lost someone, just know that we love you, we are here for you, and let those emotions flow in your own time

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Facebook- Reallife Podcast With Abbie & Daniélle

Abbie & Daniélle recap their super fun NYE Instagram Live party, and briefly reflect on lessons they've learned in 2022 (as well as what they plan to bring -- and/or leave behind -- in 2023. They both chose a word to embrace in the new year, and share different goals/intentions they have planned for the next 12 months.

Say it with us: 2023 is gonna be a GREAT year!

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Facebook- Reallife Podcast With Abbie & Daniélle

Email: reallifepodad@gmail.com

According to meteorologists across the country, last week we all lived through an apparently "once in a lifetime" winter storm, as it impacted almost every state in the U.S. (The big bummer it being right before Christmas travels).  At the time of this episode recording, Abbie & Daniélle were both bundled up trying to stay warm in the -11 degree (felt like -35 degree Fahrenheit) Midwest weather! The hosts briefly connect to recap their current snow day debacles, favorite snow day memories.... and somehow end up chatting about some of their favorite content to Netflix and chill with when they're stuck inside. 

We hope you all had a wonderful holiday weekend and are now warming up with the 30 degree heatwave! ;)

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Facebook- Reallife Podcast With Abbie & Daniélle

Email: reallifepodad@gmail.com

TW: Death; Suicide

It's been a heavy week, ya'll.

To be honest, we (Abbie & Daniélle) originally had other plans for this episode.  But with the recent and tragic passing of Stephen 'tWitch' Boss, mental health awareness and suicide prevention felt like the only relevant topics important enough to share.

We first reminisce on our favorite tWitch performances through the years. and why he is so important to us, our dance friends, & popular culture as a whole.  We then follow up by getting vulnerable with our own struggles with anxiety/depression, as well as grief and loss over the holiday season.  We share why it's important not only to reach out and check in on your friends and family, but to also provide emotional space for the "strong" or "funny ones" in your corner.

**If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or suicidal thoughts, please reach out to either US National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or simply dial 988 (the suicide & crisis lifeline).

Resources:

https://people.com/tv/stephen-twitch-boss-most-memorable-dance-performances/

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Facebook- Reallife Podcast With Abbie & Daniélle

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Ever wonder what a child of a single mom in the 90's does for fun??  Well look no further than today's episode!  Abbie & Daniélle share funny stories about the silly ways they kept themselves busy as tiny humans.  Get the scoop on all their weird inspirations, including the movies that inspired their make believe worlds, and why imagination is {apparently} the greatest coping skill for anxiety.  Later on in our convo, Daniélle then has the pleasure of assisting Abbie in an impromptu friend-therapy session -  processing her Catholic upbringing...you definitely don't want to miss this!

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Facebook- Reallife Podcast With Abbie & Daniélle

Email: reallifepodad@gmail.com

Abbie & Daniélle not only get a little silly this episode, but also share with each other some fun Holiday- and December-themed trivia!  So: If you ever wanted to know how the month December got it's name, or about the unique (and even one downright creepy) holiday festivals from around the world, join us on this adventure!

Episode Resources:

Nicole Determan is an Iowa Native, who specializes in brand photography for the creative multi passionate entrepreneur.  Before she was living out her passion as a career, she just so happened to be a best friend of Daniélle! In this episode, Nicole discusses her journey from finance to running her own business, and how she, too,  was surprised that her calling behind the camera could be more than a hobby. Nicole also educates why everyone - not just business owners - can and should care about their brand (on and off social media). This conversation is sure to inspire any aspiring creator - enjoy!

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Holiday Season is now and Thanksgiving is around the corner in a week.

So what really is the "ideal" holiday season anyhow? You know those hallmark holidays you have in your head. They might not exist and that is completely okay. 

Daniélle has a solo episode this week discussing the 10 tips to survive this holiday season. 

How to protect your energy during the busiest time of year 

Why it is so important to speak kindly to yourself and others during the holiday season 

The holiday Season brings up quite a mixed bag of emotions so if you are feeling a little uneasy going into these last tail months of year and just need some best practices give it a listen. 

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Instagram @Reallifepodad

Facebook- Reallife Podcast With Abbie & Daniélle

Email: reallifepodad@gmail.com

In this episode, Abbie & Daniélle challenge each other to an impromptu (and surprisingly difficult) 90's trivia questionnaire.  No topic is left unturned - pop culture, music, politics, celebrity news, and random historical tidbits we had no idea would be so important to the decade.  You might be asking yourself: who will win this 90's showdown...?  Well, you'll just have to listen to find out! 

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Instagram @Reallifepodad

Facebook- Reallife Podcast With Abbie & Daniélle

Email: reallifepodad@gmail.com

We know where WE will be on Tuesday, November 8th....but the real question is: Have YOU made a voting plan yet!? Well good news, in most states It's not too late! Listen to the episode now, then check out the resources below.  Learn how to get registered vote, research the candidates in YOUR area, and make a voting plan that works within your busy schedules! It's never too late to make your voices heard. 

Episode Links: