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#290 Why Good Ideas Need Great Systems with Guest Expert: Jenn Kleiber
#290 Why Good Ideas Need Great Systems with Guest Expert: Jenn Kleiber
In today’s episode, I’m sitting down with my incredible mastermind client, Jenn Kleber, a former educator turned sought-after business coach for education consultants.
Jenn’s story is packed with bold decisions, mindset shifts, and tactical strategies that helped her pivot and continue to grow in today’s market, and in this episode she’s sharing it all.
If you’ve ever felt like your business should be working but it just isn’t, you're not alone. In this powerful conversation, Jenn reveals what really happens behind the scenes when you go all-in on your business and how to keep going when results feel slow.
If you’ve ever doubted your calling or questioned your next move, this episode is for you.
What to Listen For:
- The pivotal moment Jenn decided to start her own consulting business and what pushed her to go all in.
- How your “warm market” could be the fastest path to your first bookings.
- The real reason Jenn's first six months after pivoting didn’t go as planned (and what she did about it).
- What to do when the strategy isn’t working (and how to fix it without scrapping everything).
- The system that took Jen from reactive bookings to predictable, scalable growth.
- Why “working hard” isn’t enough and what most business owners get wrong about strategy.
- The ripple effect of impact: how helping your clients win creates momentum in your business too.
- And so much more...
This episode was a masterclass in mindset, strategy, and staying the course even when growth feels slow. If you’re in a season of pivot or building something new, Jenn’s story is the proof that systems work and your business can too. Be sure to DM us your biggest takeaway, and don’t forget to subscribe for next week’s episode!
Important Links:
- Follow Rachel on Instagram: @rachelrmcmichael
- Get our FREE High Converting Landing Page Template HERE
- Join The Growth Lab™ HERE!
- Follow Jenn on Instagram!
- Connect with Jenn on her website and podcast HERE!
- Join Jenn’s FREE Masterclass HERE!
]]>
In today’s episode, I’m sitting down with my incredible mastermind client, Jenn Kleber, a former educator turned sought-after business coach for education consultants. Jenn’s story is packed with bold decisions, mindset shifts, and tactical strategies that helped her pivot and continue to grow in today’s market, and in this episode she’s sharing it all.
If you’ve ever felt like your business should be working but it just isn’t, you're not alone. In this powerful conversation, Jenn reveals what really happens behind the scenes when you go all-in on your business and how to keep going when results feel slow.
If you’ve ever doubted your calling or questioned your next move, this episode is for you.
What to Listen For:
- The pivotal moment Jenn decided to start her own consulting business and what pushed her to go all in.
- How your “warm market” could be the fastest path to your first bookings.
- The real reason Jenn's first six months after pivoting didn’t go as planned (and what she did about it).
- What to do when the strategy isn’t working (and how to fix it without scrapping everything).
- The system that took Jen from reactive bookings to predictable, scalable growth.
- Why “working hard” isn’t enough and what most business owners get wrong about strategy.
- The ripple effect of impact: how helping your clients win creates momentum in your business too.
- And so much more...
This episode was a masterclass in mindset, strategy, and staying the course even when growth feels slow. If you’re in a season of pivot or building something new, Jenn’s story is the proof that systems work and your business can too. Be sure to DM us your biggest takeaway, and don’t forget to subscribe for next week’s episode!
Important Links:
- Follow Rachel on Instagram: @rachelrmcmichael
- Get our FREE High Converting Landing Page Template HERE
- Join The Growth Lab™ HERE!
- Follow Jenn on Instagram!
- Connect with Jenn on her website and podcast HERE!
- Join Jenn’s FREE Masterclass HERE!
]]>
Buzzsprout-18331563
Wed, 10 Dec 2025 11:00:00 -0500
1326
full
false
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#289 Smart Online Business Growth with Guest Expert: Brandi Matthews
#289 Smart Online Business Growth with Guest Expert: Brandi Matthews
On today's episode, I am so excited to introduce you to Brandi Matthews.
Brandi is one of our mastermind clients and is an educational consultant for therapists. On our episode today, we're talking specifically about how she got into online business, what she's doing now that's really working in her business, and how she made decisions on what to invest in and what not to invest in along the way.
I can’t wait to discuss all of these things and more with you on today’s episode. Let’s dive in!
- At 7:39, after Brandi talks about something that many consider taboo in this industry… having another job while growing her online business. Brandi shows us that you can do both and do them really well and still be very involved in your family and free time.
- At 13:59, Brandi shares about some of the seeming setbacks and failures in her online business that have actually turned out to be catalysts for growth, both for her personally and for her online business.
- At 17:25, Brandi gives three excellent tips and questions to consider when it comes to investing in your online business. How do you know what program or course or mentorship is right for you and why is it so important to invest in ourselves and our businesses?
Important Links:
]]>
On today's episode, I am so excited to introduce you to Brandi Matthews.Brandi is one of our mastermind clients and is an educational consultant for therapists. On our episode today, we're talking specifically about how she got into online business, what she's doing now that's really working in her business, and how she made decisions on what to invest in and what not to invest in along the way.
I can’t wait to discuss all of these things and more with you on today’s episode. Let’s dive in!
- At 7:39, after Brandi talks about something that many consider taboo in this industry… having another job while growing her online business. Brandi shows us that you can do both and do them really well and still be very involved in your family and free time.
- At 13:59, Brandi shares about some of the seeming setbacks and failures in her online business that have actually turned out to be catalysts for growth, both for her personally and for her online business.
- At 17:25, Brandi gives three excellent tips and questions to consider when it comes to investing in your online business. How do you know what program or course or mentorship is right for you and why is it so important to invest in ourselves and our businesses?
Important Links:
]]>
Rachel McMichael
Buzzsprout-18286142
Tue, 02 Dec 2025 10:00:00 -0500
1602
full
false
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#287 The Market is Shifting - Here’s How to Stay Ahead
#287 The Market is Shifting - Here’s How to Stay Ahead
The market has changed. But the good news? People are still buying. They’re just being more intentional. In this episode of the Business with Impact podcast, Rachel reveals the mindset shift and key to consistent sales in today’s market.
If your launches have felt flat or you’ve wondered whether your offer is the problem, this episode will help you reframe, refocus, and rebuild with confidence.
What to Listen For:
- Why launches that used to sell out might be stalling now
- The surprising grocery store analogy that explains buyer behavior shifts
- How to create “magnetic yes” messaging that speaks to today’s buyer
- Why your problem likely isn’t your offer, it’s your systems
- The #1 mindset trap entrepreneurs fall into when sales slow down
- Why tweaking your messaging can revive the same offer you were ready to ditch
- What timeless systems you need to survive (and thrive) in any economy
The market may be shifting, but that doesn't mean your sales have to suffer. When your systems and messaging are clear, confident, and client-focused, your offer becomes a no-brainer.
Want to make sure your message is saying what your audience needs to hear? Join us inside the Magnetic Yes Messaging Workshop and let’s fix it together.
🎧 Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe to the show, share it with a friend, and check out the links below for your next steps!
Important Links:
]]>
The market has changed. But the good news? People are still buying. They’re just being more intentional. In this episode of the Business with Impact podcast, Rachel reveals the mindset shift and key to consistent sales in today’s market. If your launches have felt flat or you’ve wondered whether your offer is the problem, this episode will help you reframe, refocus, and rebuild with confidence.
What to Listen For:
- Why launches that used to sell out might be stalling now
- The surprising grocery store analogy that explains buyer behavior shifts
- How to create “magnetic yes” messaging that speaks to today’s buyer
- Why your problem likely isn’t your offer, it’s your systems
- The #1 mindset trap entrepreneurs fall into when sales slow down
- Why tweaking your messaging can revive the same offer you were ready to ditch
- What timeless systems you need to survive (and thrive) in any economy
The market may be shifting, but that doesn't mean your sales have to suffer. When your systems and messaging are clear, confident, and client-focused, your offer becomes a no-brainer.
Want to make sure your message is saying what your audience needs to hear? Join us inside the Magnetic Yes Messaging Workshop and let’s fix it together.
🎧 Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe to the show, share it with a friend, and check out the links below for your next steps!
Important Links:
]]>
Rachel McMichael
Buzzsprout-17969798
Tue, 07 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0400
380
full
false
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#286 The Right Kind of Consistency
#286 The Right Kind of Consistency
You’ve heard that consistency is key in business, but what if you’ve been taught the wrong kind of consistency? In this episode, Rachel pulls back the curtain on what actually keeps a business growing without being glued to your phone or online 24/7.
What to Listen For:
- The biggest lie you’ve been told about consistency in business.
- What Rachel did 6 months ago that kept her business growing while she stepped back this summer.
- Why slowing down doesn’t mean your sales have to.
- The metaphor that will change the way you think about business growth (hint: roots vs. fruit 🍎).
- A powerful John Maxwell quote that reframes success and real work.
- The 3 foundational systems your business needs to bring in consistent clients.
- What Rachel means by “systems” (spoiler: it’s not tech or software).
- The truth about why your hard work might not be working yet and how to fix it.
If you’ve been chasing consistency by doing more, this episode is your permission slip to pause. Real growth comes from the right systems, not more hustle. Tune in now and discover how to plant the right seeds so your business keeps thriving… even when you need to step back.
👉 Listen now, and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.
💌 Want more? Sign up for Rachel’s upcoming workshop to learn the only three systems your business needs to start bringing in clients consistently.
Important Links:
]]>
You’ve heard that consistency is key in business, but what if you’ve been taught the wrong kind of consistency? In this episode, Rachel pulls back the curtain on what actually keeps a business growing without being glued to your phone or online 24/7.What to Listen For:
- The biggest lie you’ve been told about consistency in business.
- What Rachel did 6 months ago that kept her business growing while she stepped back this summer.
- Why slowing down doesn’t mean your sales have to.
- The metaphor that will change the way you think about business growth (hint: roots vs. fruit 🍎).
- A powerful John Maxwell quote that reframes success and real work.
- The 3 foundational systems your business needs to bring in consistent clients.
- What Rachel means by “systems” (spoiler: it’s not tech or software).
- The truth about why your hard work might not be working yet and how to fix it.
If you’ve been chasing consistency by doing more, this episode is your permission slip to pause. Real growth comes from the right systems, not more hustle. Tune in now and discover how to plant the right seeds so your business keeps thriving… even when you need to step back.
👉 Listen now, and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.
💌 Want more? Sign up for Rachel’s upcoming workshop to learn the only three systems your business needs to start bringing in clients consistently.
Important Links:
]]>
Rachel McMichael
Buzzsprout-17889663
Tue, 23 Sep 2025 01:00:00 -0400
407
full
false
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#285 Fail Hard, Fail Fast, Fail Forward
#285 Fail Hard, Fail Fast, Fail Forward
Most entrepreneurs are doing everything they can to avoid failure. But what if that mindset is actually what’s slowing you down? In this episode of Business with Impact, I’m sharing why the fastest-growing businesses aren’t playing it safe, and how you can build unstoppable momentum by learning to fail faster.
What to Listen For:
- Why failing fast is the quickest way to business growth
- The real reason most entrepreneurs stay stuck (and how to move forward)
- The 3D Framework for diagnosing what’s actually not working
- How to use scraped knees and failed launches as stepping stones to success
- What most entrepreneurs misunderstand about “risk vs. reward”
- Why The Growth Lab™ was built for fast action and faster data
- Rachel’s personal challenge to you: Do the thing today.
Success doesn’t come from playing it safe. It comes from taking action, getting answers, and doing it again. That’s how momentum is created, and that’s exactly what we’re helping clients do inside The Growth Lab. Whether you join us there or take the next step on your own, just start. You’ll either get the result you want or the data you need to try again.
👉 Learn more and join the Growth Lab: rachelmcmichael.com/growthlab
👉 DM Rachel on Instagram @rachelrmcmichael and share what action you’re taking today!
Important Links:
]]>
Most entrepreneurs are doing everything they can to avoid failure. But what if that mindset is actually what’s slowing you down? In this episode of Business with Impact, I’m sharing why the fastest-growing businesses aren’t playing it safe, and how you can build unstoppable momentum by learning to fail faster.What to Listen For:
- Why failing fast is the quickest way to business growth
- The real reason most entrepreneurs stay stuck (and how to move forward)
- The 3D Framework for diagnosing what’s actually not working
- How to use scraped knees and failed launches as stepping stones to success
- What most entrepreneurs misunderstand about “risk vs. reward”
- Why The Growth Lab™ was built for fast action and faster data
- Rachel’s personal challenge to you: Do the thing today.
Success doesn’t come from playing it safe. It comes from taking action, getting answers, and doing it again. That’s how momentum is created, and that’s exactly what we’re helping clients do inside The Growth Lab. Whether you join us there or take the next step on your own, just start. You’ll either get the result you want or the data you need to try again.
👉 Learn more and join the Growth Lab: rachelmcmichael.com/growthlab
👉 DM Rachel on Instagram @rachelrmcmichael and share what action you’re taking today!
Important Links:
]]>
Rachel McMichael
Buzzsprout-17818295
Tue, 09 Sep 2025 17:00:00 -0400
501
full
false
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#284 The Secret to Zigging When Everyone Else Zags
#284 The Secret to Zigging When Everyone Else Zags
In a world obsessed with speed and AI generated content, we're talking about why slowing down and serving well is your best strategy to stand out online.
This episode is packed with wisdom, metaphors (you’ll love the farmer’s market one!), and a sneak peek into what’s coming soon to Business with Impact!
What to Listen For:
- The #1 way to zig while others zag in today’s fast-paced online space
- The farmer’s market analogy that explains exactly why your service sets you apart
- Why over-reliance on AI could be hurting your long-term brand (even if it saves time now)
- How connection and live interaction are your biggest secret weapons
- Why service is your competitive advantage
- Two ways you can connect directly with Rachel this month (spoiler: free coaching!)
- How “support that actually replies” builds trust that scales
As more businesses hide behind bots and blanket automations, the way to stand out online is by being the one who shows up, serves well, and actually listens.
My challenge for you this week? Zig when others zag. Show up for your people in a way that no one else is, and watch what happens.
Important Links:
]]>
In a world obsessed with speed and AI generated content, we're talking about why slowing down and serving well is your best strategy to stand out online. This episode is packed with wisdom, metaphors (you’ll love the farmer’s market one!), and a sneak peek into what’s coming soon to Business with Impact!
What to Listen For:
- The #1 way to zig while others zag in today’s fast-paced online space
- The farmer’s market analogy that explains exactly why your service sets you apart
- Why over-reliance on AI could be hurting your long-term brand (even if it saves time now)
- How connection and live interaction are your biggest secret weapons
- Why service is your competitive advantage
- Two ways you can connect directly with Rachel this month (spoiler: free coaching!)
- How “support that actually replies” builds trust that scales
As more businesses hide behind bots and blanket automations, the way to stand out online is by being the one who shows up, serves well, and actually listens.
My challenge for you this week? Zig when others zag. Show up for your people in a way that no one else is, and watch what happens.
Important Links:
]]>
Buzzsprout-17772678
Tue, 02 Sep 2025 09:00:00 -0400
521
full
false
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#283 Controversial Take: AI Won’t Save Your Business (But Here’s What Will)
#283 Controversial Take: AI Won’t Save Your Business (But Here’s What Will)
I know this could be considered a bold or controversial statement in a world where everyone seems to be talking about ChatGPT, Claude, or the latest AI tool that promises to make your business easier.
(And spoiler alert, then can!)
But here’s the truth: AI can’t replace the one thing your business actually needs to thrive… a steady stream of clients.
In this episode we're talking about:
- Why AI is an incredible tool, but isn't the only system needed for growth.
- When AI works best... and the specific area to fix when it's not getting you the results you're after.
- The real difference between tools (temporary) and systems (scalable).
- The danger of sounding like everyone else, and what to do instead.
- What the entrepreneurs winning right now are doing differently with AI.
- Why it’s okay if you’re not an AI expert (you’re not behind).
- The timeless client-getting system that future-proofs your business.
- What to focus on if you feel like “the best kept secret” in your industry.
AI isn't new - it's been around in other forms like Siri and Google for a long time. It's an excellent tool, but it's not the whole foundation for systems that scale. If you want consistent clients and long-term growth, the answer is simple, repeatable systems that work no matter what platform or trend comes and goes.
Listen in to how we're using AI (and how we're not) and make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode.
Want more info on the simple system our clients use to scale? DM me “Growth Lab” on Instagram or connect at rachelmcmichael.com to learn more.
Important Links:
]]>
I know this could be considered a bold or controversial statement in a world where everyone seems to be talking about ChatGPT, Claude, or the latest AI tool that promises to make your business easier. (And spoiler alert, then can!)
But here’s the truth: AI can’t replace the one thing your business actually needs to thrive… a steady stream of clients.
In this episode we're talking about:
- Why AI is an incredible tool, but isn't the only system needed for growth.
- When AI works best... and the specific area to fix when it's not getting you the results you're after.
- The real difference between tools (temporary) and systems (scalable).
- The danger of sounding like everyone else, and what to do instead.
- What the entrepreneurs winning right now are doing differently with AI.
- Why it’s okay if you’re not an AI expert (you’re not behind).
- The timeless client-getting system that future-proofs your business.
- What to focus on if you feel like “the best kept secret” in your industry.
AI isn't new - it's been around in other forms like Siri and Google for a long time. It's an excellent tool, but it's not the whole foundation for systems that scale. If you want consistent clients and long-term growth, the answer is simple, repeatable systems that work no matter what platform or trend comes and goes.
Listen in to how we're using AI (and how we're not) and make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode.
Want more info on the simple system our clients use to scale? DM me “Growth Lab” on Instagram or connect at rachelmcmichael.com to learn more.
Important Links:
]]>
Rachel McMichael
Buzzsprout-17738916
Tue, 26 Aug 2025 17:00:00 -0400
618
full
false
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#281 The Scrappy Launch System: How to Sign Clients Before You Ever Build a Funnel
#281 The Scrappy Launch System: How to Sign Clients Before You Ever Build a Funnel
What if you could sign your next three clients even if your offer is only half scribbled on a Google Doc, you’ve got a tiny audience, and zero team.
If you’ve ever thought, “I just need someone to show me how to start making sales now, without all the moving pieces,” this episode is for you.
Today, I’m giving you the inside look at my Scrappy Launch System… the same one our clients are using right now to sell their offers… without a fancy funnel, a big list, or a full launch runway.
What to listen for:
- Why most entrepreneurs are building their business backward, and how to fix it.
- The surprising reason you should sell your offer before it's fully ready.
- How to get paid to create your program before you record a single video.
- What a “Magnetic Yes Offer” is and why it makes selling easier.
- Two flexible sales plans that work no matter where you're starting.
- How to turn launch feedback into your next success story.
- Why launching doesn’t have to feel overwhelming (or perfect).
- The one thing that matters more than likes, followers, or funnels: momentum.
You don’t need a polished funnel or a massive list to make your next sale… you just need a clear offer, a simple plan, and the courage to launch scrappy. If you're ready to learn how to sell before you’re “ready,” this episode lays it all out.
Want to go deeper? DM me the word SCRAPPY over on Instagram @rachelrmcmichael and I’ll send you the details for our Scrappy Launch System experience. And don’t forget to subscribe to the show and leave a review so we can keep bringing you powerful strategies like these!
Important Links:
]]>
What if you could sign your next three clients even if your offer is only half scribbled on a Google Doc, you’ve got a tiny audience, and zero team.If you’ve ever thought, “I just need someone to show me how to start making sales now, without all the moving pieces,” this episode is for you.
Today, I’m giving you the inside look at my Scrappy Launch System… the same one our clients are using right now to sell their offers… without a fancy funnel, a big list, or a full launch runway.
What to listen for:
- Why most entrepreneurs are building their business backward, and how to fix it.
- The surprising reason you should sell your offer before it's fully ready.
- How to get paid to create your program before you record a single video.
- What a “Magnetic Yes Offer” is and why it makes selling easier.
- Two flexible sales plans that work no matter where you're starting.
- How to turn launch feedback into your next success story.
- Why launching doesn’t have to feel overwhelming (or perfect).
- The one thing that matters more than likes, followers, or funnels: momentum.
You don’t need a polished funnel or a massive list to make your next sale… you just need a clear offer, a simple plan, and the courage to launch scrappy. If you're ready to learn how to sell before you’re “ready,” this episode lays it all out.
Want to go deeper? DM me the word SCRAPPY over on Instagram @rachelrmcmichael and I’ll send you the details for our Scrappy Launch System experience. And don’t forget to subscribe to the show and leave a review so we can keep bringing you powerful strategies like these!
Important Links:
]]>
Rachel McMichael
Buzzsprout-17349813
Tue, 17 Jun 2025 01:00:00 -0400
661
full
false
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#280 The 3 Stages of Online Business Growth (And What to Focus On in Each One)
#280 The 3 Stages of Online Business Growth (And What to Focus On in Each One)
If business feels frustrating right now…
If you’re doing all the things and still wondering why nothing’s quite landing…
It might not be because you're doing the wrong things.
It might be because you're doing the right things... at the wrong stage.
One of the biggest reasons smart, talented online business owners stall out and plateau?
They’re executing Stage 3 strategies… while still stuck in Stage 1.
Or they’re looping in Stage 2 without ever building a strong Stage 1 foundation.
In this episode, I’m breaking down the three stages of online business growth – what they really look like, what to focus on at each one, and what you can completely ignore for now.
Because doing the right work at the wrong time? Leads to unnecessary hustle and overwhelm.
What to listen for:- The #1 mistake that keeps entrepreneurs stuck (and burned out)
- Why doing “advanced” strategies too early can stall your growth
- The simple breakdown of Stage 1: Scrappy Sales + Validation
- What not to waste time on when you’re starting out
- The exact markers that signal you’re ready for Stage 2
- How to move from “manual momentum” to scalable success
- Why you don’t need a team of 10 to hit consistent income
- What it really looks like to step into Impactful CEO mode in Stage 3
- The difference between automated, automatic, and AI systems
Trying to build a successful online business on a shaky foundation? That’s a recipe for frustration. But when you understand which stage of business you’re truly in, you can stop plateauing and start building with simple systems that work. If you’re ready to plug into the proven systems that match where you are now, tune into this episode.
Listen now, subscribe to the show, and check out The Business with Impact Academy™ to start building your business the simple, scalable way.
Important Links:
]]>
If business feels frustrating right now…
If you’re doing all the things and still wondering why nothing’s quite landing…
It might not be because you're doing the wrong things.
It might be because you're doing the right things... at the wrong stage.
One of the biggest reasons smart, talented online business owners stall out and plateau?
They’re executing Stage 3 strategies… while still stuck in Stage 1.
Or they’re looping in Stage 2 without ever building a strong Stage 1 foundation.
In this episode, I’m breaking down the three stages of online business growth – what they really look like, what to focus on at each one, and what you can completely ignore for now.
Because doing the right work at the wrong time? Leads to unnecessary hustle and overwhelm.
What to listen for:- The #1 mistake that keeps entrepreneurs stuck (and burned out)
- Why doing “advanced” strategies too early can stall your growth
- The simple breakdown of Stage 1: Scrappy Sales + Validation
- What not to waste time on when you’re starting out
- The exact markers that signal you’re ready for Stage 2
- How to move from “manual momentum” to scalable success
- Why you don’t need a team of 10 to hit consistent income
- What it really looks like to step into Impactful CEO mode in Stage 3
- The difference between automated, automatic, and AI systems
Trying to build a successful online business on a shaky foundation? That’s a recipe for frustration. But when you understand which stage of business you’re truly in, you can stop plateauing and start building with simple systems that work. If you’re ready to plug into the proven systems that match where you are now, tune into this episode.
Listen now, subscribe to the show, and check out The Business with Impact Academy™ to start building your business the simple, scalable way.
Important Links:
]]>
Rachel McMichael
Buzzsprout-17271021
Tue, 03 Jun 2025 01:00:00 -0400
1304
full
false