Meet the team
Meet our dedicated team of acne experts.
At Katie Stewart Wellness, we're revolutionizing the way women approach acne and skin health with our experienced and dedicated team of experts.
Position
Founder & CEO
Education
Canadian School of Natural Nutrition
University of Guelph-Humber
- Diploma in Natural Nutrition
- Registered Holistic Nutritionist (RHN) Designation
University of Guelph-Humber
- Honours Bachelor Degree in Media Studies
- Honours Diploma in Journalism
Member of
CSNN Alumni
CANNP
AWARDS & RECOGNITION
Canadian Holistic Nutrition Awards
- 2024 Winner of The Julie Daniluk Award
CERTIFICATIONS & TRAINING
Functional Diagnostic Nutrition
Kendra Perry
Functional Nutrition Lab
- Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner (FDN-P)
Kendra Perry
- HTMA Expert
Functional Nutrition Lab
- Full Body Systems
The founder
Katie Stewart
World's Leading Acne-Focused Registered Holistic Nutritionist – Transforming Skin Health from the Inside Out.
Katie Stewart is on a mission to help women worldwide clear their skin and reclaim their confidence. After battling cystic acne for years, Katie turned her frustration into fuel, diving deep into holistic nutrition and uncovering the root causes of acne.
Today, she’s the founder of KSW Inc., a company transforming the way women approach acne and skin health across the globe. Through her transformative program, The Clear Skin Solution, Katie uses functional testing and her 5 Acne-Clearing Pillars to tackle the root causes of breakouts. Her approach isn’t about quick fixes; it’s about achieving real results and lasting change.
Based in Niagara, Ontario, with her husband, Katie balances leading her company with a busy family life. She’s a mom to two energetic boys and two equally energetic dogs, and she’s usually found exploring local farm stands, grabbing brunch, or cheering from the sidelines at kids’ sports—always with a matcha latte in hand. A wellness enthusiast, Katie loves reformer Pilates, recharging with a good book, and a relaxing in a hot bath.
Through her expertise, warmth, and down-to-earth approach, Katie empowers women worldwide to take control of their skin and health. She’s passionate about helping others find their glow—inside and out.
As seen in...
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Chief Programming Officer
Cris Brown
Meet Cris Brown, CPO of KSW Inc. and Katie’s quick-witted partner on The Clear Skin Chronicles podcast. She’s the expert who makes skin and health science easy to understand, blending smarts, sass, and a no-nonsense attitude.
Cris is a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner (FDN-P), HTMA expert, and Registered Holistic Nutritionist with a knack for simplifying even the most overwhelming health info. With credentials as a Culinary Nutrition Expert and a teacher at the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition, she’s the go-to for uncovering the “why” behind skin struggles and offering solutions that actually work.
Her passion for root-cause health comes from her own experience with Hashimoto’s, giving her a deep understanding of what it’s like to feel stuck. Cris is all about empowering others to take control of their health and feel confident in their skin again.
At home, Cris juggles life with her husband, three teenage daughters, and her trusty dog, Bruno. Coffee is her morning ritual, and her skincare routine is as simple as it gets—cleanser, face cream, and done.
Whether she’s chatting on the podcast or making magic behind the scenes at KSW Inc., Cris brings warmth, wisdom, and a practical approach to everything she does.
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CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Paige Fursman
Meet Paige Fursman, the dynamic COO who keeps our company running like a dream. With her loyal sidekick Nova (the world’s happiest dog) by her side, Paige brings her vibrant energy to everything she does.
Outside the office, Paige is all about balance. She loves hitting the gym, exploring new places with her adventurous husband, and whipping up something delicious in the kitchen. She’s a foodie at heart, with a soft spot for matcha lattes and a knack for finding the best eats wherever she goes.
At work, Paige is the glue that holds it all together. She oversees client relations, manages our team of acne advisors, and makes sure every detail is handled with care. From big-picture strategy to day-to-day operations, she’s the go-to person for keeping things on track.
Paige’s enthusiasm for life is contagious—whether she’s brainstorming new ideas, cooking up her next travel itinerary, or managing our team with her trademark mix of warmth and efficiency. She’s the heartbeat of our operations, making things happen and inspiring everyone around her.
So here’s to Paige: the matcha-sipping, travel-loving, multitasking powerhouse who keeps us all moving forward!
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virtual executive assistant
Kaitlin Horne
Say hello to our virtual executive assistant, Kaitlin Horne. With a background rooted in social services, Kaitlin made the courageous decision to pivot into the health and wellness space, driven by her love for fitness and a desire to escape the stagnant nature of corporate culture.
From her years of horseback riding to hours on the yoga mat to her love for strength training, she understands the power of physical activity for both mental and physical health. Kaitlin is currently taking her personal training certification and is excited to further empower individuals on their wellness journeys.
Having battled adult acne, she empathizes deeply with the challenges it presents, nurturing a fervent interest in skincare and self-care practices.
Embracing the hustle of life, Kaitlin is all about turbocharging her well-being by blending various wellness routines at the same time which she refers to as 'habit stacking'. Kaitlin also champions the importance of organization, both at home and work, as she believes that clutter-free spaces provide a clear mind.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Kaitlin finds solace in intuitive movement, often accompanied by her faithful companion, Leo, her soft-coated Wheaten Terrier. Weekends are cherished for leisurely strolls through local markets with her husband and enjoying quality time with family & friends.
Kaitlin savours the tranquility of mornings with a cup of orange pekoe tea and by immersing herself in personal development literature and podcasts. If you need a new audiobook or podcast to listen to, she’s your girl! Her first recommendation would be ‘The Clear Skin Chronicles’ ;).
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Mindset Coach
RACHEL MOLENDA
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Holistic Esthetician & Certified Nutritional Practitioner
Ashley Shkodra
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JOANNA HACK
Nutrition Assistant
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CHRISTINA SILVEIRA
Nutrition Assistant
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JENNY OCOVICH
Nutrition Assistant
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NATASHA SIMARD
Nutrition Assistant
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Nutrition Assistant & Culinary Nutrition Expert
Laura Hearn
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JESS RUNCA
Certified Nutritional Practitioner & Acne Coach
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JENNA HARTLEN
Certified Nutritional Practitioner & Acne Coach
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Liana Meggetto
Registered Holistic Nutritionist & Acne Coach
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Callie Birtles
Registered Holistic Nutritionist & Acne Coach
Coaching Team
The
position
Registered Holistic Nutritionist & Acne Coach
Callie Birtles
Meet Callie – a Registered Holistic Nutritionist from CSNN & Culinary grad from Liaison College. When she's not busy conquering the kitchen, she's out and about with her trusty sidekick, Tacoma the Alaskan Malamute, exploring her home base, Ottawa, Ontario. Hiking, cycling, and skiing are her jam!
Callie's kitchen game is seriously on point, too. This mom of two is all about experimenting with new recipes and right now she's totally obsessed with Baja fish tacos. She loves pairing them with a tangy mango cabbage slaw, crispy sweet potato fries, and a dollop of chipotle aioli.
Aside from her incredible culinary skills, Callie's got a green thumb, too. In the summer, she's all about nurturing a flourishing vegetable garden right outside her home. Freshness at its finest for all her kitchen creations!
Before diving into the world of food and wellness, Callie spent 13 years proudly serving in the Canadian Forces. Now, she spends her downtime creating memories with her loved ones. Think epic family camping trips, cozy bonfires, and even the occasional country music concert with her awesome crew.
Callie’s got the know-how to help you achieve that radiant, glowing skin you've always dreamed of (in the most delicious way!). She's the real deal, bringing her cool, calm, and collected vibe to help you look and feel your best.
position
Registered Holistic Nutritionist & Acne Coach
Liana Meggetto
Liana Meggetto is a passionate Registered Holistic Nutritionist who graduated from the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition. Her own struggles with digestive troubles ignited her desire to support women and help them cultivate a positive, fearless relationship with food. In addition to her expertise in nutrition, Liana is skilled at empowering her acne clients through mindset work.
Outside of work, Liana cherishes every moment with her beloved cockapoo, Lucky, showering her with snuggles, treats, and endless kisses. Living by the lake, she embraces the sunny days for leisurely walks and energizing home pilates. Starting her mornings with warm lemon water, basking in the morning sunlight, she sets intentions for the day ahead, savouring breakfast and a cup of her current favourite coffee, Kicking Horse's "Hola."
Having triumphed over her own food fears, Liana is an enthusiastic food lover, always up for trying new and exciting flavours. She loves exploring farmers' markets and whipping up mouthwatering dishes with the available ingredients. Her go-to dish at the moment is a delightful gluten-free pasta tossed with cooked cherry tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil, garlic, and fresh basil.
Alongside her skincare routine, she finds solace in gua sha and quenches her thirst with delicious fruit-infused water, currently relishing the refreshing combination of watermelon and basil. True crime documentaries and reality TV serve as guilty pleasures, while she indulges in monthly lymphatic drainage massages and savours the delights of outdoor summer concerts and drive-ins.
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CERTIFIED NUTRITIONAL PRACTITIONER & Acne Coach
Jenna Hartlen
Say hello to Jenna, a dynamic Certified Nutritional Practitioner who's all about empowering you to feel and look amazing. With her whole-person approach, she dives deep into the connections between body, mind, and spirit for total wellness.
Jenna's love for holistic health blossomed early, growing up on a traditional farm and learning ancestral meal prep from her grandma. Her love of holistic healing, fueled a passion that's lasted a lifetime. After a stint as a racehorse exerciser and embracing motherhood, Jenna pivoted to nutrition, graduating from the Institute of Holistic Nutrition.
She's a learning enthusiast, always diving into the latest courses, books, podcasts, and webinars. When she's not soaking up new knowledge or guiding others, Jenna's all about family time, grounding yoga, or nurturing her garden.
Jenna, a pro at balancing mom life and self-care, loves her peppermint tea with a homemade flu bomb and honey. She's your go-to for making a holistic lifestyle both fun and doable.
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Nutrition assistant
Laura Hearn
Meet Laura Hearn, the Culinary Nutrition Expert who's on a mission to kitchen domination! With a burning love for food and a dash of empowerment, she's here to make your taste buds dance and your health soar.
After breaking free from corporate burnout, Laura discovered the magic of self-care. Now, as a studying Holistic Nutritionist at the Institute of Holistic Nutrition, she's sharing her secret recipe for wellness with our clients in The Clear Skin Solution. Delicious food.
When she's not concocting her own healthy masterpieces or collecting cookbooks like a pro (100 and counting!), you'll find Laura exploring farmer's markets, cozy coffee shops, and gluten-free bakeries. And don't forget the stunning sunsets at her family cottage in Sauble Beach, where she enjoys quality time with her awesome husband, two grown-up kiddos, and her spirited Malitipoo, Fozzie.
Join Laura in the kitchen revolution and let the fun-filled flavours nourish your skin.
position
nutrition assistant
Natasha Simard
Natasha is a dedicated mother of two, a passionate advocate for plant-based living, and a graduate of the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition (CSNN) as a Registered Holistic Nutritionist (RHN). With a love for health and wellness, she empowers others to embrace nourishing, sustainable lifestyles that support vitality and balance.
Living on beautiful Vancouver Island, BC, Natasha draws inspiration from nature, enjoying walks, ocean dips, and fresh air, grounding her approach to wellness. When she’s not caring for her family or working with clients, Natasha can be found at the gym, strength training, or losing herself in the joy of salsa and bachata dancing.
To nurture her spirit, Natasha practices daily breath work, meditation, and nightly journaling for reflection and gratitude. A lover of cozy moments, she lights candles, enjoys hot baths, and takes in sunsets. Her morning ritual includes a Lemon Ginger Blast juice to start her day with energy and nourishment.
Natasha knows the acne struggle personally, having been a former client of The Clear Skin Solution. She’s excited to join a team where she can blend her journey and expertise, helping others achieve clear skin holistically through mind, body, and spirit.
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Esthetician & Certified Nutritional Practitioner
Ashley Shkodra
Meet Ashley, our radiant Holistic Esthetician and Skincare Guru inside The Clear Skin Solution. With years of experience in the esthetics and cosmetic industry, Ashley knows all the secrets to making your skin glow like never before. Now here’s the best part, she's not just your average esthetician. Ashley is also a Certified Nutritional Practitioner and blends her expertise in skincare and nutrition to provide a 360 approach to acne-clearing.
When she's not pampering her clients and perfecting her skincare routines, Ashley unleashes her inner salad artist. She whips up incredible salads that are not only delicious but also a testament to her creative flair. Cooking up a storm in the kitchen is her ultimate hobby, and her salads are known to be masterpieces that satisfy both the taste buds and the soul.
Living in the heart of vibrant downtown Toronto, Ashley is always in the know about the city's hottest food spots and bustling markets. You'll often find her strolling through the streets, uncovering hidden gems and seeking out culinary adventures.
Whether she's reviving your skin, curating the perfect salad, or exploring the city's gastronomic wonders, Ashley's zest for life shines through in everything she does. Get ready to embark on a new holistic skincare journey with Ashley and The CSS team.
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MINDSET COACH
Rachel Molenda
Rachel Molenda (@rachelmmolenda) is Sacred DJ & Mindset Coach ("like Diplo and Tony Robbins if they had a baby") and the Creator of REUNION (@thereuniondanceparty).
Rachel leverages the activating nature of like-minded community, coaching and in-real-life experiences to help turn the light back on in women who have fallen prey to burn out and self-doubt so they can "Do The Damn Thing" they were born to do.
Learn more about Rachel at rachelmmolenda.com.
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CERTIFIED NUTRITIONAL PRACTITIONER & ACNE COACH
Jessica Runca
Let's introduce you to Jess! She's not just any nutritional expert; she's a top-notch grad from the Institute of Holistic Nutrition with a knack for blending serious know-how with a warm, honest touch. Think of her as your go-to for a journey that nurtures your body, mind, and spirit. Jess gets it—she's been there, battling her own health challenges, and she's all about guiding you to be your best self.
Jess is a master at weaving nutrition with a whole-life wellness vibe. Her mission? To empower you with knowledge and confidence about your body, sparking transformations that stick.
Mornings for Jess? They're chill and refreshing. Picture her enjoying a zesty electrolyte mocktail, followed by an energizing walk or workout. Movement is her secret sauce to feeling fabulous!
Outside the wellness world, Jess loves hanging out with her four-legged buddy, Cali. They're often found basking in nature, soaking up every bit of sunshine and outdoor magic.
And when it's time to unwind, Jess is all about cozy vibes. She's your puzzle-putting-together, podcast-listening, loved-ones-hanging, book-devouring kind of gal. Trust me, with Jess, you're in for a ride that's as fun as it is transformative!
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NUTRITION ASSISTANT
Jenny Ocovich
Say hello to Jenny, a radiant soul with a passion for holistic health and a zest for life! As a Registered Holistic Nutritionist graduating from the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition, and a Nutrition Assistant for KSW, she's on a mission to spread the word of wellness, one nourishing meal at a time.
From the moment Jenny discovered the transformative power of holistic health, she knew she had found her calling. But Jenny’s path to wellness wasn't always smooth sailing. Like many of us, she faced her own struggles, battling with acne and gut issues until she discovered the transformative power of dietary and lifestyle changes. It was through this journey of self-discovery and healing that she found her true calling, inspiring her to help others embark on their own path to radiant health and vitality.
When she's not busy empowering others to reclaim their health and vitality, you can find Jenny flowing through sun salutations on her yoga mat or out hiking in the woods. With every step she takes, she's reminded of the importance of grounding and connecting with the earth.
So whether she's guiding others on their wellness journey, exploring the great outdoors, or simply savouring the magic of a breathtaking sunset, one thing's for sure – Jenny is living proof that when we nourish our bodies, minds, and spirits, we can truly shine bright like the stars!
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NUTRITION ASSISTANT
Christina Silveira
Christina is a homeschooling mama to two kiddos and in the final stretch of completing her studies at the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition (CSNN). When she is not homeschooling or hitting the books, she spends her time in the garden. She has nine garden beds all dedicated to growing her own food and preserving for the winter months. Nothing feeds her soul more than having her hands in the dirt with the help from her kids!
Christina starts her mornings with warm lemon water, followed by a cup of ginger lemon tea or a matcha oat milk latte. She finds exploring the forest and being still in nature rejuvenating. Her passion for living a holistic life exudes in her daily life. From DIYing natural cleaning and self-care products to supporting local farmers markets to add farm fresh ingredients to her meals, Christina is passionate about educating others about the importance of toxic-free living.
Christina is also a huge pet lover! Her current pet is a rescued 10 year old Maine Coon cat named Tiger, who is the sweetest and chattiest cat she has ever owned! She also babysits dogs that are currently undergoing their ADS training.
When it’s time to unwind, you’ll find Christina listening to podcasts, getting a massage, spending time with loved ones, cuddling up for a movie night with her family, basking in the sun or jamming out to reggaeton music.
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NUTRITION ASSISTANT
Joanna Hack
Joanna Hack is a dedicated Registered Holistic Nutritionist, proudly holding her certification from the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition. Her deep-rooted passion for holistic nutrition and wellness fuels her mission to guide clients in making transformative changes to their health and well-being.
When she's not working, Joanna treasures time with her husband, five children, and two dogs. She’s happiest outdoors, gardening, or exploring nature with her family. To stay physically active, Joanna practices martial arts, enjoys hot yoga, and loves evening strolls with friends. Her perfect day involves relaxing by the water at a cozy cottage, reading a good book, and sipping on a hot cup of tea.
Joanna is always eager to learn and explore new things, whether it's trying out fresh recipes or deepening her understanding of nutrition and wellness. She believes in the importance of self-care and finds joy in simple pleasures like watching reality TV, savouring vegetarian sushi, or indulging in the occasional pedicure. By prioritizing her own well-being, she ensures she can be her best self for her family, friends, colleagues, and clients.
Acne Advisors
The
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Acne Advisor
Tessa Eisenberg
Tessa Eisenberg is a lifelong creative. Originally from Vermont, Tessa moved to Toronto to pursue a bigger life. She studied improv at The Second City, joined a creative writing circle, and now you can find her singing a blend of jazz, neo-soul, and contemporary pop covers with a handful of local bands on select weeknights in the city.
Tessa joins the KSW team as a former client who walked away from her time inside The Clear Skin Solution with a renewed interest in her own sense of well-being. She learned how to nourish her body and how to slow down. Tessa understands that she is the product of what happens when people who never invest in themselves decide to invest in themselves. She cannot wait to help other women rediscover their life force as the newest Acne Advisor on the team.
When Tessa is not assisting clients in the CSS, you can find her at her other day job, where she leads daily marketing calls and assists a cohort of nonfiction authors within the world of book publishing. Prior to finding the team at KSW, Tessa held positions in not-for-profit management, event planning, and sales. After years of putting herself and her health last on her priority list, she is so excited to assist other women with their wellness and to help them renew their connection to themselves.
Tessa enjoys a daily cup of organic Kicking Horse coffee with a splash of almond milk, and she is an advocate for the morning walk. She is affectionately awoken on a daily basis by her domestic shorthair, Billie, who sometimes flies on airplanes like an absolute pro. She is deeply grateful to be here, and she’s ready to change other women’s lives for the better.
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Acne Advisor
Michelle Owens
Meet Michelle, our adventurous Acne Advisor! With a backpack always ready and a passport full of stamps, Michelle has been a globetrotter for the past decade, exploring the far corners of the world. Her educational journey led her through the realms of global studies and communications, equipping her with a deep understanding of diverse cultures and effective communication.
But that's not all—Michelle's professional background shines just as brightly. She successfully ran her own business in event and wedding coordination, making dream celebrations come true for countless couples. However, her personal experience with acne sparked a passion within her to help others find their path to clear, radiant skin. Michelle herself underwent a transformative journey as a client of of ours in The Clear Skin Solution.
Driven by her entrepreneurial spirit, Michelle thrives on bringing her diverse skills together. In addition to being an expert Acne Advisor, she is a certified yoga instructor, guiding people towards inner balance and self-care. With her fluency in Spanish, she connects with people from all walks of life, ensuring no one is left behind in their quest for healthy skin.
When Michelle is not immersed in the world of acne, you'll find her embracing her inner beach surf town bum, catching waves and soaking up the sun's warmth. She loves natural skincare brands and they’re always packed in her bags for any sun-kissed journey. With a love for the great outdoors, Michelle constantly seeks new adventures, eager to explore hidden treasures and create unforgettable memories.
During downtime, Michelle reigns as the queen of Audible and podcasts, always seeking knowledge and inspiration. She embraces the power of words and stories to fuel her growth and share wisdom with others.
With her vibrant personality, passion for helping those with acne, and a sprinkle of wanderlust, she's ready to guide you on your journey towards clear, confident skin.
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Acne Advisor
Janelle Klamer
Meet Janelle, your quintessentially Canadian, nature-loving, holistic wellness enthusiast with a special knack for nurturing both people and plants.
With a rich background that spans over two decades in the noble world of nursing, she's experienced the frontlines of Alberta's healthcare system firsthand.
But Janelle's commitment to health doesn't stop at conventional medicine. She's also a proud graduate of the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, where she deepened her passion for holistic nutrition. Janelle believes in the power of connecting the dots between mind, body, and spirit to truly understand and address our health concerns.
When she’s not working, Janelle is a super mom to three amazing kids, acting as their personal chauffeur and number one fan, supporting them through sports events across fields, courts, and any venue imaginable. Her home is a piece of heaven on earth—an acreage just a hop away from a river, nestled in the heart of nature. This is where she thrives, surrounded by walking trails and a garden that fills her with pride. Living her best life outdoors is non-negotiable, with skiing, hiking, and camping trips being essential activities for the whole family, fur babies included.
Janelle is a true wellness warrior, seeking purity in all aspects of life. Her kitchen is a sacred space where she crafts meals that are as nourishing as they are flavourful, with ingredients fresh from her garden and her evolving sourdough baking skills. For her, simplicity is key—she insists on knowing exactly what goes into her food, water, and even the products she uses. It's all about embracing a lifestyle that's clean, green, and serene.
Work with our team of acne experts.
Serious about clearing up your skin? Join us in our empowering and life-changing acne program, The Clear Skin Solution. It's time to feel confident and beautiful in your own skin again.
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