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© Alex Simmons & Chris Ryan
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This is where we interview and discuss the challenges and successes of writing books, comics, films, and other creative arts and pop culture topics.
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Today, Alex Simmonss and Chris Ryan enthusiastically discuss the craft of building unforgettable characters, taking inspiration from none other than Michael B. Jordan. Right after his Oscar win, Jordan shared the journaling process he uses to create fully formed backstories for his roles—an approach our hosts believe every writer should consider.Throughout this episode, Alex Simmonss and Chris Ryan explore how journaling from a character's earliest memory to the first page of your script can add authentic layers and nuance that pull audiences in. They discuss the impact of detailed backstory on everything from character dialogue to world-building, with examples ranging from the rich and poor origins of characters to the expansive histories of Tolkien's Middle-earth.Tune in for inspiration, actionable tips, and a fun, insightful look at how the best storytellers—including Michael B. Jordan—build characters that live, breathe, and stick with us long after the story ends.Have any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story TTDSOnAir@gmail.comwww.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn Story
Welcome to a brand new episode of Tell The Damn Story! This time, Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons head straight to the heart of what makes storytelling possible for so many writers—the trusty index card. In this episode, you’ll hear the inside scoop on a simple, affordable, and portable technique that’s helped countless creators map out their stories, movies, and plays.But there’s more—Chris Ryan reveals a long-overdue debt of gratitude to the person who inspired his go-to method. Link to "Notecars & Origins: Robert Rodriguez Film School Have any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story TTDSOnAir@gmail.comwww.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryStories change lives. They always have. At *Tell The Damn Story*, we believe in lifting voices and passing stories on. Your support keeps them alive for future generations. Help us by supporting TTDS → Buy Me A Coffee!00:00 "Note Card Story Method"05:18 Story Flow and Sequencing08:05 "Writing Process with Index Cards"10:41 "Bodega Memories and Supplies"15:34 "YouTube: Endless Discovery Platform"19:04 "Rebel Without a Crew Inspiration"21:37 "Robert Rodriguez Film School Tribute"23:53 Index Card Method Insights
"What's Trickier? Writing The Stories, Or Getting Out To Meet The Public?" In this week’s installment, hosts Alex and Chris are joined once again by acclaimed writers Tom Sniegoski and Jeannine Acheson for Part 2 of their deep-dive into conquering creative challenges and empowering aspiring authors. This episode is packed with heartfelt stories, candid reflections, and practical advice straight from the trenches of the writing world. From memorable convention encounters—like Alex co-host's full-circle moment with Ray Bradbury—to behind-the-scenes confessions about fan interactions, podcast experiences (both brilliant and bizarre), and the personal struggles of finding hope and motivation in difficult times, the conversation is as honest as it is uplifting. Together, the group explores how creative voices evolve, what it takes to push through creative slumps, and why telling your own damn story matters—not just for you, but for readers and listeners you may never meet. Whether you’re stuck on your first draft, wrestling with self-doubt, or searching for new ways to stay inspired and connected, this episode is filled with encouragement, laughter, and the reminder that you’re never alone on your creative journey.Have any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section. Or ...Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story www.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryStories change lives. They always have. Your support keeps them alive for future generations. Help us by supporting TTDS → Buy Me A Coffee!
Welcome to a brand new episode of "Tell The Damn Story," where the journey of writing is as real as it gets! In this episode, co-hosts Alex Simmonss and Chris Ryan are joined by returning favorites Jeannine Acheson and Tom Sniegoski for a heartfelt, hilarious, and incredibly honest conversation about conquering creative challenges—especially those every aspiring author faces.The group dives into the origins and trials behind Jeannine Acheson's self-published work "Love Bug," revealing everything from inspiration sparked by a local haunted asylum to the real struggle of pushing through when the writing gets tough. Tom Sniegoski and Jeannine Acheson discuss their own creative process—both together and solo—while Chris Ryan and Alex Simmonss contribute advice and anecdotes about finishing long-shelved projects, battling imposter syndrome, and the value of momentum even when you think your draft isn’t perfect.But it’s not just about the hard parts. The episode is packed with insider tips on overcoming editorial setbacks, pitching stories, and navigating the unpredictable—and sometimes hilarious—world of conventions. Whether it’s celebrating wins, learning from stumbles, or the catharsis of a good cry after tough edits, this episode reminds writers that they’re never alone in their struggles.So settle in and get ready for candid real-talk, lots of laughter, and practical advice that’ll help you keep telling your own damn story—no matter what dragons cross your path.Have any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story TTDSOnAir@gmail.comwww.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryIf you're enjoying these episodes, please take a moment to help wet our whistle by clicking on the link to ... Buy Me A Coffee!
What does it really mean to survive through art?Alex and Chris take a thoughtful detour from craft mechanics and dive into something deeper — how writing, storytelling, and the arts help us survive difficult seasons of life.From Chris’s college epiphany (when a professor bluntly told him he loved music… but wasn’t a musician), to reflections on Stephen King writing his way through trauma, to stories of young artists in the Bronx finding sanctuary on stage — this conversation explores how creativity becomes more than career.It becomes identity.It becomes a refuge.It becomes survival.We also talk about:Knowing who you really are (Aristotle would approve)The difference between loving an art form and being called to itWhy self-reflection matters more than external labelsHow artists like Josh Johnson find their voice in chaotic timesSurviving expectations — especially other people’s expectationsWhy your art doesn’t need to fit someone else’s definition to be validWhether writing is your sanctuary, your profession, your side hustle, or your calling, this episode asks a simple but powerful question:What does your art do for you?And maybe even more importantly…What might it do for someone else?Tell your story.Tell it honestly.Tell it bravely.And as always…Tell the damn story.Have any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story www.TellTheDamnStory.com TTDSOnAir@gmail.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryStories change lives. They always have. At *Tell The Damn Story*, we believe in lifting voices and passing stories on. Your support keeps them alive for future generations. Help us by supporting TTDS → Buy Me A Coffee!
On this episode of Tell The Damn Story, Alex and Chris dive headfirst into an age-old creative conundrum: do writers need permission to be weird? With their signature blend of humor and insight, they explore what “weird” even means in the world of writers, artists, and storytellers, and why embracing it might just be the secret key to unlocking your most authentic work.Drawing from personal anecdotes—think fourth graders dreaming up purple cows and aliens for a suffragette play—and classic literary examples, from Animal Farm to Kafka’s cockroach, Alex Simmonss and Chris Ryan remind us that the creative’s job is to challenge the norm, shift perspectives, and offer new ways of seeing the world, even if that means making people uncomfortable.Get ready for a candid, thought-provoking conversation that just might change how you think about creativity, permission, and the beauty of being a little weird.Have any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story www.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryStories change lives. They always have. At *Tell The Damn Story*, we believe in lifting voices and passing stories on. Your support keeps them alive for future generations. Help us by supporting TTDS → Buy Me A Coffee!
Despite the cold and snow, Alex and Chris Ryan dive deep into the art of subtext—those rich, unspoken layers that give stories their real meaning. Happily drawing from decades of teaching, writing, and storytelling, they share practical tips to help writers move beyond plot and action and into the heart of what a story is truly about.You’ll hear examples from contemporary pop culture, like Marvel's Wonder Man, as well as timeless classics like 12 Angry Men, The Lord of the Rings, and the revered Japanese film Rashomon. Whether you’re an aspiring writer struggling to bring depth to your characters or a seasoned storyteller searching for the “why” behind your plot, this episode is packed with insights and exercises to strengthen your craft. Special Note: Sir Ian McKellen speaks of "The Strangers..." on Colberthttps://youtube.com/shorts/Nwd6vcfR3HI?si=WDtAYB7cwFHwtUu0Have any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story www.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryStories change lives. They always have. At *Tell The Damn Story*, we believe in lifting voices and passing stories on. Your support keeps them alive for future generations. Help us by supporting TTDS → Buy Me A Coffee!
"The boys are back in town to explore creativity, responsibility, and the uneasy questions AI brings to writing and illustrative arts."Welcome to Part 2 of episode #400.Join cohosts Alex and Chris, along with returning TTDS cocreator Tim Fielder, as they explore the number one controversy about creativity. From nostalgic sketches inspired by classics like Johnny Quest to cutting-edge digital renderings and micro-drama formats, Tim Fielder walks us through his innovative workflow, showing how technology enables artists to bring their visions to life faster and with greater dimensionality than ever before. We also tackle big questions—how are traditional artists responding to AI, what ethical boundaries do creatives face, and where does market value now live for storytellers?DieselFunk StudioBrotheRoboHave any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story www.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryStories change lives. They always have. At *Tell The Damn Story*, we believe in lifting voices and passing stories on. Your support keeps them alive for future generations. Help us by supporting TTDS → Buy Me A Coffee!
"Tim Fielder joins us to explore creativity, responsibility, and the uneasy questions AI brings to the arts."Welcome to a very special milestone on "Tell The Damn Story"—our 400th episode! This week, Alex and Chris are joined by the podcast’s original co-founder, Tim Fielder, for the first half of a two-part event that dives deep into one of the hottest and most controversial topics facing creatives today: artificial intelligence.Rather than looking back, the trio sets its sights on the future, exploring how AI is transforming how we create, promote, and consume stories. The conversation is candid and full of personality, revealing each host’s very different relationship with AI—from Chris co-host's worries about reputation and authenticity, to Alex Simmonss’s spirit of exploration and calculated use of the tech, to Tim’s unapologetic, pedal-to-the-metal embrace of AI as an indispensable creative tool.DieselFunk StudioBrotheRoboHave any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story www.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryStories change lives. They always have. At *Tell The Damn Story*, we believe in lifting voices and passing stories on. Your support keeps them alive for future generations. Help us by supporting TTDS → Buy Me A Coffee!
In this episode, hosts Chris Ryan and Alex Simmons delve into the multifaceted journey of aspiring and struggling writers. They discuss ... The importance of storytelling as a reflection of life, Explore how to tackle challenging themes without sermonizing, and Debate whether writers should maintain neutrality. Amid humorous exchanges and personal anecdotes, Chris and Alex provide valuable insights on how to use fiction to navigate the complexities of reality. The episode also features shoutouts to notable works and addresses how art can heal and empower both creators and audiences.Have any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story www.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryIf you're enjoying these episodes, please take a moment to help wet our whistle by clicking on the link to ... Buy Me A Coffee!
In this episode, hosts Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan dive deep into the ever-evolving challenges and strategies behind promoting your work as a writer. Drawing on their own publishing journeys—spanning traditional and indie paths—they share honest insights, mishaps, and lessons learned about building visibility, reaching readers, and navigating the business side of a creative life.Alex and Chris also spotlight four standout examples—from solo creators like Damon Manx and Rebecca Cuthbert, to the collaborative energy of the Horror Writers Association and Black Nerd Problems. For a list of the tips from this episode, CLICK HERE.Have any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story www.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryIf you're enjoying these episodes, please take a moment to show your support by clicking on the link to ... Buy Me A Coffee!
In this episode of Tell the Damn Story, Alex and Chris explore what it really means to commit to a creative path—not just in ambition, but in action.They dig into the often-overlooked realities of collaboration: working with partners, editors, and creative peers; learning how to listen to critique without taking it personally; and understanding the difference between feedback that strengthens your work and noise that distracts from it. Through personal stories, hard-earned lessons, and nearly 400 episodes’ worth of perspective, Alex and Chris break down why professionalism, patience, and openness are essential tools for any serious creative.This episode is about showing up, doing the work, and learning how to grow—whether you’re working solo or building something with others.Have any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story www.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryStories change lives. They always have. At *Tell The Damn Story*, we believe in lifting voices and passing stories on. Your support keeps them alive for future generations. Help us by supporting TTDS → Buy Me A Coffee!
Welcome To Another Creative Year!Alex Simmons and Chris Ryan kick off 2026 by diving into what it really takes to be a prolific and resilient writer in the new year. With flying cars and jet packs noticeably absent from our futures, the co-hosts remind us that storytelling—simple, honest, and consistent—is the true adventure.Together, they reflect on the pitfalls of New Year's resolutions and why grand, unattainable goals can sabotage creative momentum. Instead, this dynamic wordsmithing duo advocates for practical, achievable steps—celebrating every victory, no matter how small, and forgiving ourselves for unfinished drafts and missed writing days. This episode is packed with relatable stories and actionable advice, from reassessing your past progress with kindness to embracing curiosity and sustaining creative habits.If you're ready to take on 2026 as a storyteller, tune in for honest conversation, hard-earned wisdom, and the inspiration you need to keep writing—and keep going.“If this episode resonated, download our cheat sheet—Six Ways to Win the Writing Year Without Burning Out—and keep the momentum going.”Have any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story www.TellTheDamnStory.comYouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryStories change lives. They always have. If you're enjoying these episodes, please take a moment to help wet our whistle by clicking on the link to ... Buy Me A Coffee!
Here we go with Part 2 of “Master the Magic of Holiday Horror: How To Create Festive Yet Frightening Tales”—an all-star lineup joins your favorite co-hosts Alex and Chris: Steven Van Patten, Teel James Glenn, Marc Abbott, John Collins, and James Chambers.This episode dives headfirst into the art and courage required to mix chills with cheer, sharing honest insights on pushing creative boundaries, balancing authenticity with audience sensitivities, and making sure every fright serves the story—not just the shock value. You’ll hear the panel reflect on the importance of reading widely, embracing curiosity at any age, and drawing inspiration from everyday life to craft compelling stories that linger long after the holidays.From hard-won writing wisdom, techniques for fearless storytelling, and anecdotes about books that shaped their writing journeys, to quick-fire recommendations that might just change your creative life, this episode is brimming with advice and encouragement for both emerging writers and seasoned creators.So grab your notebook, cozy up, and discover how to put some fear in your fa-la-la with the “Tell The Damn Story” crew—where inspiration, community, and storytelling magic are always in season.Have any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story www.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryStories change lives. They always have. At *Tell The Damn Story*, we believe in lifting voices and passing stories on. Your support keeps them alive for future generations. Help us by supporting TTDS → Buy Me A Coffee!
Welcome to a holiday edition of "Tell The Damn Story," where we explore the twists, turns, and often terrifying magic of crafting festive horror tales! In this very special episode, Chris Ryan and Alex Simmonss are joined by a powerhouse panel of storytellers—including Teel James Glenn, Marc Abbott, James Chambers, John Collins, and Steven Van Pattin. Together, they dive headfirst into the mysterious and eerie side of the holidays, discussing their experiences contributing to Soul Scream and Thylazine: Come All Ye Faithless, a collection brimming with holiday horror stories.Have any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story www.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryStories change lives. They always have. At *Tell The Damn Story*, we believe in lifting voices and passing stories on. Your support keeps them alive for future generations. Help us by supporting TTDS → Buy Me A Coffee!
On this episode of Tell The Damn Story, hosts Lara Frater and John Frater join Chris Ryan and Alex Simmonss for a lively, revealing conversation that’s as much about relationships as it is about writing. With decades of combined experience across horror, sci-fi, nonfiction, and the world of gaming, Lara Frater and John Frater pull back the curtain on what it’s really like to build a marriage—and creative partnership—under one (occasionally noisy, cat-filled) roof. Have any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story www.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryStories change lives. They always have. At *Tell The Damn Story*, we believe in lifting voices and passing stories on. Your support keeps them alive for future generations. Help us by supporting TTDS → Buy Me A Coffee!
"Writing for young readers isn’t about dumbing it down — it’s about tuning in..."In this episode of Tell the Damn Story, Chris and Alex dive into essential writing insights for anyone crafting stories for young readers. From understanding age-appropriate content to shaping characters and plots that truly resonate, they break down practical strategies emerging writers can put to work immediately. Along the way, Alex shares examples drawn from the origins and evolution of Kids Comic Con—showing how storytelling, community, and imagination come together to inspire the next generation.Whether you're developing a children's book, creating all-ages comics, or helping young writers find their voice, this episode delivers clear, actionable tips to strengthen your craft—plus a behind-the-scenes look at how events like Kids Comic Con help nurture young minds through story.Grab our 10 Tips Guide to: The Joys of Writing for a Young Audience Have any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story www.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryStories change lives. They always have. At *Tell The Damn Story*, we believe in lifting voices and passing stories on. Your support keeps them alive for future generations. Help us by supporting TTDS → Buy Me A Coffee!
In PART TWO of this episode, hosts Alex and Chris continue their deep dive into the exciting—and sometimes nerve-wracking—world of live events (book fairs, signings, or conventions) for writers.Chris shares more of his firsthand experience at the New York City Indy Horror Book Fair, breaking down everything from finding affordable opportunities to the nitty-gritty logistics of setting up your table, choosing which books to bring, and connecting with readers in memorable ways.Alongside practical tips and laugh-out-loud anecdotes, Alex and Chris tackle common barriers writers face—like nerves, budgeting, and getting back out there post-pandemic. Plus, click here to get our can't-miss downloadable guides to book fair do's and don’ts.Book Fair Guide Do's Book Fair Guide Don'tsWhether you’re prepping for your first event or looking to up your game, this episode is your roadmap to making the most of every live opportunity. Hit play and get ready to take your writing beyond the page!Have any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story www.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryStories change lives. They always have. At *Tell The Damn Story*, we believe in lifting voices and passing stories on. Your support keeps them alive for future generations. Help us by supporting TTDS → Buy Me A Coffee!
In this episode, hosts Alex and Chris dive deep into the exciting—and sometimes nerve-wracking—world of live events for writers.Whether you're an emerging author or a seasoned pro, stepping out from behind your desk to attend book fairs, signings, or conventions can be a game-changer for your writing career. Chris shares his firsthand experience at the New York City Indy Horror Book Fair, breaking down everything from finding affordable opportunities to the nitty-gritty logistics of setting up your table, choosing which books to bring, and connecting with readers in memorable ways.Alongside practical tips and laugh-out-loud anecdotes, Alex and Chris tackle common barriers writers face—like nerves, budgeting, and getting back out there post-pandemic. Part One of this episode is packed with actionable advice, including clever icebreakers, pricing strategies, and the importance of presentation. Plus, they tease what’s to come in Part 2 and a can't-miss downloadable guide to book fair do's and don’ts.Whether you’re prepping for your first event or looking to up your game, this episode is your roadmap to making the most of every live opportunity. Hit play and get ready to take your writing beyond the page!Have any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story www.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryStories change lives. They always have. At *Tell The Damn Story*, we believe in lifting voices and passing stories on. Your support keeps them alive for future generations. Help us by supporting TTDS → Buy Me A Coffee!
Struggling to turn that vague spark into a full story? Unsure how to build a hook, fix pacing, craft cinematic scenes, or write from a POV you haven’t lived?You’re not alone — and in this solo episode, Alex (with Chris away on a creative quest) dives into the questions that every emerging and aspiring writer wrestles with.In this bite-sized craft session, Alex breaks down:How to turn a vague idea into a full storyWhat makes a hook irresistibleHow to create scenes that feel cinematicWays to improve pacing in any genreWhen your story is actually ready to shareHow to write outside your own lived experienceThe most common beginner mistakesWhat “powerful storytelling” really meansThis is an honest, practical, compassionate conversation grounded in real writer struggles and decades of experience. If you’ve ever felt stuck, confused, or creatively overwhelmed, this one’s for you.Want a Writer's Block Breaking Guide from this episode?CLICK HERE!👉 Got a question for TTDS? Send it in — Alex and Chris may answer it on the next episode.Have any questions, comments, or suggestions?Then, please leave them in the Comments Section.Write: TTDSOnAir@gmail.comAnd follow us on ...@Tell The Damn Story www.TellTheDamnStory.comwww.Facebook.com/Tell The Damn Story YouTube.com/ Tell The Damn StoryStories change lives. They always have. At *Tell The Damn Story*, we believe in lifting voices and passing stories on. Your support keeps them alive for future generations. Help us by supporting TTDS → Buy Me A Coffee!
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