Épisodes

  • Navigating Academia. The Power of Coaching
    Sep 19 2025
    In this conversation, Dr. Pamela Leggett-Robinson discusses her journey into coaching, the distinctions between coaching and mentoring, and the importance of coaching in academia. She emphasizes the need for faculty to have support systems in place to navigate the challenges of promotion and tenure, and how institutions can benefit from investing in the well-being of their faculty. The discussion also touches on the emotional aspects of coaching and the necessity for individuals to understand their own purpose within the academic landscape. In this conversation, Dr. Catherine Quinlan and Dr. Pamela Leggett-Robinson discuss the critical role of coaching and empowerment in higher education. They explore how faculty can better articulate their impact, the importance of empowering faculty and department chairs, and the need for institutions to recognize the humanity of their staff. The discussion emphasizes the necessity of coaching at all levels of academia to foster a healthier, more productive environment. They also touch on the challenges of institutional control and the importance of intentionality in coaching practices.About Dr. Pamela M. Leggett-Robinson (Guest)Pamela M. Leggett-Robinson is the CEO and Executive Director of PLR Consulting, Inc. PLR Consulting, Inc., a boutique consulting firm based in Atlanta, GA., is a trusted partner in empowering organizations and institutions to navigate complex challenges, retain diverse talent, and build sustainable programs that advance equity and excellence in STEM fields through program evaluation, project management, and evidence-based coaching. With more than 20 years of experience in higher education, Dr. Leggett-Robinson is a leader in driving meaningful change within the STEM ecosystem. Her distinguished track record includes success as both an External Evaluator (NSF RCN, IUSE, AGEP, INCLUDES; Google; Grunin Foundation) and as a PI/Co-PI (NSF DMR, PREM, STEP, Racial Equity), with her contributions documented through numerous publications and presentations. As an evidence-based coach, she has guided countless faculty, leaders, program managers, and principal investigators to enhance their leadership acumen, time management, and professionalism. Regardless of the area - evaluation, project management, or coaching - her unique approach integrates actionable strategies with a deep understanding of organizational dynamics, ensuring measurable and impactful results for individuals and their institutions. Dr. Leggett-Robinson holds a Ph.D. in Physical Organic Chemistry, a GSEC Certificate in Evidence-based Coaching, and a Certified Project Management Associate.When It's All Said & Done book bundleDemystifying Tenure & Promotion Amazon linkPLR Consulting websiteSocial media links: Linkedin, Instagram, and FacebookAbout the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D. I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert. I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education in the School of Education at North Carolina Central University. Learn more about me and my research on my websites and YouTube channels. https://drcatherinequinlan.comhttps://visibilityinstem.com/TEDx Talk: The ClarityWe Need For Belonging: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3xAD3I3x-M&feature=youtu.beBlack Representation in the Science Curriculum: Implications for Identity,Culture, Belonging, and Curriculum Development. https://www.routledge.com/9781032757193Keystone Passage,Chapter Series Book: https://keystonepassage.comCheck out the podcast:Learning, for Truth and Love: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6IlAjleK06X35gdoGqylGH YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drcatherinequinlan Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/learning-for-truth-and-love/id1785560564 Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/649118d6-1db7-4273-aa01-bfd495703f71/learning-for-truth-and-love iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-learning-for-truth-and-lov-248725998/
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    1 h et 15 min
  • Faith and Education: The Bryant Family's Approach
    Aug 24 2025

    In this episode, Catherine Quinlan interviews the Bryant family, who share their experiences with homeschooling and the importance of Christian values in their education. The family discusses the benefits of homeschooling, including socialization opportunities and the ability to focus on their faith. They emphasize the significance of teaching Christian values to their children and how faith guides their decisions. The conversation also touches on race, identity, and the message behind their book, which aims to promote inclusion and love. The Bryant family shares inspiring quotes and insights on success, patience, and trusting in God's plan.


    About The Bryant Family:

    The Bryants are a homeschooling, Christian family who strongly believe in the power of GOD'S WORD. They are excited to share this message through Trusting Timothy: A Story About Cheating.Our website is: trustingtimothy.com. We can also be followed at: https://www.instagram.com/trustingtimothy_official/




    About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D.

    I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert. I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education in the School of Education at North Carolina Central University.


    Learn more about me and my research on my websites and YouTube channels.

    For more information visit my websites:

    Personal Website of Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan: https://drcatherinequinlan.com

    Visibility In STEM Education Consultant/Services: https://visibilityinstem.com/

    TEDx Talk: The Clarity We Need For Belonging:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3xAD3I3x-M&feature=youtu.be

    Recent Academic Book:Black Representation in the Science Curriculum: Implications for Identity, Culture, Belonging, and Curriculum Development.

    https://www.routledge.com/9781032757193

    Keystone Passage,Chapter Series Book (available everywhere books are sold): https://keystonepassage.com


    Check out the podcast:Learning, for Truth and Love: Spotify: ⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/6IlAjleK06X35gdoGqylGH⁠⁠

    YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@drcatherinequinlan⁠⁠

    Podcasts ⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/learning-for-truth-and-love/id1785560564⁠⁠


    Amazon Music: ⁠⁠https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/649118d6-1db7-4273-aa01-bfd495703f71/learning-for-truth-and-love⁠⁠

    iHeart Radio: ⁠https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-learning-for-truth-and-lov-248725998/


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    1 h et 7 min
  • Empowering Black Boys Through Education ft. Dr. Jomo Mutegi
    Jul 22 2025
    In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Jomo Mutegi and Dr. Catherine Quinlan explore the critical themes of education, parenting, and community empowerment for Black boys. They discuss the importance of relevant science education, the role of children's literature in representation, and the values that should be instilled in young boys. The conversation also delves into the challenges of navigating technology and media influence, the significance of boredom in fostering creativity, and the need for cultural identity in media representation. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of community support and critical thinking in raising empowered children. Dr. Mutegi shares his journey in writing children's books that empower and represent Black narratives, while Quinlan emphasizes the need for positive representation in media. Together, they explore the challenges of parenting boys, the significance of virtues, and the necessity of creating opportunities for growth and exploration. The conversation concludes with valuable resources for parents and educators.About Dr. Jomo Mutegi:Jomo W. Mutegi is an Associate Professor of science education at Old Dominion University (ODU), Principal Investigator of the Mutegi STEM Learning Lab, and Past President of NARST (the National Association of Research in Science Teaching). NARST is the oldest, international professional association of science education researchers. Dr. Mutegi’s research aims to (a) examine the science knowledge of students of African descent, (b) understand how racialized experiences help to shape that science knowledge and (c) explore the development and implementation of socially transformative STEM curriculum and its impact on learners of African descent. His work appears in several respected journals including the Journal of Research in Science Teaching, Science Education, Teachers College Record, and The Science Teacher. He is a recipient of 2024 Outstanding Contributions to STEM Education Disruptor Award from the STEM Education Conference Advisory Board. Dr. Mutegi earned a dual bachelor’s degree in chemistry and biology from Gannon University, his doctoral degree in science education from Florida State University, and he completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh. He is a husband and the father of two sons ages 28 and 9.Link shared in video: https://www.es2rp.org/Book: Kamau Njama Discovers Secrets of the Vanguard Order (Available everywhere books are sold)About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D. I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert. I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education in the School of Education at North Carolina Central University. Learn more about me and my research on my websites and YouTube channels. For more information visit my websites: Personal Website of Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan: https://drcatherinequinlan.comVisibility In STEM Education Consultant/Services: https://visibilityinstem.com/TEDx Talk: The Clarity We Need For Belonging:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3xAD3I3x-M&feature=youtu.beRecent Academic Book:Black Representation in the Science Curriculum: Implications for Identity, Culture, Belonging, and Curriculum Development. https://www.routledge.com/9781032757193Keystone Passage,Chapter Series Book (available everywhere books are sold): https://keystonepassage.com Check out the podcast:Learning, for Truth and Love: Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/6IlAjleK06X35gdoGqylGH⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@drcatherinequinlan⁠ Podcasts ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/learning-for-truth-and-love/id1785560564⁠ Amazon Music: ⁠https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/649118d6-1db7-4273-aa01-bfd495703f71/learning-for-truth-and-love⁠ iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-learning-for-truth-and-lov-248725998/
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    56 min
  • Exploring the State of Mathematics Education
    Jul 16 2025
    In this episode of Learning for Truth and Love, Dr. Kimberly Weems discusses her academic journey and the current state of mathematics education. The conversation explores the influence of family on learning, the importance of external experiences, and the challenges faced by students in the post-pandemic educational landscape. Dr. Weems emphasizes the need for continuous review, the role of group work, and the potential shift towards data science in the curriculum. The discussion also highlights the significance of building confidence in math, maintaining positive attitudes, and the balance between rote learning and understanding. Finally, recommendations for improving mathematics education are provided, focusing on enrichment programs and engaging teaching strategies.Chapters00:00Introduction to Learning for Truth and Love01:19Dr. Kimberly Weems: Academic Journey and Background13:19The State of Mathematics Today17:39Trends in Math Education and Student Preparedness24:33The Importance of Continuous Review in Math Learning25:55Understanding Learning Gaps and Student Frustration27:11The Role of Metacognition in Learning28:12Group Work vs. Individual Study: Finding Balance29:56Trends in Math Education: From Phonics to Data Science31:34Rethinking College Math Courses: Algebra vs. DataScience33:39Integrating Critical Thinking in Math Education35:51The Role of Calculus in High School Education38:05Teaching Strategies: Balancing Understanding and RoteLearning45:01Overcoming Student Challenges in Math Learning46:34Building Awareness in Learning48:38The Importance of Data Science50:53Innovative Approaches to Teaching Math53:18Engagement and Real-World Connections in Math55:42The Role of Class Size in Learning59:09Promoting Positive Attitudes Towards Math01:02:19Enrichment Programs and Their ImpactAbout Dr. Kimberly Weems: Dr. Kimberly S. Weems is Associate Professor and Interim Chair of the Department of Mathematics and Physics at North Carolina Central University (NCCU). She earned a BS in mathematics from Spelman College and an MA and PhD in applied mathematics with a concentration in statistics from the University of Maryland, College Park. Dr. Weems completed postdoctoral studies in the Department of Statistics at North Carolina State University, where she later joined the faculty and served for two years as Co-Director of Statistics Graduate Programs. After moving to NCCU, Dr. Weems provided leadership for the NCCU Bridge-to-PhD program with NC State, designed to equip students with advanced statistical methods for analyzing atomic-scale data. Her primary research interests include flexible statistical models for the analysis of count data. Her service to the mathematics and statistics communities includes the following: advisory board member of the Infinite Possibilities Conference for women of color in mathematics and member of the American Mathematical Society’s Committee on the Profession. Dr. Weems has received teaching excellence awards from NCCU and NC State. In addition, she is a recipient of the Trailblazer Award from the University of Maryland Black Alumni Association.About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D. I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert. I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education in the School of Education at North Carolina Central University. Personal Website of Dr. Catherine L. QuinlanTEDx Talk: The Clarity We Need For BelongingBlack Representation in the Science Curriculum: Implications for Identity, Culture, Belonging, and Curriculum Development. Keystone Passage, Chapter Series BookLearning, for Truth and Love: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6IlAjleK06X35gdoGqylGH⁠YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@drcatherinequinlan⁠Podcasts ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/learning-for-truth-and-love/id1785560564⁠Other platforms
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    1 h et 10 min
  • Navigating the Challenges of Parenting Black Boys ft. Dr. Jomo Mutegi
    Jul 12 2025

    In this conversation, Dr. Jomo W. Mutegi discusses the complexities of parenting Black boys, emphasizing the importance of virtues, historical context, and resilience. He shares insights on navigating education, societal expectations, and the necessity of hardship for personal development. The dialogue highlights the unique challenges faced by Black families and the critical role of cultural understanding in shaping parenting strategies.


    About Dr. Jomo Mutegi:

    Jomo W. Mutegi is an Associate Professor of science education at Old Dominion University (ODU), Principal Investigator of the Mutegi STEM Learning Lab, and Past President of NARST (the National Association of Research in Science Teaching). NARST is the oldest, international professional association of science education researchers. Dr. Mutegi’s research aims to (a) examine the science knowledge of students of African descent, (b) understand how racialized experiences help to shape that science knowledge and (c) explore the development and implementation of socially transformative STEM curriculum and its impact on learners of African descent. His work appears in several respected journals including the Journal of Research in Science Teaching, Science Education, Teachers College Record, and The Science Teacher. He is a recipient of 2024 Outstanding Contributions to STEM Education Disruptor Award from the STEM Education Conference Advisory Board. Dr. Mutegi earned a dual bachelor’s degree in chemistry and biology from Gannon University, his doctoral degree in science education from Florida State University, and he completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh. He is a husband and the father of two sons ages 28 and 9.

    Link shared in video: https://www.es2rp.org/


    Takeaways

    • Dr. Mutegi emphasizes the importance of virtues in education.

    • Understanding history is crucial for Black children.

    • Parenting Black boys comes with unique challenges.

    • Cultural context shapes parenting styles and expectations.

    • Navigating education requires awareness of systemic issues.

    • Hardship is essential for personal development.

    • Risk exposure is necessary for learning and growth.

    • Perseverance is a key trait for success.

    • Societal expectations can hinder Black youth's potential.

    • Embracing hardship can lead to resilience and strength.



    About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D.

    I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert. I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education in the School of Education at North Carolina Central University.

    Learn more about me and my research on my websites and YouTube channels.

    For more information visit my websites:

    Personal Website of Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan: https://drcatherinequinlan.com

    Visibility In STEM Education Consultant/Services: https://visibilityinstem.com/

    TEDx Talk: The Clarity We Need For Belonging:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3xAD3I3x-M&feature=youtu.be

    Recent Academic Book:Black Representation in the Science Curriculum: Implications for Identity, Culture, Belonging, and Curriculum Development.

    https://www.routledge.com/9781032757193

    Keystone Passage,Chapter Series Book: https://keystonepassage.com

    Check out the podcast:Learning, for Truth and Love: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6IlAjleK06X35gdoGqylGH

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drcatherinequinlan

    Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/learning-for-truth-and-love/id1785560564

    Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/649118d6-1db7-4273-aa01-bfd495703f71/learning-for-truth-and-love

    iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-learning-for-truth-and-lov-248725998/

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    1 h et 7 min
  • Navigating Identity: Raising Biracial Black Boys ft. Dr. Claudia Rankins
    Jun 26 2025

    In this conversation, host Dr. Catherine Quinlan discusses with guest Dr. Claudia Rankins, the complexities of raising biracial Black boys, focusing on identity, education, and cultural representation. They explore the challenges faced by mixed-race families, the importance of parental involvement, and the subtle forms of racism that can impact children's development. The discussion emphasizes the need for strong Black cultural identity and Black representation in media and education, as well as the role of parents in advocating for their children's needs. In this conversation, Catherine Quinlan and Claudia Rankins explore the complexities of raising children in a racially diverse environment, the importance of character building, and the role of education in shaping identity. They discuss the expectations placed on Black children, the significance of HBCUs, and the challenges posed by modern technology and social media. The dialogue emphasizes the need for awareness and understanding in navigating these issues, particularly in the context of Black representation and the future of Black children.


    About Dr. Claudia Rankins:

    Dr. Claudia Rankins is a senior research associate for PRISSEM Academic Services, LLC, where she conducts faculty development and research development consulting activities, specifically aimed towards faculty at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) pursuing National Science Foundation (NSF) funding in STEM and STEM education fields.


    Dr. Rankins retired from the National Science Foundation where she served as a Program Director in the Directorate for Education and Human Resources. She directed the Historically Black Colleges and Universities Undergraduate Program and the HBCU Excellence in Research program. Prior to this post, Dr. Rankins served at Hampton University for 22 years in a number of capacities, including endowed university professor, chair of the department of physics, assistant dean for research, and dean of the School of Science. She is also a proud HBCU graduate, having obtained masters and PhD degrees in Physics from Hampton University.


    About Dr. Claudia Rankins

    Dr. Rankins is an advocate for STEM education and research at HBCUs. Her current research interests center around leadership and the history of STEM at these institutions. Her research in theoretical particle physics focused on the development of a model to describe distribution amplitudes and form factors of pseudoscalar mesons. Dr. Rankins is the co-founder of the Society of STEM Women of Color, Inc.


    Rankins won a gold medal in the 2025 World Masters Track & Field championships in the 4x200 m relay in her age group. Her team holds the American record.


    About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D.

    I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert. I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education in the School of Education at North Carolina Central University.


    Learn more about me and my research on my websites and YouTube channels.


    For more information visit my websites:

    Personal Website of Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan: https://drcatherinequinlan.com


    Visibility In STEM Education Consultant/Services: https://visibilityinstem.com/


    TEDx Talk: The Clarity We Need For Belonging: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3xAD3I3x-M&feature=youtu.be


    Recent Academic Book: Black Representation in the Science Curriculum: Implications for Identity, Culture, Belonging, and Curriculum Development.

    https://www.routledge.com/9781032757193


    Keystone Passage, Chapter Series Book: https://keystonepassage.com


    Check out the podcast:Learning, for Truth and Love: Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/6IlAjleK06X35gdoGqylGH⁠

    YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@drcatherinequinlan⁠

    Podcasts ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/learning-for-truth-and-love/id1785560564⁠

    Music: ⁠https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/649118d6-1db7-4273-aa01-bfd495703f71/learning-for-truth-and-love








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    48 min
  • Navigating Rejections: A Journey of Growth
    Jun 11 2025

    In this conversation, Dr. Catherine Quinlan discusses the significance of Black representation in education and the challenges faced in advocating for inclusive curricula. She reflects on her personal journey, the rejections she encountered, and how these experiences shaped her perspective on failure and empowerment. Dr. Quinlan emphasizes the importance of viewing setbacks as opportunities for growth and the need for a more inclusive approach to education that acknowledges and celebrates Black narratives.



    About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D.

    I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert. I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education in the School of Education at North Carolina Central University.



    Learn more about me and my research on my websites and YouTube channels.



    For more information visit my websites:

    Personal Website of Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan: https://drcatherinequinlan.com



    Visibility In STEM Education Consultant/Services: https://visibilityinstem.com/



    TEDx Talk: The Clarity We Need For Belonging: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3xAD3I3x-M&feature=youtu.be


    Recent Academic Book: Black Representation in the Science Curriculum: Implications for Identity, Culture, Belonging, and Curriculum Development.

    https://www.routledge.com/9781032757193



    Keystone Passage, Chapter Series Book: https://keystonepassage.com



    Check out the podcast:Learning, for Truth and Love: Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/6IlAjleK06X35gdoGqylGH⁠

    YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@drcatherinequinlan⁠

    Podcasts ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/learning-for-truth-and-love/id1785560564⁠

    Music: ⁠https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/649118d6-1db7-4273-aa01-bfd495703f71/learning-for-truth-and-love



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    25 min
  • The Journey of Truth and Love: Black Representation in Science Education
    Jun 3 2025

    In this episode, Catherine Quinlan delves into the themes of truth, love, and the importance of representation in education, particularly focusing on Black representation in the science curriculum. She discusses the concept of belonging and social schemas, exploring how these ideas intersect with identity and historical context, especially in STEM fields. The conversation emphasizes the need for open dialogue about uncomfortable truths and the collective impact of individual character on society.


    Takeaways

    Catherine reflects on her journey and the importance of her work.

    The significance of Black representation in science education is highlighted.

    Belonging is approached from a unique perspective in the context of identity.

    Social schemas play a crucial role in understanding belonging and identity.

    Historical patterns of belonging in STEM are explored.

    The impact of individual and institutional identity is discussed.

    Catherine shares narratives from Black scientists to illustrate belonging.

    The importance of listening to uncomfortable truths is emphasized.

    Character and its impact on society are central themes.

    The global nature of social issues is acknowledged.



    Chapters

    00:00

    Introduction and Personal Reflection

    04:06

    Exploring Black Representation in Science

    08:39

    Historical Context of Belonging in STEM

    12:54

    The Role of Character in Society

    17:07

    Conclusion and Future Directions


    About the Host: Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan, ED.D.

    I am a researcher, professor, and curriculum design expert. I currently hold the Brenda B. Brodie Endowed Chair for Teacher Education in the School of Education at North Carolina Central University.



    Learn more about me and my research on my websites and YouTube channels.



    For more information visit my websites:

    Personal Website of Dr. Catherine L. Quinlan: https://drcatherinequinlan.com



    Visibility In STEM Education Consultant/Services: https://visibilityinstem.com/



    TEDx Talk: The Clarity We Need For Belonging: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3xAD3I3x-M&feature=youtu.be


    Recent Academic Book: Black Representation in the Science Curriculum: Implications for Identity, Culture, Belonging, and Curriculum Development.

    https://www.routledge.com/9781032757193



    Keystone Passage, Chapter Series Book: https://keystonepassage.com



    Check out the podcast:Learning, for Truth and Love: Spotify: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/6IlAjleK06X35gdoGqylGH⁠

    YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@drcatherinequinlan⁠

    Podcasts ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/learning-for-truth-and-love/id1785560564⁠

    Music: ⁠https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/649118d6-1db7-4273-aa01-bfd495703f71/learning-for-truth-and-love



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    21 min