Giles Coren Has No Idea

Warning flag: this episode contains sensitive content.

Fresh from the Easter recess Giles and Esther have a cunning plan to lure in new listeners, they’re flying the flag for air fryers. Keen to be welcoming of all cooking methods they undertake some thorough research which includes never using, trying or knowing anything about air fryers, before coming to a categoric conclusion on the latest kitchen gadget…

They take a look at the most expensive streets to live in the UK - none of which have flags in the  front garden - and compare them to their own ends.

Saving the best till last Giles and Esther try to identify the twenty-one sexuality and gender flags on display at a hospital reception in the midlands. Giles can’t find his flag, and he is worried about members of the Royal Navy. Finally, he stumbles upon an idea which he sends up his flagpole to see if it gets a salute… 

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Britain was made great by arseholes; MP’s thinking about porn and national stereotypes.

It’s a very slow news week. Lacking stimulation Giles and Esther turn to pornography and the MP’s who are worrying about its effect on sex education. Inspired, Giles decides he can write a piece in praise of ‘the arsehole’ – they have a game of “good arsehole, bad arsehole” and speculate on the nature of Sacha Baron Cohen’s arsehole-ness.  

Fully expecting to face justice for their crimes against good taste Giles and Esther consider the potential end to the trial by jury system. In its place…trail by ordeal. Their punishment; to spend eternity gazing at an awful sculpture of a moustachioed plumber. 

Finally, an Italian, an Aussie and a Swede walk into a sauna...

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The new Bond, MP’s presenting TV programmes, Giles is a Gorilla and Ewan McGregor’s…acting skills.

Giles is very excited by the latest actor being linked with the role of James Bond, he feels sure he has some useful tips for the scrip writers – a Volvo car, a fussy mother, and some anti-allergy pillows.

Elsewhere, what would the BBC advertise if they could… waterproof pants or Stormzy’s latest album? Giles is preoccupied with the effect gravity is having on Ewan McGregor’s acting career. And Esther and Giles believe in the benefits of fasting, they have a gut feeling it’s a good thing. Sadly, recent research may disagree, they turn to Love Island contestant Auto Phagya for help.

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Giles has gone down the RAC rabbit hole, and to his delight it is providing him with an endless stream of evidence proving that he is, surprise surprise… an excellent driver. Not content with that he decides to quiz Esther on some of the most common driving myths, thus proving that she is not an excellent driver. You be the judge as to the veracity of his conclusions.

In a column that writes itself the ONS’s inflation basket gets a makeover for centrist dads, boomers, and millennials. Finally, Esther nails her colours to the mast – what is the point of university..?

** Mansfield College does in fact have college status, granted in 1995. 

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Peter Mandelson thinks Keir Starmer "needs to shed a few pounds". And Giles, always the friendly neighbour, thinks he can help his local MP look his dashing best on camera. What should he wear, where should he stand, and who should he stand next to? You're welcome Sir Keir - a future invite to Chequers is surely inevitable...

Plus, it's International Women's Day. So what better way to celebrate than writing about what International Men's Day would look like? And while in the safe confines of podcast land, Giles asks Esther about whether she's scared of the menopause.

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Following last week’s comments about the Israel Gaza conflict, Giles had a visit to a local synagogue to navigate. It turned out the Rabbi may have been more famous than he is, but Giles did his aunt proud – shepping nachas!

Looking for a diversion, Giles and Esther watched a documentary on ‘Bennifer’ - Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez…it was quite a disappointment. Their version of a great love story has more in common with the Twits, things get out of hand when they list their pet peeves.

Staying with America, Peppa Pig is spreading the English accent across the Atlantic. Neither are fans of the pink oinker, or of world book day as it turns out. Finally, some wet nappies tie the whole thing together, sort of. 

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It’s a challenging and thoughtful episode this week. Giles has changed his opinion on the Israel Gaza conflict. He reflects on the time since he last spoke and wrote about it back in October; his final comments then proved depressingly accurate. Esther is caught off guard when discussing the fate of Russian dissident Alexei Navalny. Thereafter, all other subjects seem to be ‘tap dancing’ around the edges, but nevertheless men’s jewellery leads to an amusing insight into Esther and Giles respective sex lives at university… 

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VAT on school fees offers Giles and Esther the chance to consider the effects of a deluge of public-school children into the state system. Should it come to pass there will be a familiar cast of winners and losers. A pressing question; how should one dress when out in Mayfair? As shabbily as possible it seems, with good reason, oh and don’t wear a watch.

After the break the Kings cancer diagnoses stirs some emotional memories, but nothing to be exploited. In lighter news it turns out that Orcas are not lost at sea and the French are having less sex, whilst the English are making eyes at their pets...

**For those, like me, unsure of the meaning of a ‘mufti day’ it is a non-uniform day at school

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Gwyneth Paltrow is…furious. Thankfully Gwyn has a unique way to unleash her anger. As a man used to losing his temper Giles feels he can give her some tips.

Esther and Giles have been mixing in rarefied circles, but they don’t like to talk about it…much. In an exclusive just for the podcast they give a little glimpse into the life of grace and favour.

Lean, fearful children, vain rats and a sexy Jesus pave the way for Rishi Sunak and advice on fasting. Sadly, they never did make it to Marcus Rashford or soft drink sommeliers…maybe next time.

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What constitutes being fit for your age…a lap of the track, twenty push ups, or lugging a TV to the tip and changing the bed sheets? Giles and Esther put themselves to the test. Is ‘fat neck’ a sign of being unfit, or an ailment or not a thing at all. Whatever it is, Giles definitely doesn’t have it! And while we’re on illness, he doesn’t have man flu either. In fact, ‘man flu’ is just a tired trope…but he might have prostate trouble, but he can’t be sure because his doctor doesn’t wish to do the necessary.

Finally, a fly past of beards, queue jumping and potty mouthed parrots, all of which just aboutadds up to a podcast.

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Welcome back and a Happy New Year. Giles welcomes 2024 by pondering the impending apocalypse. Thankfully that doesn’t last long before thoughts turn to working or wanking, or both. Is work by its very definition not to be enjoyed? To quote Esther; “it’s boring and it never stops.” It is unlikely that public sex acts would improve matters much, but it is hard not to consider once the seed has been sown. Speaking of filth, Giles hasn’t washed in six days, but with good reason. Esher on the other had has washed, but in an unconventional manner. Perhaps it is because, like Kate Moss, they just don’t give a fig…

Here's to series twelve, thanks for listening.

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It's fun, it's festive, it’s a bumper edition.

We hope you enjoy it. If you do, please share.

Merry Christmas, see you in the New Year.

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Its Christmas and it’s all hands to the ideas pump. Giles has columns to write, lots of them, and he’d like them done before Christmas eve. Cue a list of perennial Christmas crackers; cost of Christmas, Whamageddon!, other things to avoid before Christmas, who likes Christmas pudding and dead or alive at Christmas…

A quick look at robot reverends and Esther’s tips on prepping for the end of the world, and we’re half an hour closer to Christmas.

PS Benny Hill didn’t die on Christmas day. 

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Giles and Esther are feeling a little uneasy about discussing the news. Well, one story in particular, the Israel Gaza conflict. Can anything be said, is anyone the right person to say it?

In cheerier news, winter is here, hurrah! Light the fire, hunker down and see no one. Whilst huddled under a blanket Esther has an idea, possibly one ‘borrowed’ from an Adam Sandler film; Esther wants to enact VAR in everyday life…did you really put the toilet seat down? Finally, the merits of single sex or mixed schools - Giles and Esther make their pitch for; “The rest is education.” 

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Alternative titles this week could have been ‘Massive Nuts’ or ‘Now imagine you’re on twitter, 16 and a bit thick.’ Anyway, how are you? Yes, you? All set for Christmas? I don’t know where the time goes, only seems two minutes since it was January. Care for a biscuit...? Giles and Esther are discussing small talk. It seems that some Gen Z's might need a helping hand with face-to-face communication. Sad face emoji.  

They cover big talk as well with the autumn statement, eating disorders and anti-Semitic octopuses. Finally, they perform a graceful pirouette to discuss a trip to the ballet. 

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An eclectic mix of men’s health, politics, literary theory, and superheroes this week.

There is an unfortunate faecal air but fear not it is all in aid of cancer awareness, cinematic description or simply doing the Times’ dirty work.

Giles ponders what kind of resignation letter he’d write, and Esther writes an ode to David Cameron.  

Finally, the superhero is dead, long live the superhero…say hello to ‘The columnist!’

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Giles is feeling cut adrift, in the camp but not part of it, fearing the plight of a secular Jew is a rip off. 

With that conundrum left unanswered they try to help Barbra Streisand find some fun in her life.  Both agree it is more likely a good book by the fire then a private jet to see Katie Perry. 

Finally, a big shout out to our listeners in New Zealand – Kia Ora! 

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After a difficult few weeks Giles and Esther are back. Understandably the conversation begins with the ongoing conflict in the middle east, and its jarring contrast with the rest of life.

Matters develop as the idea of emigrating emerges…well running away would be more accurate. But where to, that is the question; Cuba, New Zealand, Mumbai…?

Finally, the ‘fruity’ language of Dominic Cummings…or is it Cummins? Is his lineage that of Campbell, Iannucci and Tucker? Or is he simply the result of unbearable frustration at pompous blobs…?

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As you might expect, this week is a difficult episode. Giles tries to make sense of events and his fluctuating reaction to them.

There isn’t much room for levity but Snoop dog releasing a new wine and Esther's fear of bedbugs do there best to offer some light to a very dark week.

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Giles and Esther take a pragmatic look at the Tory party conference and wonder what the pay off might be to go with many of the policy announcements. Neither are happy at the idea of doing maths until they’re eighteen, after all many of Giles’ friends from set four did very well without it, thank you very much.

Exeter university are running a masters course on magic, you can imagine the reaction. The art of the citizen’s arrest…Giles has tried on more than one occasion and failed, and that was when he was young and fit, before he hit the male menopause. Maybe he’d batter take some time off work to recuperate.

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Flying cars, white wine on tap and ash trays by the bath. What possible wonders could the future hold? Whatever they are Giles hopes to live to see them but is pretty sure even with flying cars their will still be gridlock in the skies.

Boris and Carrie’s former nannie has hit the papers, demonstrating one of Esthers mottos, always pay the staff.

And a man walks into a bar and the barman says: ”Are you sure you should be here?”

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The subject of Russell Brand prompts Giles to ponder the merits of being a conspiracy theorist. Esther has been given the nod that comedians aren’t very good in bed, or is that just another conspiracy theory. 

Prime Minister Sunak is taken to task over his rolling back of the Conservative party green agenda and does Paris actually exist, at least the fetishised American version of it? 

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Giles and Esther are back for series eleven.

Giles is annoyed with, well, everything, but podcasts and restaurants in particular. For a man who makes his living from both it could be problematic.

On the menu this week is the cost of restaurants, as Rich Stein is started charging for ketchup and Tom Kitchen is charging one hundred and seventy pounds for a Sunday lunch. Yes, one-hundred-and-seventy-pounds.  

What makes a good Dad, a thick neck or a firm hand? Giles definitely ticks one box. A surprising take on twenty miles per hour zones. And Esther is very interested in banning things.

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This week’s pod was recorded on Wednesday morning, BEFORE Huw Edwards was named as the ‘mystery BBC presenter’ in question. As a result, Giles and Esther spend the first few minutes trying very hard to stay on the right side of libel law. Please do have a laugh at their (and Neil’s) expense as they walk a pointless tightrope.

In other news; unique sounds, tennis is boring and for wusses and an alternate summer awaits.

We’re off for a break. Hope to see you in September. 

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G’day cobbers! Giles and Esther take a considered look at the ECB equality report; they then take a far less serious look at ‘cheating Aussie b**tards’.

Is twitter dead Esther pulls on the thread to find out. After a short break it is a whistle stop tour of Wimbledon past and present, Debrett’s guide and puppy yoga before Giles heads off to practice his didgeridoo and Esther feeds the Kookaburras.

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If you’re wondering what ‘bazball’ is Giles gives a mercifully short explanation before trying to apply it to life. Esther is preoccupied with various tall attractive fast bowlers.  

They then discuss the perfect nap, the art of grifting and the sensitive subject of temperamental performers. Giles is very honest as he discusses how in the past, he earnt a reputation for being ‘difficult.’

Giles and Esther are away next week. They’ll be back with a new pod in two weeks’ time.

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What do ‘Carry On’ actor Bernard Bresslaw and American actress Zendaya have in common? Not much I imagine, but they do both appear in this week’s pod.

Giles and Esther give their take on middle age, British AI and Johns Hopkins University’s definition of a lesbian. Giles decides to introduce Billy Bunter to cruciferous vegetables (no, me neither), and they consider if they have ever changed their own or anyone else’s mind, about anything, ever. To find out, have a listen. And if you like it, please do subscribe.

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If I say ‘the Queen’ who do you think of? Camilla or Elizabeth? Esther makes the same mistake, but Giles is too busy thinking about ex girlfriends.  

Is the Bible compatible with modern sensibilities? Giles and Esther have a stab at de-sexy-fi-ing it.

They also tackle vet bills and Prince Harry before Giles decides to see what lurks at the back of the fridge.

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Many subjects try, but many fail to pique Giles’ interest this week. Seagulls, sex lives and holidays are dismissed before German ablutions come close. Next, a motion by the always eager to please Liberal Democrats faces gallant failure. In the end it is an inadvertent sneeze that reveals the diamond in the rough…or the raspberry in the bush.

Ick nicht auf vin pisser.

Children that they are, Giles and Esther are on half term next week.

Please do subscribe to the podcast and we’ll see you in two weeks.

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Coming up on this morning’s show…. Esther and Giles make their long-awaited pitch to replace Holly and Phil on daytime TV. They prove their worth by tackling serious subjects such as long-term sickness. They tug on the heartstrings with an emotional story about Giles’ late father; they make the effortless gear change to a personal struggle about ADHD, before finally a bit of bouncy mid-morning relief as they demolish the wine tasting industry.

A minor problem with a few indiscreet name drops, but nothing some tweety birds can’t fix.

Hope you enjoy the show. We’ll be back next week with a man who built a replica of the Taj Mahal out of orange peel.  

If you enjoy the podcast, please hit subscribe. Thank you.

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Esther is shocked by a new book she is reading; Giles is shocked to hear that botox is ultimately a manifestation of a fear of death. They discuss the truth about getting old as a woman, and as a man, but more as a woman.

Finally, it doesn’t take a 1st from Oxford to know that the kitchen is the heart of any home, but it seems our American cousins have only just figured this out.

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Killed, plucked, and wrapped in plastic…not Esther’s Christmas present to Giles but the life of a farmed chicken. That is one of the subjects addressed in this week’s eclectic episode. Diets, saggy faces, a royal crush and mind reading also feature …oh and the coronation.

Now, why did I come in here…and what’s my name…?

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With the coronation around the corner Giles considers the merits of republicanism…but not for long. In a stark example of modern day classism King Charles decides what he would like named after him while others are not even called my their own name.

Seeking to better themselves Giles and Esther ponder how one properly navigates flatulence whilst receiving a knighthood? And why on earth would anyone want to dunk any biscuit more than once?

If you like the podcast, please subscribe. If you do, we might give you a free Jaffa Cake.

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If you wanna know if he loves you so its in his…laugh. Giles listens very carefully to Esthers giggles to see if she is still madly in love with him. Will a three year cruise restore the romance or perhaps an encounter with poet Alan Ginsberg? After some monkeying around Esther and Giles come to the rescue of some ramblers. 

Season 9 ends here. Seasons 10 begins after Easter. Thanks for listening. 

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Giles talks about cricket...but stick with it, he is soon diverted on to rudeness and demonstrates his 'gift' for accents; Esther displays a mean Bostonian - American not Lincolnshire. They then give Charles Dickens a 21st century reboot and finally "...what did one Beaver say to the other Beaver.....?

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With Ben departed Giles and Esther engage in some existential podcast reflection before tackling their new producer, the social scene at Cheltenham races and Prime Minister Sunak’s dog walking. Giles grills Esther on Jeremy Hunts pension plans and Esther grills Giles on why he can’t control his bladder. 

Get more of The Times and The Sunday Times - visit www.thetimes.co.uk/gilescorenhasnoidea.

Producer: Neil Cartmell and Anya Pearce

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Giles, Esther and Ben pick through the news of the week for the last time together; from fixing Brexit to Michelin stars, to weather presenters going on strike and Scott Mills getting stuck in his electric car. Giles laments the loss of producer Ben and Esther shows off her astonishing knowledge of Ireland.

Get more of The Times and The Sunday Times - visit www.thetimes.co.uk/gilescorenhasnoidea.

Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther return refreshed from half-term to discuss this week's best bits; from Squirrel pelts and electric cars, to King Charles eco-dreams and Keir Starmer's love of his home. Giles rethinks what he thinks it means to be Jewish and Esther shares her extensive knowledge of Stoats.

Get more of The Times and The Sunday Times - visit www.thetimes.co.uk/gilescorenhasnoidea.

Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther skim the week's papers; from increased ADHD diagnoses and why we don't laugh enough, to the return of Fawlty Towers and the benefits of BeReal. Giles recounts his favourite 70's sitcoms and Esther tries to hold back the laughter when thinking about her children falling over and walking into doors.

Get more of The Times and The Sunday Times - visit www.thetimes.co.uk/gilescorenhasnoidea.

Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther surf through this week's papers; from children's orchestra's and Welsh school names, to caffeine percentages and dragons in court. Giles reminisces about a childhood favourite book and Esther's extensive knowledge of Flobert is put to the test.

Get more of The Times and The Sunday Times - visit www.thetimes.co.uk/gilescorenhasnoidea.

Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther look through this week's papers to find a column idea; from banning books and tax return season, to a super smart toddler and the undercover fridge. Giles begins to question the loyalty of his kitchen appliances and Esther passes the Mensa entrance exam.

Get more of The Times and The Sunday Times - visit www.thetimes.co.uk/gilescorenhasnoidea.

Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther burn through this week's papers looking for a column idea; from Clarkson's apology and the death of electric cars, to evil office cake and changing perceptions of Henry VIII. Giles is off to exchange his infamous electric Jaguar and Esther counts the amount of times the burglar alarm goes off during the recording.

Get more of The Times and The Sunday Times - visit www.thetimes.co.uk/gilescorenhasnoidea.

Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther return after their Christmas break to flick through this week's papers; from Prince Harry and high blood pressure, to electric cars and conspiracy theories. Giles confirms himself as a medical marvel and Esther is outed as a blackbelt in the bedroom...but not like that.

Get more of The Times and The Sunday Times - visit www.thetimes.co.uk/gilescorenhasnoidea.

Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther give the papers fone more once over for the series; from MI6 quizzes and Christmas presents, to Harry and Meghan and the future of cricket. Giles is left speechless by some amazing news and Esther is left breathless by another coughing fit.

Get more of The Times and The Sunday Times - visit www.thetimes.co.uk/gilescorenhasnoidea.

Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther peruse the papers for this week's column idea; from Harry and Meghan and Tudor war cries, to Christmas TV and English cricket. Giles dreams of one day meeting Ben Stokes and Esther reveals her secret Shakespearean crush.

Get more of The Times and The Sunday Times - visit www.thetimes.co.uk/gilescorenhasnoidea.

Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther scan the papers for this week's column idea; from parking tickets and this year's Today Show guest editors, to cold water swimming and finding a new job for Matt Hancock. Giles ponders what car Bond would drive and Esther reveals her top tips to avoid a fine.

Get more of The Times and The Sunday Times for less than £1 a day - visit www.thetimes.co.uk/gilescorenhasnoidea to start your free trial.

Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther are back in the kitchen to pursue the papers; from planing for retirement and architect nightmares, to acts of love and the word of the year. Giles creates a new game whilst Esther tries to keep him on track with his diet.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther return to thumb through this week's papers; from Christmas dinner and height enhancement surgery to Rishi's wardrobe and what it means to be a man. Giles is VERY hungover and Esther defends the Prime Ministers shoes.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther are back in Kitty's bedroom surrounded by this week's papers; from I'm a Celebrity and the cannon of Charles Dickens to ancient hair products and exotic animals. Giles is excited by the prospect of a trip to the theatre and Esther has been floored by Sam's pet based dossier.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther return refreshed from a half-term halloween break to flick through the papers; from Potter power and Hancock in the jungle, to saving the Bounty and a dining institution. Ben shook off a horrendous migraine to record the show...a day later than usual - but did it help give Giles more time to work on his column?

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther jumped the gun to find this week's column idea; from James Corden's table manners to bad tourist attractions. But despite some cracking ideas from Esther this week, Giles has torn up whatever he was writing given the news about Liz Truss's resignation.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther return to his office to flick through the papers; from Jamie Oliver and one pot cooking, to a pigeon for a bag and a disconnected Westminster. Giles shows a distinct lack of interest in Sarah Jessica Parker whist Esther is delighted by Sex in the City being back in the news.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther leave their kitchen to skim through this week's papers for a column idea; from Liz Truss U-turns and Emily Thornberry speeding, to being attractive over 50 and Meghan Markle's truth. Giles shows a worrying level of forgetfulness and Esther is concerned her son is manipulating her at dinnertime.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther pick apart the papers for this week's column idea; from a scary fiscal event and saving Britain's wild birds, to cheating at chess with a sex toy and saying farewell to the boss. Giles pays tribute to his outgoing editor and Esther is picks bits of ceiling out of her tea.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther return to ruffle up the papers in order to find an idea for this week's column; from a new Prime Minister and a new King, to a inconceivable number of ants and going back to the 80's. Esther is delighted that the new building work has started upstairs and Giles is still reeling from falling victim to a phishing scam.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther return with a new series in the wake of a new Prime Minister, a new King...and new building works!

Join them every Friday to find out what ideas do and don't make it into this weekend's column.

Get The Times free for a month: www.thetimes.co.uk/gilescorenhasnoidea

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Giles and Esther talk through this week's papers; from the Queen's Jubilee and reusable Burger King boxes, to Elon Musk and post-covid customer service. Giles is on a mission to try and get a book deal and Esther is delighted to see Mo Tenzing has come home.

Get more of The Times and The Sunday Times for less than £1 a day - visit www.thetimes.co.uk/gilescorenhasnoidea to start your free trial.

Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther piece their way through the week's papers; from Macron's chest hair and boring recipe books to Liam Gallagher getting old and changing your washing up sponge. Giles tries to work out why Esther is in a strangely zany mood...whilst Esther is having a great time.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther return from their debut ski trip to slalom their way through the news of the week; from Partygate and driving tests to swearing and Petri dish caviar. Giles has smugly already written his column and Esther sets out her rules for if Giles ever goes on I'm a Celebrity...

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther have donated their paper subscriptions to Ben this week as they head off on their first ever family ski holiday. Will they return in one piece? Will they be converted to be ski-people? Return next week to find out. In the meantime, here is a collection of some of their best column ideas from recent episodes.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther dig through the week's news for a column idea; from the Jackie Weaver inquest to the London Resort spider, to Prince Phillips memorial service and Will Smith's slap at the Oscars. Giles is worried because he hasn't read the papers yet whilst Esther is struggling to find ski gear for their holiday.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther thumb their way through this week's papers for another topic for his column; from Royal washing-up liquid and state school Oxbridge candidates to regional accents and pranks. Giles and Esther both reveal they have a crush on the same member of the Royal family.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther mine for a column idea from this week's papers; from brands leaving Russia and what makes people boring to the inflation index and police no longer being able to have affairs. Giles reminisces about the night he thought he'd become cool and Esther buys a piece of controversial garden furniture.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther delve into the papers to find an idea for this week's column; from Russian sanctions and the war in Ukraine, to Ancient Greece and Tom Holland and Mark Wahlberg in Uncharted. Giles reminisces about children's TV and Esther despairs at their choice for family movie night.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther take a careful look through this week's papers to find a new column idea; from Roman Abramovich and mental health in farming, to private schools and boring classic novels. Giles tries to balance his brand of humour with being sensitive to the atrocities in Ukraine whilst Esther has written a topical pop quiz.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther return to find another column idea from the week's papers; from Russia's invasion of Ukraine and a 5 year-old novelist, to holiday parks and culture wars. Giles is trying to learn from the negatives of The White Lotus whilst Esther is on the prowl to capture an invading ginger cat.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Covid restrictions are lifting and so we've given Giles and Esther freedom to roam once more the through the podcast world.

Join them every Friday for a fly on the wall insight into the ideas that did, and very much didn't, make it into this weekend's column.

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The Times and The Sunday Times are joining forces again for this year’s Christmas appeal, asking readers to support three charities working to address urgent issues affecting vulnerable adults, children and the places in which we live.

One of the charities this year is the Refugee Councils of Britain, comprising the Refugee Council and its Scottish and Welsh counterparts. They provide assistance to 20,000 adults, families and unaccompanied children each year who have fled bloodshed and persecution in their homelands, sometimes arriving with only the clothes on their backs after perilous journeys.

Nestor Masudi arrived in the UK with nothing, but now he can cook with the very best. Thanks to support from the Scottish Refugee Council Nestor has worked in Michelin-starred kitchens and is on his way to fulfilling his dream of opening his own restaurant.

Giles Coren invited Nestor to join him for the afternoon in the News UK kitchens to talk about his life, the help he received from the Scottish Refugee Council and to sample some of his amazing food.

To donate to The Times and Sunday Times Christmas Appeal visit thetimes.co.uk/christmasappeal 

Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther try and find their final column idea of the year from the week's papers; from chocolate mayonnaise and England Women's Football to online car sales and the nuances of the Greek alphabet. Giles is readying himself for the end of the year and Esther is on the look out for her early Christmas present to herself.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther try to find another column idea from this week's papers; from public speaking and Peppa Pig to TV vicars and public speaking. Giles is finding great joy in organising the office Christmas party whilst Esther is recovering from surgery...Listener Poll - does Giles find Esther being on Crutches: A) Funny B) Annoying C) Has been incredibly caring and sympathetic.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles, Esther and Kitty Coren try and find a column idea from this week's papers; from bad holiday destinations and the Mosely family name to posh vegetarian meals and racism in cricket. Giles is riding on a high after a well received column, Esther tells the less than romantic story around their engagement and Kitty schools us all in how to drop the mic.

Get more of The Times and The Sunday Times for less than £1 a day. Visit thetimes.co.uk/gilescorenhasnoidea to start your free trial.

Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther sweat there way through the papers to find another column idea; from to over-50's style icons and John Prescott's car to bucket lists and Eva Longoria's gastronomic discovery. Giles's woes about his Jaguar continue and Esther is shocked to hear what Giles wore to go to the shops.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther turn the pages of this week's papers with their silver tongs to find a column topic; from cancelling big words and cancelling big art, to cancelling exams and cancelling columns. Esther joins Giles as he takes a break from filming in a fancy hotel and discuss the nuances of social media.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther spend half term looking through the papers; from holiday home rules and rural wi-fi to goat yoga and the death of male authors. Giles frets over the idea of having to change his own sheets and Esther manages to record a podcast parent the children...and Giles.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther thumb their way through the week's papers for another column idea; from popular baby names and common mannerisms to Shakespeare on TikTok and ageing. Giles is suffering from a Victorian disease and Esther, obviously, finds that hilarious.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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In this special bonus edition of the podcast - journalist Alex Clark sits down with Giles and Esther in front of a live audience at the Cheltenham Literature Festival to discuss the highs and the lows of presenting a podcast with you spouse...in your kitchen...during a global pandemic!

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Recorded at a live audience event at the Cheltenham Literature Festival chaired by Alex Clark.

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Giles and Esther complete their weekly trawl through the papers to find ideas for Giles’ Column in The Times. 

Today they find Radio 4 interviewers infuriating; talking dogs uninspiring and next doors builders unbearable.

Get more of The Times and The Sunday Times for less than £1 a day. Visit thetimes.co.uk/gilescorenhasnoidea to start your free trial.

Producer: Lucy Dichmont

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Giles and Esther have returned for another run at the papers; from petrol shortages and Netflix hit-list, to the Labour Party Conference and the Young V&A. Giles is on a hunt for some paper and Esther celebrates a new job.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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There may be shortages left right and centre, but Giles and Esther are back to overwhelm the husband and wife podcast ranks, with new ideas for his weekend column.

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Giles and Esther pass through this week's papers to take a shot at another column idea; from lost Edward Lear poems and freeing elephants from zoos to Gareth Southgate's mansion and getting ready for 'Freedom Day 2'. Giles is excitedly looking ahead to the Euros and Esther falls foul of the oldest trick in the book.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther serve up the best news stories of the week; from the return of Wimbledon and Love Island to England beating Germany and...that kiss! Giles is desperate to write his annual "I hate tennis" column and Esther has another ailment to annoy him with.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell.

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Giles and Esther look for another column idea from this week's papers; from school trips and Euro 2020, to statement haircuts and restaraunts post lockdown. Giles recalls a traumatic (hilariousl) moment from his childhood while Esther recovers from her second jab.

Get more of The Times and The Sunday Times with 50% off for 6 months. Visit thetimes.co.uk/gilescorenhasnoidea to start your free trial.

Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther are back around the kitchen table with another the week's best stories in the of papers; from Noah's Ark and marriage restrictions, to Big Brother and lockdown mental health. Giles is concerned the cracks are starting to show after Freedom Day was cancelled and Esther has some ideas to help.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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This week, Giles welcomes a freshly shipwrecked celebrity to Desert Island Crisps for a well earned half-term break. For those of you who haven't heard Giles's Times Radio show, this is the portion of the programme where a different celeb discusses the foods that shaped their lives. In this episode, the broadcaster and food critic Grace Dent joins Giles to discuss the class divide between their experiences of food, Masterchef and Giles makes Angel Delight.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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This week, Giles welcomes a freshly shipwrecked celebrity to Desert Island Crisps for a well earned half-term break. For those of you who haven't heard Giles's Times Radio show, this is the portion of the programme where a different celeb discusses the foods that shaped their lives. In this episode, the broadcaster Jamie Theakston joins Giles to reminisce about 90's TV, starting out as Garth Crooks' assistant and insists that the perfect place for peanut butter is on a burger.

Get more of The Times and The Sunday Times for less than £1 a day. Visit thetimes.co.uk/gilescorenhasnoidea to start your free trial.

Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther scour the papers for inspiration. Today: PBC provides food for thought, Boris’ take on the Bard, and Noises Off irritate. Giles’ poker night is interrupted by a feline emergency.

Get more of The Times and The Sunday Times for less than £1 a day. Visit thetimes.co.uk/gilescorenhasnoidea to start your free trial.

Producer: Not Ben Mitchell...AGAIN!!!

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Giles and Esther dissect the papers again: from Harry's misunderstanding of how mental health works, Sir Kier's chance to become a Hollywood star and what links Bill Gates to Marilyn Monroe. Oh, and Esther cries. 

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Producer: Not Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther make their way through this week's papers; from Tiffany's and snooker to covid statistics and fat police. Esther gives Giles a grammar lesson schooling him in one of her favourite of topics - diamonds. Oh...and Giles sings!!!

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther have returned to look through the week's papers; from Meghan's poetry and lost sounds, to vegan cooking and Line of Duty. Esther wants to show off her lyrical side to Giles, but he wants to only connect with our very special mystery guest.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Seeing as though they still can't go away to their tropical retreat, Giles and Esther have returned sooner than ever before to their kitchen table to find new ideas for his weekend column.

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Giles and Esther read the papers for the final time this series to find another column idea; from lockdown exercise and BBQ’s to narcissism and 'shop out to help out'. Giles is enjoying his new high-tech rowing machine and Esther outs his infamous family BBQ disaster.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther paw through this week's news in the hope of digging up a column; from talking dogs and dog attacks, to dog trainers and dog obesity. Giles returns from the dog house, has a good stare in the garden and gets distracted by some birds and Esther barks the alphabet.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther tear through the papers to find a column idea; from the vaccine roll out and road closures, to cycle safety and lockdown induced twitches. Their back from last week's podcast cancelling row...but how long will the truce last?

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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This week, Giles welcomes a freshly shipwrecked celebrity to Desert Island Crisps. For those of you who haven't heard Giles's Times Radio show, this is the portion of the programme where a different celeb discusses the foods that shaped their lives.

In this episode, the comedian and broadcaster who has eaten more cake and travelled down more rivers than you can count...Sue Perkins joins Giles to reminisce about their TV show Supersizers and her mother's 'poor man's French toast'.

Get The Times free for a month: thetimes.co.uk/gilescorenhasnoidea

Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther take a look at the news of the week; from Rishi's latest budget and hotels in space, to Carrie's Westminster make-over and the UK's top earner. Giles interrogates Esther on what caught her eye during the budget; the tax rises or the Chancellor himself.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther return to find a column idea; from Boris's roadmap to recovery and Barak Obama and Bruce Springsteen's podcast, to Charles Darwin's heirloom chest and Gwyneth Paltrow's covid cure. With just a couple of weeks until lockdown easing begins Giles is helping Esther come to terms with the children going back to school.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Ben has dismissed Giles and Esther for their half term break, with reading assignments and a holiday diary to be completed before they return. But, as a treat we thought we'd bring you a very special edition of Desert Island Crisps. For those of you who listen to Giles's Times Radio show, this is the portion of the programme where a different celebrity has been shipwrecked on a desert island and reminisces about the foods that shaped their lives.

This week, the voice of Hey Duggee, Classic FM breakfast host andeveryone's favourite quizmaster...Alexander Armstrong joins Giles to reminisce about his love of sticky toffee pudding, pie day at school and a bizarre pudding called junket.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther swim their way through the papers for a column idea; from Princess Anne's living room and cornish fisherman to capital cities and the secret of a good lie. Giles decides that the time has come in lockdown homeschooling to give Esther and Sam a geography test.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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Giles and Esther return to scour this week's papers for a column idea; from a patriotic Labour Party and drinking at home, to the rules of cricket and life after lockdown. Esther is blamed for yet another hangover on a Giles who is excited about the return of cricket to terrestrial tv and talkSPORT 2.

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Producer: Ben Mitchell

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