Episodes
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In this episode, I’m joined by Chris from MopTops Hair, and together, we dive into her incredible journey from founding a children’s hair salon to running a successful business for nearly two decades. Chris and I reminisce about our first meeting when she cut my son’s hair as a toddler, and we explore how her salon became a haven for families. We also discuss the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, the importance of building community, and why understanding your customers is key. Whether you're a parent, a business owner, or just someone looking for inspiration, there’s something here for you!
Key Takeaways:Specialising in a niche can set your business apart.Building strong customer relationships is invaluable.Serving families requires a unique approach to customer care.Perseverance and passion are essential for business growth.Always adapt to changing customer needs.https://www.facebook.com/moptopshaircare?mibextid=LQQJ4dhttps://linktr.ee/moptops101https://www.instagram.com/chris_gaskell_moptopshaircare/
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This week, I had an inspiring conversation with Jenni Harding, the brains behind Greatest Good. We dived deep into the world of purpose-driven business, exploring how Jenni’s unique approach helps businesses thrive while creating a positive impact. We chatted about the challenges of blending social media strategy with mindset shifts, and Jenni shared her secrets to building resilience and staying authentic in a competitive world. Whether you’re a small business owner or dreaming of starting one, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you navigate growth, embrace innovation, and connect with your audience in meaningful ways.
Key Takeaways:
Purpose-driven businesses create lasting impact and build trust. Mindset is the foundation for successful decision-making. Authentic storytelling connects brands with their audience. Social media strategy must align with core business values. Resilience is essential for overcoming entrepreneurial challenges.
Website: https://www.greatestgood.com.au
Christmas Gift Guide: https://www.greatestgood.com.au/australian-christmas-gift-guide
Shopping: https://www.greatestgood.com.au/shop.html
Donating: https://www.greatestgood.com.au/donate.html
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In this episode of The Social Circus, I dive into the power of goal setting and why starting with a big number can make all the difference in achieving success. As we approach the end of the year, it's natural to feel a bit drained, especially with the summer holidays and Christmas looming for those of us in Australia. But this is the perfect time to pause, reflect, and think about what we want to achieve in the coming year. I guide listeners through actionable steps on how to set big, meaningful goals for 2025, break them down into manageable pieces, and keep the motivation alive even as the festive season kicks in. So grab your pen and paper, because I've got loads of tips to help you enter the new year with a clear and inspiring plan!
Key TakeawaysStart with a big, ambitious goal to inspire action.Break goals down into achievable steps for clarity.Avoid burnout by aligning your goals with your energy cycles.Take advantage of end-of-year momentum to set intentions.Regularly review your progress to stay on track.Notable Quotes"Big goals inspire big action; don’t shy away from aiming high.""Breaking goals down doesn’t make them smaller—it makes them achievable.""Align your goals with your natural energy flow to avoid burnout.""End the year strong by setting a vision for the next.""Your progress is a journey; keep revisiting and refining."Digital Queens Mastermind
Blooming Business Academy
Click here to book FREE goal setting masterclass:
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In Episode 129 of The Social Circus, I'm diving into the year-end hustle and the exciting energy of November as we gear up for the big finale of 2024. I'll chat about the unique rhythm of December, especially for those of us in Australia preparing for the summer holidays. With December as a hectic month, November is our golden window to finish strong! I’ll also share a peek into my Digital Queen's VIP Party Week—an event that has grown into a highlight for my community, designed to get everyone energised and aligned with their goals for the coming year. Whether you're planning big things for your business in 2025 or just trying to squeeze in those final 2024 to-dos, there’s something in this episode for you.
Key TakeawaysNovember’s the Time: Use November to lock in 2024 goals.Plan for 2025 Now: Start shaping those ambitions.Celebrate Progress: Reflect on what’s worked this year.Engage Your Community: Events like VIP weeks boost connection.Make Time for Rest: Balance work with self-care as the year closes. -
In this episode, I dive into a heartfelt and enlightening conversation with Mel Stibbs, the founder of ADHD Village. We explore the unique challenges neurodivergent women face, especially in the business world, where typical structures and approaches don’t always fit. Mel opens up about her personal journey, from her late diagnosis of ADHD and autism to the drive to create a community where women can feel seen and supported. Together, we talk about how to balance the superpowers of ADHD—like creativity and drive—with the daily struggles, including organisation, emotional regulation, and overcoming stigma. Mel shares insights on the dangers of self-diagnosis, the rise of ADHD awareness on social media, and the importance of surrounding yourself with people who understand you. This episode is an open, honest conversation aimed at inspiring and empowering neurodivergent women to embrace their strengths and create a business journey that truly works for them.
Key TakeawaysEmbrace your neurodivergent strengths, but recognise the challenges.Surround yourself with a supportive community that "gets" you.Avoid self-diagnosis and consult a professional if ADHD resonates.ADHD can amplify both creativity and overwhelm; find strategies.Advocate for acceptance—neurodivergence should be understood. -
In this episode, I sit down with Julie, a functional medicine nurse practitioner, to explore what sets this approach apart from traditional healthcare. We dive into the differences between a nurse practitioner and a general practitioner (GP), highlighting the unique blend of experience and advanced training that nurse practitioners bring to the table. Julie shares insights into the core principles of functional medicine—like addressing root causes rather than just symptoms—and how this approach can make a real difference for patients. Whether you're curious about alternative approaches or seeking a deeper understanding of healthcare options, this episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone wanting to take charge of their wellbeing.
Key TakeawaysFunctional medicine focuses on identifying root causes, not just treating symptoms.Nurse practitioners combine clinical experience with advanced training for holistic care.There are fewer than 3,000 nurse practitioners in Australia, making them a unique asset.Functional medicine emphasizes patient education and empowerment.Collaboration between medical professionals can lead to more personalised care.juliefarrelly.com.auhttps://www.facebook.com/juliefarrellyatAchieveOptimalHealthhttps://www.instagram.com/achieveoptimalhealth/
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In this episode, I sit down with the inspiring founder of Aijan Skincare to uncover the story behind her brand. We dive into her transition from the world of finance to the skincare industry, and why redefining ageing is at the core of her brand's mission. She shares her insights on the misconceptions surrounding skincare, the importance of trust, and what it means to create a product line that truly resonates with women. If you're curious about how skincare can empower you to age on your own terms, this conversation is packed with wisdom and actionable insights.
Key Takeaways:Transitioning industries can spark innovative ideas.Redefining societal norms around ageing is empowering.Trust is key in building a successful skincare brand.Skincare goes beyond appearance; it’s about vibrancy.Pursuing passion leads to rewarding entrepreneurial journeys.www.aijan.com@aijanskincare@age__isjuatanumber
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In today’s episode, I’m chatting with the wonderful Caryn from Firefly Graphics about something super important but often overlooked: inclusive design. If you’re like me and hadn’t even heard of this concept until recently, don’t worry—you’re not alone! Caryn and I dive into what inclusive design really means, why it matters for small businesses, and how it can create a more welcoming experience for your customers. Caryn shares practical tips and insights on how to incorporate inclusivity into your branding and design without it feeling overwhelming. Trust me, after this chat, you’ll see how these small changes can make a big impact on your business.
Key Takeaways:Inclusive design ensures that everyone feels welcome when interacting with your brand.Small businesses can make big strides with simple design changes.Accessibility should be a priority from the start—not an afterthought.Inclusive design helps expand your audience and deepen customer loyalty.Being proactive about inclusivity reflects well on your business values.
Notable Quotes:"Inclusive design isn't just about accessibility; it's about creating an experience where everyone feels valued.""Small changes in your design can make a world of difference for people who might otherwise struggle to engage with your brand.""The future of business lies in inclusivity—it's not just a trend, it's a necessity.""Don't wait until you're bigger to focus on inclusive design—start where you are and grow from there.""Inclusivity reflects the heart of your business—show your customers they belong."
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In this episode of The Social Circus, I dive into the importance of entering awards, especially for women in business. I reflect on my own experiences, sharing how I’ve gone from being a finalist several times to winning my first major award this year. It wasn’t an overnight success, and I discuss how persistence and believing in yourself are key ingredients. Many of us hesitate to put ourselves forward, thinking we’re not good enough, but I encourage you to challenge that mindset. Whether you're early in your journey or further along, entering awards can boost your confidence, visibility, and credibility in ways you may not expect!
Key Takeaways:Awards can significantly enhance your business’s credibility.It’s important to overcome the mindset of "not being good enough."Persistence is key in being recognised—many stumbles happen before success.Women, in particular, need to get better at promoting their achievements.Entering awards can open doors you may not even realise exist.Notable Quotes:"For every success story, there’s usually a couple of stumbles behind the scenes.""This year was my year, but it took a lot of effort to get here.""Women, especially, are really bad at tooting our own horn." -
In this episode of The Social Circus, I chat with the amazing Roslyn Thompson, founder of Cheerful Days Co. We dive deep into the idea of blending business growth with positivity and mindset strategies. Roslyn shares her journey of building a business that focuses on creating joyful work environments while also driving success. We discuss how social media plays a role in fostering connections, what it’s like to work with clients who share your values, and some practical steps to maintain balance as a business owner. Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned entrepreneur, this episode is full of insights to help you grow your business with more joy and ease!
Key Takeaways:Prioritise joy in your business to boost productivity.Balance social media efforts with authentic connection.The importance of mindset in business success.Building relationships with aligned clients.Incorporate self-care practices into your business routine.
Notable Quotes:"Joy is a key ingredient to a thriving business – it’s not just about the numbers.""When you’re authentically yourself, the right clients will always find you.""Success doesn’t have to be stressful – it’s about finding your flow.""Mindset is everything – how you think impacts your entire business.""Social media is a tool, but connection is the heart of it."
https://www.cheerfuldaysco.au
https://www.instagram.com/cheerfuldaysco
https://www.linkedin.com/in/roslyn-thompson
https://www.facebook.com/cheerfuldaysco
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In this episode of The Social Circus, I chat with Ash Battye from Career Pursuit HR, and we dive deep into the world of human resources for small businesses. We cover everything from the common HR challenges that business owners face to how to build a strong and efficient team. Ash shares her top tips for creating a positive work culture and the importance of compliance. This episode is packed with valuable insights for any business owner who’s looking to streamline their HR processes and ensure their team thrives. Tune in for an episode full of practical, no-nonsense advice, and plenty of encouragement!
Key Takeaways:HR compliance is crucial for business success and avoiding legal headaches.Creating a positive work culture can boost employee morale and retention.Streamlining your HR processes will save you time and reduce stress.Hiring the right people starts with a clear job description and strong recruitment strategy.Regular performance reviews help keep your team on track and motivated.https://www.instagram.com/careerpursuithr/https://www.facebook.com/careerpursuithr/https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleighbattye/https://www.careerpursuit.com.au/
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In this episode, I sit down with Tania Carcenac, an inspiring entrepreneur, to talk about the rollercoaster that is running a business. We explore that familiar mix of excitement and fear, which Tania brilliantly coins as "terrified yet excited." We dig into her journey, touching on the moments when fear actually pushed her to make bold moves. Throughout our conversation, we explore how business owners can lean into their fears, turning them into a driving force for success. Tania’s honesty about the challenges makes this a relatable episode for any entrepreneur facing uncertainty. You’re sure to walk away with practical tips and plenty of inspiration.
Key Takeaways:Fear and excitement often coexist in entrepreneurship. Facing your fears head-on can drive business growth. It’s okay to be both terrified and excited—it’s part of the process. The key to overcoming fear is to take action, even when you're unsure. Surround yourself with supportive people who encourage you.
Notable Quotes:"I’m terrified but excited all at the same time." "Fear can either paralyze you or push you forward." "Sometimes, taking that first step is all you need to unlock your potential." "The scariest moments in business often lead to the biggest breakthroughs." "Being both terrified and excited means you’re on the right track."
Website: https://taniacarcenac.com / Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tania.carcenac/ / facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taniacarcenac.coaching / Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com.au/taniacarcenac/
The Midlife Makeover: A day of Style, Sass & Self Discoveryhttps://events.humanitix.com/the-midlife-makeover
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In this episode, I'm diving deep into the world of ChatGPT, the AI tool everyone seems to be buzzing about. We’ll explore what ChatGPT is, how it works, and why it’s relevant for small business owners. I'll walk you through the basics, break down the jargon, and share some practical tips on how you can start using AI to save time and enhance your business operations. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by the tech talk or just curious about what all the fuss is about, this episode is designed to be your easy-to-understand guide. Let’s turn that intimidation into inspiration and help you see how ChatGPT can be a powerful ally in your business toolkit!
Key TakeawaysChatGPT Demystified: Understand what ChatGPT is and how it works in simple terms.AI in Business: Learn how AI can streamline tasks and save time for small business owners.Practical Applications: Discover real-world ways to implement ChatGPT in your business.Overcoming Tech Fears: Tips on how to embrace AI without feeling overwhelmed.Staying Ahead: Why now is the time to start exploring AI for your business.Notable Quotes"AI isn’t just for the tech giants—small business owners can benefit immensely too!""Think of ChatGPT as your digital assistant, ready to help with the tasks that take up too much of your time.""The key is to start small; even a little AI can go a long way in boosting your business.""Don’t be intimidated by the tech—embrace it, and watch how it transforms your workday.""ChatGPT is like having a brainstorming partner who never gets tired or runs out of ideas." -
In this solo episode of The Social Circus, I’m diving into the world of AI and sharing my absolute favourite tools that can transform how you run your business. AI can feel a bit overwhelming and even a tad intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be! I’m breaking down my go-to AI tools that are not only powerful but also user-friendly, even if you're not a tech wizard. From streamlining your daily tasks to boosting your marketing efforts, these tools are game-changers. So, whether you’re curious about AI or looking for practical ways to incorporate it into your business, this episode is packed with insights that will help you get ahead of the curve.
Key Takeaways:Embrace AI to streamline daily tasks.AI tools can enhance your marketing strategies.You don’t need to be tech-savvy to use AI.Explore AI tools that fit your business needs.Start small with AI and expand as you get comfortable.Notable Quotes:"AI can feel terrifying, but it’s also incredibly exciting if you know where to start.""You don’t need to be a tech expert to harness the power of AI in your business.""The right AI tools can revolutionise the way you work, making your business more efficient."AI Tools I Use:ChatGPTGeminiJasperDALL·E Decipher AIManychat -
In this episode of Social Circus, host Sarah chats with Megan Summers, the founder of Megaglow Yoga. They talk about why self-care, mindfulness, and staying active are so important for busy entrepreneurs who spend long hours at their desks. Sarah and Megan stress the need to balance personal well-being with work demands.
Megan explains how sitting for too long can harm your core muscles and posture. She gives practical advice on how to add more movement and mindfulness to your day, especially if you work from home. Megan suggests small, easy changes like setting reminders to move, doing yoga, and including meditation in your routine. They wrap up by inviting listeners to check out Megan’s online yoga library, which offers options for different lifestyles.
Key Takeaways:Incorporate Movement: Regular movement is essential to counteract the negative effects of prolonged sitting. Simple acts like setting reminders to stand or walk can make a significant difference.
Mindful Practices: Activities such as yoga and meditation can offer immense benefits, including better management of thoughts and stress levels.
Commitment to Self-care: Prioritizing personal well-being is crucial for productivity and happiness. Dedicating specific times for self-care practices is beneficial.
Accessible Yoga: Megan's online yoga library offers flexibility by providing classes of varying lengths to suit different schedules, making self-care more manageable.
Nature’s Benefits: Taking time to disconnect and engage with nature can significantly enhance mindfulness and overall well-being
https://www.instagram.com/megaglowyoga/https://www.facebook.com/megaglowyoga/https://megaglowyoga.com.auhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/megaglowyoga/
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In this episode of "The Social Circus," I dive into the world of Facebook ads and lead generation, sharing some super useful strategies for business owners who want to succeed in today's tough market. I talk openly about how many businesses are going through quiet times and need effective ways to attract new leads and keep things moving.
I start the episode by chatting a bit about the current business climate and encouraging everyone to stay motivated. I also recommend checking out Episode 103, where I cover tips for getting through slow periods. Then, I get into the main content, focusing on three key strategies for using Facebook (or Meta) ads to generate leads: traditional lead generation ads, outbound communication ads, and two-way communication ads through platforms like Messenger and WhatsApp. I break down each strategy with practical tips and examples, making this episode a must-listen for anyone who wants to step up their lead generation game with social media ads.
I go over three key types of lead generation ads on the Meta platform – traditional lead generation ads, outbound communication ads, and two-way communication ads.
Traditional Lead Generation: These ads are all about addressing client problems and encouraging discovery calls, which makes them perfect for service-based businesses.
Outbound Communication: Lead form ads within Meta are super user-friendly and tend to have higher conversion rates, but they do require businesses to be on top of their follow-ups.
Two-Way Communication: Using Messenger and WhatsApp for ads allows for a more conversational approach, which helps build trust and convert leads more effectively.
Testing and Tracking: I also emphasise the importance of testing different ad creatives, targeting different audiences, and keeping a close eye on performance. This way, you can understand your conversion rates better and fine-tune your strategies.
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Welcome to episode 116 of The Social Circus! In this episode, host Sarah Thomson dives deep into the world of Reels, a powerful tool for digital marketing and social media strategy. As a business owner, understanding and leveraging Reels can be a game changer, and Sarah is here to guide you through it. Whether you're a novice or looking to improve your existing skills, this episode will equip you with the knowledge to create engaging and effective Reels for your business.
Reels, as Sarah explains, are short-form video content that have revolutionised social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and Pinterest. With TikTok leading the way and having over a billion active users, the impact of Reels on engagement and account growth is undeniable. Sarah emphasises the importance of creating Reels consistently and shares practical tips for doing so, including the ideal length for cross-platform use and the evolving trends in Reels content, from talking heads to faceless marketing.
Leveraging various tools and features can significantly enhance your Reels. Sarah discusses the advantages of using captions for inclusivity and accessibility, the fun of duets and transitions, and how apps like CapCut and Canva can streamline your video creation process. She also highlights the importance of staying authentic to your brand while exploring new trends and features. Sarah’s actionable advice will motivate you to start creating and experimenting with Reels, ensuring your content resonates with your audience and stands out in the crowded digital space.
### Key Takeaways:
* **Understanding Reels:** Learn what Reels are and why they are vital for engaging your audience on various social media platforms.* **Optimal Reels Length:** Create Reels that are ideally 59 seconds or less to maximise use across multiple platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and Pinterest.* **Evolving Content Trends:** Stay updated with current trends in Reels content, such as talking heads, transitions, and faceless marketing, to keep your videos engaging and relevant.* **Useful Tools:** Utilise apps like CapCut for advanced video editing and Canva for creating visually appealing Reels with ease.
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In this episode of the Social Circus podcast, host Sarah Thomson is joined by Kylie Patchett, an expert copywriter with a distinctive flair for storytelling. With a background in forensic science and health, Kylie discusses her unconventional journey into entrepreneurship and her eventual transition into copywriting. This episode delves into her experiences, the importance of authenticity in storytelling, and how personal and professional stories can deeply connect with audiences.
Throughout the episode, Sarah and Kylie explore how storytelling can transform business copy from mundane to magical. Kylie shares her insights on integrating storytelling in social media posts, particularly on Instagram, to show personal elements that resonate with clients. Highlighting the power of vulnerability and authenticity, Kylie emphasizes that being true to yourself and sharing your unique stories can attract the right clients and build stronger professional relations. They also touch on the challenges of shedding corporate personas to embrace one’s true self as an entrepreneur.
Key Takeaways:Authenticity in Storytelling: Sharing genuine stories helps in connecting with the audience on a personal level and attracts clients who align with your values.
Power of Micro-Stories: Using platforms like Instagram stories to share small, everyday tales can effectively engage your audience without diving into heavy, vulnerable narratives immediately.
Embracing Your True Self: Leaving the corporate world allows entrepreneurs to discover and express their authentic selves, making their business more relatable and human.
Natural Integration of Stories: Incorporating personal anecdotes, such as daily routines or minor mishaps, can make your professional narrative more colorful and engaging.
Value-Based Content:
Emphasising your values through storytelling helps clients understand your business ethos and connect more deeply with your brand.
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n this episode of the Social Circus, host Sarah Thomson welcomes Emily Fogg, the innovative founder of Wise Owl Tuition, to discuss the complexities and triumphs of running a business as a neurodivergent individual. Emily shares her journey from a classroom teacher to a successful entrepreneur, emphasizing the critical need for specialized educational services for children with learning difficulties like dyslexia and ADHD. Delving into her own recent diagnosis of inattentive ADHD, Emily offers a candid perspective on the challenges and strategies she employs in managing both her personal life and her thriving business.
Listeners will gain a profound understanding of neurodiversity, exploring practical tips for making business practices more inclusive and supportive. Emily highlights the importance of creating structured systems, leveraging strengths, and outsourcing weaknesses as key strategies for success. With actionable advice on improving social media engagement and facilitating more inclusive group interactions, this episode is a treasure trove for business owners and educators alike. Sarah and Emily also touch on the importance of compassion and flexibility in business, making it a must-listen for those looking to foster a more inclusive environment.
Key Takeaways:Understanding Neurodiversity: Neurodivergent individuals, such as those with ADHD, dyslexia, and autism, have brains that function differently from neurotypical people. Recognizing and embracing these differences is crucial for inclusivity.
Structural Systems: Implementing robust organizational systems and routines can help manage the demands of a business, particularly for those with ADHD.
Inclusive Practices: To make social media and business activities more inclusive, use alt text, ensure content is engaging and repetitive, and create safe spaces for interaction.
Compassion and Flexibility: Offering clients the flexibility to reschedule and being compassionate about their mental states can foster a more supportive business environment.
Resource Allocation: Outsourcing tasks that are challenging, such as bookkeeping, can help neurodivergent business owners focus on their strengths and maintain productivity.
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In episode 113 of "The Social Circus," host Sarah Thomson delves into the intricacies of running successful Instagram competitions. Understanding the challenges business owners face with engagement and follower growth, Sarah provides a practical guide for leveraging Instagram contests to drive attention, engagement, and new followers.
Launching into the topic, Sarah emphasizes the versatility of Instagram compared to other platforms like Facebook, highlighting the fewer restrictions and easier management of competitions on Instagram. She gives a step-by-step strategy for setting up Instagram competitions, including the necessary tracking and analysis to evaluate success. Sarah also addresses the importance of offering meaningful prizes and ensuring the process of entering the competition is straightforward to maximize participation. By the end of the episode, listeners are equipped with actionable tips and strategies to effectively run Instagram contests and integrate them into broader business objectives.
Key Takeaways:Instagram’s Flexibility: Running competitions on Instagram is more straightforward compared to Facebook, with fewer restrictions from Meta.
Choosing the Right Prize: Offer prizes that are enticing yet relevant to your audience to attract potential customers and not just general entrants.
Simple Mechanics: Keep the competition entry process simple – typically involving liking a profile, tagging a friend, and sharing the post in stories.
Engage through DM’s: Personalize the experience by sending DM's to participants, encouraging them further and building relationships.
Collaboration Limits: When collaborating with other businesses, ensure there are no more than five participants to avoid overcomplicating the entry process.
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