What does it really take to build a thriving title company from scratch while overcoming life's darkest moments? In this deeply personal conversation, Mike Ruder shares how tragedy, addiction, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to people shaped both his life and the rapid growth of Legacy Settlement Services. If you're looking for practical sales wisdom, leadership lessons, and a reminder that personal growth fuels business success, this episode is one you won't forget.

What you'll learn from this episode

• Why consistency beats market conditions when building a successful title sales career

• The simple sales system Mike used to grow lasting relationships and generate repeat business

• What separates thriving title companies from those that struggle to retain great people

• How gratitude and follow-up strategies can dramatically increase referrals and client loyalty

• The importance of becoming your best self before chasing business success

Resources mentioned in this episode

• HubSpot

• Qualia

• The Untethered Soul by Michael A. Singer | Kindle, Hardcover, and Paperback

About Mike Ruder

Mike Ruder is the founder and CEO of Legacy Settlement Services, a rapidly growing title company serving Maryland, Washington, D.C., Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Florida. Since launching the company in 2020, Mike has built Legacy into one of the highest-volume title agencies in Maryland by combining a people-first culture with innovative sales systems, technology, and exceptional client service. A respected leader in the title industry, he is passionate about mentoring sales professionals, building high-performing teams, and creating an environment where employees and clients thrive. Beyond business, Mike openly shares his personal journey of overcoming addiction and adversity, inspiring others to embrace resilience, lead with authenticity, and pursue both personal and professional growth.

Connect with Mike

• Website: Legacy Settlement Services

• LinkedIn: Michael Ruder

Connect With Us

Love what you're hearing? Don't miss an episode! Follow us on our social media channels and stay connected.

• Explore more on our website: www.alltechnational.com/podcast

• Stay updated with our newsletter: www.mochoumil.com

• Follow Mo on LinkedIn: Mo Choumil

Stop waiting on underwriter emails or callbacks—TitleGPT.ai gives you instant, reliable answers to your title questions. Whether it's underwriting, compliance, or tricky closings, the information you need is just a click away. No more delays—work smarter, close faster. Try it now at www.TitleGPT.ai.

Closing more deals starts with more appointments. At Alltech National Title, our inside sales team works behind the scenes to fill your pipeline, so you can focus on building relationships and closing business. No more cold calling—just real opportunities. Get started at AlltechNationalTitle.com.

Extra hands without extra overhead—that's Safi Virtual. Our trained virtual assistants specialize in the title industry, handling admin work, client communication, and data entry so you can stay focused on closing deals. Scale smarter and work faster at SafiVirtual.com.

AI may be dominating the headlines, but Pat Stone believes the real opportunity lies in asking better questions, not fearing the technology. In this episode, the WFG chairman shares his perspective on AI adoption, cybersecurity, automation, and why human expertise, curiosity, and communication will remain the industry's greatest competitive advantages. If you want to prepare your title business for the future without getting lost in the hype, this conversation is full of practical wisdom from one of the industry's most respected leaders.

What you'll learn from this episode

• Why curiosity, not fear, is the best response to AI's rapid evolution in the title industry

• The growing cybersecurity threat and why it may be an even bigger challenge than AI

• How automation can eliminate repetitive work without replacing the professionals behind the transaction

• What young title professionals should focus on to stay valuable over the next 20 years

• The biggest opportunity for independent agents to leverage AI through their underwriters and technology partners

Resources mentioned in this episode

• Inman News

• Housing Wire

• The Title Report

• Technology is key to bridging the talent gap facing title and escrow

• MyHome - WFG National Title

• Extraordinary Popular Delusions and the Madness of Crowds by Charles Mackay | Paperback, Hardcover, and Kindle

About Pat Stone

Patrick Stone is the founder and executive chairman of WFG National Title Insurance Company, part of Williston Financial Group (WFG). A highly respected leader in the real estate and title insurance industry, Pat has held multiple C-suite leadership positions throughout his career and has served on the boards of Fortune 500 companies. Under his leadership, WFG has grown into one of the nation's leading title insurance and real estate services providers, recognized for its innovation, customer-focused approach, and technology-driven solutions. Widely regarded as one of the industry's most influential voices, Pat has received numerous honors, including the HousingWire Vanguard Award, for his visionary leadership and lasting contributions to the real estate sector.

Connect with Pat

• Website: WFG National Title Insurance Company

• LinkedIn: Patrick Stone

Connect With Us

Love what you're hearing? Don't miss an episode! Follow us on our social media channels and stay connected.

• Explore more on our website: www.alltechnational.com/podcast

• Stay updated with our newsletter: www.mochoumil.com

• Follow Mo on LinkedIn: Mo Choumil

Stop waiting on underwriter emails or callbacks—TitleGPT.ai gives you instant, reliable answers to your title questions. Whether it's underwriting, compliance, or tricky closings, the information you need is just a click away. No more delays—work smarter, close faster. Try it now at www.TitleGPT.ai.

Closing more deals starts with more appointments. At Alltech National Title, our inside sales team works behind the scenes to fill your pipeline, so you can focus on building relationships and closing business. No more cold calling—just real opportunities. Get started at AlltechNationalTitle.com.

Extra hands without extra overhead—that's Safi Virtual. Our trained virtual assistants specialize in the title industry, handling admin work, client communication, and data entry so you can stay focused on closing deals. Scale smarter and work faster at SafiVirtual.com.

Success in title isn't determined by the market; it's determined by what you do every single day. In this episode, David Bravo Jr. shares how losing everything during the Great Recession became the catalyst for rebuilding his career, creating the Power Hour, launching Title Reps Only, and leading Monarch Title with a people-first mindset rooted in relationships, consistency, and service. Whether you're a new sales rep or a seasoned title professional, this conversation is a powerful reminder that showing up will always outperform shortcuts.

What you'll learn from this episode

• Power Hour strategy that transformed client retention, prospecting, and long-term business growth

• Why showing up consistently still beats every app, automation, and marketing tool

• How Title Reps Only evolved into a nationwide movement by breaking down company walls and encouraging collaboration

• The role AI should play in title sales without replacing genuine human relationships

• A winning mindset for thriving in any market, regardless of interest rates or industry conditions

Resources mentioned in this episode

• Title Bible by David Bravo Jr. | Paperback and Mass Market Paperback

• Title Bible 2.0 by David Bravo Jr. | Kindle and Hardcover

• Title Reps Only Conference

• The Title Report

• Gary Vaynerchuk

About David Bravo Jr.

David Bravo Jr. is the CEO of Monarch Title Company and founder of Title Reps Only (TRO), a professional community dedicated to empowering title representatives through education, networking, and industry collaboration. With extensive experience in title insurance, business development, and leadership, David is passionate about helping title professionals strengthen relationships, grow their businesses, and elevate the standards of the industry. Through his leadership, speaking, and mentorship, he equips professionals with practical strategies for building trust, driving growth, and creating lasting success in the title and real estate sectors.

Connect with David

• Website: Monarch Title Company | Title Reps Only (TRO)

• LinkedIn: David Bravo Jr.

• Facebook: David Bravo Jr.

• Instagram: @davidbravojr

Connect With Us

Love what you're hearing? Don't miss an episode! Follow us on our social media channels and stay connected.

• Explore more on our website: www.alltechnational.com/podcast

• Stay updated with our newsletter: www.mochoumil.com

• Follow Mo on LinkedIn: Mo Choumil

Stop waiting on underwriter emails or callbacks—TitleGPT.ai gives you instant, reliable answers to your title questions. Whether it's underwriting, compliance, or tricky closings, the information you need is just a click away. No more delays—work smarter, close faster. Try it now at www.TitleGPT.ai.

Closing more deals starts with more appointments. At Alltech National Title, our inside sales team works behind the scenes to fill your pipeline, so you can focus on building relationships and closing business. No more cold calling—just real opportunities. Get started at AlltechNationalTitle.com.

Extra hands without extra overhead—that's Safi Virtual. Our trained virtual assistants specialize in the title industry, handling admin work, client communication, and data entry so you can stay focused on closing deals. Scale smarter and work faster at SafiVirtual.com.

Most business owners are still using AI as a smarter search engine, but what happens when AI starts acting like a real employee? In this episode, Clay Speakman returns to the Title Agents Podcast to break down the rapid rise of AI agents, how they're already managing workflows, customer support, lead generation, and CRM tasks, and why the businesses that learn to work alongside agents today will have a massive advantage tomorrow. If you're wondering whether AI is hype, a threat, or the biggest opportunity of your career, this conversation will challenge how you think about the future of work.

What you'll learn from this episode

• Main difference between ChatGPT-style AI and true AI agents

• Why every successful company may soon have AI employees

• The foundation every business must build before deploying AI agents

• Where humans still outperform AI

• The hidden danger of AI productivity

Resources mentioned in this episode

• RocketHub.AI

• Health Rocket

• AI Rocket

• Claude

• ChatGPT

• Google Gemini

About Clay Speakman

Clay Speakman is an entrepreneur, advisor, and expert on the behaviors and needs of ultra-high-net-worth individuals and families. Throughout his career, he has worked with some of the world's most prestigious organizations serving affluent clients, including as founder of Report Club and former CEO and President of TIGER 21's Access Concierge & Connectivity division. Today, he is the founder of RocketHub.AI, where he leverages artificial intelligence to help individuals and organizations make better decisions, improve performance, and unlock new growth opportunities. Combining his expertise in human behavior, innovation, and emerging technologies, Clay is passionate about helping people thrive through smarter systems, healthier living, and future-focused solutions.

Connect with Clay

• Website: RocketHub.AI | Health Rocket

• LinkedIn: Clay Speakman

Connect With Us

Love what you're hearing? Don't miss an episode! Follow us on our social media channels and stay connected.

• Explore more on our website: www.alltechnational.com/podcast

• Stay updated with our newsletter: www.mochoumil.com

• Follow Mo on LinkedIn: Mo Choumil

Stop waiting on underwriter emails or callbacks—TitleGPT.ai gives you instant, reliable answers to your title questions. Whether it's underwriting, compliance, or tricky closings, the information you need is just a click away. No more delays—work smarter, close faster. Try it now at www.TitleGPT.ai.

Closing more deals starts with more appointments. At Alltech National Title, our inside sales team works behind the scenes to fill your pipeline, so you can focus on building relationships and closing business. No more cold calling—just real opportunities. Get started at AlltechNationalTitle.com.

Extra hands without extra overhead—that's Safi Virtual. Our trained virtual assistants specialize in the title industry, handling admin work, client communication, and data entry so you can stay focused on closing deals. Scale smarter and work faster at SafiVirtual.com.

Most investors spend years chasing the next opportunity, but what if real wealth is built by simply owning the right assets and letting time do the heavy lifting? In this episode, Drew Wiard shares his journey from hospital executive to commercial real estate investor and breaks down why triple net investing, industrial properties, and relationship-driven dealmaking continue to outperform in today's challenging market. If you're looking to build long-term wealth through real estate while avoiding the headaches of active management, this conversation is packed with practical insights.

What you'll learn from this episode

• The key differences between commercial real estate and triple net investing

• How rising interest rates have changed commercial deal-making

• A powerful strategy for creating deals in today's market

• Why lease structure matters more than the building itself

• Where Drew sees the strongest commercial real estate opportunities over the next several years

Resources mentioned in this episode

• The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho | Kindle, Paperback, and Hardcover

• National REIA

About Drew Wiard
Drew Wiard is a commercial real estate broker, investor, and founder of Clear Sky Commercial, where he helps business owners, investors, and developers navigate commercial real estate acquisitions, dispositions, leasing, and investment opportunities. With a focus on building long-term relationships and creating strategic value, Drew combines market expertise with a client-first approach to help clients make informed decisions and achieve their investment goals. Through Clear Sky Commercial, he is committed to delivering practical guidance, innovative solutions, and exceptional service across the commercial real estate landscape.

Connect with Drew

• Website: Clear Sky Commercial

• LinkedIn: Drew Wiard

• Facebook: Drew Wiard

• YouTube: Drew Wiard

Connect With Us

Love what you're hearing? Don't miss an episode! Follow us on our social media channels and stay connected.

• Explore more on our website: www.alltechnational.com/podcast

• Stay updated with our newsletter: www.mochoumil.com

• Follow Mo on LinkedIn: Mo Choumil

Stop waiting on underwriter emails or callbacks—TitleGPT.ai gives you instant, reliable answers to your title questions. Whether it's underwriting, compliance, or tricky closings, the information you need is just a click away. No more delays—work smarter, close faster. Try it now at www.TitleGPT.ai.

Closing more deals starts with more appointments. At Alltech National Title, our inside sales team works behind the scenes to fill your pipeline, so you can focus on building relationships and closing business. No more cold calling—just real opportunities. Get started at AlltechNationalTitle.com.

Extra hands without extra overhead—that's Safi Virtual. Our trained virtual assistants specialize in the title industry, handling admin work, client communication, and data entry so you can stay focused on closing deals. Scale smarter and work faster at SafiVirtual.com.

Storytelling isn't just a marketing tool; it's a competitive advantage. In this episode of the Title Agents Podcast, Mo Choumil sits down with industry veteran and writer Michael Holden of AmTrust Title to explore how storytelling, history, and human connection shape the future of the title business. From his early days in a family-owned agency to navigating the Great Recession, building thought leadership through Ramblings of a Title Man, and witnessing seismic shifts in technology, automation, and fraud risk, Michael offers a grounded, honest look at where the industry has been and where it's heading next.

What you'll learn from this episode

• Why the role of the title professional has shifted from title examination to experience-driven closings

• What the 2008 recession taught about resilience, scalability, and agency survival

• The reasons smaller, agile underwriters are driving innovation across the industry

• How automation and AI will reshape title examination while elevating the importance of closings

• Main essential for modern title professionals you need to know

Resources mentioned in this episode

• The Ramblings of a Title man

• 1929 by Andrew Ross Sorkin | Kindle, Paperback, and Hardcover

About Michael Holden

Michael Holden is a senior leader at AmTrust Title, where he works with real estate professionals, lenders, and industry partners to deliver reliable, compliance-driven title and settlement solutions nationwide. With deep experience in title insurance operations, risk management, and relationship development, Michael is known for his practical approach to navigating complex transactions and evolving regulatory environments. His work focuses on protecting property rights, streamlining closings, and supporting real estate professionals with responsive service and national scale.

Connect with Michael

• Website: AmTrust Financial

• LinkedIn: Michael Holden, NTP, CLTP

Connect With Us

Love what you're hearing? Don't miss an episode! Follow us on our social media channels and stay connected.

• Explore more on our website: www.alltechnational.com/podcast

• Stay updated with our newsletter: www.mochoumil.com

• Follow Mo on LinkedIn: Mo Choumil

Stop waiting on underwriter emails or callbacks—TitleGPT.ai gives you instant, reliable answers to your title questions. Whether it's underwriting, compliance, or tricky closings, the information you need is just a click away. No more delays—work smarter, close faster. Try it now at www.TitleGPT.ai.

Closing more deals starts with more appointments. At Alltech National Title, our inside sales team works behind the scenes to fill your pipeline, so you can focus on building relationships and closing business. No more cold calling—just real opportunities. Get started at AlltechNationalTitle.com.

Extra hands without extra overhead—that's Safi Virtual. Our trained virtual assistants specialize in the title industry, handling admin work, client communication, and data entry so you can stay focused on closing deals. Scale smarter and work faster at SafiVirtual.com.

Join us as we sit down with Darryl Turner, sharing his game-changing insights into sales strategies, the power of relationship building, and how to turn non-referring agents into valuable partners. Whether you're a title professional navigating today's challenging market or simply looking to refine your sales skills, this episode is packed with actionable advice, so dive in!

What you'll learn from this episode

• The concept of "Duplication Revelation" and how it can revolutionize your sales strategy

• Why non-referring agents (NDCs) represent a significant growth opportunity

• Strategies to handle objections and overcome client loyalty to competitors

• How to build stronger relationships with clients to improve retention

• Tips for thriving in a down market by shifting your mindset and goals

Resources mentioned in this episode

• Uncommon Sense by Darryl Turner | Paperback, Hardcover, and Kindle

• Time Traps by Todd Duncan | Paperback, Hardcover, and Kindle

• The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John C. Maxwell | Paperback, Hardcover, and Kindle

• Blue Ocean Strategy by W. Chan Kim and Renée Mauborgne | Paperback, Hardcover, and Kindle

• The E-Myth Revisited by Michael E. Gerber | Paperback and Kindle

Join industry leaders for two days of game-changing strategies, proven sales techniques, and powerful growth insights at the Title Sales Mastery 2025! Seats are limited—secure yours today at https://www.darrylturner.com/tsm25/

About Darryl Turner

Darryl Turner left his corporate position to start The Darryl Turner Corporation in 1994. Passionate about training and helping people become their best selves, Darryl knew he could develop a larger footprint, and a successful sales force beyond the sector he currently served. Within his first year of operation, Darryl found success in the title industry and continued to develop his presence through the results and testimonies of some of the most influential within the industry.

Connect with Darryl

• Website: Darryl Turner Corporation

• LinkedIn: Darryl Turner

Connect With Us

Love what you're hearing? Don't miss an episode! Follow us on our social media channels and stay connected.

• Explore more on our website: www.alltechnational.com/podcast

• Stay updated with our newsletter: www.mochoumil.com

• Follow Mo on LinkedIn: Mo Choumil

• Record-breaking earnings vs. a frozen housing market and why the residential side of title still feels stalled
• The hidden impact of billion-dollar AI data center projects on commercial title fees and underwriter profits
• A refinance surge is quietly building even before major Federal Reserve rate cuts arrive
• What the "double cost period" means as title companies pay for both aging legacy systems and new AI infrastructure simultaneously
• Global tariffs and supply chain pressures are now shaping title industry revenue through commercial construction slowdowns

• Quarterly Results - Fidelity National Financial
• First American Financial Q1 2026 Earnings Report
• Old Republic International Q1 2026 Earnings Report
• Stewart Information Services Q1 2026 earnings beat expectations By Investing.com
• NVIDIA
• Microsoft
• Amazon.com

• Explore more on our website: www.alltechnational.com/podcast
• Stay updated with our newsletter: www.mochoumil.com
• Follow Mo on LinkedIn: Mo Choumil