Bottom Line Me Podcast: Recent Episodes
Old Republic National Title Insurance Company
Bottom Line Me Podcast gets right to the point on sales, marketing, and title related issues. Tune in to hear from co-hosts, Brenda Nelson and Ann Allard as they explore their title industry and sales experience.
Bottom Line Me Podcast is a proud production of Old Republic National Title Insurance Company's Agency University Team.
In the final episode of our series with Bill Svoboda, the focus shifts to the Growth Engine—the dynamic elements of your one-page business plan that drive business expansion. Discover key strategies to accelerate growth, including leveraging market trends and innovating services. Bill and Ann provide actionable advice to turn your plan into a robust growth engine that propels your business forward.
Join Ann Allard as she welcomes Alison Gareffa, owner of Forefront Coaching, to discuss the transformative power of professional coaching in the title insurance industry. In this episode, uncover the secrets behind effective coaching methods that can propel your career to new heights. Alison shares her expertise on setting goals, overcoming professional hurdles, and harnessing your full potential. Whether you're looking to sharpen your skills or shift your career trajectory, this episode provides valuable insights into how targeted coaching can make a significant impact.
In the fifth installment of our business planning series, Bill Svoboda joins Ann to discuss the structural needs for scaling your business. Learn about the critical foundations that must be laid out in your one-page business plan to ensure sustainable growth. This episode will offer valuable insights into preparing your title insurance business for successful expansion.
The fourth part of our series with Bill Svoboda explores the essential element of vision in your one-page business plan. Join Ann as she and Bill discuss how a clear, concise vision statement can guide your business decisions and inspire your team. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to clarify their long-term goals and align their team towards a common future.
In the third episode of our series with Bill Svoboda, we focus on the heart of your business: the Value Proposition. Bill and Ann Allard discuss how to effectively articulate what sets your title insurance service apart from the competition. Learn to distill your unique advantages into a compelling value proposition that resonates with your target audience, all within the streamlined framework of a one-page business plan.
In a special departure from our usual format, this episode opens with Ann Allard introducing an exclusive interview conducted by Andrew Herbert with Carolyn Monroe, CEO and President of Old Republic National Title Insurance Company. Delve into a deep discussion on leadership as Carolyn shares her insights and experiences from the helm of one of the industry’s leading firms. From her personal leadership style to strategic decision-making processes, this interview offers a rare glimpse into the mind of a top executive who shapes the future of title insurance. Tune in to gain valuable lessons on leadership that can inspire and influence your own career trajectory.
In the second installment of our six-part series on the one-page business plan, Bill Svoboda returns to dive deep into the critical component of customer segmentation. Join host Ann Allard as they explore how defining your target market on a single page can revolutionize your marketing strategies and business growth. Learn from Bill’s expertise on how to identify and cater to the most lucrative segments of your market, ensuring that your business efforts are both effective and efficient. This episode is essential for title insurance professionals looking to sharpen their focus and tailor their services for maximum impact.
Streamlining business strategy into a single page, Bill Svoboda, Co-Founder of CloseSimple, joins Ann Allard to unravel the power of the one-page business plan. This episode dives into how condensing your vision can clarify your path to success, making strategic decisions more straightforward and actionable. Discover how Bill’s approach not only simplifies planning but also enhances focus and execution in the dynamic world of title insurance. Whether you're a startup or an established player, this discussion will provide valuable insights into making big impacts with concise planning.
In an era where digital presence is paramount, how do you harness the power of social media to grow your title insurance business? Ann Allard sits down with social media expert Colin Smith to unlock the secrets of turning online interactions into real-world leads. This episode delves into the strategies that work, the pitfalls to avoid, and how to authentically engage your audience. Colin shares his expert insights on leveraging platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram to amplify your brand and drive business success. Tune in to transform your social media from a passive presence to a lead-generating powerhouse.
In a marketplace where distinction is key, how does your business stand out? Join Ann Allard and branding expert DJ Finch in a dynamic exploration of developing a powerful business brand. This episode is a deep dive into the essence of branding, offering actionable insights and creative strategies to elevate your title insurance business. From uncovering your unique brand identity to effectively communicating it to your audience, DJ Finch guides us through the journey of transforming your business into a memorable and trusted brand. Get ready to craft a signature brand that resonates with your clients and sets you apart in the industry.
Dive deep into the art and science of business prospecting with Ann Allard and her special guest, Ron Mercer. This episode is dedicated to uncovering the most effective strategies and untapped avenues for generating new business in the title insurance landscape. Learn from Ron’s extensive experience as he shares insights and real-life examples to help you identify and capitalize on new opportunities, ensuring your agency's growth and sustainability in a competitive market.
Join Ann Allard and special guest Brenda Nelson as they dive into the essential world of business process analysis for title insurance professionals. Learn how important it is to review and improve your business processes to achieve unprecedented efficiency and customer satisfaction. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone looking to elevate their operational strategies and ensure their company not only survives but thrives in today's competitive market.
In this crucial episode, Ann Allard sits down with cybersecurity expert David Tandy to tackle the growing threat of cybercrime in the real estate sector, particularly within title insurance. Discover practical strategies, tools, and insights to safeguard your business and clients from digital threats. Tune in to arm yourself with knowledge and transform into a cyber-savvy professional in the ever-evolving landscape of real estate transactions.
Dive into the world of team building with Ann Allard and her guest, Sue Morgan. This episode focuses on how the Agency University Program, Taking Flight with DISC and the personality assessment framework can revolutionize team dynamics in title insurance. Uncover the secrets to understanding and leveraging individual strengths for collective success.
In this episode, Ann Allard sits down with Jenny Isgett to discuss the remarkable power of a well-crafted morning routine. Learn how starting your day right can set the tone for success in the high-stakes world of title insurance. Get ready to reshape your mornings and boost your professional efficiency!
Join Ann Allard and her esteemed guest, Judy Nemeth, as they explore the transformative power of the Agency University Mentorship Program. Discover firsthand accounts of growth, success, and the lasting impact of mentorship on title insurance professionals. Tune in for an inspiring session that highlights the program’s ability to shape careers.
In this enlightening episode of the Bottom Line Me Podcast, join Ann Allard and Joe Alvis as they delve into Liz Wiseman's influential book, 'Impact Players.' Explore how its insights can transform the way we approach our roles in the title insurance industry. From becoming invaluable team members to driving significant impact within our organizations, this discussion will uncover key strategies to elevate your professional game. Tune in to discover how you can apply the lessons from 'Impact Players' to become a standout player in your field.
Dive into the exciting world of gamification in title insurance education on this episode of The Bottom Line Me Podcast. Discover how incorporating game-like elements into learning is revolutionizing training and professional development. We'll explore the benefits, challenges, and real-world applications of this innovative approach that's making education not just informative but also engaging and fun. Join Ann Allard and Denise McBride as they unlock the potential of gamification to transform how title insurance professionals learn and grow.
Unravel the power of mind mapping as a transformative tool for business development. Dive into its visual potential, learn strategies to brainstorm, plan, and innovate, and discover how plotting your ideas can lead to exponential growth. Chart your path to success!
In the unpredictable world of real estate, agent safety is paramount. Tune in as we delve into essential precautions every agent should take when meeting unknown clients. From early warning signs to safety apps, discover how to ensure every property showing is a secure experience.
First impressions matter, especially from the office front line. Join us as we delve into the art of providing standout customer service. From the first greeting to solving intricate challenges, discover how to ensure every client walks away with a memorable experience.
Unlock the silent superpower every professional should master: active listening. Dive into its transformative impact, from building trust to making informed decisions, and learn how truly 'hearing' can be a game-changer in your career.
Step into the dynamic world of networking tailored for title insurance professionals. From selecting the right events to making impactful connections, we unravel the strategies that can elevate your networking game. Join us as we explore the nuances of building meaningful relationships and the transformative potential they hold for your career.
Are you capitalizing on the power of video marketing in the title insurance industry? Tune in as we dissect successful video marketing strategies, explore creative ideas to differentiate your brand, and reveal how you can leverage this powerful tool to capture and engage your target audience.
Real estate seller fraud can strike where it's least expected. In this episode, we expose the red flags to watch for and share preventive strategies to safeguard your transactions. Join us as we delve into real-world cases and expert solutions to keep you one step ahead of fraudsters.
Dive into the innovative world of online education and discover why it's becoming an indispensable tool for title insurance agents. We discuss how the digital shift is transforming professional development in the title insurance industry and why you can't afford to be left behind.
Are you ready to transform your habits and become the best version of yourself? In this episode, we discuss James Clear's book, "Atomic Habits" and how having an accountability partner can help you reach your goals. We'll explore why accountability partners are so important, the benefits they provide, and tips on how to find a great one. Don't miss out - watch now to discover how an accountability partner can be your key to success!
Are you looking to improve the productivity and efficiency of your Title Insurance business? In today's episode, we discuss Atomic Habits by James Clear and how it can revolutionize the way you do business. Learn how to use simple habit-forming strategies to boost your bottom line, optimize processes, and stay competitive in an ever-evolving industry. Discover why small changes can have a big impact on your success. Don't miss out – watch our episode now for invaluable insight into Atomic Habits!
Setting goals is essential for success in any industry. In today's episode, we'll explore the importance of goal setting specifically in the title insurance industry. We'll look at how having specific objectives can help increase productivity and profitability, as well as give direction to your team. You don't want to miss it! Watch now and find out how goal setting can make a big difference for your business.
In this episode, you'll learn how to complete a SWOT Analysis for your title insurance business. You'll get step-by-step guidance on understanding the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats facing your business. We'll also share tips on how to use the results of your analysis to make better decisions that will help improve operations and increase profitability. Get the insight you need today – watch our episode about completing a SWOT Analysis for your title insurance business!
Want to make sure your title insurance business succeeds? A business plan is essential for any entrepreneur. In this episode, we'll explore the importance of developing a comprehensive business plan in the title insurance industry and show you how to create one that will help you reach your goals. Learn why having a roadmap tailored specifically to the title insurance market is key and get actionable tips on how to craft an effective strategy. Don't miss out – watch this episode now and start planning your success!
Do you ever feel unsure about when and how to thank someone? When is the right time and what's the perfect way to show your appreciation? In this episode, we'll explore the art of giving thanks. We'll discuss why it's important, how it can make a difference, and at what moments gratitude can be most meaningful. Get ready to learn all about expressing your appreciation – watch now!
In today's business world, it's more important than ever to show appreciation to our coworkers and clients. A simple "thank you" can go a long way in building relationships and furthering success. Today's episode showcases some of the best ways to show thankfulness in the workplace. From thoughtful gestures to kind words, see how easy it is to make a positive impact on those around you.
On today’s episode we hear from Agency Account Representative, Stephanie Wilson, on a common mistake that many salespeople make: Dodging a New Prospect. Stephanie Wilson has been with Old Republic Title for almost 22 years. She started out in the office assisting the state manager and moved into a sales role within a couple of years. Stephanie’s early days of sales was spent knocking on doors and although she doesn’t knock on doors as much she is still actively pursuing new agents.
On today’s episode we hear from Agency University Training and Development Administrator, on a common mistake that many salespeople make: Ignoring Goodwill. Joe Alvis is the newest member of the Agency University Team, serving as a Sales Trainer and Business Development Advisor. Having worked in many diverse roles in the Title Insurance Industry from title examining to sales, his experience provides a unique perspective to his current position. As a sales professional in the title insurance industry, Joe supported his team by helping improve market share by 25%, setting new records for branch revenue, and earning business from several top producing customers in his territory. Ever passionate about teaching, Joe also spent many years as an Outdoor Education teacher at a wildlife sanctuary and truly believes that “Education is a Journey, Not a Destination”
On today’s episode we hear from the New England Sales Manager, Jim Sifflard, on a common mistake that many salespeople make: Fearing a Prospect. Jim is a 35-year veteran of the Title Industry primarily in a sales capacity. He started with Old Republic in 2015. Currently he is the New England Sales Manager leading the sales and marketing efforts for the area.
On today’s episode we hear from National Division Vice President of Business Development, Barbara Griest, on a common mistake that many salespeople make: not making time for sales training. Barbara Griest is VP of Business Development in Old Republic’s National Division and works with Old Republic’s top national agents with affiliated businesses. Prior to coming to Old Republic in July of 2020, Barb was President of Trident Land Transfer Co, the title operation for Fox & Roach Realtors in the greater Philadelphia area. Trident is one of the largest title companies for HomeServices of America, a Berkshire Hathaway company. She worked for Trident for 32 years. Barb was the Chair of RESPRO, the national trade organization for affiliated businesses, in 2014 and served on their Executive Board for over 10 years. Barb attended West Chester University in Business Administration.
On today’s episode we hear from the Business Development Manager of National Real Estate Services, Jenny Isgett, on a common mistake that many salespeople make: Matching Price Instead of Selling Quality. Jenny joined Old Republic National Title Insurance Company in 2005 and has advanced to focus on the business development of our National Real Estate Services.
In this episode Brenda talks with Agency University Sales Trainer Ann Allard about another common sales mistake, Forgetting the Value of the Dry Run. Prior to joining Old Republic Title in 2009, Ann was a title agent, business owner and sales manager. In her current role as Vice President, Sales Training and Business Development, Ann oversees the Mentorship Program, and contributes to and facilitates sales training and customer service programs available at Agency University.
On this episode we hear from Pennsylvania and New Jersey Agency Sales and Services Manager, Sue Morgan, about a common mistake that many salespeople make: Dismissing the Law of Attrition. Sue Morgan joined Old Republic Title in 2004. Starting as a business development representative, then moving into a divisional marketing manager role, Sue is currently serving as the Pennsylvania and New Jersey Agency Sales and Services manager.
On today’s episode we hear from Assistant Vice President, Agency Manager and Software Tech for Old Republic Title, Amy Webb, on a common mistake that many salespeople make: Trying to Sell without Customer Knowledge. Before joining the title industry Amy served in the United State Navy. She now has been in the title industry for over 19 years and 15 years with Old Republic. She graduated from the University of Phoenix with a degree in Associate of Arts in Information Technology.
On today’s episode we hear from Agency Account Manager, Margherita Ciampa Coyne, on a common mistake that many salespeople make: Ignoring the Customer's Customer. Margherita Ciampa Coyne is an Agency Account Manager for Old Republic Title. Margherita has been in the title industry for 20 years—5 years with Old Republic and 15 years working for national title companies. Prior to working in the title industry she worked as a commercial real estate paralegal for an international law firm. Margherita works with New England attorney agents to develop, strengthen and grow industry relationships. Margherita graduated from Boston College with a degree in Communications.
On today’s episode we hear from Vice President and Florida Business Development Manager, Michael Bourque, on a common mistake that many salespeople make: Being Liked, but not Respected. Mike Bourque has over 20 years experience meeting with agents and prospects alike all over Florida. He has had the opportunity to provide solutions and answers to a myriad of issues over that time span.
On today’s episode we hear from Vice President and Pennsylvania Operations Manager, Sue Swick, on a common mistake that many salespeople make: Not Championing Your Company’s Greatness.
Sue Swick opened the doors to the Old Republic office located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in 2005. She feels as though she’s handled just about everything in the real estate industry – from creating and establishing a business presence in a market which was new to Old Republic, to underwriting, to title searching to leading multi-state, multi-site commercial transactions … to attracting new customers by marketing herself and her company. Sue has assumed leadership roles in the PA land title organization and local bar association. Sue holds the designation of CLTP and is a frequent lecturer on a variety of title insurance topics. Sue graduated from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law, and enjoys the fact that she has also been admitted to the US Supreme Court.
On today’s episode we hear from National Division Vice President of Business Development, Barbara Griest, on a common mistake that many salespeople make: not making time for sales training. Barbara Griest is VP of Business Development in Old Republic’s National Division and works with Old Republic’s top national agents with affiliated businesses. Prior to coming to Old Republic in July of 2020, Barb was President of Trident Land Transfer Co, the title operation for Fox & Roach Realtors in the greater Philadelphia area. Trident is one of the largest title companies for HomeServices of America, a Berkshire Hathaway company. She worked for Trident for 32 years. Barb was the Chair of RESPRO, the national trade organization for affiliated businesses, in 2014 and served on their Executive Board for over 10 years. Barb attended West Chester University in Business Administration.
On today’s episode we hear from Texas Agency Training and Education Specialist, Alicia Baugh, on a common mistake that many salespeople make: Focusing on Yourself Instead of the Customer.
Alicia Baugh was recently named Texas Agency Training and Education Specialist for Old Republic National Title Insurance Company. She has been in the title industry for over 15 years – 4 years as an Agency Representative and 1 year as SW Region Agency Services Sales Representative for Old Republic and 10 years working as an escrow officer and closer, 5 years of which she was also an agency manager in Texas. She graduated from East Texas Baptist University with a Bachelor of Business Administration.
On today’s episode we hear from Vice President Agency Strategy Manager, Jennifer Greenberg, on a common mistake that many salespeople make: whining instead of winning.
Jennifer Greenberg is Vice President and Agency Strategy Manager for Old Republic Title. Before joining the Corporate Marketing team, Jen was the Business Development Officer for the Maryland/DC Office. She has been in the title industry for 21 years—8 years with Old Republic and 13 years working in various title agencies in Maryland. Jen currently serves as the Vice President for the Maryland Land Title Association. She graduated from the University of Maryland Global Campus with a degree in Human Resources Management.
On today’s episode we hear from Assistant Vice President in Business Development, Joe Alvis, on a common mistake that many salespeople make: forgetting the rest of the team.
The newest member of the National Agency Service Business Development Team, Joe Alvis is a recent transfer from the Western Title Division in the San Francisco bay area. Having spent most of his 15 years in the title insurance industry operating and leading in customer facing roles, Joe has seen the good and the not-so-good of customer experience.
On today’s episode we hear from Pennsylvania Agency Manager and Business Development Partner, Matt Walton, on a common mistake that many salespeople make: ignoring industry facts and figures.
Matt has been with Old Republic for over 13 years. He is an Agency Manager and Business Development Partner with the company.
On today’s episode we hear from the Vice President and Michigan Agency Representative, Tim McDonnell, on a common mistake that many salespeople make: giving up too easily.
Tim is Vice President and Michigan Agency Representative for Old Republic National Title Insurance Company. In this role, he provides operational and sales support to the Michigan network of Old Republic agents. He has been in the title industry for 26 years—14 years with Old Republic—and worked in the banking industry for 11 years prior to joining the title industry. Tim is a Past President of the Michigan Land Title Association and currently serves as its PAC Committee Chair. He graduated from the University of Michigan with a degree in Economics and earned a Master of Business Administration in Finance from Wayne State University.
On today’s episode we hear from the New England Sales Manager, Jim Sifflard, on a common mistake that many salespeople make: coming back with the same old pitch.
Jim is a 35-year veteran of the Title Industry primarily in a sales capacity. He started with Old Republic in 2015. Currently he is the New England Sales Manager leading the sales and marketing efforts for the area.
On today’s episode we hear from the Agency University (formerly known as Shared Success) founder, John Clark, on one of his sales techniques, ARC.
John has been with Old Republic for over 15 years. He founded the Agency University team, formerly known as Shared Success, in 2010 and is currently the Manager of Performance Management with the company.
On today’s episode we hear from the Business Development Manager of National Real Estate Services, Jenny Isgett on a common mistake that many salespeople make: not living a balanced life.
Jenny joined Old Republic National Title Insurance Company in 2005 and has advanced to focus on the business development of our National Real Estate Services.
On today’s episode we hear from Southwest Region Agency Training and Education Coordinator, Karen Arthur on a common mistake that many salespeople make: giving up too quickly.
Karen joined Old Republic National Title Insurance Company in January 2014 as an Agency Representative. In 2020, she advanced to focus and grow the Southwest Region Agency Training and Education Program.
On today’s episode we hear from Pennsylvania Agency Sales and Services Manager, Sue Morgan on a common mistake that many salespeople make: avoiding an unhappy customer.
Sue Morgan joined Old Republic Title in 2004. Starting as a business development representative, then moving into a divisional marketing manager role, Sue is currently serving as the Pennsylvania Agency Sales and Services manager.
On today’s episode we hear from Agency University Business Development & Sales Training, Ann Allard on a common mistake that many salespeople make: rationalizing away the sale.
Ann Allard joined the Company in 2009 and served in various sales and management positions in the New England areas prior to joining Agency University, formerly Shared Success, in 2014. Ann oversees the Mentorship Program and assists in the creation and delivery of sales training and customer service programs to employees and customers.
Tune into the premiere episode of the Bottom Line Me Podcast to hear from host, Brenda Nelson, as she speaks to Agency Relations, Suzanne Penley on a common mistake that many sales people make: ignoring factors that influence customers' decisions.
Suzanne Penley serves as a liaison with Old Republic’s Agents to promote Agency University programs and services as part of an overall objective to assure Agents educational, training and business-building needs are being met. Her background includes a combined total of 38 years of public and customer relations, sales and marketing, as well as an international professional speaker.