WFG National Title provides regular updates to its real estate industry partners with the WFG Insights Podcast. This podcast features WFG executives offering their perspective, along with industry influencers, agents and other real estate partners sharing their expertise and best business practices.
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Rousing Housing is the podcast of Commerce Title, located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Featuring local Baton Rouge experts who know Baton Rouge real estate, host Calvert Stone gets into some real talk about buying, owning, renting, flipping, selling, and even renovating. If it's Baton Rouge real estate, you'll hear it in Rousing Housing.
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Providing real solutions for real business challenges. Welcome to FNF UNPLUGGED, Season Four. Conversations with professionals across the country. Exploring business topics, and empowering personal growth in real estate, financial services and the title insurance industry. FNF UNPLUGGED is a National Agency Operations Production. This podcast is being provided for informational purposes only. The podcast is not a comprehensive overview of the subject and is not intended to provide legal or f ...
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WFG Founder & Chairman Patrick Stone: "I Can't Remember This Level of Uncertainty"
23:50
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23:50That headline is saying something, because Patrick Stone's career in the real estate industry spans the past 50 years. In this episode, he delivers an economic update, a revised mortgage interest rate forecast in lieu of the uncertainty, and a the potential for a gloomy outlook in the second half of 2025.…
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2025 Real Estate Forecast: WFG's Patrick Stone Delivers Optimistic Outlook with Caution
24:05
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24:05Last fall, what was widely anticipated to be a much improved real estate market in 2025 is now more cautious outlook due to continuing inflation concerns and higher mortgage interest rates. In this season-opening episode, WFG Chairman and Founder Patrick Stone also urges real estate professionals to prepare for what could be more uncertainty in the…
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Patrick Stone Reacts to Fed Rate Cut and Offers Optimistic Outlook for 2025 Real Estate Market
18:33
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18:33September's long awaited and much anticipated Fed rate decision delivered a surprising 50 basis point cut, much to the delight of real estate professionals. And while the Fed Funds Rate doesn't directly impact mortgage interest rates, it does impact the spread, which sparked an uptick in applications to refinance. In this episode, WFG Chairman & Fo…
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Market Focus: A Tale of Two Cities as Austin and Dallas Grapple with Growth
16:35
16:35
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16:35In this special edition of WFG Insights, Chairman & Founder Patrick Stone is back with us to discuss the Texas market- specifically ATX and DFW. Like many attractive cities across America, Austin's growing pains include the high cost of housing. Meanwhile in Dallas-Fort Worth, a massive investment in multifamily housing has helped alleviate single …
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WFG + Volly: Leveraging Lending Expertise for the Real Estate Industry
15:32
15:32
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15:32In this episode, host Brian Bushlach welcomes WFG Enterprise Solutions SVP Dan Bailey and Volly’s SVP and General Manager Kat Loveland to share the inside story on WFG's acquisition of Volly. Topics include: How Volly's lead generation and customer conversion tools align with WFG's title insurance, appraisal, and closing services. Increasing demand…
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Focus on Affordability: WFG's Patrick Stone on What it Will Take, and How Long
17:22
17:22
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17:22Inventory is increasing and homes are on the market longer. But prices and mortgage interest rates remain high as we head into summer, making it difficult for median income home buyers to purchase a home. In this timely episode, WFG Chairman and Founder Patrick Stone joins us to address the affordability issue. How long, and what will it take to ma…
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Higher for Longer? WFG's Patrick Stone Calls for One Rate Cut and Improving Market Conditions
22:30
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22:30In this timely download, WFG Chairman and Founder Patrick Stone downplays talk of economic stagflation and calls for one Fed rate cut, perhaps as early as Q3. When that happens, Stone shares the impact it'll have on mortgage rates, and subsequently inventory as we hope to finish the year strong.By WFG / Feedback Media
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Title & Escrow 101: A Refresher Course in Settlement Services with Bush Nielsen
32:17
32:17
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32:17Seasoned title insurance professionals have likely forgotten more than some who are newer to the industry have yet to learn. That said, you're never too experienced for a refresher course in the nuances of the complicated, and often strict insurance product we provide. In this episode, FNF's Linda Grahovec calls on industry expert, attorney Bush Ni…
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Skyrocketing Homeowners Insurance Premiums Threaten an Already Challenging Market
26:36
26:36
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26:36If higher mortgage rates and scarce housing inventory wasn't enough, now a spike in homeowners insurance premiums adds another challenging ingredient to buying a home. The Florida market is in the crosshairs, but why are places far removed from hurricanes and wildfires also being impacted by rate hikes? In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain calls on in…
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Patrick Stone Offers a Cautiously Optimistic Outlook for the Second Half of 2024
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18:58Inflation persists impacting mortgage interest rates, and inventory is still scarce. But WFG Chairman and Founder Patrick Stone believes in the builders and an improving interest rate environment as we move through the year. In this episode, he delivers an upbeat forecast, but cautions there are several wildcards that could impact the economy and t…
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The Long & Winding Road to Digital Adoption with Stavvy's Tim Anderson
28:45
28:45
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28:45The digital age offers the opportunity for seamless, secure, paperless real estate transactions. Yet the industry is slow to adopt and reluctant to implement technology or applications that have proven to save time and money. In this timely download, FNF's Chuck Cain welcomes Stavvy's EVP Digital Strategy Tim Anderson to cover not only the "what", …
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ICE Research Guru Andy Walden Offers an Optimistic Forecast for 2024
27:32
27:32
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27:32Recent Fed news has relaxed mortgage rates and while there's still a ways to go, ANY positive signs for the real estate market is welcome news as we close out a challenging year. In this year-end download, FNF's Chuck Cain welcomes ICE VP of Enterprise Research Strategy Andy Walden, who delivers an upbeat assessment. While mortgage rates will likel…
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Aftershocks for the Real Estate Profession as the Missouri Verdict Rocks the Industry
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35:04
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35:04The dust hasn't settled, and likely won't for several years, but one thing appears to be certain: The real estate industry as we know is about to change dramatically, particularly for buyers agents. The impact of Missouri's Sitzer-Burnett verdict will also be felt by lenders and title agents. In this timely episode, FNF's Chuck Cain calls on real e…
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Update: WFG Founder Patrick Stone Reacts to the Missouri Real Estate Verdict
23:41
23:41
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23:41The real estate market is a media favorite for sensational headlines and clickbait. So it's no surprise the Missouri real estate verdict in the Sitzer/Burnett buyer broker commission lawsuit moved the needle. The outcome will no doubt change the way real estate agents conduct business, but to what extent? And how can the real estate industry come t…
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Check-in with Chuck: The Word on the Street as the Real Estate Industry Braces for Upheaval
25:52
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25:52Fall conferences are in the books and FNF's Chuck Cain has made the rounds, returning with the latest info from industry insiders. Think the recent verdict in Missouri won't impact title & settlement? Think again... Chuck explains why, and also provides an update on the activity of federal regulators as they ramp up scrutiny of the of the real esta…
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Part 2: The Ultimate Guide to Video Marketing with Bowe Digital's Wayne Stanley
30:27
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30:27By FNF Family of Companies
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Advice from Patrick Stone: Filter Through the Noise and Focus on Business
31:59
31:59
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31:59In a challenging time, its easy to be lured into social media posts, dire predictions and gossip about the economy and the real estate market. We are experiencing an unprecedented period, and while the circumstances may be different this time, its nothing new for our industry. In this download, WFG Chairman & Founder Patrick Stone calms concerns ab…
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Part 1: The Ultimate Guide to Video Marketing with Bowe Digital's Wayne Stanley
36:15
36:15
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36:15By FNF Family of Companies
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Sales Toolbox: Leverage Data to Focus Your Energy and Emotions in a Challenging Market
27:22
27:22
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27:22Often referred to as "energy", our emotions and mindset are key in what is no doubt a challenging real estate market. Data, and accurate tracking, is also critical so we're devoting our time and resources to the partners and relationships that drive our business. In this sales-focused download, FNF's Chuck Cain, Ethan Powsner and Tim Hooper team up…
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Compliance Conundrum: Navigating More Regulation with Fewer People
31:00
31:00
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31:00In the cyclical world of real estate brokerage, lending and settlement services, regulators often take action when the market is slower. That's the case this year as we're seeing stepped up enforcement action, which is time consuming and costly. On top of that, the person who handled compliance may have been a victim of budget cuts. In this episode…
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The Reality of the Real Estate Market: Patrick Stone's Path Forward in a Challenging Time
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21:01
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21:01Expectations of lower mortgage interest rates this fall are no longer in the forecast and it appears Q4 of 2023 and at least the first half of 2024 will continue to be challenging for real estate professionals. So what should you be doing now to prepare for the next cycle? And when will the market bounce back? In this download, WFG Chairman & Found…
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Sales Check-Up: FNF's Tim Hooper on What You Should Be Doing Now to Build Future Business
26:21
26:21
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26:21The downshift in the real estate market allows industry professionals the time to re-engage with teams and sharpen sales tools for the opportunities ahead. In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain welcomes FNF VP of Training & Technology Tim Hooper. Tim shares how he's coaching real estate agents and title professionals as we prepare for the next cycle in…
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Commercial Real Estate Update: An Unbiased Assessment of the Sectors and Markets Impacted
21:36
21:36
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21:36Location, location, location: The reason it's a cliche, is because it's true. Specific markets are feeling more pain, particularly in the office sector, than others. How will things unfold in the years ahead? And what sector are investors still bullish on? For those answers and much more, FNF's Chuck Cain calls on Jamie Woodwell, President in the R…
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Ignore the Media Clickbait: The Housing Market is Healthy, Just as Patrick Stone Predicted
21:50
21:50
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21:50In spite of dire predictions last year of another real estate market crash, home prices remain stable, competition is fierce is some markets, and consumers are adjusting to higher mortgage interest rates. WFG Chairman & Founder Patrick Stone remains one of the few voices of reason in the real estate industry, and correctly forecast the market we're…
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The Housing Market's Cloudy Crystal Ball: Black Knight's Andy Walden Offers Clarity
22:18
22:18
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22:18Mortgage rates remain elevated and inventory is severely constricted in most markets. The good news is the job market is strong, and it appears if a recession does hit, it'll be mild. So the obvious question is this: When will we arrive at the intersection of favorable rates and increasing inventory? Few in the industry possess the data and insight…
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High Rates and Low Inventory: Patrick Stone's Updated Outlook on the Market
19:10
19:10
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19:10Headlines suggest a strong job market and slowing inflation. But WFG Founder & Chairman Patrick Stone always investigates what's beyond the headlines. Armed with that data and 48 years experience in the real estate industry, he sees things differently that most prognosticators. In this episode, Stone reveals what he's watching, and why the housing …
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Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: Focusing on the Opportunities to Build Relationships and Business
18:57
18:57
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18:57Often times important topics become a buzzword or acronym that gets lost in the day-to-day and month-to-month world in the real estate business. But for the next generation of real estate professionals, there is an opportunity to grow business by connecting with a diverse community. In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain welcomes attorney and closing ag…
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Marketing Checkup Part 2: Your Website is a Dinosaur, and Video Makes a Real Estate Star
27:03
27:03
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27:03In part 2 of our series, FNF's Linda Grahovec welcomes back marketing expert Wayne Stanley from Bowe Digital to share what he's seeing, hearing and interacting with in the real estate marketing world. CAUTION: This information may offend real estate professionals who are sending out marketing materials at the post office. Seriously, everyone has th…
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Marketing Checkup Part 1: How Quickly Does that Gumball Lose Its Flavor?
31:16
31:16
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31:16A calm real estate market means more professionals are tuned into market news, updates and personal development. It's an ideal time to be in touch with referral partners and building new relationships. But how much is TOO much? And what happens when the marketing "flavor of the month" goes stale, or isn't work for your business model. In Part 1 of …
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Insider Report with Dave Stevens - Part 2: Lower Rates Won't Solve the Biggest Issue in Real Estate
24:00
24:00
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24:00As the conversation continues between FNF's Chuck Cain and real estate and lending industry veteran Dave Stevens, the focus shifts from regulatory and compliance concerns to the bigger issues ahead. Affordability, or lack thereof, due to a significant shortage of housing inventory, will continue to pinch the housing market even as rates are expecte…
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Insider Report with Dave Stevens - Part 1: The Fed's Fumble and Will Industry Dinosaurs Survive?
25:39
25:39
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25:39In the opening download of this riveting two-part conversation, FNF's Chuck Cain welcomes industry insider and veteran Dave Stevens for a candid take on the real estate industry. In his 40-year career, Stevens has seen and done it all, as a top loan originator, CEO of the Mortgage Bankers Association, and Federal Housing Commissioner. Stevens doesn…
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When Will the Real Estate Market Get Moving Again? WFG's Patrick Stone Shares His Roadmap
25:11
25:11
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25:11The spring real estate season has arrived but there hasn't been much change in market conditions. Mortgage rates are still higher than most consumers would like, housing inventory remains low, and until we see a significant uptick in construction these market conditions will hold. How long until things get moving again? What concerns are there in t…
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The Evolution of Digital Closings: Snapdocs Camelia Martin on the Past, Present & Future
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26:33The pandemic is thankfully behind us, and one of the positive outcomes was the forced push into e-notes, digital closings and a more flexible, streamlined process for the real estate industry. That said, challenges remain, and industry players will need to work closely together to as we take the next stop to save clients time and reduce cost. In th…
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Reflections from a Legendary Career: John Voso Shares His Wisdom and Passion
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26:09He may be one year into his well-deserved retirement, but John Voso hasn't forgotten about the industry he helped shape. Fact is, John has probably forgotten more than most of us know the business! In this entertaining and heartwarming episode, FNF's Linda Grahovec reconnects with John, who offers his insight.…
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FundingShield CEO Ike Suri Warns of Continuing Threats and Wire Fraud in the Year Ahead
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34:54The market may have downshifted, but the bad guys have ramped up their game. Over half of the real estate transactions in Q4 of 2022 had vulnerabilities which could lead to fraud. In this important download, FNF's Chuck Cain invites FundingShield Chairman & CEO Ike Suri to share the recent report, and offer insight and advice for all parties involv…
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WFG Founder Patrick Stone: What's Driving a Surprisingly Good Start to 2023
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21:41Predictions of doom & gloom in the real estate market are beginning to brighten- and spring is still over a month away! What's driving this solid start? And why does WFG Chairman & Founder Patrick Stone feel so optimistic as we move through the year? In this download, he shares his reasons for optimism, along with key insight on The Fed, interest r…
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Unlock Innovation and Drive Explosive Growth with Best-Selling Author Josh Linkner
27:28
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27:28We open Season 4 of FNF UNPLUGGED with an adrenaline rush of creative juice from NYT best-selling author, entrepreneur, investor and keynote speaker Josh Linkner. In this episode, Josh motives and inspires with his keys to reinventing your business. FNF's Linda Grahovec leads this motivational conversation, as Josh provides real world examples you …
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FNF's Chuck Cain Warns of Additional Threats to the Real Estate Industry in the Year Ahead
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32:00At this point, we're all aware that the year ahead will be challenging in the real estate industry. And while the market conditions have shifted significantly, other threats loom: cybersecurity concerns, government intervention, accessibility and new consumer privacy laws are all in play. In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain offers an update and guida…
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2023 Forecast: WFG's Patrick Stone Offers an Optimistic Outlook for the Second Half of the Year
22:23
22:23
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22:23There's no question the first half of this year will likely be the toughest real estate market ever. While the Great Recession was brutal, the industry was busy with foreclosures and short sales. This time, there are few transactions as the market is paralyzed due to higher rates, low inventory, and a significant lack of affordability. In spite of …
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Real Time Advice: FNF's Ethan Powsner on What Title Agents Must Do To Navigate the Current Market
21:41
21:41
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21:41Rising mortgage interest rates, a looming recession, and sagging consumer confidence are all the ingredients for an extremely challenging real estate market in the year ahead. Title agents who are prepared will not only survive, but can thrive as competitors who don't adapt will find themselves cutting staff and profits. In this episode, FNF's Chuc…
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Guiding Your Real Estate Business Through the Challenging Year Ahead
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26:07No one expects 2023 to be a good year in the real estate industry. So if you haven't already made the tough decisions, now is the time. In this episode, WFG Founder & Executive Chairman Patrick Stone offers a blunt assessment of the market and advice on how to manage through it. He also offers an optimistic outlook for the latter half of next year-…
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Mortgage Rates: Inside the Numbers with Expert Analysis from Black Knight's Andy Walden
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27:32The headlines are intended to grab us and get that click. But what's really going on in the bond markets? What direction are mortgage interest rates headed? And what key data are industry insiders watching to determine how, and when the market will improve. In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain calls on respected industry expert Andy Walden, VP of Ente…
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Compliance by Day... Heavy Metal at Night! Why Musicians Make Great Bankers
31:44
31:44
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31:44With the industry adjusting and teams seeking to grow or maintain by acquisition, there's a new pipeline of talent to explore. In this episode, FNF's Linda Grahovec welcomes Nathan Britsch, EVP of Compliance at Neighborhood Loans. Britsch provides a lender's perspective on the future of mortgage financing, qualification changes, being tactical vers…
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ALTA ONE: Takeaways from San Diego Include RON, and We're Not Talking About Mr. Burgundy
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23:01
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23:01The industry was forced to go remote, mobile & virtual during the pandemic. Now, a sudden and dramatic downturn in the market will likely cement Remote Online Notary or RON as lenders look to save money on every single transaction, at every title agency or attorney's office regardless of size. In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain welcomes digital advo…
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A Candid Conversation and Real Estate Reality Check with WFG Founder Patrick Stone
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21:30
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21:30It's almost impossible to ignore the real estate and economic headlines. If we're not already in a recession, we're on the verge, and there appears to be no end in sight to rising rates and energy prices. So what is the timeline? How long will this market downturn last? And how will we rebound and return to business as usual- if there is such a thi…
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The Leadership Journey Through a 40-Year Lens: Insight with Industry Veteran Leslie Midgley
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31:29When asked the question "What do you want to be when you grow up?" none of us answered "title examiner" or "escrow officer". With the exception of a few family title businesses, most of us landed in settlement services from another profession, or a career change. In this episode, FNF's Linda Grahovec connects with 40-year industry veteran Leslie Mi…
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Special Edition: Lessons in Leadership with FNF CEO Mike Nolan
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35:22He's worked his way up from an agency sales rep, through management roles, the executive suite and now, Mike Nolan is the CEO of the FNF Family of Companies. Few are as well-versed and in touch with the industry, our people, and our agents as Mike. In this episode, FNF's Linda Grahovec leads a master class in leadership with Mike, who pulls from hi…
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The Real Estate Market is Contracting: Now is the Perfect Time to Expand!
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15:20
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15:20With business slowing and a challenging 12-18 month forecast ahead, it's natural to consider cutting back in response to the market. But in this episode, WFG Founder and Executive Chairman Patrick Stone leans in, announcing WFG's ambitious expansion plans in the builder market and commercial real estate. Stone also explains why you should invest in…
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Taking the Temperature as the Market Cools Off with Real Estate One's Dan Elsea
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23:54
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23:54Real estate is literally in Dan Elsea's DNA. The third generation co-owner, with brother Stuart, of Michigan's Real Estate One has weathered the inevitable market cycles just like his father and grandfather before him. In this episode, FNF's Chuck Cain calls on Dan for a market update, perspective, and reflection on what's kept this family business…
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Building Your Brand: What Are People Saying About You When You're Not in the Room?
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34:12
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34:12Part 2 of a Sales & Marketing One Two Punch: As the real estate market transitions to a healthy balance over the next year, the focus will be on YOU. Your people skills, your communication, and your ability to differentiate yourself from your competition. In a world where we're often viewed as a commodity, there's never been a more important time t…
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