Spilling The Title Tea

Hosted by Ashley Ramsey

Business Investing

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Title experts share their knowledge

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20 min

From Restaurant Management to Real Estate: Tammy Mounsey’s Leap of Faith into Title

In this episode of Spilling the Title Tea, Ashley sits down with Springdale Title’s Knoxville closing agent, Tammy Mounsey, to discuss her inspiring career transition from restaurant management to the title industry. After spending more than 20 years working nights, weekends, and holidays in the restaurant business, Tammy made the bold decision to start over in a completely new field.Tammy shares what it was like to leave a career she had known for decades, why family and grandchildren became her motivation for change, and how the title industry has provided a better work-life balance while still allowing her to serve people every day.The conversation explores the importance of customer service across industries, the rewards of helping buyers achieve homeownership, and the courage it takes to reinvent yourself later in life. Tammy’s story is a reminder that it’s never too late to pursue a better path and that sometimes the biggest opportunities come when you're willing to step outside your comfort zone.Whether you're considering a career change, working toward better work-life balance, or simply love hearing stories about personal growth, this episode is packed with encouragement and practical wisdom.HighlightsTammy shares her journey from 20 years in restaurant management to becoming a closing agent in the title industry. Why spending more time with her grandchildren became the driving force behind her career change. The surprising experience of having her first Christmas off after two decades of working holidays. How customer service skills developed in the restaurant industry translated directly into helping title clients. Tammy discusses one of her most rewarding closings, where grateful buyers thanked her for going above and beyond to help them. Ashley and Tammy talk about why real estate transactions are often more joyful than many other areas of the legal profession. How working in title has given Tammy a deeper understanding of her family’s own real estate investments and rental properties. The challenges and fears that come with leaving a career you've known for decades and starting over in a new industry. Tammy shares advice for anyone considering a major career change: trust yourself when you know it's time for something different. A candid conversation about confidence, lifelong learning, and why nobody in the title industry ever truly knows everything. LinksSringdale Title Links:sprindaletitle.comFacebookhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/73182038Instagram

29 min

Faith, Real Estate & Property Management: Building Forge Property Group with Derrick Simpson

In this episode of Spilling the Title Tea, Ashley sits down with Derrick Simpson, founder of Forge Property Group, to talk about entrepreneurship, real estate investing, property management, and building a business rooted in faith and stewardship.Derrick shares how his background in federal service and private security unexpectedly led him into real estate, where he recognized a major problem investors and homeowners were facing: juggling multiple vendors, contractors, agents, and managers with no streamlined system in place. That realization became the foundation for Forge Property Group — a one-stop-shop real estate company designed to simplify the process for property owners, investors, landlords, and sellers.The conversation dives into property management systems, scaling a business without sacrificing quality, the role investors play in creating affordable housing inventory, and how biblical principles shaped the vision behind the company. Derrick also shares a powerful story about how treating tenants with compassion during COVID led to unexpected blessings.This episode is packed with practical real estate insight, entrepreneurship advice, and reminders about leading with integrity, diligence, and service.HighlightsDerrick shares how his background in federal service and private security unexpectedly led him into real estate investing. The inspiration behind Forge Property Group came from solving a major problem for landlords and investors: too many vendors and not enough coordination. How Forge Property Group became a “one-stop shop” offering acquisitions, sales, renovations, market prep, and property management services under one roof. Derrick explains the biblical meaning behind the name “Forge” and how hardship, refinement, and character-building inspired the company’s foundation. Why scaling a property management company without losing quality control is one of the biggest challenges in the industry. How Forge uses systems, inspections, software portals, and tenant communication to keep investors informed and properties protected. Derrick discusses why some rental properties are declined for management if owners are unwilling to properly maintain them. The surprising reality about real estate investors and how many are actually helping create affordable housing inventory for first-time homebuyers. Ashley and Derrick discuss stewardship, diligence, and why serving people well means refusing to take shortcuts in business. Derrick shares a powerful story about how showing compassion to tenants during COVID resulted in every tenant paying rent on time throughout the pandemic. LinksForge Property Group | FacebookForge Property Group: Your Full-Service Real Estate PartnerSringdale Title Links:sprindaletitle.comFacebookhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/73182038Instagram

37 min

Cybersecurity, Smart Buildings & Business Tech: What Every Business Owner Needs to Know with Drew Meaux

In this episode of Spilling the Title Tea, Ashley sits down with Drew Meaux of ProTech IT Solutions to talk about the growing role technology plays in modern business and why ignoring cybersecurity can cost you far more than just downtime.From buying commercial real estate to protecting sensitive customer data, Drew explains how outdated systems, weak passwords, unsecured Wi-Fi, and lack of planning leave businesses vulnerable every single day. The conversation covers everything from cyber threats and phishing scams to VPNs, building security systems, cloud backups, and smart technology upgrades for growing businesses.Whether you’re a small business owner, property investor, medical office, law firm, or just someone trying to better protect your personal information, this episode is packed with practical advice on how to stay secure and avoid costly mistakes in today’s digital world.HighlightsWhy buying or renovating a commercial building is the perfect time to upgrade your technology systems. How outdated wiring, networking, and tech layouts in older buildings can slow down business operations. The hidden dangers of sharing one Wi-Fi network between employees, tenants, and public guests. Why weak passwords and reusing the same password across multiple accounts creates major security risks. Phishing scams explained: fake toll texts, fake invoices, urgent emails, and how scammers trick people into clicking. The importance of keeping systems updated—and why ignoring software updates can leave businesses vulnerable. How VPNs add protection when working remotely or using public Wi-Fi networks. Why small businesses are often bigger cyberattack targets than people realize. Smart business security upgrades: camera systems, remote door access, cloud backups, and mobile monitoring. Drew explains why proactive IT planning is always cheaper and easier than dealing with a cyber disaster after it happens. LinksProtech IT Solutions | information technology management company(859) 516-4045FacebookSringdale Title Links:sprindaletitle.comFacebookhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/73182038Instagram

28 min

Newly Married & Building a Future: Insurance, Money, and Real Talk for Young Couples with Joshua Williams

In this episode of Spilling the Title Tea, Ashley welcomes back Joshua Williams, insurance agent with Kentucky Farm Bureau, for a conversation packed with real-life updates and practical advice.Now newly married, Joshua shares what’s changed—from merging finances and planning for the future to navigating today’s challenging housing market. He breaks down why insurance becomes even more important after marriage, how to think about life insurance in a practical way, and what young couples should be doing right now to protect each other and build stability.Ashley and Joshua also dive into the realities of buying a home in today’s market, offering honest insight into affordability, patience, and making smart financial decisions without unnecessary stress.If you’re newly married (or heading that direction), this episode is full of grounded, real-world advice on how to plan wisely, communicate effectively, and build a strong financial foundation together.HighlightsJoshua shares his biggest life update: getting married and building a new life with his wife. Why keeping a wedding simple and stress-free can make the experience more meaningful. Key insurance changes after marriage—combining policies and updating coverage. The importance of life insurance when you now have a spouse depending on your income. How to calculate coverage: replacing income, covering debts, and protecting long-term stability. Why term life insurance often makes sense for young couples on a budget. The harsh reality of today’s housing market—high prices, high rates, and limited inventory. Smart strategy: delaying homeownership to improve finances, save for a down payment, and reduce stress. Financial planning tip: live below your means now to prepare for future goals like children and homeownership. Relationship advice: sit down together, align goals, communicate openly, and build your future as a team. LinksJoshua Williams - Kentucky Farm Bureau (kyfb.com)859-626-7725Sringdale Title Links:sprindaletitle.comFacebookhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/73182038Instagram

7 min

FinCEN Chaos Explained: What the Latest Court Rulings Mean for Your Real Estate Closings

In this quick update episode of Spilling the Title Tea, Ashley sits down with Springdale Title COO Trevor Daugherty to break down the latest developments surrounding the FinCEN regulation and why things just got even more complicated.Just weeks after the rule went into effect, conflicting federal court rulings have already thrown the industry into uncertainty. Ashley and Trevor explain what this means right now for buyers, investors, and anyone involved in real estate transactions.While reporting requirements may be temporarily paused, data collection is still happening and for good reason. This episode gives you a clear, practical understanding of what’s changing, what’s not, and how Springdale Title is staying proactive to ensure your closings don’t get delayed.If you’re buying property, especially through an entity, this is a must-listen update to stay ahead of the curve.HighlightsRecap of the FinCEN rule and its original March 1st implementation affecting real estate transactions. A lawsuit prior to March 1st failed to stop the rule from going into effect. A second lawsuit (March 20th) resulted in a federal court striking down the regulation—creating conflicting rulings. Why this legal conflict will likely escalate to the U.S. Supreme Court. Current reality: reporting requirements are paused, but data collection is still mandatory. Why title companies are continuing to collect FinCEN data to avoid last-minute closing delays. Who is affected most: buyers using entities like LLCs, trusts, or corporations. How post-closing transfers into entities can still trigger FinCEN requirements. Possible outcomes: the rule could return fully, come back modified, or be eliminated entirely. The key takeaway: expect continued requests for information and trust that it’s to keep your transaction smooth and compliant. LinksSringdale Title Links:sprindaletitle.comFacebookhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/73182038Instagram

26 min

From Setback to Startup: Chris Stansbury on Building a Restoration Company That Actually Cares

In this episode of Spilling the Title Tea, Ashley sits down with Chris Stansbury, Business Development Manager at First Response Restoration, to talk about turning an unexpected career setback into a thriving business.Chris shares how being let go from his previous role led to the creation of First Response Restoration, how they built a “dream team” from day one, and why putting people—both employees and customers—first has fueled their rapid success. From water, fire, and mold remediation to some of the toughest real-life situations homeowners face, Chris gives an inside look at what restoration work really entails.They also dive into entrepreneurship, taking risks, and why sometimes you don’t “jump”—you get pushed—and that’s exactly what you need. This episode is equal parts business insight and real-life perspective on doing the right thing, even when it’s not the most profitable choice.HighlightsChris’s background: Kentucky native, former attorney, and now Business Development Manager at First Response Restoration. The turning point: being unexpectedly let go from a previous job and how that led to starting a restoration company. Building a “dream team” from day one by bringing in experienced leaders in operations, insurance, and field work. Rapid growth: hitting year-one goals that most restoration companies take four years to achieve. Core services explained: water, mold, and fire remediation—plus crawl space work, encapsulation, and biohazard cleanup. 24/7 emergency response and why fast action is critical when homeowners are dealing with major damage. What truly sets them apart: a people-first approach, from employee care to honest guidance for customers (even if it means less profit). Real-life stories: helping a 90-year-old homeowner navigate insurance and displacement coverage after a flood. The reality of restoration work: floods, sewage, hoarding situations, and biohazard cleanups that most people never see. Chris’s advice on career and risk: don’t stay comfortable—take chances, explore opportunities, and find work you actually enjoy. LinksSringdale Title Links:sprindaletitle.comFacebookhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/73182038InstagramFirst Response Restoration (2) Facebook859-300-9532support@firstresponseky.com

18 min

From Paralegal to Title Pro: Christina Inskeep on Life Inside Real Estate Closings

In Episode 76 of Spilling the Title Tea, Ashley sits down with Springdale Title’s very own Christina Inskeep, a seasoned title agent in the Ashland, Kentucky office with decades of real estate experience.Christina shares how she originally planned to become an attorney but “fell into” real estate—and never left. From starting as an abstractor to handling files from start to finish, she’s seen just about everything the title world has to offer. In this episode, she talks about the unpredictable nature of closings, emotional moments at the table, late-night deal deadlines, and why real estate can be both challenging and incredibly rewarding.Whether you’re curious about what title companies actually do or considering a career in the industry, this episode offers an honest look at life behind the closing table.HighlightsChristina’s career journey: from wanting to be an attorney to becoming a paralegal and eventually specializing in real estate.How she “fell into” real estate after taking her first paralegal job—and why it ended up being the perfect fit.Starting as an abstractor and learning title searches before moving into full-service title and closing work.Why no two days in real estate are ever the same—and how unpredictability keeps the job interesting.Christina’s favorite part of the process: building trust with clients and guiding them through their transactions.The craziest closing she’s experienced: working until 2–3 a.m. to meet a bankruptcy judge’s deadline on a multi-property deal.Emotional closings: handling short sales, divorces, nursing home signings, and sellers saying goodbye to longtime family homes.The joyful side of closings: milestone sales, celebratory transactions, and even doing closings for her own children.Why title work offers a unique mix of routine paperwork and people-focused interaction.Career advice for those exploring real estate: there’s a niche for every personality—from behind-the-scenes processors to front-facing closers.LinksSringdale Title Links:sprindaletitle.comFacebookhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/73182038Instagram

8 min

FinCEN’s New Real Estate Rule: What Every Investor & Title Client Must Know Before March 1

In Episode 75 of Spilling the Title Tea, Ashley sits down in person with Olivia Bowdy to break down a major new federal rule from FinCEN (Financial Crimes Enforcement Network) that will significantly impact residential real estate transactions.Effective March 1, this rule targets money laundering in real estate and primarily affects entity buyers (LLCs, corporations, trusts) and certain cash or hard-money transactions. Ashley and Olivia explain who the rule applies to, what triggers reporting, why there’s no “loophole,” and what investors need to prepare for—including the collection of over 100 required data points and mandatory secure portal reporting.If you’re an investor, use hard money lenders, or purchase property in an entity name, this episode is essential listening to avoid delays, fines, or serious penalties.HighlightsWhat FinCEN is and why this federal rule was created to combat money laundering in real estate transactions.Who the rule applies to: entity buyers (LLCs, corporations, trusts), cash purchases, and certain non-FDIC insured or hard money lenders.The March 1 effective date and why investors must be prepared for additional compliance requirements on every applicable transaction.No loopholes: transferring property into an entity after closing will still trigger reporting requirements.The seriousness of compliance: over 100 data points required per file, secure portal submissions, potential closing delays, and severe penalties—including major fines and federal prison—for violations.LinksSringdale Title Links:sprindaletitle.comFacebookhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/73182038InstagramLink to FinCEN Class registration in Richmond(7) FinCEN Updates: What Financial Professionals Need to Know for 2026 | Facebook

19 min

Estate Planning Isn’t Just for “Later”: Elder Law & Protecting Your Home with Curtis (William) Smallwood

In Episode 74 of Spilling the Title Tea, Ashley sits down with Curtis (William) Smallwood, owner of Smallwood Elder Law, to break down what most homeowners don’t think about when they’re buying property: estate planning. Curtis explains why planning matters at every age, especially when your home is your biggest asset and how the right documents can help families avoid probate, protect privacy, and prevent conflict when a loved one passes.They also dive into elder law and Medicaid planning, including the realities of nursing home costs, Medicaid’s strict asset limits, the five-year lookback rule, and why irrevocable trusts can be powerful (but require giving up control). Curtis also explains why “just put the house in the kids’ names” can create big issues, especially around taxes and step-up in basis. This episode is an honest, practical guide to having the uncomfortable conversations now, so your family doesn’t have to later.HighlightsCurtis shares his background as a solo attorney for 12+ years, focusing on elder law and end-of-life planning, plus his advanced tax law degree (LLM).Why estate planning gets avoided: nobody wants to think about death, incapacity, or hard family conversations—until they have to.How planning can help homeowners avoid probate, which Curtis explains is often lengthy, expensive, and public.Why privacy matters: without planning, assets and estate details can become public record.Protecting your biggest asset: how estate planning ensures your home goes to who you choose, not just what state law dictates.Avoiding family drama: how clear documents reduce misunderstandings, hurt feelings, and conflict over “what mom/dad said they wanted.”Planning for incapacity: durable powers of attorney can allow someone to pay bills, manage assets, or even sell a home if you can’t.Medicaid & nursing home planning basics: the strict asset limits, what “spend down” means, and how fast nursing home costs add up.Irrevocable trusts explained: why they can protect assets from Medicaid after the five-year lookback, and why the grantor can’t be the trustee.The “just add the kids” option: Curtis explains concerns with life estates and gifting property—especially the potential loss of step-up in basis and increased capital gains taxes later.LinksSringdale Title Links:sprindaletitle.comFacebookhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/73182038Instagram

21 min

Farm Girl to Design Pro: Interior Design Tips & Trends with Joanna Baker

In Episode 73 of Spilling the Title Tea, Ashley sits down with her longtime friend Joanna Baker, an interior design consultant with a true farm-girl foundation and a designer’s eye. Joanna shares how her love for design started with classic TV shows and HGTV, what inspired her to earn a degree in interior design, and how homeowners can avoid the most common decorating pitfalls, especially after buying a new home.From furniture sizing and paint palettes to staging advice for sellers, budget-friendly upgrades for first-time homeowners, and what trends might define 2026 (including the debated return of brass), this episode is packed with practical, relatable design wisdom that helps people turn a house into a home.Highlights:Joanna’s background: growing up on a Berea farm, raising animals, and now raising her own family on a farm with horses and cows.What sparked her design passion: Designing Women, HGTV obsession, art classes, and eventually a Fine Arts degree with an emphasis in design.The most common “mistake” homeowners make: struggling to visualize the final look of a room before buying furniture or choosing finishes.A simple, genius tip: using painter’s tape to outline furniture size and wall décor placement before buying or hanging anything.How to create a color palette that flows: keep main spaces neutral, then add color through accents like pillows, throws, and art.Why neutral furniture wins long-term: trends change, but neutral pieces let you update style without replacing expensive items.How Joanna decides when to refresh her own home: seasonal resets, inspiration from Pinterest/Instagram, texture, and cozy vibes.The difference between decorating for yourself vs. staging to sell: buyers want clean, neutral, uncluttered spaces they can picture as their own.Budget-friendly upgrades for first-time homeowners: paint, trim/molding, board-and-batten, peel-and-stick wallpaper, and DIY with YouTube help.2026 trend talk: modern farmhouse continues, more texture and mixed wood tones, patterns creeping back—and yes, possibly brass returning (cue Ashley’s protest).Links:Joanna BakerInterior Design Consultant InstagramJoanna_interiordesign@hotmail.com Sringdale Title Links:sprindaletitle.comFacebookhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/73182038Instagram