Spilling The Title Tea

Spilling The Title Tea

By Ashley RamseyBusinessInvesting
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Spilling The Title Tea episodes

  • First-Home Roadmap: Ashley Answers Kennedy’s Buyer Questions

    Ashley sits down with her niece, third-grade teacher Kennedy Stone, for a straight-talk, first-time homebuyer Q&A. From where to start and which pros to trust, to rates, escrows, credit, and the sneaky mistakes that can tank a loan, this episode lays out a practical game plan for turning rent into a mortgage—without surprises.

    Highlights:

    • Why your first step is a free consult with a great loan officer—and how to pick one (reviews, product knowledge, communication).
    • The many loan products (FHA, VA/USDA, conventional) and down-payment assistance options for low/no-money-down buyers.
    • Current market snapshot: realistic starter-home prices and what rates mean for monthly payment.
    • What an escrow account covers (taxes, homeowner’s insurance, mortgage insurance) and how it affects your total payment.
    • True monthly cost of ownership beyond P&I: utilities, maintenance, yard care, repairs (hello, water heater).
    • Credit score targets (700+ ideal; 750+ excellent) and practical ways to build/repair credit.
    • Why first-time buyers should use a Realtor (negotiation, paperwork, pitfalls) and how commissions are handled.
    • Fixed vs. adjustable mortgages—why fixed usually wins for new buyers.
    • When and why to refinance, and choosing 30-year vs. 15/20-year terms (flexibility vs. interest).
    • The golden rule during underwriting: don’t finance cars/furniture or open new credit—and always ask questions if you’re unsure.
    Links:

    Fahe Rise Up Program - Fahe

    Future Homebuyers - Down Payment Assistance

    How to Repair Your Credit in 11 Steps

    A Guide to First-Time Home Buyer Loans and Programs - NerdWallet

    Sringdale Title:

    sprindaletitle.com

    Facebook

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/73182038

    Instagram


    26 min
  • From Vault Books to Night Law School: Meet Attorney Melinda Kirkham

    Ashley introduces Springdale Title’s attorney Melinda Kirkham, whose path runs from old-school courthouse vaults to a nationwide title role during night law school. Melinda shares the skills she learned tracing titles back to U.S. patents, why she chose the JD while working full-time, and what brought her back to a collaborative, client-focused title environment. They also talk lifelong learning, identity beyond work, and the joy of helping families become homeowners.

    Highlights:

    • Welcome Melinda: Springdale Title’s newest attorney and a huge help to the team
    • Outside the office: kayaking, hiking, disc golf—and a 300-album vinyl collection
    • Old-school training: pulling giant deed books in a vault and tracing titles to U.S. patents
    • From Missouri ranches to Nashville closings—including celebrity cash buys
    • Nationwide examiner during law school: title and curative work across all 50 states
    • “Why not?”: choosing night law school while working full-time
    • The grind: 9–5 job, 6–10 classes, and putting life on hold for four years
    • Short-term pain, long-term gain: a chat about grit vs. instant gratification
    • Back to title by choice: helping people achieve homeownership in a positive culture
    • “It’s never too late”: education as a solid, real-estate-like investment in yourself

    Links:

    Sringdale Title:

    sprindaletitle.com

    Facebook

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/73182038

    Instagram

    19 min
  • Finding Purpose Beyond Titles with Misty Lakes

    Ashley sits down with Misty Lakes, founder of Misty Lakes Coaching LLC, to talk about identity, faith, business, and the power of intentional living. Misty shares her journey from direct sales to coaching, her passion for helping women discover their God-given purpose, and her recent decision to open a physical office space. This episode blends business insights, spiritual grounding, and practical advice for entrepreneurs looking to build a life they love.

    Episode Highlights:
    • [00:02] Welcoming Misty Lakes back to the show
    • [00:44] Misty’s coaching journey and 8-year business story
    • [02:35] Becoming a grandma and prioritizing family time
    • [04:17] One-on-one coaching, group programs, and new spiritual branch
    • [09:22] Separating identity from job titles and finding true purpose
    • [13:17] Legacy exercise: what people would say at your funeral
    • [16:03] Why Misty opened a physical office space
    • [18:41] Finding the right environment to focus and set boundaries
    • [21:10] Executive suites and co-working spaces as small business resources
    • [22:29] Misty’s advice for entrepreneurs considering a location


    Links:

    Misty Lakes Coaching Facebook

    Sringdale Title:

    sprindaletitle.com

    Facebook

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/73182038

    Instagram

    26 min
  • From Booth Rental to ‘The Jail’: Amber Spurlock’s Leap into Salon Ownership

    Ashley sits down with stylist and salon owner Amber Spurlock of Golden Hour Salon Studio to talk courage, calling, and commercial real estate. After 20 years behind the chair, Amber took a faith-fueled leap—leaving the only salon she’d ever known to purchase and renovate a historic 1912 building (formerly Berea’s jail and city hall!). They cover the nudge to start a business, navigating historic-property remodels, timelines, and practical advice for anyone considering buying their own space.

    Highlights:
    • [00:02] Ashley introduces guest Amber Spurlock of Golden Hour Salon Studio
    • [00:42] Amber’s path: 20 years in hair, salon roots, and being a single mom
    • [03:03] Taking the leap to open her own salon after nearly two decades in one place
    • [03:38] The “sign” moment when blinds fell during a walk-through—“Alright, she’s mine”
    • [06:23] Buying her first commercial property and stepping into ownership
    • [08:04] Learning to wait on God’s timing through renovations and delays
    • [09:51] Full-circle moment: longtime mentor Nancy joins her in the new building
    • [11:09] Building history: a 1912 structure that once served as Berea’s jail and city hall
    • [12:51] Remodeling within historic-registry rules and tackling plumbing/electrical updates
    • [16:27] Amber’s advice: prayer, support systems, and leaping in faith when starting a business
    Links:

    Golden Hour Salon Studio: Facebook

    Sringdale Title:

    sprindaletitle.com

    Facebook

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/73182038

    Instagram

    23 min
  • Clearing Up Common Closing Confusions with Jackie Daugherty

    Ashley welcomes back Jackie Daugherty, co-owner of Springdale Title, to tackle some of the most common misconceptions in the closing process. From questions about escrow funds and loan details to misunderstandings around surveys, contracts, and power of attorney, Ashley and Jackie break down the details every buyer and seller should know.

    Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or a seasoned real estate pro, this episode will help you better understand the role of the title company, the importance of clarity in contracts, and why protecting your personal information during closing is so critical.

    Highlights
    • [00:02] Ashley introduces Jackie Daugherty and the episode focus
    • [00:18] Clearing up the misconception: the title company is not your lender
    • [01:32] Who actually holds escrow funds (and who doesn’t)
    • [02:20] Why title companies only pay insurance/taxes at closing
    • [03:18] The title company’s neutral role in the closing process
    • [04:34] Clarifying the difference between title work and surveys
    • [07:28] Contract issues when multiple parcels or addresses are involved
    • [09:21] Risks of vague contracts and why surveys matter for boundary issues
    • [10:26] Remote closings and power of attorney: what you need to know
    • [16:16] Fraud protection, identity verification, and why safeguards are vital
    • [16:53] Wrapping up: Jackie and Ashley preview future episodes
    Links

    sprindaletitle.com

    Facebook

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/73182038

    Instagram

    19 min
  • From Culinary Dreams to HVAC Success with Paul Lagoda

    In this episode, Ashley sits down with Paul Lagoda of Graceland Air, live from Just Love Coffee in Berea. Paul shares his journey from pursuing a career as a chef to finding his calling in the HVAC industry. With seven children and a thriving family business, Paul opens up about balancing entrepreneurship, faith, and family.

    They dive into the ins and outs of HVAC services, including air quality, duct cleaning, and why craftsmanship and trust matter in every home visit. Paul also offers heartfelt advice on taking big leaps of faith—whether moving across the country or starting a business from scratch.

    This episode is packed with business wisdom, family stories, and practical insights for homeowners and aspiring entrepreneurs alike.

    Episode Highlights
    • [00:02] Ashley introduces the episode and welcomes guest Paul Lagoda
    • [00:47] Paul shares his journey from aspiring chef to HVAC professional
    • [02:05] The “hero” moments that made Paul fall in love with the trades
    • [02:45] Life with a big family—raising three boys and four girls
    • [03:47] Beyond heating and cooling: the wide scope of HVAC services
    • [05:40] The importance of duct cleaning and how it impacts air quality
    • [06:55] Why showing before-and-after photos builds trust with homeowners
    • [08:16] Bringing West Coast standards of craftsmanship to Kentucky
    • [09:25] Service area: from Lancaster to surrounding Kentucky counties
    • [10:35] Paul’s advice for anyone considering a leap of faith into business
    • [12:10] The role of family support, faith, and prayer in entrepreneurship
    • [12:54] Wrapping up live at Just Love Coffee with final thanks and takeaways


    15 min
  • From High School Dreams to Full-Time Photography: Kenna Calhoun's Journey of Faith, Family, and Finding Her Calling

    Join host Ashley Ramsey as she sits down with longtime friend Kenna Calhoun, owner-operator of Just Kenna Photography, for an intimate conversation about following your passion despite uncertainty. Kenna shares her remarkable journey from winning photography competitions in high school through 4-H to building a thriving full-time photography business over nine years. In this heartfelt episode, she opens up about the challenges and blessings of moving across multiple states with a newborn, transitioning from in-home newborn sessions to a full-service studio experience, and trusting God's plan even when it seemed "absolutely insane." Whether you're a new mom, aspiring entrepreneur, or someone seeking encouragement to pursue your calling, Kenna's story of persistence, faith, and authentic relationship-building offers valuable insights into creating a business that truly serves others while staying true to your purpose.

    Highlights:


    1. [00:58] Kenna's Photography Origin Story - From high school 4-H competitions to winning state fair contests, discovering her calling through family support and community programs
    2. [02:23] Breaking Barriers 20 Years Ago - The challenge of pursuing photography as a career when people asked "what are you really gonna do?" in an era before digital photography was mainstream
    3. [04:36] The Heart Behind In-Home Newborn Sessions - Kenna's original mission to make photography a blessing, not a stress, by bringing services directly to new parents' homes
    4. [06:29] Divine Studio Transition - How God orchestrated the perfect studio space after five years, transforming her business into a one-stop experience with makeup artists, breakfast, and client closets
    5. [08:58] Moving with a Newborn - Four States by Age One - The reality of supporting each other's dreams while navigating constant relocation with an infant
    6. [10:45] Two Weeks and a Move - Kenna's incredible story of moving from Kentucky to Missouri just two weeks after giving birth to her son Brooks
    7. [12:17] Advice for New Moms - Don't sweat the small details; the most treasured photos capture authentic moments, not perfect poses
    8. [13:51] Real Life vs. Christmas Card Photos - Why candid moments of kids picking their nose matter more than picture-perfect family portraits
    9. [14:55] The Pond Phone Incident - A memorable shoot where a little boy walked into water with dad's phone, becoming part of the family's treasured story
    10. [16:20] Serving Central Kentucky and Western Virginia - Kenna's current service area and contact information for families seeking authentic photography experiences


    Links:

    Kenna:

    JustKenna Photography - Facebook

    [email protected]

    Instagram

    Ashley:

    sprindaletitle.com

    Facebook

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/73182038

    Instagram


    18 min
  • From Coal Miner's Daughter to ADHD Advocate: Saprina Adams' Journey of Self-Discovery

    In this heartfelt episode, host Ashley Ramsey sits down with Saprina Adams, a title agent at Springdale Title's Richmond, Kentucky location. Saprina shares her personal journey from growing up as a "real life coal miner's daughter" in Eastern Kentucky to her recent surprising ADHD diagnosis at age 50. She discusses how this diagnosis has transformed her understanding of herself and provided much-needed clarity in both her personal life and her work in the title industry. The conversation explores the often-overlooked symptoms of ADHD in women, the generational patterns that went unrecognized, and the hope that comes with proper diagnosis and treatment. Saprina also reflects on her transition from the emotionally challenging world of foreclosure law to the joy of helping people achieve homeownership.

    Highlights


    00:30 - Personal Background

    • Saprina introduces herself as a "real life coal miner's daughter" from Eastern Kentucky
    • Married to Kevin for 31 years, daughter Alexis studying child and family psychology at EKU
    • Family includes 16-year-old dog Haley and three great nephews

    2:00 - Career Journey

    • Started at Springdale Title three months ago
    • Previous 8.5 years in legal field including foreclosure work
    • Emotional toll of foreclosure work: "I can remember going home crying on a daily basis because I was having to draft documents to take someone's home from them"
    • Joy of current role: "This job gives me a reason to be able to give someone a home instead of taking it away"

    8:54 - ADHD Diagnosis Revelation

    • Diagnosed with ADHD at age 50: "Being 50 years old, I never did think that that would happen"
    • Discussion of generational differences in understanding ADHD

    09:38 - Generational Perspectives

    • How ADHD was handled in previous generations: "it was always because, well, you've got ants in your pants or have you had too much chocolate or pop?"
    • Memory loss from senior year basketball concussion affecting childhood memories

    11:31 - Family Patterns

    • Daughter Alexis diagnosed first, encouraged mother to get tested
    • Hereditary nature of ADHD: "I can now remember my mom saying that her, my grandmother, her sisters... none of us sleep. Well, now I know why"
    • Recognition of family-wide sleep issues and fidgeting behaviors

    14:34 - ADHD Symptoms Described

    • Mental experience: "my mind never stopped. It was like taking a computer screen and all of the tabs that you have on a computer screen were open and running all at the same time"
    • Physical manifestations: constant fidgeting, picking at fingers and lips
    • Concentration challenges: "Even having a conversation with somebody, I might only get half of it because I would just blank out"

    17:31 - Work Impact

    • Difficulty prioritizing tasks: "when the computer would ding... I'd be going, I need to do that. So I would do that"
    • Feeling overwhelmed: "I felt like I was going up a slippery slope and I was never getting to the top"
    • Physical tension from mental overload

    22:11 - Medical Explanation

    • Nurse practitioner's analogy: ADHD brain like information going through a "silly straw" instead of straight down like a normal pen

    23:18 - Common Signs to Watch For

    • Constantly moving mind with multiple "tabs" open
    • Difficulty focusing on one task
    • List-making and checking off as dopamine response
    • Room cleaning example: starting multiple tasks before finishing the first
    • Procrastination, especially with difficult tasks

    30:42 - Medication Success

    • Chose non-stimulant medication route
    • Immediate improvement: "the day after I took my medicine... My mind was so clear"
    • Newfound ability to focus and reduced fidgeting
    • Adjustment period: "it's so quiet up there, you know?"

    32:14 - Advice for Others

    • Encouragement for women to seek help: "it's okay to ask for help"
    • Self-care message: "we've got to take care of ourselves first"

    33:04 - Episode Conclusion

    • Ashley thanks Saprina for sharing her personal story
    • Discussion of importance of raising awareness about ADHD symptoms
    • Closing tagline: "where we talk a little about business and a lot about life"


    Links


    sprindaletitle.com

    Facebook

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/73182038

    Instagram


    35 min
  • Building Your Insurance Career from the Ground Up: A Young Agent's Guide to Success - Echo Falwell

    Join host Ashley Ramsey as she sits down with Echo Falwell, a licensed insurance agent with Parsons and Howard Group in central Kentucky. In this engaging conversation, Echo shares her journey from a small-town Western Kentucky girl to building a successful insurance career in Lexington. She discusses the challenges and opportunities of entering the insurance industry as a young professional, the importance of building genuine relationships with clients, and practical advice for business owners navigating insurance needs. Whether you're considering a career in insurance or looking for guidance on protecting your business assets, this episode offers valuable insights on relationship-building, client service, and professional development in the insurance industry.

    Highlights:


    00:50 - Echo's background and why she chose insurance

    • Growing up in a small business family (parents owned a bicycle shop)
    • Early experience in sales and customer service
    • Transition from tourism work to insurance

    04:17 - Building a career foundation without connections

    • Self-studying for insurance licensing in 3 weeks
    • Prospecting for job opportunities like prospecting for clients
    • The importance of face-to-face networking over online applications

    08:20 - Advice for young professionals entering any industry

    • "You can't just sit at home and hope someone's gonna notice your resume online"
    • Building confidence to walk into rooms full of strangers
    • The value of traditional relationship-building in a digital age

    09:42 - Finding your niche in insurance

    • Focusing on commercial insurance rather than personal lines
    • Understanding your target market and ideal clients
    • Why casting a narrow net is more effective than going broad

    16:49 - Avoiding common pitfalls for new agents

    • Not comparing yourself to 10-year veterans
    • Learning from industry mentors and peers
    • Managing emotional highs and lows: "Stay steady"

    20:32 - The farming analogy for insurance sales

    • "I'm a farmer and I want to reap my field of wheat after I put all the hard work into it"
    • Long-term thinking vs. immediate gratification

    21:42 - Building client relationships through education

    • Teaching clients to understand their policies
    • Going beyond just signing papers
    • The importance of proper asset protection

    23:47 - The client consultation process

    • Comprehensive business assessment approach
    • Understanding growth plans and carrier selection
    • Why independent agencies offer more flexibility

    31:10 - Practical insurance advice for business owners

    • Starting workers' compensation early for better loss ratios
    • The importance of understanding coverage limits
    • Why regular policy reviews are essential

    35:49 - Best practices for small business owners

    • Getting insurance as early as possible in your business journey
    • Working with agents who want to see you grow
    • The value of independent agencies vs. captive agencies

    39:02 - Final advice: Schedule free consultations

    • "All consultations are free"
    • Regular policy reviews to ensure adequate coverage
    • Staying current with business changes and insurance needs

    Links:


    Echo Falwell | LinkedIn

    Facebook

    32 min
  • Wildlife & Pest Control in Real Estate: Hidden Issues That Can Derail Your Closing - Seth Johnson

    In this episode of Spilling the Title Tea, host Ashley Ramsey sits down with Seth Johnson, owner and operator of Exit Pest and Wildlife Solutions in Central Kentucky. They dive into the often-overlooked world of pest and wildlife issues that can impact real estate transactions. From raccoons in attics to bat infestations that have been ignored for years, Seth shares eye-opening stories and practical advice for buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals. Learn why preventative inspections are crucial, how small problems can become expensive nightmares when left untreated, and what sets local family-owned businesses apart from corporate competitors. Whether you're buying, selling, or working in real estate, this episode reveals the hidden issues that could delay your closing and cost you thousands.


    Highlights:

    00:41 - Seth introduces Exit Pest and Wildlife Solutions services

    • Nuisance wildlife control (raccoons, squirrels, groundhogs, skunks, bats, mice)
    • General pest control (ants, flies, spiders, wasps)
    • Mosquito control services

    02:05 - Discussion about cicadas and current brood activity

    03:54 - Why pre-purchase and pre-listing inspections are crucial

    • Stories of sellers hiding problems temporarily
    • The importance of thorough attic inspections

    06:47 - Memorable service call: The 8-year bat infestation

    • Massive guano accumulation in attic
    • Why waiting increases costs exponentially
    • Health hazards of bat droppings

    09:57 - Dangerous encounter: Protective raccoon mother in attic

    • How raccoons can become aggressive when protecting young
    • Safety considerations for wildlife removal

    11:42 - Most memorable job: Dead deer in swimming pool

    • Months of decomposition under pool cover
    • Challenges of cleanup in in-ground pools

    14:42 - Early detection advice for homeowners

    • Checking for bat droppings in attics
    • Catching problems before they escalate

    16:03 - What sets family-owned businesses apart

    • Personal accountability and reputation
    • Quality over quantity approach
    • Local community connections

    17:02 - Avoiding overpriced services

    • Second opinions can save thousands
    • Not every situation needs extensive remediation

    18:16 - The value of local business relationships

    • Community connections and accountability
    • Long-term client relationships built on trust


    Links:

    Wildlife Control & Nuisance Animal Removal | X-iT Pest & Wildlife

    Pest Control 859-797-4237

    Wildlife 859-595-5908

    Facebook

    Instagram

    22 min

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Title experts share their knowledge