Speakers

Tyler Adams

Co-Founder and CEO, CertifID

Tyler Adams is the Co-Founder and CEO of CertifID, a leader in wire fraud protection for real estate transactions. Under Tyler’s leadership, CertifID has safeguarded over $300 billion in transactions and recovered nearly $100 million in stolen funds.

Before founding CertifID, Tyler led new product development at BCG Digital Ventures, working with clients such as First American Financial, Aflac, and Mercedes-Benz. He is a recognized expert in cybersecurity, real estate, and financial technology, and his insights have been featured in Business Insider, CNN, The Financial Times, Fox News, and HousingWire.

A graduate of Boston University's Questrom School of Business, Tyler is passionate about fighting wire fraud and creating a safer future for the real estate industry. Based in Austin, Texas, he is a frequent speaker at industry conferences and an active member of the YPO leadership community.

Andi Bolin, CESP, NTP

Vice President, Agency Services, Stewart Title Guaranty Company

Andi Bolin is Vice President and Agency Sales Manager for Stewart Title Guaranty Company, bringing more than a decade of leadership experience to her role. She supports agents throughout Houston, the Gulf Coast, South Texas, and beyond, helping them expand and succeed. Before joining Stewart, Andi led sales, marketing, escrow, and operations teams for 15 years.

Andi is an active industry volunteer, serving on education, certification, and school committees with TLTA, and participating in several leadership roles with ALTA and Women in Title. She earned a bachelor’s degree in humanities and applied mathematics, and an MBA in accounting, from the University of Houston–Victoria. A Certified Escrow Settlement Professional, she is passionate about advancing education and professional standards across the industry.

Outside of work, Andi enjoys exploring mountains, beaches, and art museums—and wherever there are butterflies to be found.

David Bravo, Jr

Chief Executive Officer, Monarch Title

David Bravo Jr. is Chief Executive Officer of Monarch Title, where he leads a growing operation focused on innovation, technology, and customer service. He began his title journey in 1999 right out of high school, was given his first leadership opportunity in 2012, expanded into broader leadership roles in 2019, and became one of the youngest CEOs in the title industry in 2020.

David is the author of The Title Bible (2016) and Title Bible 2.0 (2023), widely regarded as national roadmaps to title sales. He was awarded the NAHREP Entrepreneur of the Year in 2022, and he frequently keynotes for companies and underwriters nationwide, focusing on title sales, Title AI, and Title Tech. David is also the founder of Title Reps Only, a national title group with more than 4,200 members, and is a headliner for the multi-city TRO Tour, which gives back to children's hospitals in every host city.

Based in Southern California, David and his wife, Rhiannon, are proud parents of five children and honor the memory of two children in heaven — a legacy that helped inspire the name Monarch Title. Passionate about family, faith, and community, David is committed to making a lasting difference both personally and professionally.

Aaron Day

Vice President of Government Relations and Counsel, Texas Land Title Association

Aaron Day serves as Vice President of Government Relations and Counsel for the Texas Land Title Association, where he leads TLTA’s government affairs and regulatory programs. He acts as the association’s registered lobbyist and general counsel, representing the title industry's interests at the Capitol and with the Texas Department of Insurance.

Before joining TLTA, Aaron advocated for the City of Fort Worth at the state and federal levels, developing a strong reputation for navigating complex legislative issues. He holds both undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Texas.

Aaron remains committed to community service, having chaired the Board of Anthropos Arts and served on the ZACH Theatre Board of Trustees. In recognition of his contributions to the industry, he received the TLTA President’s Award in 2013.

Gil Ernst

Executive Vice President, Regional Manager, Fidelity National Financial

Gil Ernst is Executive Vice President and Southwest Regional Manager at Fidelity National Financial, one of the largest providers of title insurance and settlement services in the country. With more than four decades of experience, Gil brings deep industry knowledge and steady leadership to his role overseeing operations across Texas and surrounding states.

Since joining Fidelity in 1991, Gil has helped guide the company through major industry changes and market shifts, always with a focus on building strong relationships and supporting local teams. A graduate of The University of Texas at Austin with a degree in finance, Gil’s calm approach and strategic insight have made him a trusted leader in the field.

Gil currently serves as President-Elect of the Texas Land Title Association (2024–2025), where he is actively engaged in strengthening the industry and mentoring the next generation of title professionals. Based in Dallas, he is known for his collaborative style and dedication to service.

Outside of his professional life, Gil enjoys playing golf and is an avid Texas Longhorn fan, proudly supporting his alma mater's sports teams. He and his wife, Nicole, have three adult children and enjoy spending quality time together as a family.

Claire Hartman, CTIP

Owner/Partner, First Community Title, LLC; TLTA President

Claire Hartman is 2024-2025 President of the Texas Land Title Association and Owner/Partner at First Community Title, LLC. With over 35 years of experience in real estate and title insurance, Claire leads a thriving operation with five offices across Central Texas. She is known for her dedication to professional growth, strong relationship-building, and commitment to mentoring the next generation of leaders.

Claire began her career in Kerrville, Texas, and steadily rose through the industry before becoming an owner of First Community Title in 2017. As TLTA President, she is passionate about the association’s certification program and advocating for high industry standards.

A graduate of Schreiner University with a degree in Real Estate, Claire is famous for her handwritten “Claire Cards,” spreading positivity throughout the industry. She lives by the motto, “Life is about joy—never let them steal your joy!”

Leslie S. Johnson, CTIP

Vice President and Texas State Counsel, WFG National Title Insurance Company

Leslie S. Johnson is Vice President and Texas State Counsel for WFG National Title Insurance Company. She provides legal support, underwriting guidance, education, and training to WFG agents across Texas, Arkansas, and Oklahoma.

An active TLTA volunteer, Leslie serves on the TLTA Board of Directors, chairs the Judiciary Committee, and is co-chair of the Institute Committee. She is the 2022 recipient of the TLTA James H. Garst President’s Award and an alumna of the Alex H. Halff Leadership Academy.

In addition to her volunteer leadership, Leslie regularly contributes to TLTA’s Legislative and Regulatory Committees and is a frequent speaker at TLTA events, helping shape the future of the title industry through education and advocacy.

Tiffany Kerns

Executive Director, CMA Foundation; Senior Vice President of Industry Relations & Philanthropy, Country Music Association

Tiffany Kerns serves as Executive Director of the CMA Foundation and Senior Vice President of Industry Relations and Philanthropy for the Country Music Association. In these dual roles, she oversees the foundation’s mission to provide access and opportunity for students to participate in music education, reaching millions of students nationwide, while supporting CMA’s 8,000+ members through strategic industry engagement globally.

Tiffany joined CMA in 2013 and has held several leadership roles, championing community outreach, philanthropy, and industry partnerships. Prior to her time at CMA, she worked for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, where she specialized in major gifts, special event fundraising, and corporate development.

A passionate advocate for arts education and community impact, Tiffany earned her bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She lives and works in Nashville, where her efforts continue to drive meaningful connections between the music industry and broader communities.

Odeta Kushi

Vice President, Deputy Chief Economist, First American Financial Corporation

Odeta Kushi is Vice President and Deputy Chief Economist at First American Financial Corporation, where she leads research and analysis on real estate and mortgage market trends. Her work focuses on topics such as housing supply, affordability, and demographic shifts, offering insights to help shape the future of the housing industry.

Odeta is a frequent keynote speaker and media contributor, with appearances on CNBC, Yahoo! Finance, and Marketplace. Her research is published in leading outlets including The Wall Street Journal and Business Insider. She also co-hosts The REconomy Podcast™ for First American’s Economic Center.

Originally from Albania, Odeta holds a master’s degree in economics from Northeastern University and a bachelor’s degree from St. John Fisher College. She is currently completing her Ph.D. at George Mason University and lives in Washington, D.C.

Lori Levy, RCE, AHWD

General Counsel & Vice President of Legal Affairs, Texas REALTORS®

Lori Levy is General Counsel and Vice President of Legal Affairs for Texas REALTORS®, overseeing all legal matters for the association and its political action committees. She manages enforcement of the REALTOR® Code of Ethics, supervises litigation, directs legal education efforts, and supports public policy initiatives.

Before joining Texas REALTORS® in 2006, Lori served as general counsel for various Texas Senate committees, including State Affairs and Transportation and Homeland Security. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Emory University and a law degree from the University of Texas School of Law.

Lori’s expertise and leadership have made her a trusted resource for REALTORS® across the state.

Leslie Midgley, CAE

Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer, Texas Land Title Association

Leslie Midgley has served as Executive Vice President and CEO of TLTA since 2001, guiding the association’s growth and advocacy efforts on behalf of 20,000 title professionals statewide.

A Certified Association Executive (CAE), Leslie first joined TLTA in 1982 and held leadership roles in operations before assuming her current post. She holds a degree in Human Resource Management from St. Edward’s University and has served on the Texas Society of Association Executives (TSAE) Board of Directors, including a term as Chair.

Leslie’s leadership and community service have earned her numerous awards, including TLTA’s President’s Award and TSAE’s Distinguished Executive Award. She lives in Austin with her husband, Mike, and enjoys traveling, cooking, and spending time with their grandchildren.

Brian Pitman

Co-Founder and CEO, Independence Title

Brian Pitman is Co-Founder and CEO of Independence Title Company, one of the largest independent title agencies in Texas. Since co-founding the company in 2005, Brian has led its expansion into major Texas markets, overseeing a team of more than 600 employees.

Originally from Sherman, Texas, Brian attended The University of Texas at Austin before beginning his career in real estate and title insurance. He previously served as President of the Texas Land Title Association (2010–2011) and was named TLTA’s Title Person of the Year in 2008.

Brian remains actively involved in real estate industry organizations and enjoys cheering on the Longhorns alongside his wife, Shelle, and their three children.

Aaron Raitiere

Singer-Songwriter and Visual Artist

Aaron Raitiere is a Grammy Award-winning songwriter, performer, and visual artist from Danville, Kentucky. Known for his creative storytelling and unique lyrical voice, Aaron is a sought-after collaborator in Nashville and beyond.

He co-wrote the Grammy-winning song "I’ll Never Love Again," performed by Lady Gaga in A Star Is Born, and was a 2023 Grammy nominee for his contributions to Ashley McBryde’s Lindeville project. His songwriting credits span a wide range of artists, including Miranda Lambert, Lainey Wilson, Ella Langley, Whiskey Myers, Midland, The Oak Ridge Boys, Luke Grimes, and many others.

In 2024 and 2025, Aaron celebrated back-to-back No. 1 country radio hits with "You Look Like You Love Me" (Ella Langley & Riley Green) and "4x4xU" (Lainey Wilson). In addition to his work as a songwriter, Aaron is an accomplished visual artist, with his paintings and sketches displayed in homes and businesses across the country.

Evan Smith

Senior Advisor, Emerson Collective

Evan Smith is a Senior Advisor at Emerson Collective, where he works with journalists and funders nationwide to strengthen local news ecosystems. He also teaches at the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin, offering courses on politics and media.

Previously, Evan co-founded and led The Texas Tribune and spent nearly two decades at Texas Monthly, including nine years as editor-in-chief. He currently hosts “Overheard with Evan Smith” on PBS and serves on several nonprofit boards, including the LBJ Foundation and the Austin Film Society.

A New York native, Evan is a graduate of Hamilton College and Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism, where he was inducted into the Hall of Achievement.

Paul Stine

Co-Founder and CEO, CloseSimple

Paul Stine is the Co-Founder of CloseSimple, a leading messaging platform trusted by hundreds of title and escrow companies nationwide. With a background in marketing and technology, Paul has spent the last decade helping title professionals modernize communication, boost efficiency, and deliver exceptional client experiences.

After recognizing the gap between customer expectations and available technology, Paul and his business partner launched CloseSimple to transform the closing process. Today, the platform integrates seamlessly with major industry software, helping title companies strengthen client relationships and stand out in a competitive market.

Prior to founding CloseSimple, Paul held leadership roles in marketing and account management, building a foundation in customer engagement and strategic innovation. Based in Minneapolis, he is a frequent speaker at industry events and a passionate advocate for better communication in real estate transactions.

Steve Streiff

Vice President and Texas State Counsel, Old Republic National Title Insurance Company

Steve Streiff is Vice President and Texas State Counsel for Old Republic National Title Insurance Company. He chairs TLTA’s Legislative Committee and has previously chaired the Regulatory Committee.

Steve is a Certified Adult Education Instructor, a member of the College of the Bar, and an active volunteer on TLTA’s Basic Manual Task Force and Data Privacy Advisory Group. In 2018, he received TLTA’s President’s Award for outstanding service to the association and the title industry.

He is a frequent speaker at continuing education programs, helping title professionals stay informed and compliant.

Bill Svoboda

Co-Founder, CloseSimple

Bill Svoboda is Co-Founder of CloseSimple, where he focuses on helping title and escrow companies deliver standout customer experiences through simplified, secure communication. An entrepreneur at heart, Bill launched his first company from his college dorm room, building a client list that included Google, Facebook, and LinkedIn before shifting his focus to real estate technology.

At CloseSimple, Bill partners with title professionals nationwide to modernize communication, enhance customer trust, and create memorable moments throughout the closing process. A frequent industry speaker, he shares insights on customer experience, marketing, and business growth, always highlighting the power of small, thoughtful details.

Bill is also the author of both business and children’s books, using storytelling to spark ideas and inspire action. Based in Minneapolis, he is passionate about helping people think differently, care more deeply, and create lasting impressions in both business and life.

Chris Tompkins

Singer-Songwriter

Chris Tompkins is a Grammy Award-winning songwriter whose work spans country, pop, and rock music. After moving to Nashville from Muscle Shoals, Alabama, Chris found early success with Carrie Underwood’s hit "Before He Cheats," which won a Grammy for Country Song of the Year.

With 17 No. 1 singles to his name, Chris has written chart-toppers for artists including Luke Bryan, Jason Aldean, Blake Shelton, and Florida Georgia Line. His songs have also crossed into other genres, with cuts recorded by Jimmy Buffett, Bette Midler, and Nickelback, among others.

Chris continues to shape modern country music alongside his wife, Jessica, and their two children, Hayes and Emmy Rose.

Derek Wells

Music Producer, Musical Director, and Senior Vice President of A&R, Spirit Music Group

Derek Wells is a Nashville-based multi-instrumentalist, producer, music publisher, and musical director with a career spanning studio, stage, and executive leadership. As Musical Director for Post Malone, Derek leads live show production for major events including Coachella.

A three-time Academy of Country Music Guitar Player of the Year and a MusicRow Guitarist of the Year, Derek has played on more than 100 No. 1 singles for artists including Kelsea Ballerini, Kenny Chesney, Lady A, Maren Morris, and Carrie Underwood. As a producer, he has worked on projects for Hardy, Scotty McCreery, Maddie & Tae, and Lainey Wilson.

Beyond performance and production, Derek serves as Senior Vice President of A&R for Spirit Music Group, overseeing a roster of 28 writers and a creative team shaping the future of the industry. He also sits on the Board of Directors for the Country Music Association (CMA) and is an advocate for preserving and evolving Nashville’s Music Row.

With a passion for authentic storytelling, collaboration, and creative leadership, Derek brings a behind-the-scenes perspective on what it takes to build success in music—and in business.

Richard H. Welshons MTP, NTP

Twin Cities Manager, The Title Team and DCA Title; ALTA President

Richard Welshons is President of the American Land Title Association (ALTA) and brings over 40 years of title industry experience to his leadership role. A third-generation title professional, Richard led Dakota County Abstract Company in Minnesota before its sale in 2022.

He earned his National Title Professional (NTP) designation in 2023 and remains active with ALTA’s Board of Governors, Good Deeds Foundation, and several industry engagement groups. Richard has also served continuously on the Minnesota Land Title Association Board since 1997, holding leadership roles including President and Secretary/Treasurer.

Richard and his wife, Jodie, live in Hastings, Minnesota, where he remains active in local civic organizations.

Andy White, Ph.D.

Founder and CEO, Closinglock

Andy White is the Founder and CEO of Closinglock, which protects real estate transactions by securing the flow of money and data. Driven by a passion for problem-solving, Andy created Closinglock with his wife, Abigail, after realizing firsthand how vulnerable the homebuying process was to wire fraud. Since launching in 2017, Closinglock has helped protect over $500 billion in real estate transactions in all 50 states.

Before starting Closinglock, Andy built a successful career as an engineering scientist and performance architect, working in high-level technical roles at Samsung and KnuEdge. He earned his Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Auburn University, where he also taught courses on computer systems and parallel processing.

Today, Andy leads a fast-growing team at Closinglock focused on protecting life’s biggest investment — a home — by driving innovation, delivering exceptional customer service, and fostering collaboration within the real estate industry. Based in Austin, Texas, Andy is a recognized voice in real estate technology and cybersecurity. When he’s not leading Closinglock, he enjoys family outings with his wife and two young children, and is actively involved in his church community.