2026 AEA Annual Education Conference: Session 5

June 13th 11:05 AM – 11:50 AM

Session Highlights

Authenticity as Your Competitive Edge: Building Relationships that Drive Business Growth

In an industry built on trust and reputation, authenticity is a professional advantage. This session explores how showing up as your authentic self can become your most powerful business strategy.

Through real-world stories, humor, and practical takeaways, we share how leaning into authenticity has shaped their careers, strengthened client trust, and helped them build meaningful relationships that translate into sustainable business growth.

Attendees will learn how to define their authentic professional brand, connect with clients and partners more genuinely, and use those relationships to create long-term value.

Kim Whitlock

National Strategic Growth Director, Stewart Title Company

Kim Whitlock is a respected leader in the title insurance industry and the visionary Founder and President of Women in Title, a national organization committed to uplifting, connecting, and advocating for women across the field.  With a career that spans both the underwriter and agency sides, Kim brings a 360-degree view of title operations and a heart for building systems—and communities—that work better for everyone.

She currently serves as National Strategic Growth Director at Stewart Title Company, where she focuses on streamlining processes and improving performance across national teams.

A passionate advocate for women in business, Kim launched Women in Title in 2022 to create a space rooted in collaboration, not competition. Under her leadership, the organization has grown into a nationwide movement with local chapters, a mentorship program, and industry-shifting initiatives like the Bubble Project.

Kim gives back to the industry through active involvement with her local Land Title Association and ALTA initiatives, always showing up with purpose and clarity. Whether she’s behind the scenes improving workflows or lending her voice to important industry conversations, Kim leads with authenticity and loves to bring others with her.