Im having similar experiences, "2 deatsh and kick" or "only exp people" are always the requirements lately for Titan Ex.

Ive watch a vid on Youtube a few times but I need this also to do Ifrit and Levi, so I find myself logging in to send retainers out and check the marketplace.

Might have to go all ninja and just join the group anyway, 50/50 chance someone will die before me anyway.