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Audit Bites

Robert Berry

Audit bites is all about risk, auditing and compliance. Small bite-sized chunks of audit training on those touchy topics most won't talk about. Tune in if you are an internal auditing professional, risk management personnel or a compliance person.

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  • 20 episodes
  • Avg 52 min
  • English
  • #79
    May 12 · 51 min

    When the AI Metric Becomes the Objective

    Something interesting is happening inside organizations right now. New tools, like AI, are being introduced. New tool adoption is being encouraged. And in some cases… it’s being measured. That sounds normal. But there’s a pattern here. A familiar one. The kind that starts with good intentions… and slowly shifts into something else. You’ve probably seen it before. In different forms. In different environments. With different outcomes. And if you work in internal audit… you’re usually one of the first to see where that shift actually leads. In this episode, we explore what happens when measurement becomes more than observation… and starts shaping behavior. Not just at the organizational level… but inside the very systems auditors are expected to evaluate. Because sometimes the risk isn’t the process itself. It’s what the process is quietly encouraging.

  • #78
    February 25 · 55 min

    Seven Reasons Your Internal Audit Strategic Plan Fails and How to Fix Them

    In Episode 78 of Audit Bites, host Rob Berry dives deep into one of the most common sources of audit frustration: why internal audit strategic plans so often derail. And what you can do to make yours work. Drawing from real-life stories, behavioral psychology, and years of experience, Rob Berry breaks down the seven key reasons audit plans fall apart. We'll talk about: The dangers of self-centered strategic planning and how to align with organizational objectives Why "trusted advisor" is more than a buzzword How to combat the planning fallacy and keep your plan alive The trap of overengineering your frameworks and keeping objectives simple and actionable The importance of forward-looking audits over reactive, backward-focused ones Critical communication techniques to inspire, engage, and involve your audit team and stakeholders Ensuring your strategy is resourced for reality, not just wishful thinking Whether you’re a Chief Audit Executive, audit manager, or aspiring professional, this episode is full of bite-sized insights you can immediately apply to your strategic planning process. Ready to level up your internal audit function? Listen now, share with your team, and use this episode as a discussion guide at your next planning meeting. For more resources, more courses, or to connect with Rob for training and speaking, visit www.thatauditguy.com. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and tell your fellow auditors about the show.

  • #77
    February 17 · 47 min

    Why Auditors Overlook Toxic Workplace Cultures and Its Impact

    In episode 77 of Audit Bites, Robert dives deep into a critical yet often neglected audit risk—organizational culture. This compelling episode, inspired by a real-life scandal at Citigroup and insights from author Pete Havel’s book The Arsonist in the Office, explores why auditors commonly ignore toxic culture, the devastating impact it has on productivity, reputation, and trust, and practical advice for making culture an auditable focus. Key topics include: Real-world stories of culture failures at major organizations like Citigroup, Wells Fargo, and Enron. Why audit teams often default to controls instead of tackling the “messy” aspects of culture. The Harvard research showing bad apples outweigh rock stars—how toxicity magnifies risk. Eight actionable culture components auditors should integrate into every audit, from goals and budget decisions to promotion patterns and whistleblower data. How leadership consistency, exit interviews, and local subcultures shape the organization’s health. Special mention: Pete Havel, whose book The Arsonist in the Office inspired this episode. Learn how one toxic individual can burn down an entire workplace and what auditors should do to stop it. Want to level up your audit team? Visit thatauditguy.com for on-demand training, resources, and tools to help you audit culture before it wreaks havoc. If you found value in this episode, don’t forget to leave us a five-star review and share with your network! Mentions & Resources: The Arsonist in the Office by Pete Havel thatauditguy.com – Podcast resources, courses, training, and contact info Harvard Business Study on workplace culture impacts Tune in to uncover why addressing culture is essential for auditors and how it can make the difference between organizational success and failure.

  • #76
    February 10 · 45 min

    Are We Auditing The Wrong Risks?

    Are you truly auditing what matters most, or are you chasing risks that won’t move the needle for your organization? In Episode 76 of Audit Bites, host Rob Berry tackles the overlooked pitfalls of risk-based internal auditing and reveals why being “risk-based” isn’t enough if you’re not aligned with today’s organizational strategy. This episode dives into: The critical difference between operational risks and strategic relevance Real-world stories of auditing the past while the future is on fire Why risk registers often go rogue—and how to clean them up How to ensure your audit plan aligns with current business goals The importance of performance metrics alongside risk insights Practical steps to move beyond audit methodology and focus on outcomes that matter to leadership This episode is packed with actionable advice for auditors, CAEs, and anyone involved in risk management or internal audit. Ready to make your audits more relevant and impactful? Listen, share with your team, and don’t forget to rate us five stars on your favorite platform. Visit that audit guy for more resources, courses, blogs, and Audit Merch.

  • #75
    February 3 · 1 hr 7 min

    Stop Crying About Controls and Start Making Audits Matter

    Are controls really the key to business impact, or are we missing the bigger picture? Robert explores why endless audit reports, SOX reviews, and management’s focus on “are the controls working?” may be holding us back from what truly matters. Tune in as Robert encourages auditors and professionals to break free from checkbox auditing, rethink the purpose of their work, and discover what actually drives real organizational success. Perfect for auditors, compliance professionals, and anyone interested in maximizing business impact. Subscribe to Audit Bites for more paradigm-shifting conversations, and visit the Audit Bites website for resources and show notes. Share your thoughts with us and join the conversation. Are you ready to question audit norms?

  • #74
    January 27 · 1 hr 2 min

    13 Reasons Auditors Are the Last to Innovate

    Why are auditors often the last to embrace innovation? In Episode 74 of Audit Bites, host Rob Berry explores the psychological and organizational roadblocks that keep auditors stuck in old ways, from risk aversion and status quo bias, to fear of being wrong and a perfectionist culture. Drawing on real-world experiences and research like prospect theory, status quo bias, and more, this episode uncovers both the challenges and actionable solutions for audit professionals. Listeners will also get a sneak peek at Audit Leverage, the new AI platform built for auditors, and practical tips to move past these barriers, whether you’re a staff auditor, audit director, or CAE. If you’re ready to help your audit team innovate, this is a must-listen. Love Audit Bites? Share this episode with your network, subscribe on YouTube, and visit www.thatauditguy.com for more resources, training, and audit tools. Want a demo of Audit Leverage or to book Rob Berry for training? Connect via LinkedIn or www.thatauditguy.com and take your audit department to the next level.

  • #73
    January 20 · 59 min

    How to Lose Credibility With Audit Clients

    Are you unknowingly sabotaging your credibility with audit clients? In Episode 73 of the Audit Bites podcast, host Rob Berry dives into the four biggest ways auditors unintentionally damage trust with clients—and, more importantly, how to avoid these pitfalls. Tune in for candid stories, real-world examples, and actionable advice on topics including: The dangers of blindsiding clients in meetings How to communicate without coming across as arrogant Building better client relationships with emotional intelligence Simple solutions to strengthen your credibility and impact Whether you’re a seasoned auditor or new to the field, Rob Berry’s insights will help you deliver more value and forge stronger audit partnerships. Mentioned Resources: Audit Leverage AI platform – Tools to enhance your audits Rob Berry’s bestselling book “Ask Better Questions, Get Better Answers, Perform Better Audits” Rob's course catalog: thatauditguy.com Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, visit our YouTube channel, and connect with Rob Berry on LinkedIn for more practical tips and lively audit discussions. If you found value in this episode, please share it with your team and leave us a five-star review.

  • #72
    January 13 · 59 min

    Is Internal Audit Too Focused on Compliance and Not Enough on Business Strategy

    Is your audit department too focused on compliance and missing out on business strategy? In Episode 72 of Audit Bites, host Rob Berry examines why internal auditors often find themselves trapped in the world of checklists and regulatory paperwork—while overlooking opportunities to truly impact business growth. Drawing from three decades of experience, Rob Berry shares real-life stories and actionable strategies auditors can use to break free from the “compliance bubble.” Learn the crucial difference between being a compliance cop and a strategic advisor, why business acumen is key, and how your team can add tangible value to the organization. Key topics covered: Why compliance is comfortable but business strategy is riskier Moving from rule enforcer to valued business partner How asking “why” leads to better audit outcomes The importance of business acumen for auditors How reframing audit findings can foster real improvements You’ll also hear insights on balancing compliance with strategic input, involving internal audit in decision-making, and ways to measure audit success beyond just findings. Plus, Rob Berry introduces Audit Leverage, his new AI-powered tool for internal auditors, and answers listener questions about audit reporting and stakeholder value. Ready to evolve your audit role? Listen now, subscribe, and visit Audit Leverage for next-level AI tools for auditors. For more resources, training, and merch, check out www.thatauditguy.com.

  • #70
    January 6 · 54 min

    Auditors Hear, But Do They Really Listen

    Are auditors truly good listeners, or do we just wait for our turn to talk? In Episode 70 of Audit Bites, host Rob Berry dives into a tough reality facing the audit profession: many auditors aren’t as skilled at listening as they think. Key topics include: The difference between hearing and active listening in auditing Six major reasons auditors fail at listening Practical strategies to overcome these listening barriers Engaging stories from Rob’s own audit career Tips for asking better questions and building trust with clients Don’t miss actionable advice to level up your audit skills and tune into what's really being said. Rob also introduces his AI platform, Audit Leverage, and his bestselling book “Ask, Get, Perform” for auditors seeking to enhance their performance. If this episode hits home, share it with your audit team, subscribe on YouTube, and check out www.thatauditguy.com for courses and newsletter updates. Interested in AI for auditing? Explore Audit Leverage at auditleverage.net.

  • #69
    January 5 · 44 min

    When Empathy Tests Integrity in Internal Auditing

    How does empathy impact auditors—and what happens when caring too much crosses the line? In Audit Bites Episode 69, “When Empathy Tests Integrity in Auditing: The Fine Line Between Care and Compliance,” host Rob Berry delves into the surprising risks of empathy in the audit world. Through personal stories and research-backed insights, Rob Berry explores five ways empathy can derail the audit process—from emotional burnout and loss of objectivity to unhealthy helping, blurred boundaries, and empathy-induced bias. Key topics discussed: The hidden dangers of empathy for auditors. Real-life stories on how empathy can cloud judgment and enable ethical lapses. Research from experts like Jessica Dulce and Dr. Sean M. Byrne on compassion fatigue and boundary setting. Practical tips: how to set emotional boundaries, maintain professionalism, and avoid empathy-driven bias. Introducing Audit Leverage—a powerful AI platform for smarter, more productive audits. Whether you’re an auditor or leader, find out how to harness empathy as a strength without sacrificing compliance or burning out. Tune in for actionable strategies and join the discussion! Check out Audit Leverage at auditleverage.net and visit Rob Berry's website for training, courses, and more: thatauditguy.com. If you enjoyed this episode, share it with colleagues, leave a five-star review, and connect for auditor training opportunities.

  • #68
    Dec 17, 2024 · 39 min

    Empathy in Auditing: 5 Ways to Build Trust and Collaboration

    Ever walked into a meeting and felt like the villain before you’ve even said a word? That’s how many audit clients feel—and it’s time to change the narrative. This week on Audit Bites, we’re exploring the power of empathy in auditing. From understanding your client’s challenges to stepping into their shoes, we’ll discuss five practical ways to build trust, reduce resistance, and create more productive audits. Tune in to learn how empathy isn’t just a soft skill—it’s a superpower every auditor needs.

  • #67
    Dec 4, 2024 · 34 min

    Why We’re Failing Future Auditors—and How to Fix It

    Are we setting the next generation of auditors up for success—or frustration? This week, we confront the uncomfortable truth about how outdated practices, withheld information, and resistance to change are creating roadblocks for future auditors. We’ll unpack the ways we’re failing to prepare auditors for the challenges ahead. Tune in for personal stories, actionable insights, and a candid look at what needs to change to build a better future for the profession.

  • #66
    Nov 23, 2024 · 41 min

    Why Clients Dislike Auditors—and How to Change Their Minds

    Auditing is all about facts and figures—right? Not so fast. This week on Audit Bites, we’re tackling an uncomfortable truth: why clients often view auditors as adversaries rather than allies. From perceived arrogance to miscommunication, we’ll explore the subtle behaviors that create tension and, more importantly, how to rebuild trust. What’s the secret to turning difficult conversations into collaborative breakthroughs? Tune in to discover insights that might just change how you approach your next audit.

  • #65
    Aug 30, 2024 · 38 min

    The Weight We Carry - The Impact of Audit Recommendations

    Ever wondered just how much power your audit recommendations hold? In this episode of Audit Bites, Rob Berry takes you on a deep dive into the immense responsibility that comes with being an auditor. With a mix of personal stories, practical advice, and a dash of humor, we explore the true impact of audit recommendations and the ripple effect they can have across an entire organization. 🔍 What We'll Discuss: The unseen weight behind every audit report and how it can shape the future of a company. Why it’s crucial to balance objectivity with empathy when making recommendations. The ethical dilemmas auditors face and how to navigate them while maintaining integrity. How to make sure your advice aligns with the best interests of your clients and stakeholders. 🔗 Relevant Links and Resources: Discover Rob’s Best-Selling Book: Ask Better Questions, Get Better Answers, Perform Better Audits Learn More at That Audit Guy: ThatAuditGuy.com Check Out Our Audit Merchandise: Audit Hats, Shirts, and More 💬 Join the Conversation: Have you ever felt the weight of your audit recommendations? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below! 👇 🔔 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to stay updated on the latest insights into the world of auditing.

  • #64
    Aug 1, 2024 · 55 min

    5 Reasons Audit Clients Lie

    Does everybody lie? Sometimes it's hard getting the truth from some people. Auditors often have an uphill battle to obtain the truth clients. But why? Why do clients lie? Tune in to the next episode of the Audit Bites podcast as we discuss 5 Reasons Audit Clients Lie. Check us out live on LinkedIn and YouTube or your favorite podcasting platform.

  • #63
    Jul 3, 2024 · 1 hr

    Some Auditors Have Assurance All Wrong

    Almost everyone expects auditors to find something. Afterall, we are called assurance providers. But is always finding something really reasonable? And is the job of auditor to finger point? Join us on this episode of Audit Bites as we discuss Why Some Auditors Have Assurance All Wrong.

  • #62
    Jun 12, 2024 · 1 hr 6 min

    Auditors Should Be Cautious With Assumptions

    You know what they say you do when you assume? What if everyone reacted to the world based on their assumptions? That could possibly end badly. But, on the other hand, assumptions do have their place in the world. Like Goldilocks, they have to be used just right. Finding that balance can be difficult. Let's talk about it on the next episode of the Audit Bites Podcast with a live case study.

  • #61
    May 22, 2024 · 36 min

    7 Reasons Auditors Are Awesome People

    Auditors are awesome people. Seriously, you can stop laughing now. Join us on the next episode of the Audit Bites podcast as we discuss 7 Reasons Auditors Are Awesome People.

  • #60
    Apr 24, 2024 · 1 hr 12 min

    Auditors Must Advocate for Honesty

    If honesty is the best policy, why do we punish the innocent and honest? Join us on the next episode of the Audit Bites podcast as we discuss the benefits and detriments of honesty in the workplace. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-eiMvgbT_M&t=9s

  • #59
    Apr 10, 2024 · 47 min

    9 Problems with Modern Internal Audit Planning

    Planning is important. No one can deny that. All too often, auditors start projects without a good plan. A lot of junior auditors don't know what's expected of them. Projects have huge delays. Join us on the next episode of The Audit Bites podcast as we discuss 9 Problems with Modern Internal Audit Planning

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