Audit Bites

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 e...

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-centere...

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 ad...

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 operation...

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...

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 unco...

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...

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 actiona...

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 t...

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 proce...

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 produ...

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...

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 coll...

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 W...

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

Everyone loves a good story. Even auditors. But have you thought about the effect a good story has on your audit clients? Join us on the next episode of the Audit Bites podcast titled Beyond Numbers: The Crucial Role of Storytelling in Auditing

Are you having trouble finding qualified staff? I've talked to several audit leaders who are having a hard time finding qualified people. It's becoming a widespread problem. Let's talk about it. Watch on YouTube below. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sc33a_l_rQA&t=9s

Artificial intelligence is only as smart as the humans who program and use it. It is not perfect. Therefore, auditors must review the organization's artificial intelligence. Join us on the next episode of the Audit Bites podcast as we discuss 4 Reasons Auditors Must Review Artificial Intelligence

Ever wondered why your audit training feels like a sluggish journey through quicksand? Join us on this episode of the Audit Bites podcast as we uncover the 23 surprising culprits that could be hindering your audit career.

Policies are important. Until they aren't. Auditors are always talking about policies and procedures. And it bugs the mess out of clients who view policies as paper-pushing exercises. Join us on the next episode of Audit Bites as we discuss Why Auditors Always Harp on Policies.