The Audit Podcast - podcast cover

The Audit Podcast

Trent Russelltheauditpodcast.com
On the show you can expect to hear from everyone: from the intern, to the IT audit director, CAE and audit committee members because all of their opinions are important. We’ll talk about integrating tech into audit, how to get quick wins, the latest SOX guidance and whatever other topics the guests want to talk about and whatever you want to hear about. Be sure to subscribe to the show in whatever you’re listening to it on now and we’ll talk to you soon.

Episodes

Ep 236: The one KPI for Internal Audit w/ Mark Freeman

This week on The Audit Podcast, we’re joined by Mark Freeman, Head of Internal Audit at Vermeer Corporation . In this episode, Mark shares insights from a recent CAE roundtable, where recruitment, audit committee metrics, and Copilot use cases topped the agenda. He also walks us through how he rebuilt internal audit’s reputation at Vermeer after stepping into a challenging environment. Plus, he gives us a look at the actual metrics he shares with his audit committee—offering a practical starting...

Apr 15, 202543 min

Ep 235: Rethinking Change Management Audits w/ Taylor Meadows (Change Captain)

This week on The Audit Podcast, we’re joined by Taylor Meadows, Founder and CEO of Change Captain . In this episode, Taylor shares his journey from manually managing IT change controls to founding Change Captain, a software solution that streamlines change management and R&D tax credit processes. We touch on organizations handle code changes, the risks involved, and how automation is revolutionizing compliance. Be sure to connect with Taylor on LinkedIn. Also, be sure to follow us on our new soc...

Apr 08, 202524 min

Ep 234: AI Talks Data & Analytics (Feat. Monica Royal’s Article)

We've tested Notebook LM again, an AI tool that transforms written articles into podcast episodes using artificially generated voices. This time, we used an article by Monica Royal, founder of Nerd Nourishment. Monica attended the Mini Spring Audit Analytics and AI Conference and shared her key takeaways in a LinkedIn article. We uploaded her piece to Notebook LM, and the result is an unedited, AI-generated podcast episode. Be sure to read Monica’s article and to connect with her on LinkedIn. Al...

Mar 31, 202514 min

Ep 233: How to Get More Internal Audit Budget w/ David Hill (HillAudit Training Ltd)

This week on The Audit Podcast, we’re joined by we’re joined by David Hill, Managing Director of HillAudit Training Ltd . In this episode, David challenges the idea that stability equals security and internal audit. He explores how budget cuts, resistance to change, and outdated processes can lead to disengagement—hurting recruitment, retention, and audit effectiveness. He also shares strategies to combat stagnation, from fostering innovation to leveraging AI and analytics for efficiency. Be sur...

Mar 25, 202529 min

Ep 232: A Contrarian View of Agentic AI w/ Andrew Clark (Monitaur)

This week on The Audit Podcast, we’re joined by Andrew Clark, Co-Founder and CTO of Monitaur. In this episode, Andrew shares his unique perspective on agentic AI, challenging common assumptions about what AI agents actually are. He explores the marketing problem with AI and agents, why agents might not be what we think, and the governance challenges that come with them. Be sure to connect with Andrew on LinkedIn. Also, be sure to follow us on our new social media accounts on LinkedIn , Instagram...

Mar 19, 202545 min

Ep 231: Enhancing Audit Analytics: Lessons in Automation and AI w/ Ishan Kunkur (Delta Air Lines)

This week on The Audit Podcast, we’re joined by Ishan Kunkur, Digital Analytics Program Manager at Delta Air Lines. In this episode, Ishan shares how his team has embedded analytics into the audit process—from upskilling auditors with Power Query and Power BI training to automating SOX control testing, saving 360 hours annually. He explains how they evolved from performing analytics for audits to enabling auditors with data-driven tools, ultimately expanding into SOX automation and GRC dashboard...

Mar 11, 202539 min

Ep 230: What Can Go Wrong When SOX Doesn't Go Right w/ Courtney Dal Col (Clearsulting)

This week on The Audit Podcast, we’re joined by Courtney Dal Col, Director of Risk Advisory at Clearsulting . In this episode, we talk about the role of SOX in big business changes and why it often gets overlooked. Courtney shares how to make sure SOX is part of the process from the start, helping to avoid last-minute problems. She also explains why SOX is more than just a compliance task, how AI and automation are shaping its future, and what to expect from new regulations. Be sure to connect w...

Mar 04, 202531 min

Ep 229: What Works (and What Doesn’t) in Audit Committee Dashboards w/ Eric Wilson (Gulfport Energy Corporation)

This week on The Audit Podcast, we’re joined by Eric Wilson, Director of Internal Audit & Chief Audit Executive of Gulfport Energy Corporation. In this episode, we discuss how to build an effective audit committee dashboard. Eric explains how he created a Power BI dashboard that connects to his audit management system. This tool helps track progress, highlight issues, and answer important questions before they arise. Eric shares the key benefits of using this dashboard to improve decision-making...

Feb 25, 202551 min

Ep 228: Internal Controls: Respected or Just Tolerated? w/ Marc Tasse (University of Ottawa)

This week’s episode , we're joined by Marc Tasse, MBA Program Director at the University of Ottawa. He also serves on the audit committee for the Ontario Treasury Board Secretariat and Public Safety Canada. In this episode, he discusses whether people truly respect internal controls—from the board level to the first line—and the balance between repetitional and financial risk. Marc also shares the most important tasks for an audit committee member, the common challenges they face, and how intern...

Feb 18, 202523 min

Ep 227: Risk Management and The Three Lines of Defense w/ Grant Thornton’s Risk and Advisory Team

This week’s episode, we're joined by the Grant Thornton risk and advisory team—Andres Castañeda, Jaynitsa Paul, and EJ Jimenez. In this episode, they explain their article Risk Management: Get Your Three Lines in Order in simple terms. They clear up common misunderstandings about the first, second, and third lines of defense in risk management. They also give real examples of when the system works well and when it fails—and why that matters. Check out their article, and connect with Andres , Jay...

Feb 11, 202546 min

Ep 226: Answering Your Agentic AI Questions

Trent’s AuditBoard Webinar - Up Next for Internal Audit: AI Agents This week, Trent answers common questions about agentic AI from his recent AuditBoard webinar. In this episode, he explains how agents are changing audit and analytics—not by taking jobs, but by creating new opportunities. He breaks down the differences between agents and traditional analytics, showing how agents can adapt and handle failures smoothly. He also discusses why internal audit should be part of the AI/agentic AI gover...

Feb 04, 202529 min

Ep 225: How to Carry Out a Clear and Effective Risk Assessment w/ David Dufek (Principal Financial Group)

This week’s episode , we're joined by David Dufek, Chief Internal Auditor at Principal Financial Group . In this episode, David explains how to carry out a clear and effective risk assessment, making it easier to identify and prioritize potential risks. He also talks about the importance of aligning your audit work with the organization's main goals, so your efforts deliver real value. Finally, David outlines simple steps to create a focused and practical audit plan that fits your team’s needs a...

Jan 28, 202536 min

Trent Talks What’s Up Next for Internal Audit: AI Agents

Trent’s AuditBoard Webinar - Up Next for Internal Audit: AI Agents This week, Trent explains how AI Agents are set to transform internal audit. On January 22nd, he will host a webinar with AuditBoard to discuss generative AI for internal auditors, breaking down what AI Agents are and how they work. These agents handle tasks like analyzing data, writing reports, and reviewing findings, making audits faster and more efficient. If you’re involved in SOX or similar work, this could be a game-changer...

Jan 21, 20254 min

Ep 224: Agentic AI and Resources for Internal Audit w/ John Thompson (EY)

This week’s episode , we're joined by John Thompson, Global AI Leader at EY . In this episode, John explains how AI, especially agents, will shape the future of businesses and internal audit teams. He identifies 2025 and 2026 as pivotal years for agent technology and the tools that will emerge from it. Be sure to connect with John on LinkedIn. Also, be sure to follow us on our new social media accounts on LinkedIn , Instagram , and TikTok . Also be sure to sign up for The Audit Podcast newslette...

Jan 14, 202529 min

Ep 223: AI Agents in Internal Audit in 2025 w/ Charles King (KPMG US)

This week’s episode , we're joined by Charles King, Internal Controls Leader in AI at KPMG US . In this episode, Charles brings a unique perspective as both an AI expert and an audit professional, He looks back on key moments from 2024, talks about where organizations are on the maturity model, and unpacks the biggest topic of 2025: agents. Charles does a fantastic job breaking down what agents are and what they mean for audit professionals. Be sure to connect with Charles on LinkedIn. Also, be ...

Jan 07, 202542 min

Ep 222: The Best Advice about AI

This week’s episode features highlights from previous episodes, showcasing the best advice on AI. This episode features insights from industry leaders: Badal Patel explores AI tools in the audit process, Ben Phillips discusses AI and inflation, Julio Tirado emphasizes responsible AI, Michael Pellet explains why all auditors should be data experts (but not necessarily AI specialists), and Richard Chambers shares how to use ChatGPT to optimize workflows. Be sure to connect with Badal , Ben , Julio...

Dec 31, 202428 min

Ep 221: Audit Ready All the Time w/ Haim Halpern (Datricks)

This week’s episode , we're joined by Haim Halpern, Co-Founder & CEO of Datricks . In this episode, Haim shares his experience in finance, auditing, compliance, and cybersecurity. He talks about trends in analytics and AI for internal audit, the value of real-time risk detection, and how Datricks helps organizations stay ready for audits. Haim also gives advice to aspiring audit executives and explains his passion for helping companies manage risk. Be sure to connect with Haim on LinkedIn. Also,...

Dec 17, 202440 min

Ep 220: When AI Steals the Mic – An AI Podcast on Data and Analytics (Featuring Monica Royal’s Article)

This week, we’re testing an exciting new AI tool called Notebook LM. This tool takes written articles, processes the data, and turns them into podcasts with artificially generated voices. We decided to try it out using an article by Monica Royal, founder of Nerd Nourishment. Monika attended the 2024 Audit Analytics and AI Conference and wrote a great LinkedIn article about her key takeaways. We uploaded her article to Notebook LM, and the result is an unedited, AI-generated podcast episode. If y...

Dec 10, 202411 min

Ep 219: SOX Mastery and Continuous Improvement w/ Tom O’Reilly (Internal Audit Collective)

This week’s episode , we're joined by Tom O’Reilly, Founder of Internal Audit Collective . In this episode, Tom talks about what he would change in the audit profession, the importance of bringing in outside perspectives, working with consultants during audits, and helping auditors grow their careers. Be sure to connect with Tom on LinkedIn. Also, be sure to follow us on our new social media accounts on LinkedIn , Instagram , and TikTok . Also be sure to sign up for The Audit Podcast newsletter ...

Dec 03, 202441 min

Ep 218: Staffing Approaches and Marketing Internal Audit w/ Michael Pellet (Lyft)

This week’s episode , we're joined by Michael Pellet, Director of Internal Audit at Lyft . In this episode, Michael explores strategies for hiring and retaining top talent, highlighting his innovative staffing model. He emphasizes the importance of all auditors being proficient in data, even if they aren’t experts in AI, and underscores the critical role of data governance in today's audit landscape. Michael also shares how marketing automation techniques can be adapted to enhance internal audit...

Nov 26, 202452 min

Ep 217: What You Need to Know about AI Responsible w/ Julio Tirado (SpiritBank)

This week’s episode , we're joined by Julio Tirado, Executive Vice President-Director of Internal Audit & Compliance at SpiritBank . In this episode, we focus on responsible AI and effective strategies for managing new technologies. Julio shares insights on integrating AI in the workplace, understanding AI hallucinations, and exploring emerging AI trends. He also recommends some great AI resources. Be sure to connect with Julio on LinkedIn. Also, be sure to follow us on our new social media acco...

Nov 19, 202447 min

Ep 216: Finding Your Path in Internal Audit w/ Marie Walsh (Spotify)

This week’s episode , we're joined by Marie Walsh, Spotify’s Head of Internal Audit and Risk. In this episode, Marie shares her passion for guiding team members in their career paths, both within and beyond internal audit. She discusses her empowering strategies, including thoughtful one-on-one sessions that support individual growth, as well as her priorities for adding real value to Spotify’s leadership. Be sure to connect with Marie on LinkedIn. Also, be sure to follow us on our new social me...

Nov 13, 202431 min

Ep 215: Strategies to Secure More Resources for Internal Audit w/ Norman Marks

This week’s episode , we're joined by Norman Marks, author, thought leader, blogger, teacher, and occasional consultant. In this episode, Norman shares what he sees as the top priority for Chief Audit Executives and gives practical tips on handling budget challenges, especially as audit teams face higher demands without matching resources. Be sure to connect with Norman on LinkedIn. Also, be sure to follow us on our new social media accounts on LinkedIn , Instagram , and TikTok . Also be sure to...

Nov 05, 202450 min

Ep 214: Connected Risk w/ Richard Chambers

This week’s episode, we're joined by Richard Chambers, Senior Advisor over Risk and Audit at AuditBoard . In this episode, Richard explores the concept of connected risk, explaining what it means in today’s environment and why it’s become increasingly important. He also highlights key takeaways from his latest book, Connected Risk: Conquering the Perilous Risk Exposure Gap . Be sure to connect with Richard on LinkedIn. Also, be sure to follow us on our new social media accounts on LinkedIn , Ins...

Oct 29, 202425 min

Ep 213: Transforming Audit in 2024 w/ Stephanie Richard (Ally)

This week’s episode, we're joined by joined by Stephanie Richard, Chief Audit Executive at Ally . In this episode, Stephanie shares how she transformed the culture and mindset of her internal audit team of over 150 auditors. She talks about the challenges of driving innovation in a large team, staying ahead of emerging trends, and guiding her department to become more data and AI driven. She also offers advice for current and aspiring CAEs on improving efficiency and impact. Be sure to connect w...

Oct 22, 202432 min

Ep 212: Managing Relationships as a CAE w/ Aaron Gagnon (McKinsey & Company)

This week’s episode, we're joined by Aaron Gagnon , Partner and Chief Audit Officer at McKinsey & Company. In this episode, Aaron shares his personal mantra, "show up and try," and explains how this mindset influences his work and life. He highlights his unique approach to hiring, focusing on both experience and key qualities that set candidates apart. Aaron also discusses the challenges of managing relationships across the C-suite, audit committees, and management staff, offering practical insi...

Oct 15, 202439 min

Ep 211: The Best Advice for Hiring and Retention

This week’s episode, we are highlighting clips from previous episodes of the best advice about hiring and retention. In this episode, Scott Madenburg talks about the balance between recruiting for talent versus character, while Melissa Pici highlights the importance of screening candidates for passion, curiosity, and drive. Jo Erven shares her approach to preparing the next generation to tackle hiring and retention challenges, and Megan Blackstone outlines her company’s process for building a ta...

Oct 08, 202424 min

Ep 210: Terrible Audit Recommendations w/ Jennie Wallace (Melody Advisory Services)

This week’s episode, we're joined by Jennie Wallace , CEO and Founder of Melody Advisory Services . Jennie brings a wealth of experience, having worked across the first, second, and third lines of defense in audit and risk management. In this episode, Jennie shares how management views audit from her experience on both sides of being an audit and helping with risk management. She highlights the importance of understanding and empathizing with management to strengthen auditor-client relationships...

Oct 01, 202451 min

Ep 209: Standup Comedian and Auditor on Humor in the Workplace w/ Mike Lynn

This week’s episode, we're joined by Mike Lynn , owner of ARG*O and Adjunct Professor at St. John's University. Recognized by the IIA as the "Funniest Accountant in America," Mike brings a unique perspective to the podcast. In this episode, Mike talks about the power of humor in business, including how he incorporates it into serious audit situations. He recounts his stand-up comedy background and discusses how improv skills can be invaluable in boardrooms. Mike even shares a memorable story of ...

Sep 24, 202452 min

Ep 208: Favorite Fraud Stories and Protecting Vulnerable Customers w/ Mark Houston (Audient Group)

This week’s episode, we're joined by Mark Houston , a Partner at Audient Group . He is a seasoned expert in Fraud Risk Management and Data & Analytics Strategy. In this episode, we explore the world of fraud detection as Mark shares his top two favorite fraud cases. We also cover current fraud trends in both organizations and personal life, introduce elder fraud protection, and highlight the use of data in audits. Be sure to connect with Mark on LinkedIn. Also, be sure to follow us on our new so...

Sep 17, 202454 min