

Innovation in Compliance with Tom Fox
Thomas Fox
Innovation in compliance brings you interviews with industry leading experts who are changing the way practitioners approach compliance. Host Tom Fox, the Compliance Evangelist and Voice of Compliance is driving the conversation about compliance into the 2020s and beyond with his focus on innovations for the compliance practitioner and the compliance profession. If you want to learn how to bring business solutions to compliance problems to more fully operationalize compliance, this is the podcast for you.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 24, 2024 • 18min
Making Compliance Training Memorable: Gamechanger 4 – Make Learning Playful
There is not much I enjoy more than sitting down with one of the innovative thinkers in compliance, Carsten Tams to find out what is on his mind regarding compliance. Tom Fox recently had the opportunity to do so on the topic of making compliance training memorable. Over this short, five-part series, we will introduce the problem and challenges and then provide you with four proven strategies for success in your compliance training.In this concluding Episode 5, we discuss how making ethics and compliance training playful can enhance learning.Our learning brain likes games. When people shift into a playful state of mind, they immerse themselves more deeply into the learning activity. Their mood brightens, their mind opens up, and they are intensely focused and more receptive to new information. Playful learning supports a deeper understanding of concepts, better recall of knowledge, and better transfer of skills to novel problems.They explore the concept of the ‘Magic Circle’ in gaming, which engenders an immersive, playful state of mind that fosters openness and engagement. By employing game-based learning experiences like the ‘Ethics Kit Find Your Path’ card game, the discussion showcases how ethical scenarios can be addressed in an interactive, fun way.Through the use of commitment, action, and resource cards, employees engage in collaborative problem-solving related to their organization’s ethical dilemmas. The episode emphasizes the importance of experiential, social, and strength-based learning, arguing that an engaging user experience (UX) in training not only makes learning enjoyable but also more effective in reinforcing ethical behaviors within organizations.Highlights and Key Issues Discussed:
Introducing Playful Learning in Ethics and Compliance
The Magic Circle: A Concept for Playful Learning
Implementing Playful Learning: The Ethics Kit Card Game
Benefits and Outcomes of Playful Learning Experiences
Expanding Playfulness Beyond Games: Engaging Training Delivery
Key Takeaways from the Series
Resources:Suggested Readings
Zosh, J. M., Hopkins, E. J., Jensen, H., Liu, C., Neale, D., Hirsh-Pasek, K., Solis, S. L., & Whitebread, D. (2017). Learning through play: a review of the evidence (white paper). The LEGO Foundation, DK.
Parker, Rachel & Thomsen, Bo & Berry, Amy. (2022). Learning Through Play at School – A Framework for Policy and Practice. Frontiers in Education. 7. 10.3389/feduc.2022.751801.
Carsten Tams on LinkedInEmagence ConsultingTom FoxInstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterLinkedIn

May 23, 2024 • 21min
Making Compliance Training Memorable: Gamechanger 3- Make Learning Social
There is not much I enjoy more than sitting down with one of the innovative thinkers in compliance, Carsten Tams to find out what is on his mind regarding compliance. I recently had the opportunity to do so on the topic of making compliance training memorable. Over this short five-part series we will introduce the problem and challenges and then provide you with four proven strategies for success in your compliance training. In this Episode 4, we discuss making learning social and collaborative so that learners work together to search for understanding, meaning, or solutions.Social learning refers to learning with each other, from each other, and about each other. Social Learning Theory tells us that a lot of learning consist of observing and emulating others. Collaborative learning also affords participants with the opportunity to gain unique insights and skills. Cooperative learning allows participants to develop their social-emotional and interpersonal skills. They can practice ethical voice, simply by discussing an ethical situation with each other. Tom and Carsten explore the concept of social learning, referencing theories by Lev Vygotsky on social constructivism and Albert Bandura on vicarious learning and self-efficacy, to explain how behaviors and ethical values are acquired through social interaction. They emphasize that learning ethics and compliance can be more effective in a social context, whether it is through discussing ethical dilemmas, observing others' behaviors, or learning from shared experiences. The dialogue also touches on the importance of building social capital through ethical discussions, which helps in crafting solutions to ethical challenges as a team. Furthermore, they argue that every aspect of work has an ethical dimension and that recognizing the ethical implications of seemingly minute actions can significantly contribute to an organization's ethical resilience. The episode concludes with anticipation for the next episode focusing on making compliance training fun. Highlights and Key Issues Discussed· Introduction to Social Learning in Ethics and Compliance· Exploring Social Learning Theory· The Impact of Social Learning on Ethical Behavior· Social Learning's Role in Organizational Culture· Practical Examples of Social Learning in Action· Deep Dive into Safety and Ethics in the Workplace ResourcesArticles and Books· Boyd, R., Richerson, P. J., & Henrich, J. (2011). The cultural niche: Why social learning is essential for human adaptation. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 108(Supplement_2), 10918–10925. doi:10.1073/pnas.1100290108· Reed, M., Evely, A. C., Cundill, G., Fazey, I., Glass, J., Laing, A., Newig, J., Parrish, B., Prell, C., Raymond, C., & Stringer, L. C. (2010). What is social learning? Ecology and Society, 15(4), [r1]. · Marjan Laal, Seyed Mohammad Ghodsi, Benefits of collaborative learning, Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences, Volume 31, 2012, Pages 486-490, ISSN 1877-0428, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sbspro.2011.12.091.· Bandura, A. (1977). Social learning theory. Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall. · Bauman, Z. (2000). Special essay. Am I my brother’s keeper? European Journal of Social Work, 3(1), 5–11. doi:10.1080/714052807 Carsten Tams on LinkedInEmagence ConsultingTom FoxInstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterLinkedIn

May 22, 2024 • 19min
Making Compliance Training Memorable: Gamechanger 2- Make it Experiential
There is not much I enjoy more than sitting down with one of the innovative thinkers in compliance, Carsten Tams to find out what is on his mind regarding compliance. I recently had the opportunity to do so on the topic of making compliance training memorable. Over this short five-part series we will introduce the problem and challenges and then provide you with four proven strategies for success in your compliance training. In this Episode 3, we discuss the concept of experiential learning as a gamechanger to enhance overall learning scope, motivation, retention and transfer; emphasizing its importance over conventional learning methods.Experiential learning means learning by doing. When we are passive learners in front of a screen, clicking on the forward button or checking boxes, learning remains shallow. Experiential ethics learning is not simply about feeding abstract information about an ethics topic into learners’ minds. It is instead about the tight coupling of thinking with doing. An experiential learning activity is about posing a problem that is relevant to the learner. It is then up to the learner to tap into their existing knowledge, to use their ingenuity and creative problem-solving skills to find a feasible solution for the problem at hand. Using practical examples, Carsten explains how experiential learning engages learners in problem-solving and hands-on experiences, leading to better retention and application of knowledge. They explore the historical roots of the concept, drawing from thinkers like Aristotle, Confucius, John Dewey, and modern cognitive research. The discussion also covers ways to implement experiential learning in organizational settings, addressing potential concerns about documenting these methods for regulatory compliance.Highlights and Key Issues Discussed · Introduction to Experiential Learning in Compliance and Ethics Training· Exploring the Basics of Experiential Learning· Applying Experiential Learning in Compliance and Ethics· Historical Context and Theoretical Foundations of Experiential Learning· Practical Implementation and Documentation for Compliance Professionals ResourcesCarsten Tams on LinkedInEmagence ConsultingFor Additional Reading· Dewey, J. (1938). Experience and education. New York: Simon and Schuster.· Kolb, D.A. (2015). Experiential Learning: Experience as the Source of Learning and Development, 2nd Ed. New York, NY: Pearson.· Burch, G. F., Giambatista, R., Batchelor, J. H., Burch, J. J., Hoover, J. D., & Heller, N. A. (2019). A Meta‐Analysis of the Relationship Between Experiential Learning and Learning Outcomes. Decision Sciences Journal of Innovative Education, 17(3), 239–273. doi:10.1111/dsji.12188Tom FoxInstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterLinkedIn

May 21, 2024 • 20min
Making Compliance Training Memorable: Gamechanger 1-Focus on Strengths
There is not much I enjoy more than sitting down with one of the most innovative thinkers in compliance; Carsten Tams, to find out what is on his mind regarding compliance. I recently had the opportunity to do so on the topic of making compliance training memorable. Over this short five-part series we will introduce the problem and challenges and then provide you with four game changing strategies you can employee for success in your compliance training. In this Episode 2, we discuss the concept of focusing on strengths within compliance and ethics training, as opposed to traditional deficit-based methods that highlight potential misconduct. When we instruct people about prohibited behaviours, and how the company detects and discipline misconduct, employees often feel mistrusted and alienated. They tune out. This is deficit-based learning. It approaches the learner as a risk factor or potential delinquent. It aims to constrain unwanted behaviour. When employees can learn how to effectively shape and safeguard the ethical workplace they aspire to, they feel inspired and tune in. This is strength-based training. It approaches the learner as a valued partner in maintaining integrity. It assumes that people have capabilities, It aims at eliciting and strengthening the positive ethical faculties already present in most people.Tom and Carsten urge a shift in perspective so that learners are viewed as valued partners, drawing upon the principles of self-affirmation theory and strength-based approaches found in various sectors like healthcare and education. This approach aims to engage learners by acknowledging and enhancing their capabilities, ethical values, and problem-solving skills, thus fostering a sustainable ethical culture within organizations. Examples of successful applications of this approach, including innovative training methods and programs like UNESCO’s card game and the 'Giving Voice to Values' curriculum, are highlighted. The conversation underscores the importance of designing training that not only prevents misconduct but also supports and develops employees' strengths, thereby enhancing overall company culture. Highlights and Key Issues Discussed· The Problem with Deficit-Based Training Approaches· The Power of a Strength-Based Approach· Real-World Applications and Success Stories· Practical Steps Towards Strength-Based Training· Building a Sustainable Ethical Culture ResourcesBooks and Articles
Saleebey, D. (Ed.). (2009). The Strengths Perspective in social work practice (5th ed.). Boston: Allyn and Bacon.
Pulla, Venkat. (2012). What are Strengths based Practices all about?
Banaji, M., & Dobbin, F. U. (2023, September 17). Why DEI training doesn’t work—and how to fix it. The Wall Street Journal. Retrieved March 11, 2024
Dobbin, F., & Kalev, A. (2022). Getting to diversity: What works and what doesn’t. The Belknap Press of Harvard University Press.
Carsten Tams on LinkedInEmagence ConsultingTom FoxInstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterLinkedIn

May 20, 2024 • 17min
Making Compliance Training Memorable: The Problem
There is not much I enjoy more than sitting down with one of the most innovative thinkers in compliance; Carsten Tams, to find out what is on his mind regarding compliance. I recently had the opportunity to do so on the topic of making compliance training memorable. Over this short five-part series we will introduce the problem and challenges and then provide you with four game changing strategies you can employee for success in your compliance training. In this Episode 1, we provide the lay of the land, explain when ethics training needs some fresh ideas, some of the challenges ethics training is facing and conclude with a summary of the solutions do we see. Tom and Carsten take a deep dive into why traditional E&C training often fails to engage employees and lacks impact on their behavior, despite significant investments. This episode sets up the problem by exploring the historical context of E&C training, the difference between European values-focused and American rules-regulation approaches, and how these methods have evolved. Their discussion highlights several barriers to effective training, including training being seen as a checkbox exercise, the deficit-focused nature, passive learning methods, isolation, and a lack of playfulness. They also touch on the promising findings that training can be effective when it delivers a positive user experience, emphasizing the need for innovative approaches to improve engagement and behavioral impact. The podcast series aims to explore solutions and strategies for making E&C training more engaging and effective, grounded in four proven principles of learning design. Highlights and Issues· Introduction to the Series on Ethics and Compliance Training· Identifying the Problem with Current Ethics and Compliance Training· Exploring the Ineffectiveness of Traditional Training Approaches· The Four Engagement Killers in Compliance Training· Towards a More Effective Training Approach: Preview of Upcoming EpisodesResourcesArticles
Dvorak, N. (2021, November 10). 4 Hard Truths About Ethics and Compliance Training
Fosway Group. (2023). Digital Learning Realities 2023
Fredeen, I. (2019, June 19). Do Your Expectations Align with Reality — Why Compliance Training Needs More Attention
Carsten Tams on LinkedInEmagence ConsultingTom FoxInstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitter

May 14, 2024 • 27min
Steve Brown on AI Integration for Evolving Compliance Challenges
Innovation comes in many areas and compliance professionals need to not only be ready for it but embrace it. Today, I visit with Steve Brown, Managing Director, Head of Business Development at StarCompliance, sponsor of this podcast. We take a deep dive into utilizing AI, machine learning, and generative AI for compliance prevention, detection and much more. Steve Brown has maintained a lengthy career in the compliance industry, currently holding the position of Head of Business Compliance and Business Development at StarCompliance. Throughout his career of over two decades, he has served in important roles in investment banking compliance and advised global firms on risk and regulatory issues. StarCompliance, a company that specializes in employee compliance software across 117 countries. They delve into the importance of compliance culture within corporations, the role of technology in enhancing compliance efforts, and the unique perspective Brown brings to technology solutions from his extensive compliance background. They also touch upon the significance of a comprehensive compliance solution and the future of compliance technology, including the potential applications of AI, machine learning, and data analytics to anticipate and navigate regulatory challenges.Key Highlights:
Global Ethics Compliance Solutions by Star Compliance
AI Integration for Evolving Compliance Challenges
Data-Driven Compliance Culture Enhancement Solutions
Ethical Culture through Integrated Compliance Analytics
Resources:Steve Brown on LinkedIn StarComplianceTom FoxInstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterLinkedIn

May 7, 2024 • 23min
Sue Bingham on Fostering Trust and Transparency in Organizational Culture
Innovation comes in many forms, and compliance professionals need to not only be ready for it but also embrace it.Today, Tom Fox visits Sue Bingham, Founder and Principal of HPWP Group. She helps visionary, courageous leaders create a high-trust culture of adult communication and high expectations that results in attracting and retaining truly great people.Sue Bingham has a unique perspective on compliance in the workplace, shaped by her vast experience and passion for nurturing positive work environments. Anchored in the principles of trust, value, and respect, she advocates for a shift from the conventional approach to compliance, which often entails a litany of rules, to one that promotes positive assumptions about employees.Bingham believes that while compliance is crucial for legal requirements and operational changes, it should not be at the expense of treating employees as valuable adults deserving of respect and dignity. Her conviction that a culture of trust and positive assumptions can drive behavioral change at work is reflected in her book “Creating a High-Performance Workplace,” a testament to her commitment to fostering effective leadership and high-performing workplaces.Key Highlights:
Trust-Based Approach for High Performance Culture
Fostering Trust and Valuing Employees for Success
Developing Commitment and Accountability in the Workplace
Balancing Compliance and Commitment in Organizations
Resources:Sue Bingham on LinkedIn HPWP GroupCreating the High Performance Work Place on Amazon.comTom FoxInstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterLinkedIn

Apr 30, 2024 • 40min
Matt Kunkel and Nicholas Kathmann on Dynamic GRC Systems with AI-driven Controls
Innovation comes in many forms, and compliance professionals must be ready for and embrace it. Today, I visited with Matt Kunkel, CEO of LogicGate, and Nick Kathmann, CISO at LogicGate, to consider how a dynamic GRC can help drive efficiency, compliance, and profitability.With a background in business analysis and self-taught coding, Kunkel identified a need for a more comprehensive and user-friendly approach to governance, risk, and compliance (GRC) solutions, leading to the creation of Logic Gate. The platform was designed to meet businesses’ evolving needs without requiring constant developer intervention, utilizing a flexible data model and advanced graph database technology for superior efficiency.Kathmann, with over 20 years of experience in security and compliance, stresses the importance of industry expertise in delivering effective solutions, focusing on ensuring the platform meets the highest security standards and adapts to changing business requirements seamlessly. Kunkel and Kathmann’s perspectives highlight the crucial role of innovative technology in simplifying GRC processes and addressing the complex regulatory, risk, and compliance needs of organizations.Key Highlights:
Adaptive Logic Gate Platform for GRC
Harnessing Data for Strategic Compliance Oversight
Real-time Risk Optimization for Business Growth
Cyber Risk Alignment Between CISO and CEO
Executive Level Engagement for Cybersecurity Strategy
Tailoring Risk Communication to Stakeholder Priorities
Dynamic GRC Systems with AI-driven Controls
Resources:Matt Kunkel on LinkedIn Nick Kathmann on LinkedIn LogicGateTom FoxInstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterLinkedIn

Apr 16, 2024 • 24min
Staci Wright on Compassionate Workplace Solutions: The Heart Profit Movement
Innovation comes in many forms, and compliance professionals need to not only be ready for it but also embrace it. Today, I visited Staci Wright, a leader in the heart-profit movement.Staci Wright is a seasoned entrepreneur with a diverse portfolio of six successful businesses, ranging from service-based to product-based ventures, established over the past two decades. Her perspective on the “heart profit movement” is rooted in her belief in the power of compassion, care, and connection in the workplace to not only enhance productivity but also address important societal issues.This perspective is born from her experience leading “IP2Market,” a company that merges manufacturing patented products with a focus on building brands that prioritize employees’ welfare.As the founder of the Heart Profit movement, Staci has implemented initiatives like onsite childcare, meals, and mental health coaching in her workplaces, embodying her view that a supportive environment allows employees to flourish rather than merely survive. This approach to business, she believes, fosters a more compassionate era where profit does not come at the expense of employee care.Key Highlights:
Footrest-Inspired Self-Care Products for Bath Time
Compassionate Workplace Culture Initiative
Employee Wellbeing Initiatives in Manufacturing
Cultivating Compassionate Work Environments for Success
Compassionate Workplace Solutions: Profit with Heart
ResourcesStaci Wright on LinkedIn Heart ProfitTom FoxInstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterLinkedIn

Apr 9, 2024 • 29min
Susan K. Younger: Relationship Architect
Innovation comes in many forms, and compliance professionals need to not only be ready for it but also embrace it.Today, Tom Fox visited Susan K. Younger, a self-styled ‘relationship architect. Find out how her strategies will help you to drive your corporate culture.Susan K. Younger, an expert with a diverse background in architecture and massage therapy, has carved a unique path in her career by integrating practices from both fields. She views transformative leadership as a dynamic process to adapt and evolve in accordance with changing times. Her perspective is influenced by her unique professional journey, from retail architecture to a holistic approach to body structures and environmental spaces.Susan believes in the importance of openness to new ideas and perspectives, considering different viewpoints, and willingness to modify processes for better outcomes. For her, the essence of transformative leadership lies in staying curious and receptive, thereby driving positive change within organizations.Key Highlights:
What is a relationship architect?
Interpersonal Structure Builder
Cultural Values in Multinational Transformative Leadership
Proactive Contributors Fostering Positive Work Culture
Understanding Value Perspectives for Compliance Engagement
Enhancing Workplace Collaboration Through Generational Values
Resources:Susan K. Younger on LinkedIn Susan K. Younger websiteTom FoxInstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterLinkedIn


