
Compliance into the Weeds
What happens when two compliance aficionados get together to talk all things compliance, risk management and ERM? You get Tom Fox, the Voice of Compliance and Matt Kelly, the Coolest Guy in Compliance, going into the weeds of a topic each week. Each week, you can take a deep dive with two of the top writers, thinkers and prognosticators in compliance.
Latest episodes

Apr 16, 2025 • 22min
The Uncertain Future of Compliance Monitors under the Trump Administration
The award-winning Compliance into the Weeds is the only weekly podcast that takes a deep dive into a compliance-related topic, literally going into the weeds to explore a subject more fully. Are you looking for some hard-hitting insights on compliance? Look no further than Compliance into the Weeds! In this Compliance into the Weeds episode, Tom Fox and Matt Kelly take a deep dive into the future role of compliance monitors in the corporate world under the Trump administration.Despite the potential for changes, federal prosecutors are expected to continue using compliance monitors as a critical tool. However, the criteria for assigning these monitors may become more limited. The episode critically examines the trustworthiness of statements from the Trump administration and its Justice Department, emphasizing the uncertainty facing corporations and compliance professionals moving forward.Key highlights:
Trump Administration’s Stance on Monitors
Criteria for Assigning Monitors
Skepticism Towards Statements
Resources:Matt in Radical ComplianceTomInstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterLinkedInCompliance into the Weeds was recently honored as one of the Top 25 Regulatory Compliance Podcasts, a Top 10 Business Law Podcast, and a Top 12 Risk Management Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

7 snips
Apr 9, 2025 • 23min
Unsexy Keys to Data Analytics for Compliance Programs
Dive into the crucial yet underrated world of data analytics in compliance. Discover why foundational infrastructure matters more than flashy visuals. Hear about the importance of collaboration between compliance teams, IT, and business units. Learn how data governance safeguards integrity in ever-changing landscapes. Explore real-life scenarios where compliance risk management aligns with corporate goals, emphasizing proactive strategies in sectors like manufacturing and cybersecurity. This insightful discussion uncovers the unsexy but essential keys to effective compliance analytics.

Apr 2, 2025 • 23min
The Role of Compliance Going Forward
The award-winning Compliance into the Weeds is the only weekly podcast that takes a deep dive into a compliance-related topic, literally going into the weeds to explore a subject more fully. Are you looking for some hard-hitting insights on compliance? Look no further than Compliance into the Weeds! In this episode of Compliance into the Weeds, Tom Fox and Matt Kelly take a deep dive into the intricate future of corporate compliance amidst changes brought by the presidential executive order suspending FCPA investigation and enforcement.Matt shares insights from a recent Compliance Week event in Boston, highlighting concerns among compliance professionals about the potential obsolescence of their roles. The discussion covers two primary scenarios: regulatory relaxation, making dedicated compliance roles redundant, and technological advancements, particularly AI, potentially replacing human compliance officers. However, both agree on the enduring importance of robust compliance functions integrated within corporate structures, emphasizing the strategic value of compliance in risk management and business operations.They explore the dual excitement and anxiety surrounding AI’s role in compliance. Matt and Tom caution against shortsighted management decisions to decentralize compliance functions and highlight how AI can be harnessed to enhance rather than replace human oversight. They argue for proactive measures from compliance officers to demonstrate their value and leverage AI to improve compliance programs. As Matt eloquently puts it, this is a challenging yet opportune time for compliance professionals to up their game and secure their vital role in ensuring corporate integrity and efficiency.Key highlights:
The Future of Compliance Post-Executive Order
The Role of Technology in Compliance
AI’s Impact on Compliance Officers
Strategic Imperatives for Compliance
Resources:Matt in Radical ComplianceTom in the FCPA Compliance and Ethics BlogHui Chen A Pause in FCPA Enforcement: Crisis or OpportunityTomInstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterLinkedInCompliance into the Weeds was recently honored as one of a Top 25 Regulatory Compliance Podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

7 snips
Mar 26, 2025 • 31min
Global Anti-Corruption Leadership
Mary Inman, a founding partner at Whistleblower Partners and an expert in anti-corruption measures, shares her insights from a recent trip to the UK. She discusses the global shift in anti-corruption leadership following U.S. policy changes, with countries like the UK, France, and Australia stepping up enforcement. The conversation emphasizes the crucial role of whistleblower programs in enhancing compliance and challenges cultural biases in Europe. Mary also highlights the importance of adapting to a multipolar compliance landscape.

Mar 19, 2025 • 24min
A Deep Dive into Employee Leaks and Corporate Culture
The award-winning Compliance into the Weeds is the only weekly podcast that takes a deep dive into a compliance-related topic, literally going into the weeds to explore a subject more fully. Are you looking for some hard-hitting insights on compliance? Look no further than Compliance into the Weeds! In this episode, Tom Fox and Matt Kelly discuss the issues surrounding employee leaks of confidential information, drawing on insights from a recent SCCE Europe event.They also consider the motivations behind such leaks, including dissatisfaction with corporate culture and ineffective internal reporting channels, exemplified by the recent leaks at Facebook. The episode reviews measures compliance officers can take to prevent leaks, such as implementing tight access controls, encryption, and improving communication during investigations. Practical tips for reducing leaks and the importance of trust in internal reporting are also highlighted.Key highlights:
Discussion on Employee Leaks
Facebook’s Toxic Culture (or not) and Leaks
Addressing Internal Speak-Up Culture
Practical Tips to Prevent Leaks
Modern Communication Challenges
Resources:Matt in Radical ComplianceTomInstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterLinkedInCompliance into the Weeds was recently honored as one of the Top 25 Regulatory Compliance Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 12, 2025 • 31min
More Compliance Challenges in the Trump Era
The award-winning Compliance into the Weeds is the only weekly podcast that takes a deep dive into a compliance-related topic, literally going into the weeds to explore a subject more fully. Are you looking for some hard-hitting insights on compliance? Look no further than Compliance into the Weeds! In this episode, Tom Fox and Matt Kelly discuss additional compliance issues raised by the current administration.The first involves the Trump Administration investigating environmental groups receiving EPA grants. While both believe the investigations are politically motivated, they highlight the need for a robust compliance program, documentation of that program in practice, and transparency with stakeholders. The second example is the Democratic Republic of Congo’s offer to the Trump administration for mineral extraction rights, raising concerns about navigating FCPA compliance amid high corruption risks. The episode underscores the importance of robust compliance capabilities to handle unpredictable regulatory environments and emerging risks.Key highlights:
Compliance Issues under the Trump Administration
Environmental Groups Under Investigation
The Democratic Republic of the Congo Deal
Compliance is the Answer
ResourcesMatt in Radical ComplianceTomInstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterLinkedInCompliance into the Weeds was recently honored as one of the Top 25 Regulatory Compliance Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9 snips
Mar 5, 2025 • 24min
Compliance – Who Are We?
The discussion highlights how compliance remains essential even in a changing political landscape. Experts stress the importance of ethical practices and integrity in organizational operations. The conversation dives into vendor risk management, emphasizing trust in competitive sectors like healthcare. It also examines the vital role of internal stakeholders in navigating compliance challenges. Additionally, the need for flexible compliance programs and effective communication to tackle emerging risks is underscored, showcasing an evolving landscape for compliance professionals.

Feb 26, 2025 • 23min
Exploring Corporate Culture Disconnect
The award-winning Compliance into the Weeds is the only weekly podcast that takes a deep dive into a compliance-related topic, literally going into the weeds to explore a subject more fully. Are you looking for some hard-hitting insights on compliance? Look no further than Compliance into the Weeds! In this Compliance into the Weeds episode, Tom Fox and Matt Kelly review the recently released 2025 E&C Program Effectiveness Report (Report) from LRN and deeply dive into its findings of a disconnect between top management and employees on ethics and compliance.Tom and Matt examine the significant findings of the LRN survey conducted among over 1,500 ethics and compliance professionals, which formed the basis for the 2025 Report. They emphasize the widening perception gap about corporate ethical culture between senior executives and lower-level employees and discuss the importance of transparency, consistent disciplinary measures, and engagement of frontline employees to bridge this divide. Matt and Tom also address compliance officers’ challenges in assessing their organizations’ ethical culture and suggest practical steps for fostering a more cohesive environment.Key highlights:
Key Findings from the LRN Report
Assessing and Addressing the Perception Gap
Building Trust and Transparency
Involving Employees in Policy Design
Engaging with Employees and Building Community
Resources:Matt in Radical ComplianceLRN 2025 E&C Program Effectiveness ReportTomInstagramFacebookYouTubeTwitterLinkedInCompliance into the Weeds was recently honored as one of the Top 25 Regulatory Compliance Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

5 snips
Feb 19, 2025 • 21min
The DOJ in Crisis
Tune in for a riveting exploration of ethical disarray at the Justice Department, particularly surrounding the indictment of Mayor Eric Adams. The discussion dives into the controversial decision to dismiss charges for political favors, revealing resignations among federal prosecutors. Insightful parallels are drawn between DOJ dynamics and corporate compliance, highlighting skepticism within the compliance community. Discover how political maneuvers complicate the integrity of compliance guidelines and the urgent need for robust organizational standards amid growing political influence.

5 snips
Feb 12, 2025 • 23min
End of FCPA and CFPB?
The podcast dives into the Trump administration's efforts to weaken key compliance regulations, sparking confusion among compliance officers. It highlights a disturbing shift in enforcement priorities, with a focus on drug trafficking over corporate compliance issues. Experts warn businesses about the risks of global bribery as extraterritorial laws continue to apply. Despite relaxed enforcement, the importance of maintaining robust compliance programs and ethical standards remains crucial for U.S. businesses navigating international markets.