Popcorn and Compliance

Episode 5 - Invisible Compliance: Lessons from The Invisible Man

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0000

Welcome to a special series of Popcorn and Compliance. In this series, we will examine the Classic Universal Monster Movies from the 1930s and 1940s, mining them for compliance lessons. (Yes, it really is an excuse to rewatch them all.) In this series, we will examine Frankenstein, Dracula, The Wolf Man, The Mummy, and conclude with The Invisible Man. In today’s episode of 'Popcorn and Compliance,' we wrap up our series by analyzing the 1933 classic, 'The Invisible Man,' for compliance insights.

Joined by Fiona and Timothy, Fox explores how Claude Rains' portrayal of Jack Griffin, a scientist who becomes unhinged after discovering invisibility, parallels challenges in corporate compliance. The episode distills five key lessons: the perils of lacking transparency, the necessity of accountability, the critical role of organizational culture, the exponential risks when innovation outpaces ethics, and the importance of crisis preparedness. This episode highlights the importance of making the invisible visible in compliance practices, aiming to uncover hidden risks, enforce accountability, and maintain robust ethical standards.

Key highlights:

Exploring ‘The Invisible Man’
Lesson 1: The Dangers of Lack of Transparency
Lesson 2: The Importance of Accountability
Lesson 3: The Role of Culture in Compliance
Lesson 4: Innovation and Ethical Boundaries
Lesson 5: Crisis Preparedness
Final Thoughts

Resources:

Compliance Lessons from the Invisible Man on the FCPA Compliance and Ethics Blog

Tom Fox

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Episode 4 - The Mummy's Compliance Lessons: Uncovering Hidden Risks and the Importance of Organizational Transparency

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0000

Welcome to a special series of #PopcornandCompliance. In this series, we will look at the Classical Universal Monster Movies from the 30s and 40s and mine them for compliance lessons. (Yes, it really is an excuse to rewatch them all.) In this series, we will look at Frankenstein, Dracula, The Wolf Man, The Mummy, and end with The Invisible Man. In this episode, Tom explores critical compliance insights drawn from Boris Karloff’s portrayal of The Mummy.

Tom is once again joined by AI co-hosts Timothy and Fiona to explore The Mummy. Tom delves into the dangers of ignoring historical warnings, the necessity of radical transparency to prevent misconduct, and the critical role of organizational culture in compliance. The episode provides key insights into why compliance programs must learn from past mistakes, remain vigilant against emerging risks, and enforce boundaries to prevent catastrophic failures.

Key highlights:

Exploring The Mummy: A Deep Dive
Lesson 1: The Curse of Forgetting
Lesson 2: Radical Transparency
Lesson 3: Culture as the True Master
Lesson 4: The Mummified Mindset
Lesson 5: The Importance of Boundaries

Resources:

Compliance Lessons from Boris Karloff’s The Mummy on the FCPA Compliance and Ethics Blog

Tom Fox

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Episode 3 - Compliance in the Full Moonlight: Lessons from The Wolf Man

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0000

Welcome to a special series of Popcorn and Compliance. In this series, we will be looking at the Classic Universal Monster Movies from the 30s and 40s and mining them for compliance lessons. (Yes, it really is an excuse to rewatch them all.) In this series, we will look at Frankenstein, Dracula, The Wolf Man, The Mummy, and end with The Invisible Man. In this episode, Tom explores critical compliance insights drawn from Lon Chaney Jr.’s portrayal of The Wolf Man.

In this episode, we take a deep dive into my favorite Classic Universal Monster, The Wolf Man, to unpack five critical lessons, including the danger of ignoring warnings, the importance of timely intervention, and the challenges of recognizing risks in ordinary people under extraordinary circumstances. Listeners are encouraged to consider how these timeless themes apply to modern corporate compliance, emphasizing proactive measures to prevent potential catastrophes. Join Tom, along with AI hosts Fiona and Timothy, for a surprisingly relevant exploration of compliance through the eerie lens of Hollywood’s iconic monster movies.

Key highlights:

The Relevance of the Wolf Man to Modern Compliance

Lesson 1: Ordinary People Can Become Compliance Risks
Lesson 2: Warnings Ignored Become Disasters Realized
Lesson 3: The Curse of Silence and Stigma
Lesson 4: Risk is Cyclical and Predictable
Lesson 5: Tragedy Comes from a Lack of Intervention

Resources:

Compliance Lessons from Lon Chaney Jr.’s The Wolf Man on the FCPA Compliance and Ethics Blog

Tom Fox

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Episode 2 - Dracula’s Compliance Secrets: What Lurks in the Night

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 15:03:00 -0000

Tom dives into five key compliance lessons: the dangers of third-party relationships, the subtle power of influence, the risk hidden in shadows, the importance of cultural awareness, and the perils of complacency. By drawing parallels between Dracula’s methods and modern compliance challenges, the episode underscores the need for rigorous due diligence, continuous monitoring, and a proactive mindset in risk management.

Key highlights:

Exploring Count Dracula’s Compliance Lessons
Third Parties: Your Greatest Risk
The Power of Influence
Risk Hides in the Shadows
Cultural Blindness Increases Vulnerability
Complacency Enables Catastrophe

Resources:

Compliance Lessons from Bela Lugosi’s Dracula on the FCPA Compliance and Ethics Blog

Tom Fox

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Episode 1 - Frankenstein’s Lab: Five Compliance Lessons: Ambition, Accountability and Organizational Culture

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 16:47:00 -0000

Welcome to a special series of Popcorn and Compliance. In this series, we will examine the Classic Universal Monster Movies from the 1930s and 1940s, mining them for compliance lessons. (Yes, it really is an excuse to rewatch them all.) In this series, we will look at Frankenstein, Dracula, The Wolf Man, The Mummy, and end with The Invisible Man. In this first episode of our special 5-part series, we consider compliance lessons drawn from the classic 1931 film ‘Frankenstein,’ starring Boris Karloff.

Exploring Henry Frankenstein’s unchecked ambition and lack of oversight, Tom and his AI co-hosts, Timothy and Fiona, extract five crucial compliance lessons: the necessity of setting boundaries for ambition, the importance of un-delegatable accountability, the profound impact of corporate culture on employee behavior, the need for constant reassessment of emerging risks, and the importance of crisis preparedness. These lessons offer profound insights for today’s professionals on how to navigate modern corporate compliance challenges effectively.

Key highlights:

Frankenstein’s Monster: Ambition Without Boundaries
The Importance of Oversight and Accountability
Corporate Culture and Its Impact
Continuous Risk Reassessment
Crisis Management: Preparation Over Panic

Resources:

Compliance Lessons from Boris Karloff’s Frankenstein on the FCPA Compliance and Ethics Blog

Tom Fox

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All Quiet on the Western Front: Lessons on Business Resilience in Risk Management

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 15:02:00 -0000

Tom Fox and Richard Lummis are back with a new season of Popcorn and Compliance. Get ready for a ton of fun, insights, and all things Hollywood and the movies. In this episode, Tom and Richard dive into some Oscar-winning Best Pictures for Compliance and Leadership Lessons. Today, they consider the 1930 Oscar-winning Best Picture, All Quiet on the Western Front.

Leadership in extreme situations is a crucial skill, applicable not only on the battlefield but also in high-stakes corporate environments such as supply chain management and compliance. Tom emphasizes the importance of adaptability and resilience. He believes that having a structured approach to managing evolving risks is vital, much like soldiers navigating unpredictable battle conditions. Richard echoes this sentiment, highlighting how extreme emotions and behaviors in war necessitate extreme leadership responses, often revealing a disconnect between officers and frontline soldiers. Both perspectives underscore that effective leadership in such challenging scenarios requires decisiveness, emotional intelligence, and the ability to empower others, reinforcing the timeless nature of these leadership qualities.

Key highlights:

Adaptability and Resilience in Extreme Leadership
Adaptability Frameworks: Business Resilience in Risk Management
Executing Decisions with Imperfect Information
Leadership Insights from 1927 War Story

Resources:

Tom Fox

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Season 4 - Beverly Hills Cop vs. Axel F: A Deep Dive into Legacy and Evolution

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0000

Tom Fox and Jay Rosen are back with a new season of Popcorn and Compliance. Get ready for a ton of fun, insights, and all things Hollywood and the movies.

In this episode of Popcorn and Compliance, Jay and Tom delve into the original ‘Beverly Hills Cop’ and its sequel, ‘Axel F.’

They explore Eddie Murphy’s transformative role, the evolution of filmmaking, and the impact of star power and storytelling on cinematic success. They also discuss the role of Netflix in the modern film landscape and how intellectual property influences sequels and audience engagement. A particular focus is given to the thematic growth of characters over 40 years and the emerging trends in film distribution and streaming.

Key Highlights:

Casting Changes and Eddie Murphy’s Rise
Eddie Murphy’s Early Career and SNL Impact
Comparing Axel F and Beverly Hills Cop
Intellectual Property and Storytelling
The Role of Streaming Platforms
Economic Models and the Future of Film

Resources:

Jay Rosen

Connect with Jay Rosen on LinkedIn

Tom Fox

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Monster Movie Month-Count Dracula-Leadership and Branding Lessons

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0000

Tom Fox is back with his Classic Monster Movie Month, where he reviews a Classic Monster Movie from Universal Pictures from its Classic Monster Movie era of 1931 to 1947. During this month, I have explored Universal Pictures inspired by stories from Edgar Allen Poe. I want to end Classic Monster Movie Month by returning, if not to the source, to the original – the first Universal Picture, Dracula.

Classic monster movies have long captivated audiences with thrilling plots, iconic characters, and spine-chilling moments. However, beyond the scares and special effects, these films often contain deeper themes that explore ethical implications and leadership. In this episode of “Popcorn and Compliance,” Tom Fox is joined by Richard Lummis as they focus on the Universal Pictures classic monster movie “Dracula” and the valuable insights it provides for the compliance professional in branding and leadership.

The intriguing concept of Dracula as a model for compliance positioning, branding, and leadership is not as far-fetched as it may initially seem. The iconic character of Dracula, with his unique attributes and successful brand relaunch, offers valuable insights into these critical business aspects. Tom Fox, a seasoned business strategist, parallels Dracula’s strategies and successful business practices. He emphasizes the importance of unique positioning, defining a compelling brand, and effective leadership, drawing from Dracula’s aristocratic personality, mystery, and unique alter ego. Fox’s perspective is shaped by his extensive experience in business strategy and his keen ability to draw insightful lessons from unconventional sources. Join Tom Fox in this fascinating exploration of Dracula’s business strategies in the latest episode of the Popcorn and Compliance podcast.

Key Highlights:

Standing Out Like Dracula: Creating Unique Offerings
The Enduring Power of Dracula's Brand
Embracing Dracula's Strategic Branding for Success
Leadership Lessons from Dracula

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Monster Movie Month – The Raven

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0000

Tom Fox is back with his Classic Monster Movie Month, where he reviews a Classic Monster Movie from Universal Pictures from its Classic Monster Movie era of 1931 to 1947. This year, I want to look at some of the lesser-known movies and mine them for leadership and ethical lessons. We continue our journey of Edgar Allen Poe-themed movies with the 1934 Bela Lugosi and Boris Karloff class The Raven.

Classic monster movies have long captivated audiences with thrilling plots, iconic characters, and spine-chilling moments. However, beyond the scares and special effects, these films often contain deeper themes that explore ethical implications and leadership. In this episode of "Popcorn and Compliance," Tom Fox focuses on the Universal Pictures classic monster movie "The Black Cat" and the valuable insights it provides into ethical decision-making and leadership.

"The Raven" is a film that delves into the dark side of power and manipulation, particularly in positions of authority. The main character, Dr. Richard Vollen, uses his influence to manipulate others into committing unethical acts, demonstrating the corrupting influence of power. The film is a cautionary tale emphasizing the importance of ethical conduct, empathy, and compassion in leadership. It also highlights the value of effective team dynamics in achieving common goals and fostering a positive work environment, including collaboration, open communication, and mutual respect.

It's important to note that "The Raven" is a horror film, and the ethical and leadership examples presented are largely negative and cautionary. However, they serve as reminders of leaders' challenges, such as the temptation of power, the consequences of obsession, and the continuing need for ethical decision-making, even in dire direst consequences.

In conclusion, "The Raven" provides a thought-provoking analysis of power, manipulation, and ethics in leadership. It highlights the importance of ethical conduct, empathy, and compassion in positions of authority. The film serves as a cautionary tale, reminding leaders of the tradeoffs involved in balancing different factors and the challenges associated with different approaches. By considering the impact on others and upholding ethical standards, leaders can navigate the complexities of power and manipulation while fostering a positive and ethical work environment.

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Monster Movie Month – The Black Cat

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0000

Tom Fox is back with his Classic Monster Movie Month, where he reviews a classic monster movie from Universal Pictures from its classic monster movie era of 1931 to 1947. This year, I want to take a look at some of the lesser-known movies and mine them for both leadership and ethical lessons. We continue our journey of Edgar Allen Poe-themed movies with the 1934 Bela Lugosi and Boris Karloff film The Black Cat.

Classic monster movies have long captivated audiences with their thrilling plots, iconic characters, and spine-chilling moments. However, beyond the scares and special effects, these films often contain deeper themes that explore ethical implications and leadership. In this episode of "Popcorn and Compliance," Tom Fox focuses on the Universal Pictures classic monster movie "The Black Cat" and the valuable insights it provides into ethical decision-making.

"The Black Cat" delves into a variety of ethical dilemmas and explores themes such as revenge, respect for others' beliefs, avoiding harm, empathy, accountability, and the danger of blind obedience. While the film is known for its eerie and gruesome content, it offers a unique perspective on the complexities of ethical decision-making and the consequences of our actions.

One of the key takeaways from "The Black Cat" is the reminder that ethical dilemmas can arise even in the most extreme circumstances. The characters in the film find themselves in horrifying and morally ambiguous situations, highlighting the difficult decisions that leaders may face in real life. Leaders must carefully consider moral principles and navigate complex situations with integrity.

The film also serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive consequences of revenge. The pursuit of revenge by the characters in "The Black Cat" leads to a series of tragic events, emphasizing the importance of letting go of vengeful feelings and seeking peaceful resolutions. This theme reminds us of the potential harm that can come from harboring negative emotions and the need to consider the long-term consequences of our actions.

While "The Black Cat" may not have been primarily intended to convey ethical lessons, it offers valuable insights into ethical decision-making and leadership. Tom Fox, the host of "Popcorn and Compliance," encourages viewers to watch the movie and draw their own lessons from this classic Universal monster movie.

In conclusion, classic monster movies like "The Black Cat" provide a unique lens through which to explore ethical implications and leadership. By examining the ethical dilemmas, consequences of revenge, respect for others' beliefs, avoiding harm, empathy, accountability, and the danger of blind obedience depicted in these films, viewers can gain valuable insights into ethical decision-making and leadership. As compliance professionals, it is essential to consider the impact of our actions and make ethical choices that prioritize the well-being of others. So, grab some popcorn, watch "The Black Cat," and discover the ethical lessons hidden within this classic monster movie.

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Monster Movie Month – Murders in Rue Morgue

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0000

Tom Fox is back with his Classic Monster Movie Month, where he reviews a Classic Monster Movie from Universal Pictures from its Classic Monster Movie era of 1931 to 1947. This year, I want to take a look at some of the lesser-known movies and mine them for both leadership and ethical lessons. We begin our journey with the 1932 Bela Lugosi class Murders in Rue Morgue.

The movie “Murders in the Rue Morgue” is a classic horror film that delves into the themes of consent, personal autonomy, and ethics. It tells the story of Dr. Mirakle, a mad scientist who conducts experiments on kidnapped women without their consent. This raises important questions about the disastrous consequences of disregarding individual rights for personal or scientific pursuits.

The film serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the dangers of unchecked power and the potential for abuse. Dr. Mirakle’s blind obsession with proving his theory leads him to commit heinous acts, demonstrating the importance of leaders remaining balanced, open-minded, and willing to change their course of action based on new information or evidence.

One of the key ethical concerns raised in the movie is the exploitation of vulnerable populations. Dr. Mirakle specifically targets women whom he believes society won’t miss, prompting reflection on the morality of exploiting those who are already marginalized. This raises important questions about the ethical implications of using vulnerable individuals for personal or scientific gains.

The film also touches on the importance of consent and personal autonomy. Dr. Mirakle’s kidnapping and experimentation of unsuspecting individuals grossly violate the principle of consent and infringe upon their autonomy. Every individual has the right to control what happens to their own body, and this film serves as a stark reminder of the importance of respecting those rights.

Furthermore, “Murders in the Rue Morgue” raises questions about the limits of science. While science and research are crucial for human advancement, there are ethical boundaries that should never be crossed. Dr. Mirakle’s actions demonstrate the disastrous consequences that arise when someone disregards the sanctity of life in pursuit of personal or scientific objectives.

The film also explores the themes of responsibility for one’s actions and the questioning of morality versus legality. Dr. Mirakle faces consequences for his unethical practices, highlighting the idea that actions have repercussions and that individuals must be held accountable for their deeds. It also emphasizes the difference between what is legal and what is ethical, prompting viewers to consider the importance of aligning their actions with their moral compass.

In addition to these ethical considerations, the film offers leadership lessons. The protagonist, Pierre Dupont, exemplifies courage in adversity, questioning authority, and understanding team motivations. He bravely pursues the truth and saves his fiancé, demonstrating the importance of leaders being prepared to face challenges head-on and take risks when necessary to achieve their objectives and protect their team.

Overall, “Murders in the Rue Morgue” is a thought-provoking film that raises important ethical questions about consent, personal autonomy, and the limits of science. It serves as a reminder of the disastrous consequences that can arise when individual rights are disregarded for personal or scientific pursuits. The film prompts reflection on morality, science, and the importance of considering the impact on others when making decisions about consent, personal autonomy, and ethics.

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The Mandalorian, Season 3-Episode 8, The Return

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0000

Tom Fox and Jay Rosen are back with a special summer season of Popcorn and Compliance. In this special series, Tom and Jay will review the Mandalorian, Season 3. The Mandalorian, a popular series in the Star Wars universe, has captivated audiences with its unique blend of action, adventure, and lore. Get ready for a ton of fun, insights and all things Grogu and Mandalorian. So, buckle up and get ready for an exhilarating journey! Today, we conclude our series with Episode 8-The Return.

The Mandalorian Season Three finale has left fans buzzing with excitement and anticipation for what's to come. In the latest episode of the podcast "Popcorn and Compliance," hosts Tom Fox and Jay Rosen delve into the key factors that impact the discussion and speculation surrounding the finale. From the epic battle scenes to the future of the series, they explore the tradeoffs and challenges associated with different approaches.

One of the main points of discussion is the powerful stormtroopers revealed to be clones. Jay Rosen highlights the surprise from a canon perspective, noting that the stormtroopers in the final trilogy were not as formidable. This revelation adds an intriguing layer to the story and raises questions about the Empire's capabilities during this time period.

The hosts also touch upon the crucial role of Grogu in Dinjardin’s escape. Grogu's abilities and potential as a Jedi are a topic of speculation. Jay suggests the possibility of a hybrid skill set, where Grogu combines his natural talents with Mandalorian training. This opens exciting possibilities for the character's development in future seasons.

The evolution of the series is another aspect discussed by Tom and Jay. They reflect on how the focus has shifted from the relationship between Dinjardin and Grogu to the broader Mandalorian culture and its return to prominence. This shift in narrative direction has been well-received by fans and has allowed for the introduction of new characters like Bo Katan and Asako.

The hosts also explore the potential consequences of Grogu's choice in the final scene. Tom speculates that Grogu's decision to eat the frog may have unforeseen repercussions. This leaves fans eagerly awaiting the next season to see how this choice plays out and what it means for Grogu's character development.

Balancing the different factors in the discussion and speculation surrounding the Mandalorian Season Three finale is no easy task. The podcast hosts provide an objective analysis while acknowledging the excitement and anticipation of the fanbase. They highlight the importance of considering the impact on the overall story and character arcs when making decisions about the direction of the series.

In conclusion, the discussion and speculation surrounding the Mandalorian Season 3 finale have captivated fans and sparked excitement for what's to come. The podcast episode featuring Tom and Jay provide a comprehensive analysis of the key factors at play. From the powerful stormtroopers to Grogu's role and the evolution of the series, they delve into the tradeoffs and challenges involved in balancing different elements. As fans eagerly await the next season, the importance of considering the impact on the story and characters remains paramount.

Both Fox and Rosen gained these insights through their extensive experience in analyzing and reviewing films and TV shows. If you're interested in hearing more about their unique perspectives, join Tom Fox and Jay Rosen on the Popcorn and Compliance podcast.

This is The Way!

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The Mandalorian, Season 3-Episode 7, Spies

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0000

For Jay one of the standout moments in this episode was the introduction of IG Twelve, a reassembled droid sheriff who provided comedic relief alongside the adorable Grogu. This unexpected pairing brought a lightheartedness to the otherwise intense narrative, showcasing the show's ability to balance different tones and genres.

The episode also delved deeper into the imperial conspiracies that have been brewing throughout the series. We learned about the Shadow Council, a group of Imperial warlords led by Moff Gideon, who are determined to prevent the Mandalorians from reclaiming their home planet of Mandalore. Moff Gideon's plan to create a new clone army using Mandalore poses a significant threat to the New Republic, adding a layer of complexity to the story.

The battle on Mandalore was a pivotal moment in the episode, revealing a conspiracy within the Empire and introducing new characters. Bo Katan, a key figure in the Mandalorian resistance, admitted her past mistakes and faced the consequences of Moff Gideon's betrayal. This moment showcased her growth as a character and highlighted the importance of unity among her people.

The episode ended on a cliffhanger, leaving viewers eagerly anticipating the final episode of the season. This narrative technique has become a trademark of the Mandalorian series, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats and fueling speculation about what will happen next.

Tom and Jay discussed the tradeoffs involved in balancing different factors, such as the comedic moments with IG Twelve and Grogu, and the serious imperial conspiracies. They also explored the challenges associated with different approaches, such as the need to maintain a cohesive narrative while introducing new characters and plotlines.

The importance of considering the impact on the overall story was a recurring theme in the podcast episode. Tom highlighted the significance of Moff Gideon's plan to rebuild a clone army, which could potentially overthrow the New Republic. This revelation added depth to the imperial conspiracies and raised the stakes for the Mandalorian resistance. The hosts also touched on the technological advancements showcased in the episode, such as the new fighters. They pondered whether these fighters were manned or unmanned, adding an element of intrigue to the already action-packed storyline.

As the season approaches its finale, the podcast hosts expressed their excitement and anticipation for what lies ahead. They emphasized the importance of setting up the audience for a satisfying conclusion and hinted at the possibility of unexpected twists and turns in the final episode.

The Mandalorian series continues to captivate audiences with its blend of imperial conspiracies, droid comedy, and cliffhangers. With each episode, the story becomes more intricate, the characters more complex, and the stakes higher. As fans eagerly await the final episode of the season, the anticipation for what lies ahead is palpable.

This is The Way!

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The Mandalorian, Season 3-Episode 6, Guns for Hire

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0000

Tom Fox and Jay Rosen are back with a special season of Popcorn and Compliance. In this special series, Tom and Jay will review the Mandalorian, Season 3. The Mandalorian, a popular series in the Star Wars universe, has captivated audiences with its unique blend of action, adventure, and lore. Get ready for a ton of fun, insights and all things Grogu and Mandalorian. So, buckle up and get ready for an exhilarating journey!

The Mandalorian episode titled "Guns for Higher Order" has generated quite a buzz among fans of the popular series. This episode featured guest stars Jack Black and Lizzo, who brought their comedic talents to the show, adding excitement and creativity to the storyline. The highlight of the episode was a game of Space Croquet, where the chemistry between Jack Black and Lizzo was on full display. Jack Black, known for his physical comedy, brought his larger-than-life persona to the show, delivering a performance that was over the top and entertaining. Lizzo, on the other hand, showcased her musical talents and added a unique flavor to the episode. The creative teaming of these two celebrities brought a fresh and exciting dynamic to the show.

Tom and Jay took a deep dive into an interesting revelation about droids in the Star Wars universe. It was revealed that droids can have political affiliations and can even be separatists, challenging the notion of their neutrality. This added complexity to the narrative and raised questions about the role of droids in the Star Wars universe.

The revelation about droids being able to have political affiliations was a surprising twist in the episode. In the Star Wars universe, droids have traditionally been portrayed as apolitical entities, serving their masters without any personal agenda. However, this episode challenged that notion and introduced the idea that droids can have their own beliefs and allegiances. This added complexity to the narrative and raised interesting questions about the role of droids in the Star Wars universe.

The episode also explored the concept of leadership and the passing of the Darksaber. Din Jardin told the story of how Bo Katan saved his life, which allowed her to assume leadership despite not winning the Darksaber in battle. This showcased the internal code and honor system within the Mandalorian culture, where saving someone's life can grant certain rights and privileges.

While the episode may have been seen by some as a filler episode, it still provided valuable insights into the characters and advanced the overall storyline. The inclusion of misbehaving robots and their discovery of co-opted programming added an element of mystery and intrigue to the episode.

In conclusion, the Mandalorian Bake Off episode featuring Jack Black, Lizzo, and the droid controversy has provided fans with an entertaining and thought-provoking installment of the series. The comedic chemistry between the guest stars added excitement and creativity to the show, while the revelation about droids challenged traditional notions of their neutrality.

This is The Way!

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The Mandalorian, Season 3-Episode 5, The Pirate

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0000

Welcome back to our podcast series, where we dive into the latest episode of the Mandalorian, Season 3, Episode 5, entitled "The Pirate." One of the key elements that have caught the attention of viewers and critics alike is the use of jetpacks and beskar alloy, both of which hold significant cultural and strategic value for the Mandalorians. Tom emphasizes the deeper meaning and significance of these elements, highlighting how they are not just cool gadgets but integral parts of the Mandalorian culture and storyline. On the other hand, Jay Rosen appreciates the visual appeal and narrative impact of these elements, praising the show's attention to detail and the way it weaves these elements into the larger Star Wars universe.

The episode also introduced the concept of beskar alloy, a material of great importance in the Mandalorian universe. In "Breadcrumbs for Future Episodes," the discovery of beskar alloy in Moff Gideon's transport sets the stage for future plot developments. Beskar alloy is a highly durable and valuable material that holds great significance for the Mandalorians. It is not only used to create their iconic armor but also represents their cultural heritage and identity.

Beskar alloy is not just a material; it is a symbol of resilience and unity for the Mandalorians. The Mandalorian armor, forged from beskar, serves as a physical representation of their strength and commitment to their way of life. The importance of beskar alloy is further emphasized by the fact that it was found in Moff Gideon's possession, hinting at his connection to the Mandalorian culture and the potential conflicts that may arise in future episodes.

The episode also touches upon the indifference of the New Republic towards protecting planets on the Outer Rim. This highlights the challenges faced by those living on the fringes of the galaxy and the importance of self-reliance for survival. The Mandalorians, with their strong sense of community and willingness to protect others, step in to fill the void left by the New Republic.

The use of jetpacks and the significance of beskar alloy in The Mandalorian demonstrate the careful balance between practicality and symbolism. The jetpacks provide the Mandalorians with a tactical advantage in combat, while beskar alloy represents their cultural heritage and resilience. These elements not only enhance the action and storytelling in the series but also add depth to the Mandalorian culture and its characters.

The episode showcases the importance of unity and resilience in the face of adversity. The Mandalorians' use of jetpacks and their connection to beskar alloy highlight their resourcefulness and commitment to their way of life. As the series progresses, it will be fascinating to see how these elements continue to shape the narrative and the characters' journeys.

This is The Way!

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he Mandalorian, Season 3 – Episode 4, The Foundling

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0000

Tom Fox and Jay Rosen are back with a special summer season of Popcorn and Compliance. In this special series, Tom and Jay will review The Mandalorian, Season 3. Get ready for a ton of fun, insights, and all things Grogu and Mandalorian. So buckle up and get ready for an exhilarating journey!

In this edition, we dive into Episode 4, “The Foundling”. In this episode, Tom and Jay witness the impressive growth of a character named Grogu and the evolution of Bo-Katan as a leader within the Covert and Mandalorian communities. This episode brings thrilling combat scenes, thought-provoking themes, and a significant moment that leaves us eager for more. Join us as Tom and Jay dissect the highlights and delve into the data-driven insights behind the fourth episode of season three.

“The Foundling” episode of The Mandalorian’s third season delves into the development of Grogu, the adorable puppet character, and explores the militaristic aspect of Mandalorian culture. Director Carl Weathers showcases Bo Katan’s fierce leadership and establishes Din Djarin as a member of the Mandalorian Covert through a rescue mission. The symbolism of the Mandalorian emblem, the mythosaur, is also examined as Bo-Katan attaches a piece to her armor, signifying her victory over or control over the creature.

Tom and Jay discuss Grogu’s visions, the evolving narrative of the show, and the portrayal of women, particularly Bo-Katan’s growth as a warrior and leader. Overall, the episode highlights the growth of Grogu, the exploration of Mandalorian culture, the symbolism of the mythosaur emblem, and the portrayal of strong female characters in media.

The development of Grogu, the solidification of Bo-Katan’s leadership, and the exploration of themes surrounding machismo and expectations all contribute to the richness of this episode. The attachment of the mythosaur emblem to Bo-Katan’s armor is a powerful symbol of her dominance and leadership. Join us in our next podcast as we delve into episode five, titled “The Pirate,” and continue unraveling the captivating world of “The Foundling.”

Remember, leadership can take many forms, and embracing diversity and inclusion within our lives is essential. Let’s continue to learn from the characters in “The Foundling” and apply these insights to our journeys.

This is The Way!

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The Mandalorian, Season 3 - Episode 3, The Convert

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0000

Tom Fox and Jay Rosen are back with a special summer season of Popcorn and Compliance. In this special series, Tom and Jay will review the Mandalorian, Season 3. Get ready for a ton of fun, insights and all things Grogu and Mandalorian. So, buckle up and get ready for an exhilarating journey!

"The Convert," the third episode of The Mandalorian's third season, takes viewers on a captivating journey through a dystopian world and introduces intriguing new characters. With futuristic visuals akin to Ridley Scott's style, the episode focuses on the plight of Dr. Pershing, a doctor forced to continue his cloning experiments. Themes of liberation and hope shine through as characters navigate a challenging environment, but it becomes evident that Dr. Pershing's fate is not a favorable one.

Tom and Jay explore the complexities of the New Republic, questioning its true nature compared to the Empire. Former Imperial soldiers and scientists add depth to the narrative, and the origins of the First Republic are explored, filling in a plot hole in the Star Wars movie universe. Engaging conversations between Tom and Jay delve into the larger Star Wars universe, discussing the New Republic's incomplete dismantling of the Empire's structures and the introduction of a character named Ilya Kane, who may have hidden motives.

In another episode, redemption and the significance of the mythosaur symbol in Mandalorian culture are revealed, while conversations between Tom and Rosen explore the religious cult of Mandalore and its role in preserving cultural identity and providing solace in times of displacement.

Our conversation wouldn't be complete without a sneak peek into the upcoming fourth episode of season three, titled "The Foundling." As we eagerly await its release, we can't help but speculate on the mysteries it holds and the revelations it will bring. Will we finally uncover the truth behind the Mandalorian religion? Only time will tell!

In this episode, we were treated to a dystopian science fiction experience filled with plot twists, character development, and intriguing revelations. The exploration of cloning, the portrayal of the religious cult of Mandalore, and the setup of conflict and resolution for the rest of the series left us yearning for more. As we eagerly anticipate the next episode, we can't help but appreciate the attention to detail, the filling of plot holes, and the seamless progression of the story. So, fellow fans, stay tuned, and may the force be with you until our next adventure together!

This is The Way!

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Popcorn and Compliance: The Mandalorian, Season 3 - Episode 2, The Mines of Mandalore

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0000

Welcome back, fellow "The Mandalorian" enthusiasts! In this blog post, we'll be diving deep into the plot and themes of "The Mines of Mandalore," an episode that takes us on an exhilarating journey alongside our beloved protagonist, Dinjardin. Get ready for a thrilling adventure filled with comedic encounters, unexpected alliances, and thought-provoking messages. So, grab your helmets and let's explore the intricacies of this captivating episode!

In this episode, Tom and Jay delve into the key components and events of The Mandalorian episode. The discussion centers around the quest of the main character, Dinjardin, as he seeks the waters and atmosphere below Mandalore, despite being warned by Bo Katan that the planet is poisoned. Along his journey, Dinjardin encounters a malfunctioning IG unit and a comedic repair shop owner played by Amy Sederis.

They dive into the significance of the IG unit's malfunction and the confusion surrounding a scene where Dinjardin jumps into healing waters. They speculate about the meaning of a Mythosaur seen by Bo Katan in the water. The episode's ecological message, depicting the destruction of Mandalore as a climate disaster caused by nuclear war, is also discussed. The strained relationship between Mandalorians and Jedi is explored, with references to their past interactions. Overall, the conversation offers insights into the episode's plot and character development, while addressing speculative elements.

This is The Way!

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The Mandalorian, Season 3-Episode 1, The Apostate

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0000

Tom and Jay begin by discussing the long gap between seasons and the main character's journey after losing his Mandalorian status. The hosts praise John Favreau's stewardship of the series, which strikes a balance between nostalgia and innovation within the Star Wars universe. They appreciate Favreau's ability to create different adventures and storylines while paying homage to the franchise's roots. The conversation also touches on the artwork in each episode, suggesting the idea of a coffee table book featuring stills and drawings. The use of archetypes in Western films is explored, highlighting their importance in storytelling and their presence in "The Mandalorian." The hosts express admiration for Favreau's work and discuss plot developments in the series.

Initial thoughts on "The Apostate" episode
John Favreau's Stewardship
Impressions of Jon Favreau's Work
Archetypes in Westerns

This is The Way!

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TNG-Best of Both Worlds

Sat, 28 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0000

In this podcast series, two complete MCU fans, Tom Fox, founder of the Compliance Podcast Network, and Megan Dougherty, co-founder of One Stone Creative, indulge in a passion for all things in the Marvel Cinematic Universe by re-watching each movie and then podcasting on every movie in the MCU. If you want to indulge in your love for the MCU with two fans passionate about all things MCU, this is the podcast series for you. Today, we take things in a very different direction as we review the greatest Star Trek, Next Generation episode, The Best of Both Worlds, Parts 1 & 2. Some of the areas for discussion include

Riker and Command
Shelby wants Riker’s job and her expertise in the Borg
Wolf 359-destruction of the fleet
Capture of Picard
Locutus of Borg
Riker’s order to fire
Picard’s Knowledge assimilated by the Borg
Guinan’s message to Riker
Recapture of Picard
Defeat of Borg
How to pick up the pieces when all appears lost-Wolf 359 battle aftermath
The final defeat of Borg-Megan to take the lead
Final thoughts

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Leadership Lessons from Out of Africa

Sat, 12 Nov 2022 05:00:00 -0000

Richard Lummis and I are back. Today, continue our review of Oscar winning Best Pictures and the leadership lessons drawn from them. In this episode we consider the movie Out of Africa.

Highlights of this podcast include:

What are our favorites scenes from the movie?
What are the leadership lessons from Karen Blixen?
What are the leadership lessons from Denys Finch Hatton?
Is your business resilient?
Culture outside the US?
Do these lessons from this movie hold up today?

Resources

Leadership Lessons from Out of Africa

Study Guide to Out of Africa

A Historian Goes to the Movies

Out of Africa – 10 Inspirational Quotes from Karen Blixen

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Leadership Lessons from Gladiator

Sat, 05 Nov 2022 04:00:00 -0000

Richard Lummis and Tom Fox continue their review of Best Picture-winning movies and draw leadership lessons from them. It is also a way to watch some great movies and garner some leadership lessons. In this episode, we consider the movie Gladiator. Highlights include:

Movie Storyline
Favorites Scenes
Life Lessons
Business Leadership Lessons
Maximus’ Relationships

Resources

8 Virtues of Gladiator Leadership

5 Powerful Life Lessons from Gladiator

Six Leadership Lessons from Gladiator

Down to Business: Seven leadership lessons from Maximus

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Compliance Lessons from Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

Sat, 29 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0000

I have always loved the classic Universal monster movies from the 1930’s. This month I am exploring one movie each week to mine it for leadership and compliance lessons. For our final entry in this short series on Popcorn and Compliance, I look at the 1931 version of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, starring Fredric March, who plays a possessed doctor who tests his new formula that can unleash people's inner demons. The film is an adaptation of The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, the 1886 Robert Louis Stevenson tale of a man who takes a potion which turns him from a mild-mannered man of science into a homicidal maniac. The film was a critical and commercial success upon its release. Nominated for three Academy Awards, March won the award for Best Actor. We consider some of the lessons for the compliance professional around moral licensing and ego depletion and time of day in a risk management regime.

Resources

Why Bosses can be Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

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Leadership Lessons from the Island of Lost Souls

Sat, 22 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0000

I have always loved the classic Universal monster movies from the 1930’s. This month I am exploring one movie each week to mine it for leadership and compliance lessons. For this first entry in this short series on Popcorn and Compliance, I look at the original Island of Lost Souls is a 1932 American pre-Code science-fiction horror film, and the first sound film adaptation of H. G. Wells' 1896 novel The Island of Dr. Moreau. The film was directed by Erle C. Kenton, from a script co-written by science fiction author Philip Wylie. It stars Charles Laughton, Richard Arlen, Leila Hyams, Bela Lugosi, and Kathleen Burke. The plot centers on a remote South Pacific island where mad scientist, Dr. Moreau, secretly conducts experiments to accelerate evolution in plants and animals, with horrific consequences. Featuring depictions of cruelty, animal-human hybrids, and irreligious ideas, the release of Island of Lost Souls was embroiled in controversy. Banned in some countries for decades, Island of Lost Souls has become an influential film and has acquired cult film status.

Resources

Island of Lost Souls Review

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Leadership Lessons from The Wolfman

Sat, 15 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0000

I have always loved the classic Universal monster movies from the 1930’s. This month I am exploring one movie each week to mine it for leadership and compliance lessons. For this first entry in this short series on Popcorn and Compliance, I look at the original 1941 version of The Wolfman, which starred Lon Chaney Jr as the Wolfman. Chaney embued the Monster with great pathos and in this podcast I explore some of the dichotomies found in the movie, which I believe move beyond simply good v. evil. Some of the supporting roles of Claude Rains as Laurency Talbot’s father, Bela Lugosi as the werewolf who attacks Chaney and Maria Ouspenskaya as Maleva, the mother of the original werewolf, who is an empathic and wise character that provides guidance, comprehension and comfort to the others. The movie is very atmospheric and a ton of fun.

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Leadership Lessons from Count Dracula

Sat, 08 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Popcorn and Compliance, Tom Fox explores one movie each week from the classic Universal monster movies 1930s to mine it for leadership and compliance lessons this month. For this second entry in this short series, Tom and Richard Lummis join forces to explore the 1931 movie, Dracula. Count Dracula is one of the four classic Universal Pictures movie monsters from the 1930s; including the Wolfman, the Mummy and Frankenstein’s Monster. What sets him apart from these other three? In particular what is the Dracula brand? Is it fanged teeth and a black cape? Is it the signature Bela Lugosi voice? Is it a bat? In this episode, Richard Lummis and I explore branding for business leaders and discuss the lessons a 21st century business leader can learn from a 1930s movie character.

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Leadership Lessons from Dr. Frankenstein

Sat, 01 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0000

I have always loved the classic Universal monster movies from the 1930’s. This month I am exploring one movie each week to mine it for leadership and compliance lessons. For this first entry in this short series on Popcorn and Compliance, I look at the original 1931 version of Mary Shelley’s seminal work, Frankenstein, which starred Boris Karloff as the Monster. Karloff embued the Monster with great pathos but in this podcast I want to consider the leadership lessons of Dr. Victor Frankenstein or really the lack of leadership by the good doctor which led to the deaths of a small child, his brother and the rape of his wife-to-be on her wedding day. Of course it also led to the unleashing of his Monster, technically called Frankenstein’s Monster, upon the movie going world for years to come.

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Leadership Lessons from Chariots of Fire

Sat, 10 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0000

Richard Lummis and Tom Fox are back with another review of an Oscar-winning Best Picture movie with an eye towards the leadership lessons that might be drawn from them. It is a great way to honor the Oscars, rewatch some great old movies and garner some interesting perspectives on leadership. We continue that tradition as we are back with more leadership lessons from Oscar-winning Best Picture movies and today’s offering is the 1981 film Chariots of Fire.

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Leadership Lessons from The Last Emperor

Sat, 03 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0000

We continue our look at Oscar-winning Best Pictures and consider the leadership lessons we can glean from our viewing. In this episode, Richard Lummis and I take at the 1987 Best Picture winning film, The Last Emperor. Some of the highlights were: This was the first movie shot in the Forbidden City; How does one lead in an era or region of different values and different cultures? Are the trappings of your power as a business leader only that, mere trappings? If so what does this mean? How does your company do business outside the US? and Why does even the best leader sometimes need to bring in an outside expert to assist?

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No Country for Old Men

Sat, 27 Aug 2022 04:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Popcorn and Compliance, Richard Lummis and Tom Fox take at the 2007 Best Picture-winning film, No Country for Old Men. Some of the highlights were: (1) One of the key themes of the movie is the tension between destiny and self-determination; (2) What have been the changes in law enforcement in the former wild west? (3) What does enforcing laws on the former frontier mean? (4) Crime has changed and become more sophisticated. The regulator and enforcers must also change, and (5) What happens when a hero or business leader grows old?

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The Sting

Sat, 20 Aug 2022 04:00:00 -0000

In this episode of Popcorn and Compliance, Richard Lummis and Tom Fox take at the 1973 Best Picture winning film, The Sting. Some of the highlights were: (1) Best Costume Design Oscar to Edith Head was key reason for the film’s success; (2) How many red flags did Doyle Lonnegan miss involving Gondorff and Hooker? (3) How did Marvin Hamlisch’s interpretation of Scott Joplin enhance the movie? (4) The script was discovered in an agent’s ‘slush pile’ of unread scripts; and (5) How can a leader use the talent and resources available to him or her to achieve a goal?

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Casablanca

Sat, 13 Aug 2022 04:00:00 -0000

Richard Lummis and Tom Fox are back to look at one of the very all-time greats, Casablanca. Highlights of this podcast include:

What are our favorites scenes from the movie?
What is the world view from Casablanca, including actions and behaviors, values and belief systems and stories of life?
What are the leadership lessons from the nobility of Rick Blaine?
What can you learn from one of the movie’s greatest lovers?
How does compassion help in leadership?
Do these lessons hold up today?

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Rocky

Sat, 06 Aug 2022 04:00:00 -0000

Richard Lummis and I are back to look at leadership lessons from one of the very all-time boxing movies, Rocky. Highlights of this podcast include:

What are our favorites scenes from the movie? No one knows anything; you owe yourself, get the work done, and we are all underdogs.
What are the leadership lessons from Rocky Balboa? Repetition will make you great; tech can be a great business advantage but never forget the human element and practice for the worst.
What are the leadership lessons from Apollo Creed? The mind is the greatest muscle; pay attention to those behind you.
What are the leadership lessons from Rocky’s trainer Mick?
What is the leadership lesson from the boxing ring? Go the distance and think long term; it’s not about how hard you punch but how hard a punch you can take and go back into the ring when it’s the toughest.
Do these lessons hold up today?

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Schindler’s List

Sat, 30 Jul 2022 04:00:00 -0000

In this edition of Popcorn and Compliance, Richard Lummis and Tom Fox review the Best Picture-winning movie Schindler’s List. Highlights include:

Movie Storyline
How did it make you feel?
Leadership Lessons
Ethical Lessons
Servant Leadership
Final Thoughts on the Banality of Evil
Shoah and Schindler’s list

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MCU Series - Avengers-End Game

Sat, 18 Jun 2022 04:00:00 -0000

In this podcast series, two complete MCU fans, Tom Fox, founder of the Compliance Podcast Network, and Megan Dougherty, co-founder of One Stone Creative, indulge in a passion for all things in the Marvel Cinematic Universe by re-watching each movie and then podcasting on every movie in the MCU. If you want to indulge in your love for the MCU with two fans passionate about all things MCU, this is the podcast series for you. For this offering, we consider MCU Series Avengers-End Game.

Some of the highlights include:

Ø The story synopsis.

Ø What are the key plot points?

Ø What were some of our favorite cookies?

Ø How does this movie fit into the overall MCU?

Ø How is this movie an homage to prior non-MCU movies?

**Next up in our series Avengers-Wandavision**

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MCU Series - Avengers-Infinity War

Sat, 11 Jun 2022 04:00:00 -0000

In this podcast series, two complete MCU fans, Tom Fox, founder of the Compliance Podcast Network, and Megan Dougherty, co-founder of One Stone Creative, indulge in a passion for all things in the Marvel Cinematic Universe by re-watching each movie and then podcasting on every movie in the MCU. If you want to indulge in your love for the MCU with two fans passionate about all things MCU, this is the podcast series for you. For this offering, we consider MCU Series Avengers-Infinity War.

Some of the highlights include:

Ø The story synopsis.

Ø What are the key plot points?

Ø What were some of our favorite cookies?

Ø How does this movie fit into the overall MCU?

Ø How is this movie an homage to prior non-MCU movies?

**Next up in our series Avengers-End Game**

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MCU Series - Antman and the Wasp

Sat, 28 May 2022 04:00:00 -0000

In this podcast series, two complete MCU fans, Tom Fox, founder of the Compliance Podcast Network, and Megan Dougherty, co-founder of One Stone Creative, indulge in a passion for all things in the Marvel Cinematic Universe by re-watching each movie and then podcasting on every movie in the MCU. If you want to indulge in your love for the MCU with two fans passionate about all things MCU, this is the podcast series for you. For this offering, we consider MCU Series -Antman and the Wasp.

Some of the highlights include:

Ø The story synopsis.

Ø What are the key plot points?

Ø What were some of our favorite cookies?

Ø How does this movie fit into the overall MCU?

Ø How is this movie an homage to prior non-MCU movies?

**Next up in our series Avengers-Infinity War**

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MCU Series - Thor, Ragnarok

Sat, 21 May 2022 04:00:00 -0000

In this podcast series, two complete MCU fans, Tom Fox, founder of the Compliance Podcast Network, and Megan Dougherty, co-founder of One Stone Creative, indulge in a passion for all things in the Marvel Cinematic Universe by re-watching each movie and then podcasting on every movie in the MCU. If you want to indulge in your love for the MCU with two fans passionate about all things MCU, this is the podcast series for you. For this offering, we consider MCU Series - Thor - Ragnarok.

Some of the highlights include:

Ø The story synopsis.

Ø What are the key plot points?

Ø What were some of our favorite cookies?

Ø How does this movie fit into the overall MCU?

Ø How is this movie an homage to prior non-MCU movies?

**Next up in our series-Antman and the Wasp**

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MCU Series - Dr. Strange

Wed, 11 May 2022 04:00:00 -0000

In this podcast series, two complete MCU fans, Tom Fox, founder of the Compliance Podcast Network, and Megan Dougherty, co-founder of One Stone Creative, indulge in a passion for all things in the Marvel Cinematic Universe by re-watching each movie and then podcasting on every movie in the MCU. If you want to indulge in your love for the MCU with two fans passionate about all things MCU, this is the podcast series for you. For this offering, we consider MCU Series - Dr. Strange.

Some of the highlights include:

Ø The story synopsis.

Ø What are the key plot points?

Ø What were some of our favorite cookies?

Ø How does this movie fit into the overall MCU?

Ø How is this movie an homage to prior non-MCU movies?

**Next up in our series Thor-Ragnarok**

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MCU Seris - Spiderman-Homecoming

Sat, 07 May 2022 04:00:00 -0000

In this podcast series, two complete MCU fans, Tom Fox, founder of the Compliance Podcast Network, and Megan Dougherty, co-founder of One Stone Creative, indulge in a passion for all things in the Marvel Cinematic Universe by re-watching each movie and then podcasting on every movie in the MCU. If you want to indulge in your love for the MCU with two fans passionate about all things MCU, this is the podcast series for you. For this offering, we consider MCU Series - Spiderman-Homecoming.

Some of the highlights include:

Ø The story synopsis.

Ø What are the key plot points?

Ø What were some of our favorite cookies?

Ø How does this movie fit into the overall MCU?

Ø How is this movie an homage to prior non-MCU movies?

**Next up in our series Dr. Strange**

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MCU Series - Black Panther

Sat, 23 Apr 2022 04:00:00 -0000

In this podcast series, two complete MCU fans, Tom Fox, founder of the Compliance Podcast Network, and Megan Dougherty, co-founder of One Stone Creative, indulge in a passion for all things in the Marvel Cinematic Universe by re-watching each movie and then podcasting on every movie in the MCU. If you want to indulge in your love for the MCU with two fans passionate about all things MCU, this is the podcast series for you. For this offering, we consider MCU Series - Black Panther.

Some of the highlights include:

Ø The story synopsis.

Ø What are the key plot points?

Ø What were some of our favorite cookies?

Ø How does this movie fit into the overall MCU?

Ø How is this movie an homage to prior non-MCU movies?

**Next up in our series Spiderman-Homecoming**

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MCU Series - Black Widow

Sat, 16 Apr 2022 04:00:00 -0000

In this podcast series, two complete MCU fans, Tom Fox, founder of the Compliance Podcast Network, and Megan Dougherty, co-founder of One Stone Creative, indulge in a passion for all things in the Marvel Cinematic Universe by re-watching each movie and then podcasting on every movie in the MCU. If you want to indulge in your love for the MCU with two fans passionate about all things MCU, this is the podcast series for you. For this offering, we consider MCU Series - Black Widow.

Some of the highlights include:

Ø The story synopsis.

Ø What are the key plot points?

Ø What were some of our favorite cookies?

Ø How does this movie fit into the overall MCU?

Ø How is this movie an homage to prior non-MCU movies?

**Next up in our series Black Panther**

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MCU Series - Avengers - a Civil War

Sat, 09 Apr 2022 04:00:00 -0000

In this podcast series, two complete MCU fans, Tom Fox, founder of the Compliance Podcast Network and Megan Dougherty, co-founder of One Stone Creative indulge in passion for all things in the Marvel Cinematic Universe by re-watching each movie and then podcasting on every movie in the MCU. If you want to indulge in your love for the MCU with two fans who are passionate about all things MCU, this is the podcast series for you. For this offering, we consider Avengers - A Civil War.

Some of the highlights include:

Ø The story synopsis.

Ø What are the key plot points?

Ø What were some of our favorite cookies?

Ø How does this movie fit into the overall MCU?

Ø How is this movie an homage to prior non-MCU movies?

Next up in our series Black Widow.

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MCU Series - Antman

Sat, 02 Apr 2022 04:00:00 -0000

Some of the highlights include:

Ø The story synopsis.

Ø What are the key plot points?

Ø What were some of our favorite cookies?

Ø How does this movie fit into the overall MCU?

Ø How is this movie an homage to prior non-MCU movies?

Next up in our series Avengers - A Civil War.

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MCU Series - Age of Ultron

Sat, 26 Mar 2022 04:00:00 -0000

Some of the highlights include:

Ø The story synopsis.

Ø What are the key plot points?

Ø What were some of our favorite cookies?

Ø How does this movie fit into the overall MCU?

Ø How is this movie an homage to prior non-MCU movies?

Next up in our series Antman.

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MCU Series - Guardians of the Galaxy 2

Sat, 19 Mar 2022 04:00:00 -0000

Some of the highlights include:

Ø The story synopsis.

Ø What are the key plot points?

Ø What were some of our favorite cookies?

Ø How does this movie fit into the overall MCU?

Ø How is this movie an homage to prior non-MCU movies?

Next up in our series the Avengers-Age of Ultron.

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MCU Series-Guardians of the Galaxy I

Sat, 12 Mar 2022 05:00:00 -0000

Some of the highlights include:

Ø The story synopsis.

Ø What are the key plot points?

Ø What were some of our favorite cookies?

Ø How does this movie fit into the overall MCU?

Ø How is this movie an homage to prior non-MCU movies?

Next up in our series Guardians of the Galaxy 2.

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MCU Series - The Winter Soldier

Sat, 05 Mar 2022 05:00:00 -0000

Some of the highlights include:

Ø The story synopsis.

Ø What are the key plot points?

Ø What were some of our favorite cookies?

Ø How does this movie fit into the overall MCU?

Ø How is this movie an homage to prior non-MCU movies?

Next up in our series Guardians of the Galaxy 1.

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MCU-Thor Dark World

Sat, 26 Feb 2022 05:00:00 -0000

Some of the highlights include:

Ø The story synopsis.

Ø What are the key plot points?

Ø What were some of our favorite cookies?

Ø How does this movie fit into the overall MCU?

Ø How is this movie an homage to prior non-MCU movies?

Next up in our series Guardians of the Galaxy 1.

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MCU Series - Iron Man 3

Sat, 19 Feb 2022 05:00:00 -0000

Some of the highlights include:

Ø The story synopsis.

Ø What are the key plot points?

Ø What were some of our favorite cookies?

Ø How does this movie fit into the overall MCU?

Ø How is this movie an homage to prior non-MCU movies?

Next up in our series Thor Dark World.

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MCU-The Avengers

Sat, 12 Feb 2022 05:00:00 -0000

Some of the highlights include:

Ø The story synopsis.

Ø What are the key plot points?

Ø What were some of our favorite cookies?

Ø How does this movie fit into the overall MCU?

Ø How is this movie an homage to prior non-MCU movies?

Next up in our series Iron Man 3.

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MCU Series - Thor

Sat, 05 Feb 2022 05:00:00 -0000

Some of the highlights include:

Ø The story synopsis.

Ø What are the key plot points?

Ø What were some of our favorite cookies?

Ø How does this movie fit into the overall MCU?

Ø How is this movie an homage to prior non-MCU movies?

Next up in our series The Avengers

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MCU Series - The Incredible Hulk

Sat, 29 Jan 2022 05:00:00 -0000

Some of the highlights include:

Ø The story synopsis.

Ø What are the key plot points?

Ø What were some of our favorite cookies?

Ø How does this movie fit into the overall MCU?

Ø How is this movie an homage to prior non-MCU movies?

Next up in our series Thor.

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MCU Series - Iron Man 2

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 14:00:00 -0000

Some of the highlights include:

Ø The story synopsis.

Ø What are the key plot points?

Ø What were some of our favorite cookies?

Ø How does this movie fit into the overall MCU?

Ø How is this movie an homage to prior non-MCU movies?

Next up in our series The Incredible Hulk

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MCU Series - Iron Man

Thu, 30 Dec 2021 05:00:00 -0000

Some of the highlights include:

Ø The story synopsis.

Ø What are the key plot points?

Ø What were some of our favorite cookies?

Ø How does this movie fit into the overall MCU?

Ø How is this movie an homage to prior non-MCU movies?

Next up in our series Iron Man 2

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MCU Series-Captain Marvel

Thu, 23 Dec 2021 05:00:00 -0000

Some of the highlights include:

Ø The story synopsis.

Ø What are the key plot points?

Ø What were some of our favorite cookies?

Ø How does this movie fit into the overall MCU?

Ø How is this movie an homage to prior non-MCU movies?

Next up in our series Iron Man

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MCU Series-Captain America, the First Avenger

Sat, 11 Dec 2021 05:00:00 -0000

Some of the highlights include:

Ø The story synopsis.

Ø What are the key plot points?

Ø What were some of our favorite cookies?

Ø How does this movie fit into the overall MCU?

Ø How is this movie an homage to prior non-MCU movies?

Next up in our series Captain Marvel

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Loki, Episode 6 – For All Time. Always

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 04:00:00 -0000

Tom Fox and Megan Dougherty are back to review the Disney series starring the Marvel Cinematic Universe character, Loki, in the new series, appropriately enough named Loki. In this episode, they take a look at the final in the series, Episode 6, For All Time. Always. Each episode will feature a review of the sysnopsis, Cookies and other cool stuff and then go through some of the questions they have from each episode. It will be a rollicking great time. Join us for all 6 episodes. Spoiler Alert-if you have not seen the episode, Tom and Megan will be taking a deep dive into all of the storylines.

In today’s episode we discuss:

Story Synopsis.
Cookies, easter eggs and other cool items.
Questions about ‘He Who Remains’.
Was it really Miss Manners all along?
Where does Loki fit into the WandaVision, Winter Soldier and Falcon trilogy?
Have we moved from MCU to MCMultiverse?

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Loki, Episode 5 – Journey into Mystery

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 04:00:00 -0000

Tom Fox and Megan Dougherty are back to review the Disney series starring the Marvel Cinematic Universe character, Loki, in the new series, appropriately enough named Loki. In this episode, they take a look at episode 5, Journey into Mystery. Each episode will feature a review of the sysnopsis, Cookies and other cool stuff and then go through some of the questions they have from each episode. It will be a rollicking great time. Join us for all 6 episodes. Spoiler Alert-if you have not seen the episode, Tom and Megan will be taking a deep dive into all of the storylines. In today’s episode we discuss:

Story Synopsis.
Cookies, easter eggs and other cool items.
Questions going forward and back.

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Loki-Episode 4, The Nexus Event

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 04:02:00 -0000

Tom Fox and Megan Dougherty are back to review the Disney series starring the Marvel Cinematic Universe character, Loki, in the new series, appropriately enough named Loki. In this special catch up episode, they take a look at episodes 1-3. Each episode will feature a review of the sysnopsis, Cookies and other cool stuff and then go through some of the questions they have from each episode. It will be a rollicking great time. Join us for all 10 episode. Spoiler Alert-if you have not seen the episode, Tom and Megan will be taking a deep dive into all of the storylines.

In today’s episode we discuss:

Story Synopsis.
Cookies, easter eggs and other cool items.
Questions going forward and back.

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Loki, Episodes 1-3

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 04:04:00 -0000

Tom Fox and Megan Dougherty are back to review the Disney series starring the Marvel Cinematic Universe character, Loki, in the new series, appropriately enough named Loki. In this special catch up episode, they take a look at episodes 1-3. Each episode will feature a review of the sysnopsis, Cookies and other cool stuff and then go through some of the questions they have from each episode. It will be a rollicking great time. Join us for all 10 episode. Spoiler Alert-if you have not seen the episode, Tom and Megan will be taking a deep dive into all of the storylines.

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Falcon and The Winter Soldier, Episode 5-Truth

Tue, 20 Apr 2021 13:40:15 -0000

In this special podcast series, One Stone Creative co-founder Megan Dougherty and Tom Fox, the Voice of Compliance indulge in their love of all things MCU by watching and discussing the Falcon and the Winter Soldier. In this episode we look at episode 5 of the series currently running on the Disney channel. Some of the highlights include:

Synopsis

Cookies

Truth and Isiah Bradley
Torres as the new Falcon
Contessa Valentina Allegra de Fontaine
Zemo and Bucky; Zemo to the Raft
Sam tells bucky to make amends to others, not for himself
Sam and Bucky on the boat. Stay away from my sister!
A gift from the Wakandans?
Post-credits scene – the new shield.
Did Batroc deliver some kind of brainwashing device?

Issues

Did Bucky and Cap conspire to give the shield to Sam?
Why does Sam take the mantle now?
Is Bucky finally getting better?
Sharon Carter and Batroc the Leaper?
What about the new Captain America?

So kick back and enjoy the MCU universe on the small screen and then check out this special series on Popcorn and Compliance.

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Falcon and the Winter Soldier, Episode 4

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 04:03:00 -0000

In this special podcast series, One Stone Creative co-founder Megan Dougherty and Tom Fox, the Voice of Compliance indulge in their love of all things MCU by watching and discussing the Falcon and the Winter Soldier. In this episode we look at episode 4 of the series currently running on the Disney channel. Some of the highlights include:

In this special podcast series, One Stone Creative co-founder Megan Dougherty and Tom Fox, the Voice of Compliance indulge in their love of all things MCU by watching and discussing the Falcon and the Winter Soldier. In this episode we look at episode 4 of the series currently running on the Disney channel.

Synopsis
Cookies and other Cool Stuff

The Whole World is Watching

Deprograming in Wakanda

What does the serum do?

Super Heros and Supremacist

Turkish Delight

The two Captain Americas and Rage

3. Discussion

Does look like Sharon Carter is the Power Broker. Or is she?

How far will the flag smashers go?

Sam and Karli-are they closer in spirit than is obvious?

Should Zemo face justice in Wakanda? Are the Dora Milaje now bounty hunters?

Is the new Captain America damaged goods?

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The Falcon and the Winter Soldier-Episode 3

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 04:03:00 -0000

In this special podcast series, One Stone Creative co-founder Megan Dougherty and Tom Fox, the Voice of Compliance indulge in their love of all things MCU by watching and discussing the Falcon and the Winter Soldier. In this episode we look at episode 3 of the series currently running on the Disney channel. Some of the highlights include:

Ø Synopsis of the episode.

Ø MCU cookies and other cool things.

1. Commercial at the beginning – similar to ads in Wandavision. Is the government the biggest bad of all?

2. Cap: “don’t even let them breathe.” Yikes. Also, is he the only unilingual superhero?

3. Ends justify the means – theme of the episode?

4. Zemo is the therapist now. (Strong Hannibal Lecter vibes.)

Ø Questions for Consideration

5. Is the Baron’s back story plausible? Just how cool is he?

6. How did we move from social commentary to a spy/thriller show?

7. Was Bucky simply in character at the Bar or was he under Zemo’s control again?

8. Has Sharon Carter gone to the dark side? Is she The Power Broker?

9. Fight at the lab.

So kick back and enjoy the MCU universe on the small screen and then check out this special series on Popcorn and Compliance.

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The Falcon and the Winter Soldier-Episode 1&2

Tue, 06 Apr 2021 23:00:55 -0000

In this special podcast series, One Stone Creative co-founder Megan Dougherty and Tom Fox, the Voice of Compliance indulge in their love of all things MCU by watching and discussing the Falcon and the Winter Soldier. In this episode we look at episodes 1 & 2 of the series currently running on the Disney channel. Some of the highlights include:

Synopsis of each episode.
MCU cookies and other cool things.
The awesome action sequences.
Do Superheroes need a job?
What is therapy?
Racism and human experiments.

So kick back and enjoy the MCU universe on the small screen and then check out this special series on Popcorn and Compliance.

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Darth Vader, Rogue One and the Myth of the Rogue Employee

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 05:08:00 -0000

In honor of David Prowse, the original actor portraying Darth Vader, I am running a podcast series this week on the intersection of compliance and Star Wars. Today, I consider at the only stand-alone entry in the Star War series, Rogue One. This movie tells the tale of the spies who stole the schematics from the original Death Star and transmitted it to Princess Leia and thereby the Rebel Alliance. Rogue One is the first film in the Star Wars Anthology series, a series of stand-alone spin-off films in the Star Wars franchise. It is not clear where the name of the movie came from; although my personal nomination is that in the attack led by Luke on the original Death Star, his squadron was Rogue Two so the movie title is a tribute to those Rebel Alliance X-wing fighters and their pilots. It informs the myth of the rogue employee.

As long as 25 years ago, Lynn S. Paine wrote about the myth of the rogue employee in the Harvard Business Review (HBR), in an article entitled “Managing for Organizational Integrity”. In this article she wrote, “executives are quick to describe any wrongdoing as an isolated incident, the work of a rogue employee. The thought that the company could bear any responsibility for an individual’s misdeeds never enters their minds. Ethics, after all, has nothing to do with management. In fact, ethics has everything to do with management.” How prescient she was in her article.

For it is management who sets the tone throughout the organization, whether that is something along the lines of a wink and a nod towards ethics and compliance or the more ubiquitous miss your numbers for two quarters and you will be history, Paine noted, “More typically, unethical business practice involves the tacit, if not explicit, cooperation of others and reflects the values, attitudes, beliefs, language, and behavioral patterns that define an organization’s operating culture. Ethics, then, is as much an organizational as a personal issue.”

However, a company’s responsibility is more than simply to set the right tone then sit back and do nothing. The drafters of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) recognized this when they included the requirement for internal controls to be included in the law. For, as Paine said, “Managers who fail to provide proper leadership and to institute systems that facilitate ethical conduct share responsibility with those who conceive, execute, and knowingly benefit from corporate misdeeds.”

Yet the myth of the rogue employee is more than a simple myth. It is also a dangerous myth. It is dangerous because it excuses negligent or intentional corporate behavior. Mike Volkov, in a blog post entitled “The Myth of the Rogue Employee”, noted that illegal conduct such as that under the FCPA does not occur “in a vacuum.” He explained “There are other employees with whom the person interacts, there are financial controls in place to protect against such misconduct, there are reporting mechanisms for employees to report suspicious activity, and there is likely to be someone in the organization who is close enough to the bad actor, or responsible for the conduct of the bad actor, and who suspected or should have suspected that the actor was engaged in misconduct.” Moreover, the more sophisticated the scheme, the more actors are involved and the more controls are overridden or disregarded as he explained, “As the misconduct becomes more complicated, like in the case of bribery or antitrust violations, where such schemes require additional actors or raise red flags or where others are in a position to know or suspect that misconduct may have occurred”.

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The Empire Strikes Back - Darth Vader and Due Diligence

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 15:46:20 -0000

In honor of David Prowse, the original actor portraying Darth Vader, I am running a podcast series this week on the intersection of compliance and Star Wars. Second in our series on compliance through the lens of Star Wars is Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back, which is my personal favorite of the original three movies. The film begins with a cool battle on the ice planet of Hoth and has some great HR lessons as Darth Vader executes officers for work place failures; demonstrates some dangers involving ineffective training for Luke Skywalker on the tropical plant of Dagobah, where he travels to learn under the Jedi master Yoda who utters the immortal line “Try not! Do, or do not. There is no try”; and ends in Cloud City, a floating gas mining colony in the skies of the planet Bespin run by Han Solo’s old buddy, Lando Calrissian. It also has one of the greatest movie lines of all-time, thundered by Darth Vader to Luke Skywalker, near the end of the film. Today, we consider it for the continued issue of due diligence.

Solo and Calrissian go way back and Solo trusts him. Of course, Solo won his starship, the Millennium Falcon, in a card game from Calrrisian but it was never clear just how legit the card had been. Unfortunately for Solo, he was followed to the Cloud City by bounty hunter Boba Fett who alerts the Empire to Solo’s location. Solo’s friendship with Calrrisian is sorely tested when Vader and his Imperial Troops arrive, take Solo, Chewbacca and Princess Leia prisoner and torture them to entice Luke to come to save his friends. During the climactic battle between Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader, there is the BIG REVEAL where Vadar utters the immortal line, “I AM YOUR FATHER”.

I thought about these last two points, in the context of knowing who you are doing business with under the FCPA or UK Bribery Act. I once heard a company President say he did not need to perform due diligence because he looked a man in the eyes and that was enough to know if he was honest. (I should add, this President also evaluated the strength of a handshake as an additional level of due diligence.) Hopefully we have moved past this level of sophistication for due diligence and its evaluation thereof.

One of the areas I still receive questions about are the different levels of due diligence. I break due diligence down into three stages: Level I, Level II and Level III.

Level I-consists of checking individual names and company names through several hundred Global Watch lists comprised of anti-money laundering (AML), anti-bribery, sanctions lists, coupled with other financial corruption and criminal databases.

Level II-encompasses supplementing Level I due diligence with a deeper screening of international media, typically the major newspapers and periodicals from all countries plus detailed Internet searches.

Level III-it is an in-country ‘boots-on-the-ground’ investigation and is designed to supply your company “with a comprehensive analysis of all available public records data supplemented with detailed field intelligence to identify known and more importantly unknown conditions.

Now imagine if Luke had performed a more robust level of due diligence on Darth Vadar? Would he have been able to find out Darth Vadar was his father? Perhaps not but then again, we might not have heard that seminal line “I AM YOUR FATHER”.

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Star Wars IX-The Rise of Skywalker

Sat, 28 Dec 2019 16:59:43 -0000

Some of the highlights include:

Ø What are the compliance lessons from the return of Emperor Palpatine?

Ø What message Jannah and the former storm troopers bring to middle management and tone in an organization.

Ø How Princess Leia illustrates the need for mentors and mentorship in the compliance profession.

Ø Why were there so many creative changes at the top and how does that inform your compliance regime?

Ø Do you have to do it the same as you always have in the past?

Ø Tom gives the movie an overflowing special purchaser bucket of popcorn and special edition R2D2 super-sized Diet Coke. Jay gives the movie one bucket but takes it to a new level with a can of Red Bull thrown in to keep his up during this lengthy flick.

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The Last Jedi

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 14:23:56 -0000

Welcome to the Day 5 and final installment of the five-day podcast series Jay Rosen and I are producing in honor of the latest Star Wars movie The Rise of Skywalker. Each day over this week, Jay have reviewed a Star Wars movie and discuss it from the compliance perspective. Today, we consider Episode VII, The Last Jedi and the role of a Board of Directors in succession.

A Board’s ability to renew itself on a consistent basis can help ensure it maintains a proper mix of experience and subject matter expertise any businesses current and down the road needs. While noting that there is no ‘one-size-fits-all-approach’ to succession planning, you should have a plan.

Examine the key corporate documents. The director nomination policy and any relevant policies setting out the appropriate protocols and procedures.
Use an assessment framework. Base your criteria on organization needs and director performance.
Conduct due diligence. Conduct an executive level due diligence background investigation.
Maintain a pipeline. Maintain a pipeline of qualified candidates.
Assess Board policies. Every Board should assess all policies around succession on a regular basis.
Disclose your succession strategy. Both a large number of institutional investors and good corporate governance advocates suggest that companies disclose their Board of Director succession strategies. It provides greater transparency to stakeholders.
Benchmark your succession strategy. Benchmark your succession strategy.

Jay gives the film a full bucket of hot buttered popcorn. Tom gives it 1.5 buckets of overflowing non-butter popcorn, together with an Extra Large Diet Coke.

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The Force Awakens and Disruption in Compliance

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 05:08:00 -0000

Welcome to the Day 4 of the five-day podcast series Jay Rosen and I are producing in honor of the latest Star Wars movie The Rise of Skywalker. Each day over this week, Jay and I will review a Star Wars movie and discuss it from the compliance perspective. Today, we consider Episode VII, The Force Awakens and disruption in compliance.

Today we consider Episode VII – The Force Awakens. It was the first one not created by LucasFilms, as George Lucas had sold his company to Disney. It was directed by JJ Abrams and told the story of the Star Wars universe some 30 years after the destruction of the last Death Star. It is this disruptive nature of the Star Wars franchise that I will focus on today as it relates to disruption innovation in compliance.

The film introduced several new characters: Rey, Finn and Poe Dameron, Kylo Ren and the First Order, a successor to the Galactic Empire. The film was largely one giant search for Luke Skywalker who had gone into isolation after his failure to re-establish the Jedi order. In addition to introducing the new characters, we are reunited with Han, Chewbacca and Princess Leia, who is now General Leia Organa. The First Order has developed new weapon, Starkiller, a deliciously worthy successor to the Death Star; the Rebel Alliance majorly disrupts the weapon and the First Order by destroying it, in the film’s climactic battle.

Compliance is a process. Compliance programs should evolve as business risks change. Just as disruptive innovation tends to focus on process, your compliance program should focus on your overall business process to be successful.

Compliance 3.0 is very different from compliance programs of the past decade. Compliance is moving from a solutions shop where all compliance functions are centered in the legal or compliance department to a process function where the front-line business team can use technology and other tools to operationalize compliance. The 2017 Evaluation of Corporate Compliance Programs focused on how well a company operationalizes compliance into the business functions. The authors point to new business models as disruptive and I think this concept translates into how compliance can be burned into the DNA of an organization rather than simply sitting in the corporate office in the US.

Not all disruptive innovations succeed as disruption is only one step in both the creative and growth process. The key concept are the three goals of any compliance program; to prevent, find and fix issues. This is how compliance differs from legal, whose job is to protect the company; from compliance whose mission is to monitor, obtain the data and then use the data as a feedback loop back into the company.

As many compliance practitioners are lawyers, we are naturally reticent to embrace such change, however I think the pronouncements of the DOJ throughout the year have made even clearer the need for continued evolution of anti-corruption compliance going forward. In The Force Awakens, there were numerous disruptions. We saw the death of one of the most beloved characters in the series, Han Solo, the growing awareness by Rey of her powers and the return of Luke Skywalker. It totally disrupted the First Order and destroyed its most lethal weapon.

Join us tomorrow where we consider The Last Jedi and the Board's role in succession.

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Return of the Jedi and Effective Training

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 05:06:00 -0000

Welcome to the Day 3 of the five-day podcast series Jay Rosen and I are producing in honor of the latest Star Wars movie The Rise of Skywalker Each day over this week, Jay and I will review a Star Wars movie and discuss it from the compliance perspective. Today, we consider Episode VI, Return of the Jedi and effective training.

In this final movie from the original three, the good guys win in the end after overcoming incredible odds. Many fans and critics panned it for including the incredibly cute and furry Ewoks on the moon named Endor as a part of the storyline. Many thought one very tall Wookie was enough cuteness for the series. This movie’s big reveal was that Luke and Princess Leia were twins and that she was now free to unabashedly pursue bad boy Han Solo. While Episode VI was the lowest grossing film of the original three, coming in at only $572MM worldwide, it was still a great ride and visually stunning. George Lucas’ in-house organ, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), certainly earned their title for their special effects in the movie. The Sarlacc battle sequence was great, the speeder bike chase on the Endor moon was way cool and the space battle between Rebel and Imperial pilots was a great ride.

I have adapted an approach from Joel Smith on his Inhouse Owl website to help determine compliance training effectiveness.

1.What you want to measure. Before you ever train an employee, you should have a goal in mind. What actions do you want employees to take? What risks do you want them to avoid? In compliance, you want them to avoid non-ethical and non-compliant actions that would lead to compliance violations. The goal is to train employees to follow your Code of Conduct and your compliance program policies and procedures so you avoid liability related to actions.

2. What is employee engagement? The next step is to get a sense of whether employees feel that the training you provided is relevant and targeted to their job. If it’s not targeted, employees will likely not be committed to changing risky behavior. You can get data on employee engagement through a quick post-training survey, which will help you isolate and qualify the training benefit.

3. Did employees actually learn anything? A critical part of any employee training is the assessment. If you want to understand the “benefit” of training employees, you must know whether they actually learned anything during training. You can collect this data in a number of ways, but for compliance training, the best way is to measure pre-and post-training understanding over time. Basically, each time you train an employee, measure comprehension both before and after training.

4. Are employees applying your training? You need to conduct a survey to determine employee application and their implementation of the training topics. To do so, you must conduct employee surveys to understand whether they ceased engaging in certain risky behaviors or better yet understand how to conduct themselves in certain risky situations. These surveys can provide a good sense of whether the training has been effective.

Join us tomorrow where we consider The Force Awakens and disruptive innovation in compliance.

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The Empire Strikes Back and Due Diligence

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 05:02:00 -0000

Welcome to the Day 2 of a five-day podcast series Jay Rosen and I are producing in honor of the latest Star Wars movie The Last Jedi. Each day over this week, Jay and I will review a Star Wars movie and discuss it from the compliance perspective. Today, we consider Episode V, The Empire Strikes Back and due diligence.

This movie is my personal favorite of the initial trilogy. During the climactic battle between Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader, there is the BIG REVEAL where Vadar utters the immortal line, “I AM YOUR FATHER”. In the context of knowing who you are doing business with under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act or UK Bribery Act. I once heard a company President say he did not need to perform due diligence because he looked a man in the eyes and that was enough to know if he was honest. (I should add, this company President also evaluated the strength of a handshake as an additional level of due diligence.) Hopefully we have moved past this level of sophistication for due diligence and its evaluation thereof.

There are three levels of due diligence and you must make a determination which is appropriate for the entity or person you are investigating. If a red flag appears it must be cleared or a risk management strategy articulated to allow moving forward.

Level I

First level due diligence typically consists of checking individual names and company names through several hundred Global Watch lists comprised of anti-money laundering (AML), anti-bribery, sanctions lists, coupled with other financial corruption and criminal databases. Level I due diligence addresses such basic issues as whether the third party actually exists, the identities of management, officers, directors and shareholders and whether such persons are on regulators’ watch lists. It can also provide some basic information on whether there are politically exposed persons (PEPs) involved in the third party. Finally, if there are any media reports linking the company to corruption.

Level II

Level II due diligence encompasses supplementing Level I due diligence with a deeper screening of international media, typically the major newspapers and periodicals from all countries plus detailed Internet searches. Such inquiries will often reveal other forms of corruption-related information and may expose undisclosed or hidden information about the company, the third party’s key executives and associated parties. Level II can give you information on adverse litigation, any bankruptcy proceedings, overt signs of financial difficulty. More generally it will also provide local online information such as corporate filings, regulatory filings, lawsuits and locally archived materials. You also be able to determine if there were any in-country investigations or sanctions from regulatory entities.

Level III

This level is the deep dive. It will require an in-country ‘boots-on-the-ground’ investigation and is designed to supply your company “with a comprehensive analysis of all available public records data supplemented with detailed field intelligence to identify known and more importantly unknown conditions. Seasoned investigators who know the local language and are familiar with local politics bring an extra layer of depth assessment to an in-country investigation.

Join us tomorrow where we consider Return of the Jedi and effective training.

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A New Hope and Risk

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 05:00:00 -0000

Welcome to the first day of a five-day podcast series Jay Rosen and I are releasing in honor of the latest Star Wars movie The Rise of Skywalker. Each day over this week, Jay and I will review a Star Wars movie and discuss it from the compliance perspective. Today, we consider Episode IV, A New Hope and risk.

The full series schedule is:

Monday, December 16, A New Hope and risk.

Tuesday, December 17, The Empire Strikes Back and due diligence.

Wednesday, December 18, Return of the Jedi and effective training.

Thursday, December 19, The Force Awakens and disruptive innovation in compliance.

Friday, December 20, The Last Jedi and the Board's role in succession.

One of the plotlines is that the Galactic Empire has created a Death Star with enough firepower to destroy a planet. The Rebel Alliance is determined to destroy the Death Star and has blueprints detailing the defensive posture of the Death Star. A computer analysis determines a weakness in the Death Star’s defensive shield. At one point, the Death Star’s commander, Grand Moff Tarkin, played by Peter Cushing, is told there is a ‘risk’ in the Rebel’s plan of attack. Tarkin dismisses this risk as insignificant. Of course, Luke Skywalker then proceeds to exploit this risk and destroy the Death Star.

Tarkin’s incorrect assessment of this risk was lethal. Today I want this part of the story to introduce the subject of how you evaluate compliance risk under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) or an economic sanctions regime. Failure to appreciate risk can lead to some very serious and perhaps lethal consequences.

Whether you utilize one approach or another, analyzing the results of your risk assessment is as important as doing the risk assessment. With the recent Department of Justice (DOJ) remarks around how they will review the effectiveness of compliance programs during an enforcement action to determine potential credit or even granting a declination, the stakes have never been higher. Of course, for Grand Moff Tarkin, his refusal to analyze the risk assessment presented to him was fatal.

Join us tomorrow where we consider The Empire Strikes Back and due diligence.

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Star Trek IV-The Voyage Home

Sat, 07 Dec 2019 13:00:00 -0000

Some of the highlights include:

Why did this movie have such humorous themes?
The key message in this movie is to listen.
What are some of the leadership lessons from this movie?
Why every CCO needs allies in the C-Suite.
Can a city be a character in a movie?
Tom gives the movie a full bucket and a medium sized Diet Coke. Jay gives the movie an overflowing bucket but takes it to a new level with a Slurpee with a shot of whisky thrown in.

We will interrupt this series of Star Trek movies to look at the key Star Wars movies leading up to release of the final chapter in the original 9-part saga envisioned by George Lucas, The Rise of Skywalker. The series will run the week of December 16-20. May the force be with you.

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Star Trek III-The Search for Spock

Sat, 30 Nov 2019 13:50:28 -0000

Some of the highlights include:

Ø How and why did this movie has such operatic themes?

Ø Can you separate the soul from the mind?

Ø What are some of the leadership lessons? Tom has five.

1. What is your one rule?

2. What is risk and how do you assess it?

3. Never carry a swagger stick or any other affecting accoutrement of leadership.

4. Hope for the best, plan for the worst.

5. If you include your senior management in your decision making, they will be more invested in the outcome.

Ø How did one short scene with Uhuru (Nichelle Nichols) explain the scope of her entertainment career?

Ø How did Ronald Reagan make a related appearance in this movie?

Tom gives the movie a full bucket and ½ of Popcorn and a medium sized Diet Coke. Jay gives the movie a full bucket of fresh popcorn with Milk Duds mixed in.

Join us again where in our next episode of Popcorn and Compliance, we consider Star Trek IV-The Voyage Home.

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Star Trek II-The Wrath of Khan

Sat, 26 Oct 2019 04:00:00 -0000

Some of the highlights include:

Ø How did this movie return the series to its television roots?

Ø Did they cut back too much on the special effects?

Ø What are some of the leadership lessons? Tom has five.

1. Sometimes you must be vulnerable to be effective.

2. Always see life as an adventure.

3. Fortune often favors the brave.

4. The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few or the one.

5. Infinite diversity in infinite combinations.

Ø What was Tom’s favorite line of the movie?

Ø How would Jay the screenwriter, written Spock’s death scene?

Ø Tom gives the movie two full buckets of Popcorn and two Diet Cokes along with the popcorn. Jay gives the movie a full bucket of fresh popcorn with Milk Duds mixed in.

Join us again where in our next episode of Popcorn and Compliance, we consider Star Trek III-In Search of Spock.

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Star Trek-The Motion Picture

Sat, 19 Oct 2019 04:00:00 -0000

Join us again where in our next episode of Popcorn and Compliance, we consider Star Trek II-The Wrath of Khan.

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Popcorn and Compliance: Spider-Man: Far From Home

Sat, 27 Jul 2019 04:04:00 -0000

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Popcorn and Compliance: Toy Story 4

Fri, 12 Jul 2019 12:42:38 -0000

In this podcast series, recovering screenwriter (and Mr. Monitor) Jay Rosen and Tom (the Compliance Evangelist) indulge in passion for the movies by looking at them through the lens of compliance. Jay is a contemporary movie fan and I am more of a classic movie maven so we present a well-rounded view of the movie fandom. If you want to indulge in your love for the movies with two guys who are passionate about Hollywood and get some ideas for your compliance program, this is the podcast series for you.For this offering, we consider the recently released Toy Story 4. Some of the highlights include: Ø Why did this movie seem to come from a place of revenue generation over emotion?Ø Where was the heart of the movie?Ø Why did the entire movie seem so contrived?Ø Lack of minor characters playing much of any role. Ø The introduction of ‘Forky’ and does this character work? Ø Jay gives the Inside Hollywood story of the production.Ø Jay gives the movie not only a half-full bucket of popcorn but a stale half-bucket as well. Tom joins with a half-bucket of popcorn as well but goes with fresh popcorn. Both were very disappointed in the film. Some of the Compliance takeaways:

1. How do you onboard new employees around compliance and ethics? 2. What is your investigative protocol? 3. Get out of the office and into the field.

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Popcorn and Compliance: Endgame

Sat, 04 May 2019 05:00:00 -0000

In this podcast series, recovering screenwriter (and Mr. Monitor) Jay Rosen and Tom (the Compliance Evangelist) indulge in passion for the movies by looking at them through the lens of compliance. Jay is a contemporary movie fan and I am more of a classic movie maven so we present a well-rounded view of the movie fandom. If you want to indulge in your love for the movies with two guys who are passionate about Hollywood and get some ideas for your compliance program, this is the podcast series for you.For this offering, today we look at the Marvel-universe hero, Endgame. As a special bonus, we are joined in this special episode by Marvel Cinematic Universe uber-fan, Sean Friedlin a/k/a The Compliance Guy. Spoiler Alert-we name who lives and who doesn’t. Some of the highlights include: Ø The film shattered 20 sales records in its opening weekend. What does all this mean for the film industry?Ø The film could have a net profit of over $1bn (not just gross sales) or over ½ the profit of the Disney Company in 2018.Ø What were the three waves of the Marvel Cinematic Universe?Ø How were Eggs used to great effect? Ø There was great story telling, great pathos and great acting. Ø Who was honored in different scenes in the movie? Ø Jay focuses on The Hulk, Sean on Iron Man and Tom on Thor for extra insights into the character of each in the film.Ø Jay gives the movie not only a full bucket of popcorn but as second bucket as well. Tom joins with a second bucket of popcorn as well. Sean gives it one bucket. Some of the Compliance takeaways:

1. Understand where you come from, know your business inside and out. 2. How to overcome adversity. 3. Things are never as low as they seem, nor as high as they appear. 4. What is worklife balance and what can it add to your performance?

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Popcorn and Compliance: Captain Marvel

Sat, 16 Mar 2019 17:22:25 -0000

Some of the highlights include:

What is the backstory for Nick Fury and Phil Coulson?How and why did internet trolls tried to sabotage the film?What was the response of Rotten Tomatoes?How were Eggs used to great effect?The special effects and battle scenes were great.Who was honored in different scenes in the movie?Jay gives the movie not only a full bucket of popcorn but as second bucket as well. Tom joins with an overflow bucket of popcorn.The Compliance takeaways:Understand where you come from, know your business inside and out.Nick Fury recognized a new risk-do you have a trip system for new risks in your organization? Do you have a seat at that table?How and why did Nick Fury lose his eye? How do you assess known strategies for unknown risks?Get out of the corporate office and into the field to meet your employees.Take action, when needed to change the balance.As a CCO you may have to take a stand.

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Popcorn and Compliance: Aquaman

Sat, 26 Jan 2019 06:00:00 -0000

In this podcast series, recovering screenwriter (and Mr. Monitor) Jay Rosen and myself will indulge in passion for the movies by looking at them through the lens of compliance. Jay is a contemporary movie fan and I am more of a classic movie maven so we present a well-rounded view of the movie fandom. So if you want to indulge in your love for the movies with two guys who are passionate about Hollywood and get some ideas for your compliance program, this is the podcast series for you. Today, we are joined by a special guest commentator, Lisa Fine, co-founder of the podcast Great Women in Compliance. For this week’s offering, today we look at the DC-universe hero,Aquaman. Some of the highlights include: Ø Hero take a journey is great troupe.Ø Aquaman’s star Jason Momoa appears to be in on the joke and has a ton of fun.Ø Nicole Kidman plays an usual role in this film.Ø Does the cinematography work in the numerous underwater shots? Ø The special effects and battle scenes were great. Ø Tom and Lisa give the move a ¾ bucket of popcorn as they both felt the script could have been more faithful to the original origin story. Ø Jay gives the movie not only a full bucket of popcorn but an overflow basket as well. The Compliance takeaways:

1. When you are on the compliance journey always remember from whence you came. Use the best of both worlds when melding culture. 2. Use the best of both worlds when melding corporate culture. 3. Tone at the Top-the kingdom of Atlantis is not well run and it starts from the top.4. Use social media to communicate your compliance program-the financial success of the movie has been attributed in part to the studio’s use of social media in its marketing campaign. 5. Get out of the office-another contributing factor to the success of the marketing campaign was the worldwide tour by the cast. 6. High risk does not mean no, it means high risk management-Director James Wu wanted crisp underwater scenes particularly involving hair movement. Industrial Light and Magic had to invent an entire new process for making the hair movement more realistic.

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Popcorn and Compliance: Mary Poppins Returns

Sat, 12 Jan 2019 19:30:38 -0000

In this new podcast series, recovering screenwriter (and Mr. Monitor) Jay Rosen and myself will indulge in passion for the movies by looking at them through the lens of compliance. Jay is a contemporary movie fan and I am more of a classic movie maven so we present a well-rounded view of the movie fandom. So if you want to indulge in your love for the movies with two guys who are passionate about Hollywood and get some ideas for your compliance program, this is the podcast series for you. Today we look at the classic favorite, Mary Poppins Returns. Some of the highlights include: Ø Can you successfully remake a beloved classic?Ø How do eggs come into play in Hollywood and beyond?Ø Where is Dick Van Dyke when you need him?Ø Does the cinematography still work some 50 years after the original? Ø Why you need to watch the original Mary Poppins before seeing Mary Poppins Returns. Ø Jay feels that while Mary Poppins Returns had the support and investment of the Walt Disney Company and it faithfully tried to recreate the original, the artistic returns fall short of the sum of its parts. The Compliance takeaways:1. Document Document Document-the parable from the share certificates to save the house on Cherry Tree Lane.2. Change in corporate culture needed-Mr. Dawes Jr. (Dick Van Dyke) fired Bank President William Wilkins.3. Tone at the Top-As bank President, William Wilkins had taken the bank far afield from its mission and core values.4. If you lack the passion, you may fail. 5. You cannot simply follow the road map, but you must design your compliance program to be fresh, as you are taking this journey for the first time. Not that you must re-invent the wheel, but you need to keep your colleagues and employees engaged on their journey.

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Popcorn and Compliance: Elf

Fri, 21 Dec 2018 06:00:00 -0000

Some of the highlights include:Is this movie a story of hero who takes a journey or stranger who comes to town? Or both?A man child uses simple lovable logic to teach lessons to those overwhelmed by their lives or current position.Once Buddy allows his Dad Walter (James Caan), his love interest (Zooey Deschanel) and his little brother to see the world though his childlike eyes, they can find their way forward in the world.How does the director’s Filmography inform this picture?Jay explains how the story structure worked in this movie.The Compliance takeaways:Things are not always as they seem (just like Buddy). The fact that there are no calls on your helpline may be a sign that everything is ok, but maybe no calls means that your organization lacks a speak up culture.It takes time to learn about your environment and discover how to act accordingly.This argues for CCOs and compliance practitioners to get out of your corner office and onto the floor or out into the field to meet with and interact with your employees.Buddy came from a foreign culture, but he continued to act like he was back in the North Pole. Even though he was warned not to pick up hidden candy on the streets of NY, he still did. In time, Buddy did learn the rules of the city and by using his sweet nature, he combined what he knew to get results in the Big (Bad)Apple.

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Popcorn and Compliance: Bohemian Rhapsody

Sat, 08 Dec 2018 06:00:00 -0000

In this new podcast series, recovering screenwriter (and Mr. Monitor) Jay Rosen and I will indulge in passion for the movies by looking at them through the lens of compliance. Jay is a contemporary movie fan and I am more of a classic movie maven so we present a well-rounded view of the movie fandom. To jump start the series, Jay and I revisited the intersection of Star Wars and compliance in five episodes this week. Today for our first full episode, we look at the recently released music bio-pic Bohemian Rhapsody. So if you want to indulge in your love for the movies with two guys who are passionate about Hollywood and get some ideas for your compliance program, this is the podcast series for you. Some of the highlights include: Ø How the movie came together after years in development and how it could have been a much different picture. Ø The stars were spot on in their portrayals of the band members (living and dead).Ø How do you wrap a story of redemption around a character you know will die of a terminal illness?Ø Tom indulges in his love of tracking shots. Ø Jay explains how the story structure worked in this movie. The Compliance takeaways: 1. A compliance program must continually innovate. 2. You must bake continuous improvement into your compliance program.3. Every compliance professional should be ready for the opportunity; whether it be to move up in your profession or sell a new compliance initiative. 4. The creative process in music can inform your innovation in compliance—engage your audience. 5. Use the design thinking model, listen to what your audience wants from compliance. 6. Learn from your mistakes and move forward incorporating the lessons learned into the next iteration.

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Rogue One and the Myth of the Rogue Employee

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 16:00:00 -0000

We conclude our 5-part series on the intersection of Star Wars and compliance by looking at the only stand-alone entry in the Star War series, Rogue One. This movie tells the tale of the spies who stole the schematics from the original Death Star and transmitted it to Princess Leia and thereby the Rebel Alliance. Rogue Oneis the first film in the Star Wars Anthology series, a series of stand-alone spin-off films in the Star Wars franchise. It is not clear where the name of the movie came from; although my personal nomination is that in the attack led by Luke on the original Death Star, his squadron was Rogue Two so the movie title is a tribute to those Rebel Alliance X-wing fighters and their pilots.

As long as 24 years ago, Lynn S. Paine wrote about the myth of the rogue employee in the Harvard Business Review (HBR), in an article entitled “Managing for Organizational Integrity”. In this article she wrote, “executives are quick to describe any wrongdoing as an isolated incident, the work of a rogue employee. The thought that the company could bear any responsibility for an individual’s misdeeds never enters their minds. Ethics, after all, has nothing to do with management. In fact, ethics has everything to do with management.” How prescient she was in her article. For it is management who sets the tone throughout the organization, whether that is something along the lines of a wink and a nod towards ethics and compliance or the more ubiquitous miss your numbers for two quarters and you will be history, Paine noted, “More typically, unethical business practice involves the tacit, if not explicit, cooperation of others and reflects the values, attitudes, beliefs, language, and behavioral patterns that define an organization’s operating culture. Ethics, then, is as much an organizational as a personal issue.” However, a company’s responsibility is more than simply to set the right tone then sit back and do nothing. The drafters of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act recognized this when they included the requirement for internal controls to be included in the law. For, as Paine said, “Managers who fail to provide proper leadership and to institute systems that facilitate ethical conduct share responsibility with those who conceive, execute, and knowingly benefit from corporate misdeeds.”

The three basic tenets of a best practices compliance program are to prevent, detect and remedy. By claiming employees who engage in bribery and corruption have ‘gone rogue’; companies are attempting to divest themselves of responsibility for actions from which they benefit, particularly if the bribery and corruption generated business sales and revenue. We hope you have enjoyed our five-part podcast series on the intersection of Star Wars and compliance as much as we enjoyed producing it. Always remember the storytelling component of compliance. Reciting rules, regulations, policies and procedures is the way to engage effectively in compliance.

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The Force Awakens and Disruptive Innovation in Compliance

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 16:00:00 -0000

Today Jay and I consider the first ‘new’Star Wars movie entry, Episode VII –The Force Awakens. I say it is a new Star Wars movie as it was the first one not created by LucasFilms, as George Lucas had sold his company to Disney, which produced the 2016 entry into the Star Wars oeuvre. It was directed by JJ Abrams and told the story of the Star Wars universe some 30 years after the destruction of the last Death Star. It is this disruptive nature of the Star Wars franchise that I will focus on today as it relates to disruption innovation in compliance.

One of the key things the Department of Justice (DOJ) has communicated over the past few months is the importance of doing compliance rather than having a paper compliance program in place. In releasing the new Foreign Corrupt Practices Act Corporate Enforcement Policy, the DOJ emphasized the clear delineation of factors they will consider in determining if a company has an operationalized best practices compliance program in place in the context of a FCPA enforcement action. All of this has required disruptive innovation in compliance beyond the simple paper compliance program which until recently was seen as the norm.

This leads to three key elements of disruption theory, which fit the compliance context. The first is that compliance is a process. The second key point is that Compliance 3.0 is very different from compliance programs of the past decade. The third point is that not all disruptive innovations succeed. As many compliance practitioners are lawyers, we are naturally reticent to embrace such change, however I think the pronouncements of the DOJ throughout the year have made even clearer the need for continued evolution of anti-corruption compliance going forward.

In The Force Awakens, there were numerous disruptions. We saw the death of one of the most beloved characters in the series, Han Solo, the growing awareness by Rey of her powers and the return of Luke Skywalker. It totally disrupted the First Order and destroyed its most lethal weapon. You can draw on this inspiration for your compliance regime.

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A New Hope-What is Risk?

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 16:00:00 -0000

Today I begin a new podcast series with recovering screenwriter, Jay Rosen. The Podcast series is entitled Popcorn and Compliance-at the Movies with Tom and Jay. In this new offering from the Compliance Podcast Network, Jay and I will consider compliance, business, leadership and life lessons from the movies. We will look at both contemporary and classic movies. We will begin with one of our favorite series, Star Wars.

We begin with Episode IV - A New Hope. One of the plotlines is that the Galactic Empire has created a Death Star with enough firepower to destroy a planet. The Rebel Alliance is determined to destroy the Death Star and has blueprints detailing the defensive posture of the Death Star. A computer analysis determines a weakness in the Death Star’s defensive shield. At one point, the Death Star’s commander, Grand Moff Tarkin, played by Peter Cushing, is told there is a ‘risk’ in the Rebel’s plan of attack. Tarkin dismisses this risk as insignificant. Of course, Luke Skywalker then proceeds to exploit this risk and destroy the Death Star.

Tarkin’s incorrect assessment of this risk was lethal. It informs how you evaluate compliance risk under the FCPA or an economic sanctions regime. Failure to appreciate risk can lead to some very serious and perhaps lethal consequences.

What does the geographic area you conduct business in mean for your company’s risk? This is beyond the Transparency International-Corruption Perceptions Index (TI-CPI) for payments to corrupt local officials, although that could certainly come into play. What if you have to make payments to criminals to secure your supply chain and the safe movement of your employees. What is the liability for a company which puts its employees in such a high-risk environment?

If you do not ask those questions and then pay attention to the answers, you may find yourself in the same position as Grand Moff Tarkin.

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The Empire Strikes Back - Due Diligence

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 16:00:00 -0000

Second in our 5-part series on compliance through the lens of Star Wars is Episode V - The Empire Strikes Back, which is my personal favorite of the original three movies. The film begins with a cool battle on the ice planet of Hoth and has some great HR lessons as Darth Vader executes officers for work place failures; demonstrates some dangers involving ineffective training for Luke Skywalker on the tropical plant of Dagobah, where he travels to learn under the Jedi master Yoda who utters the immortal line “Try not! Do, or do not. There is no try”; and ends in Cloud City, a floating gas mining colony in the skies of the planet Bespin run by Han Solo’s old buddy, Lando Calrissian. It also has one of the greatest movie lines of all-time, thundered by Darth Vader to Luke Skywalker, near the end of the film. Today, we consider it for the continued issue of due diligence.

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Return of the Jedi – Effective Compliance Training

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 16:00:00 -0000

Today we continue our celebration and exploration of the original trilogy of Star Wars movies with a look at Episode VI. Return of the Jedi. In this final movie from the original three, the good guys win in the end after overcoming incredible odds. Many fans and critics panned it for including the incredibly cute and furry Ewoks on the moon named Endor as a part of the storyline. Many thought one very tall Wookie was enough cuteness for the series. Yet the Ewoks did provide the setup to one of the movies best lines. The Ewoks thought one of Luke’s robots, C-3PO, was a god. Solo asked him to demonstrate some ‘god-like’ powers to which C- 3PO replied, “It is against my programming to impersonate a deity.”

This movie’s big reveal was that Luke and Princess Leia were twins and that she was now free to unabashedly pursue bad boy Han Solo. While Episode VI was the lowest grossing film of the original three, coming in at only $572MM worldwide, it was still a great ride and visually stunning. George Lucas’ in-house organ, Industrial Light & Magic (ILM), certainly earned their title for their special effects in the movie. The Sarlacc battle sequence was great, the speeder bike chase on the Endor moon was way cool and the space battle between Rebel and Imperial pilots was a great ride. At the Academy Awards ceremony for movies of that year, Richard Edlund, Dennis Muren, Ken Ralston, and Phil Tippett, all from ILM, received the Special Achievement Award for Visual Effects Oscar award.

I thought about this entry in the Star Wars oeuvre in the context of compliance training. One of the key changes from the Department of Justice articled in the 2017 Evaluation of Corporate Compliance Programs was the change in training. The DOJ wants both targeted and effective training. This means you must be able to demonstrate how your training has been received and utilized by your employee base.

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