Topic:  Action-Based Leadership (ABL) Accelerator for Internal Auditors (5 Sessions)

Synopsis & Learning Objectives:  

Session 1 – Foundations: Redefining Leadership in Audit - Leadership is not authority, it’s how you show up. This session reframes audit as a natural leadership lab and introduces the ABL framework.

•  Learning Objectives:  Differentiate leadership from authority; Recognize audit as a context to practice leadership skills; Map personal leadership journey moments

Session 2 – Frameworks: Introducing ABL & Systems Thinking - Leaders think before they act. Participants learn how to generate aligned, actionable ideas using structured thinking tools.

•  Learning Objectives:  Apply the ABL “Think” step to shape actionable ideas; Use TIGIGI (Thought → Idea → Good Idea → Great Idea) to strengthen clarity; Identify where checklist thinking limits leadership

Session 3 – Application: Leading Without Authority - Connection is how leadership moves from idea to reality. Participants learn to align and influence using ARPSI and communication models.

•  Learning Objectives:  Apply ABL “Connect” to stakeholder alignment; Map stakeholders with ARPSI; Adapt communication using HBDI styles

Session 4 – Execution: Turning Insight Into Action - Audit value comes when recommendations move to action. This session builds skill in planning and leading execution.

•  Learning Objectives:  Apply ABL “Plan” and “Do” to drive change; Build clear remediation roadmaps with owners/timelines; Facilitate high-stakes conversations to create accountability

Session 5 – Sustainment: Embedding Leadership into Audit Culture - Leadership becomes real when it scales across the team. This session focuses on reflection and cultural reinforcement.

•  Learning Objectives:  Apply ABL “Reflect” to strengthen audit culture; Capture leadership patterns from prior work; Build systems to reinforce leadership habits

Session Timing: 

•  Session 1:  Tuesday (10/28) from 12-1:30pm

•  Session 2:  Thursday (10/30) from 12-1:30pm

•  Session 3:  Tuesday (11/4) from 12-1:30pm

•  Session 4:  Thursday (11/6) from 12-1:30pm

•  Session 5:  Tuesday (11/11) from 12-1:30pm

Note:  All sessions will be recorded and made available to participants.

Speaker Bio:  John Vyhlidal is the founder of Unleash Epic. He is a former Air Force officer, PwC consultant, Nike leader and the developer of the Action-Based Leadership (ABL) framework, specializing in building leadership through real work.