Leah Wietholter: How To Follow The Money Before Fraud Costs Millions

When money goes missing—or someone is wrongly accused—financial evidence can change the course of a case. This episode explores how to investigate it methodically, spot fraud risks in small firms, and bring in the right expert before time and evidence run short. ● What’s the secret to prioritizing a complex fraud investigation before getting overwhelmed by data? ● How can creating a structured case plan identify missing evidence early in discovery? ● When is the critical moment to bring in a forensic accountant during a legal case? ● What are the most common financial red flags and fraud risks inside small firms? ● How can solo practitioners and business owners establish essential controls on day one? ● Why should leaders trust their gut and review bank statements instead of dismissing concerns? ● How does a repeatable process like "Data Sleuth" help investigative teams maintain quality control? ● What is the difference between investigative accounting and other forensic specialties? ● Why is licensing so essential when choosing a qualified forensic accounting expert? ● What’s one simple habit that protects a business from major financial losses? That’s all for today! Big thanks to Leah Wietholter for sharing her insights on how to follow the money, protect your business, and handle fraud investigations without losing control of the case. If you want to dive deeper, grab a copy of her book Data Sleuth: Using Data in Forensic Accounting Engagements and Fraud Investigations. It’s packed with real-world advice, practical steps, and a few hard-earned lessons you won’t want to miss. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who needs to safeguard their business. Thanks for listening, and we’ll catch you next time! About Leah Wietholter: Leah Wietholter is the CEO of Workman Forensics, a Tulsa-based firm where she leverages her background as a CPA, Certified Fraud Examiner, and Private Investigator to help clients follow financial patterns and recover missing money. A former FBI employee and public accounting senior examiner, she brings over 15 years and 150 cases of experience to litigation matters, including state and federal expert testimony in divorce, criminal defense, and partnership disputes. Leah is also the creator and host of *The Investigation Game*—an interactive case-study training platform and industry podcast—and holds degrees from Oral Roberts University and Oklahoma State University. Connect with Leah Wietholter: Website: https://www.workmanforensics.com/  LinkedIn:   / leah-wietholter-mba-cfe-pi-cpa-33557815   Twitter: https://x.com/wforensics?lang=en  Connect with Ron Bockstahler: Email: ronb@amataoffices.com  LinkedIn:   /     Company website: https://amatacorp.com/  “Don't Lose Your Balance” book: https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Lose-Your... Connect with Rebecca Bockstahler: LinkedIn:   /     Show notes by Team Podcastologist Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.