I’ve talked a great deal this year about embracing change. About grabbing hold of the opportunity – and responsibility – to ask hard questions and challenge what you know. It’s an exciting time we’re part of, both as professionals and as humans, and I’m as eager than ever to make that proverbial dent in the universe.
Such momentum and shift often brings about personal change as well, and for me it means an exciting albeit bittersweet crossroads. As of December 1, I’ll be leaving my post as Radian6’s VP of Social Strategy to start a new business. I have a brilliant business partner and we have some big ideas, but we’ll share more on that later.
For now, I’m really taking stock, and I’m immensely proud of what the Radian6 community has become.
Over the course of the last three and a half years, I’ve had the amazing opportunity to contribute to Radian6’s growth as a company, and to watch our community of social businesses grow along side it. From the early days of understanding what it meant to be “listening” in social media to the much broader and more exciting picture of a social enterprise that we’re illustrating today, it has been a remarkably exciting journey of learning, exploration, experimentation, and lots and lots of interaction with our many thousands of customers.
Our successful acquisition by Salesforce.com this past May really put an exclamation mark on Radian6’s important place in the social business community. There is so much potential in the future of this industry, and so many ways that our work to build truly social enterprises will change the way companies work at a fundamental level. The conversations I’ve been part of internally are exhilarating, and you’ll see great things yet from the Radian6/Salesforce crew.
Radian6 and I grew up together in many ways over the last few years, and I cannot begin to tell you how much I believe in this company, its leadership, and the opportunities that lie ahead for all of my colleagues and our customer community. It has been so incredibly rewarding to be a part of a company that believes in asking great questions, empowering the people within it, blazing new trails, and walking the talk of being a constant resource for their community.
It’s hardly farewell for good, as I know I’ll be working with Radian6 in the next phase of my social business career. For now, I need to say a personal thank you to David Alston, who first gave me the opportunity to be part of the Radian6 team, and who has been an outstanding colleague and friend over the last few years. I’m also incredibly grateful to the leadership team of Marcel Lebrun, Chris Newton, Chris Ramsey, Daniella Degrace and Chris Himes for allowing me to be a small part of something truly special. It’s not often you get to say that in your career, and I most definitely do. Thank you, thank you. I can’t wait to celebrate your continued success.
To the Radian6 community of customers, partners, and friends, you are in the very best of hands. I hope our relationships carry long into the future, and that Radian6 will remain a partner that you rely on to help you power the social aspects of your enterprise. These teams are passionate about seeing you thrive, and I look forward to hearing about your enduring achievements.
So, onward. Not away from something, but toward something. Toward the next step in an evolution that I hope never really ends.
Thank you all for your support and advocacy these past few years, and I look forward to sharing more with you in the very near future. There’s exciting work to be done. See you on the other shore…
congrats on what you’ve accomplished. and Godspeed on the new road…
Thanks so much, Todd.
Congratulations!
Looking forward to the next chapter in the Book of Amber. (not saying you *have* to write another one so soon…)
Ha! The book will have to wait a bit but I’m super excited. Thanks for your support, Ike.
I’m not surprised – over the past year, I’ve noticed your steps moving slowly but then more openly toward striking an independent path. Wishing you the best on your personal evolution. Congratulations!
Mari, you’re intuitive that way. Though I can’t say it was deliberate, life has a funny way of evolving before you even know it. Thanks for your support.
Congratulations on a terrific, impactful run with Radian6 and looking forward to what the next adventure brings.
Thanks, Adam! It’s been an incredible ride and I’m so thankful. I’m looking forward to keeping the momentum going!
The best of luck in your new endeavor, Amber.
Thanks so much, Deb, to you and all the BWE folks for your continued support. Much appreciated!
Lots of luck! It’s been great getting to know you as the voice of R6, can’t wait to see what’s up next!
Thanks, Jon! I’ve little doubt we’ll have occasion to connect again in the future. Thanks for always being such a supportive part of our community.
You are the best. Thats all I can say! Stay in touch and the best of luck although I know that you will succeed in anything you do!
Andy McCann
Ah, Andy. What fun we’ve had! I’ve so enjoyed working with you and am sure we’ll have the chance to work together again. Thanks for your support and friendship.
Big news and best of luck in your new venture, Amber! I know you’ll do great!
Thank you, Sonny! How’s the new gig?
New gig is going amazing! Loving the work, people and culture 🙂
Look out world………… Amber is back…… and this time she doesn’t have to behave as an employee.
Ha! Well, I have to behave as a business owner. Not sure which is more restrictive. 🙂
Shit. I’ve been doing it wrong then.
I’d say you’ve been doing it spectacularly. Which sounds dirty. See? Already I wanted to backspace that….
We all work for someone!
“And we have lift off.”
Wishing you the best of luck, serendipity and opportunity.
Thank you so much, Randy!
Congratulations, Amber. I have no doubt that you’ll continue your amazing path.
Changes aren’t permanent. But change is.
–Rush, Tom Sawyer
Love that song and quote. Thanks so much, Phil. I’m really looking forward to the future.
Good luck and God Bless, Amber. Wish you all the best in your new endeavor.
Thank you kindly, Jeff.
Wishing you well on your next endeavor. Congrats for all you accomplished while at Radian6, and all that you did to get there. Proud of you.
Thanks, Chris. I’m really looking forward to the next adventure.
Congratulations, Amber! When do we hear more about the new endeavor?
Probably near the beginning of the year. Stay tuned. 🙂
Sad for Radian6, but excited to hear about your new adventure. If anyone can create a new business and make it flourish, it’s YOU! Congrats, Amber!
Thank you so much, Donna. You’ve always been such a huge support and I can’t thank you enough for that.
Congrats, Amber – can’t wait to see what you’ve got cooking for the next phase!
Thank you, Steve! I can hardly wait to share it, too.
Thank you, Steve! I can hardly wait to share it, too.
Ooh, sounds awesome. I’m excited for you. Big congrats. Can’t wait to hear about what’s next.
Thanks, Tac! I’m excited too. It’s going to be an adventure to be sure.
Thanks, Tac! I’m excited too. It’s going to be an adventure to be sure.
wow- Radian5 has lost one of the best! Looking forward to hearing about new stories and adventures from you! congrats!
You think she was one of the Radians?
Ah, but they have an incredible team over there and I’ve no doubt they’ll shine on long after I’m gone. 🙂 Thank you for the well wishes!
Ah, but they have an incredible team over there and I’ve no doubt they’ll shine on long after I’m gone. 🙂 Thank you for the well wishes!
Watching you grow, share, and having the privilege of becoming part of your community over the past few years has been immensely motivating – and rewarding. I raise a glass – proverbial and actual – to the next step. And whatever ya need, while I might not be able to lend much to someone of your stature and achievement – it’s yours for the asking.
Except for my dogs. You can’t have those.
BRAVA!
Dammit, woman. Stop making me misty. And MY stature? Lady, I aspire to half of your level of awesome. Thanks for always being in my corner. And I have my own dogs. So there.
Sorry – it’s purely a defensive measure. Everyone wants to steal my Small Dog. And my “level of awesome?” Meh – it’s really just hair product. 😉
Hmmm, shame Radian6 didn’t treat all its hard-working employees the same…
Bryan – not sure this is the forum, but I’d be happy to take that conversation offline somewhere and either pass along the feedback or get you in touch with someone who can listen and respond. amber@brasstackthinking.com.
Congratulations and good luck, Amber! I can’t wait to see what’s next!
Thanks, Christa! Looking forward to sharing it with you as well.
Looking forward to seeing what you have up your sleeve!
Angela, thank you! We’re excited to share the news, and so it’s going to be a long few weeks on pins and needles! 🙂
Congratulations on everything you accomplished with the Radian6 team Amber! I know a move like this is scary but you as you said in your post you have grown so much over these last few years. You are definitely ready for this and there is no doubt in my mind you will be wildly successful with you new business.
Rick, can’t thank you enough for your friendship and support. Scary, yes, but it’s the right time and I’m ready. Appreciate your encouragement.
Super proud of you for what you helped Radian6 become and for making a new way. Always a fan and here to help. Good on ya.
Thanks, J. That means a lot to me.
Congratulations on new beginnings. It is truly special to be able to feel so great about the firm you are leaving. It gives you a great base for moving forward. Best of luck. We will be watching for the next phase.
Thank you, Pat! It really is great to have such an awesome company and know I’ll be able to work with them again in the future. Good people.
Congrats and good luck!
Thanks, Charlie! I think we make a little of our own luck. 🙂
Congrats, Amber. Can’t wait to hear more about the new things you’ve got planned. Much love to you!!
Thank you, Sara! I can’t wait to share the next adventures very soon.
Congrats Amber! Look forward to hearing about what’s next.
Patrick
Thanks so much, Patrick. Stay tuned closer to the start of the new year.
Wow! That’s huge news, Amber!
I’m glad that we finally got meet in person at Blog World and I wish you much you luck on your next venture! Hopefully our paths will cross again sometime in the near future.
Cheers,
Sheldon, community manager for Sysomos
Glad we met too! It’s a small world we work in so I’ve no doubt our paths will cross again. Thanks for the support!
Congrats on all you’ve accomplished and good luck with your next leg of the journey!
Thank you so much!
Good for you. I know you’ve been a huge part of Radian’s success and obviously you’ll be missed but it feels like the timing is right. Can’t wait to hear more about what’s next.
-Aaron
The timing is right, and they’ve got a fantastic team poised to take them into the next phase. I’ve little doubt I’ll be watching their success for many years to come, and will be proud to have been part of the beginning. 🙂 Thanks for the well wishes, my friend.
Good luck in your next adventure and thank you for being a shining star
Thank you so much for that. 🙂
Congratulations, Amber. We’ll all have our eyes on you, as we’re expecting great things.
No pressure! Thanks, Scott. I can’t rock a pocket square like you do, but I’ll do my best to make you proud.
Congrats on what you’ve helped create over at R6 and best wishes on the exciting adventures that await you!
Thank you, Jackie! Much appreciated.
Congrats. Wishing you all the best.
Thank you, Rick…
Congrats, Amber!
Thank you!
Looking forward to hearing about your next move, Amber– I know it will be big.
Wow, all you people with your expectations! I kid. Thanks, Doug. Looking forward to giving you guys something to be excited about very soon.
Congrats and good luck on the next chapter! Reach out if I can be of any help.
Thanks so much for that, Jim! I may take you up on that. Appreciate the support and all you do.
Amber you are a Rockstar. I am so glad you decided to be part of the Radian6 family those many years ago. You brought your A-game to everything you did. You’ve helped create such a wonderful model that so many emulated as the team continued to grow and grow over the years. I love your passion, your ideas, and your community focus and it will serve you well in your next endeavor.
I’m happy to call you a friend and I look forward to all the ways we’ll work together in the future.
Keep rockin’ it.
It was a pleasure to get to know you and work with you at Radian6. You bring your A-game no matter who is watching. I can’t wait yo see what is next for you!
It was a pleasure to get to know you and work with you at Radian6. You bring your A-game no matter who is watching. I can’t wait yo see what is next for you!
Ah, David, my old friend. Man it feels like years, doesn’t it? I can’t ever thank you enough for the opportunity, for putting up with me, and for the steadfast support. I too am happy to call you a friend, and can’t wait to share the next adventure with you. Thank you again.
Amber, most of us who know you even in a limited way as I do, have known for a long time you were destined for much bigger things. I have no doubt that your next adventure will shake things up and bring your unique perspective to things. Congrats on all you have achieved and are yet to achieve.
Simon, thank you so much for that. That’s a huge compliment coming from you. Appreciate the support so very much.
Super excited for the next chapter. Go get em!
Me too! Thanks, book spouse.
Amber, congratulations, my friend! Radian6 is on the map in no small part because of you. As someone who has used the solution to help my clients, the company has a helpful and wonderful product line (you’ve always known I’ve been a fan) but I also have no doubt you and your partner will soar with your new company. I know we will keep in touch and I look forward to it!! km
Thank you, friend. I appreciate the compliment, and the continued support and encouragement. We’re excited about the future, too, and can’t wait to share with everyone.
Congrats Amber! Best of luck in the next chapter!
Thanks, Christina!
Congrats Amber! Best of luck in the next chapter!
Congratulations not only on your success in the past but in having the courage to take the next steps in your journey. It was a pleasuring getting to know you over the past couple of years and I’ll look forward to learning more about your next great adventure.
Thanks so much, Ken! I’m not going anywhere, not hardly. But the journey is the point, right? A little fear is healthy. 🙂
Healthy and normal. And the journey is exactly the point. Let me know if there’s anything I can ever do to help. Cheers
Congratulations not only on your success in the past but in having the courage to take the next steps in your journey. It was a pleasuring getting to know you over the past couple of years and I’ll look forward to learning more about your next great adventure.
I know that Radian6 will miss you, but we’re all excited and ready to back your next move, Amber. You’re the best… and we all love ya for it 🙂
Mitch, thanks so much, my friend. I’m going to miss them too, they’ve been such a huge part of my life for the last few years. But I’m ready to take on the next challenge. Thanks for your support. 🙂
I know that Radian6 will miss you, but we’re all excited and ready to back your next move, Amber. You’re the best… and we all love ya for it 🙂
Congratulations, Amber! Can’t wait to hear about what’s next.
Congratulations, Amber! Can’t wait to hear about what’s next.
Thank you, Nick! We’re really looking forward to getting things started. Stay tuned…
A well put exit. I wish you all the best in your new venture! I cant wait to hear more about it.
Thank you, Ben! Looking forward to sharing it very soon.
While I’m sure that yours will be an incredibly tough void to fill at Radian6, congrats to you for following your dreams and embracing the opportunity. I have no doubt that you will be successful in whatever you do. Can’t wait to hear more about your next venture.
Thanks so much, Jodi. I’m excited about what’s ahead, and know that my colleagues at Radian6 have much success ahead of them too.
Good luck!
Thank you, Mark.
What a beautiful farewell post. This is how it’s done! Class and heart and appreciation. And full of excitement about your new venture. Your altitude is still climbing, sweets. Looking forward to whatever you do next! Congratulations!
Thanks so much, Kat! I *am* excited, in all the best ways. Thanks as always for your enthusiasm and support. You’re fantastic.
Second only to recent announcements from CERN, am I looking forward to the news of your new venture. Might not overturn the world physics, but I have a feeling it will rock the online industry. Looking forward to seeing you break 86,282 miles per second!
You hit me right in my space nerd heart strings. 🙂 Thanks, Angel. I’d happily sit by and take a back seat to the Higgs-Boson. I really would.
I can’t wait to see what you do next!
Thanks so much, Andy! It’s sure to be an adventure no matter what. 🙂 Hope all is well with you!
Congratulations, Amber. Wishing you continued success in your next big adventure.
Many thanks, Brian. Appreciate it.
You go girl, you’ve done amazing things for Radian6 and you are the real deal. Wishing you all the best!
Thanks, Janet! There is an amazing team there that’s sure to do more great things, and I’m ready for the next phase of my adventure. Appreciate the support!
So now I have to think of something to say that I haven’t already said on Twitter, Facebook and Chatter. Umm…
Can I have your chair?
If you only knew where I really worked. I could tell you, but then I’d have to kill you. In all seriousness though, Radian6 is in the very best of hands. You’re going to be amazing.
So now I have to think of something to say that I haven’t already said on Twitter, Facebook and Chatter. Umm…
Can I have your chair?
So now I have to think of something to say that I haven’t already said on Twitter, Facebook and Chatter. Umm…
Can I have your chair?
Thanks Amber, you’ve been as a beacon to me on more occasions than I can count. I’ve come to value your insight and tactful voice. I certainly hope that your new path will have a similar stalwart voice as a compliment. All the best to you as you venture down the new road!
Thank you so much, James! I can say with confidence that my partner is every bit as insightful, probably more tactful, and someone that I’m very proud to be working with. Stay tuned. 😉
Thanks Amber, you’ve been as a beacon to me on more occasions than I can count. I’ve come to value your insight and tactful voice. I certainly hope that your new path will have a similar stalwart voice as a compliment. All the best to you as you venture down the new road!
Thanks Amber, you’ve been as a beacon to me on more occasions than I can count. I’ve come to value your insight and tactful voice. I certainly hope that your new path will have a similar stalwart voice as a compliment. All the best to you as you venture down the new road!
Congratulations! I’m dying to know what you’re up to!!!
Congratulations! I’m dying to know what you’re up to!!!
Patience, my dear friend. Hopefully will have more to share around the new year. The anticipation is killing me, too! Here’s to a catch up, soon, under a table somewhere. 🙂
Ha! To be sure.
To say you will be missed is an understatement…..it’s been an amazing 3.5 years, looking forward to watching you rawk the next chapter!!
To say you will be missed is an understatement…..it’s been an amazing 3.5 years, looking forward to watching you rawk the next chapter!!
Tom, it truly has, and you’ve been such an incredible part of my time at Radian6. Thanks for being who you are. I’m going to miss you terribly, but I think our paths will cross again. 🙂
It wasn’t me, was it? I promise I showered before joining the Radian6 Community Team.
Congratulations, Amber. Look forward to keeping up with what’s next for you.
Ha! Not at all! I’m so excited for the community team and where you guys are headed. Truly. I’m very proud to have been part of its early days, and look forward to seeing what you guys come up with next.
There is no doubt in my mind that you’re going to be great in your next endeavor. Please don’t hesitate to reach out and keep us informed on what you are up to.
Chris
Thanks for the vote of confidence, Chris. I’ll definitely be in touch. You’re not rid of me THAT easily!
Happy Trails, dear Amber! I look forward to hearing more about your next chapter.
Thanks so much, my wonderful friend. Can’t wait to share more.
Awesome! Can’t wait to see what happens next 🙂
Thank you, Jay!
Oh wow. Bittersweet congratulations to you, Amber. It’s been amazing to watch how you have build the Radian6 community and team up and learn from you in real-time.
I’m excited about this new adventure and I wish you the best of luck!
And thank god for Twitter and this blog — I know I won’t miss any of your beats 🙂
Social media is cool that way, huh? I’m not going anywhere, really. Thanks so much for the kind words and encouragement. I’m excited, too, and appreciate the support.
Best wishes going forward, wherever your new endeavors take you. It sounds like you had a wonderful experience, and I have a hunch that’s what will be in front of you too. Some people have a knack for creating their own magic–congratulations!
Thanks so much, Jen. I did indeed have a fantastic experience, and I know I’ll be carrying with me much of what I’ve learned along the way.
Oh, I am excited to hear about the next phase! Good luck – we’ll all be watching and wishing you success!
Thanks, Gavin!! We’re so overdue for a visit. I swear I’m going to make it over there this year, somehow! Thanks for the support.
Ciao! My company uses http://www.socialwatching for it’s social media monitoring needs.
There’s something satisfying about marking comments as spam….
Ciao! My company uses http://www.socialwatching.com for it’s social media monitoring needs.
Congratulations on making the leap! You are a true entrepreneur and I look forward to seeing what you create.
Thank you so much for that, Ian. I’ve so enjoyed connecting with you, and hope we’ve got lots more to come. Appreciate your encouragement and support.
Good for you! Can’t wait to see what you come up with.
Thanks, Angela!
I gather this is not the bar tending dog saving business we talked about earlier?
Haha! Not yet, I’m afraid. But maybe this will lead to that someday? 🙂
Congrats on everything you have done so far Amber, and best of luck to whatever challenges have the poor judgement to stand in your way on the road ahead!
Thanks, Justin. I’m really eager to dig into the next phase. There’s much to be done. So glad we’re connected.
Change, and the opportunities it brings, is always exciting. Good luck as you embark on your new adventure. I know you’re going to have much success.
Always exciting to be sure! It’s been an incredible year and I’m looking forward to what’s next. Thanks for the kind words.
Congrats and best of luck, Amber! Interested to learn more about your next steps.
Thank you, Nikki. I can’t wait to be able to share plans with everyone. Trying to be patient. 🙂
Amber, thank you so much for leading this community. I’m a newcomer and cannot wait to participate in your next project.
– Ricky
CEO, Crowdbooster
Thanks so much, Ricky. Welcome aboard, and looking forward to having you along for the ride.
Amber,
Many congratulations on what you have achieved at Radian6, but mostly, I am so excited for you in your new venture! I know it will be great because You Rock!!
Let me know how I can support you.
Becky, you’re the best. Thanks for always being an inspiration. Hope the book is killing it!
What a beautiful “goodbye” note: gracious and inspiring. Amber, I wish you the best.
Thanks much, Diane. I owe much to the folks at Radian6 and wish them every success in the world.
Amber, you put Radian6 on my radar and although I’m sure they’re sad to see you leave, I’m excited to hear about your new venture!
Hi Sharon, thanks so much! I’m looking forward to sharing it with all of you. And Radian6 is in really good hands. 🙂
Congratulations, Amber. Outstanding Job! Can’t wait to see the next chapter … you rock.
Thanks, my friend. Let’s grab that wine and roasted garlic soon. 🙂
Warmest wishes for everything good and you embark on your new adventure.
Thanks so much, Rick! Have so appreciated your support and encouragement.
Congratulations on all you’ve accomplished. I look forward to seeing your next adventure grow.
Many thanks, Victor. I’m looking forward to sharing what’s next with everyone and hope you’ll be along for the journey.
Wow, just wanted to add my congratulations. Hopefully you’ll end up with an even bigger platform to spread your unique insights from!
Thanks, Rosemary. I’m blessed with an awesome community and will do my best to keep earning that with all the new adventures.
Best of luck on the new venture!
Big congrats Amber. Looking forward to your next move.
Congrat’s Amber, now go spread your wings. 🙂
And happy holidays to you and the fam.
Best,
Dave
Wishing you the best for your new endeavor and looking forward to hearing all about it. Just remember to take care of yourself!
Wishing you the best for your new endeavor and looking forward to hearing all about it. Just remember to take care of yourself!
Wow I was wondering when this would happen and you’d take this leap to shine as a beacon on your own platform you’ve built. Great to hear you’ll still be working with Radian6 and that you have so much belief in them as a company.
Looking forward to seeing what’s next! Best of luck and congratulations for all you’ve achieved so far
Outstanding accomplishments! Congratulations!
Amber – Congratulations on such an amazing climb to success. It’s been a pleasure meeting and watching you along the way, and I’m grateful for your friendship. Can’t wait to watch you begin another successful journey! You’re quite an inspiration. Cheers! 🙂
Amber,
Congratulations on the bold step forward. You provided a great voice for Radian6 during a remarkable period of growth and development. I look forward to seeing what you have in store next, I wish you the best of luck with it and I look forward to seeing you soon in Chicago or on the road somewhere!
Best,
Tom
Thrilled to hear that you’re venturing out with your own enterprise. Time to add “entrepreneur” to your long list of professional accomplishments. I’ll be watching the twitterstream for details. Best of luck, Amber.
Congratulations Amber!! How absolutely thrilling for you!! Very excited to see where your next adventure takes you.
Amber, we never got to meet during your time at Radian6 but I’ve watched from afar. I can really hear your passion and enthusiasm for Radian6 as a company in your post – must be bittersweet indeed. Best of luck in your new adventures!
thank you so much for this post i really like it a lot
Better late than never, right? Congrats on your new adventure!