This is probably the biggest announcement I’ve had in several years. I am taking on the role of Chief Experience Officer at X2A. I know, I know… so many questions.
What about Ignite?
Ignite Insight and Innovation continues, just at a different pace. I will still be doing a number of things under this company from continuing with Lead without Blame, the new book, collaborations on existing courses like Leading Amazing Teams, advisory sessions, etc. But my primary focus will be with the new role for the foreseeable future.
Why the change?
Honestly, it wasn’t planned or intentional. I was moving along in 2025 to my plans for 2026. Then around September, Ahmed Sidky (founder of X2A) approached me with the invitation. I then spent several months exploring if it was the right thing that hit these factors:
- I have a 5-7 year itch. Not in my marriage but in my professional career. I like changing things up – challenging myself in various ways. I never plan on it but it’s like clockwork that I pass the five year mark and I start feeling this urge. I’m just consistent, I guess 🙂
- Being an independent has many perks but I miss working with others in a team. That feeling of being in it together with others. That feeling of delivering even better value thanks to the co-intelligence of collaboration. This opportunity is full of amazing rockstar people that I respect immensely.
- My tagline has been “Ignite What’s Possible” and this opportunity is actually providing a chance to scale my purpose at multiple angles. The simple truth is…I was hooked on wanting to be part of the potential for what X2A is planning. More to come with this when we continue launch announcements in X2A! I know that teasing is not nice but it’s all I can say right now.
- And the smallest factor but for full transparency, we were able to openly discuss and align on mutual benefits and goals in this chaotic world. I’ve been so lucky and grateful that Ignite has stayed steady as so many fantastic people have struggled. Yet, joining forces during uncertainty feels both powerful and comforting.
What is X2A and what will you be doing?
Every organization starts from a different place (X). Every organization is trying to reach a different outcome (A). There is no one-size-fits-all solution.
X2A meets organizations where they are and activates the specific capabilities they need for the moment they’re in. That’s why X2A brings three companies together as one ecosystem: ICAgile offers learning and skills, Business Agility Institute delivers research and assessments, and X2A focuses on targeted capability building. Together, we operate as one integrated ecosystem to unlock your organization’s future-ready DNA so you can win whatever comes next.
In a world where AI puts unlimited information at our fingertips, the real differentiator isn’t access. It’s the experience and confidence to act on it. As Chief Experience Officer, I have the privilege of working alongside Chief Learning Officer, Christina Hartikainen. Together, we are leading ICAgile’s evolution to deliver meaningful learning experiences that accelerate future readiness.
What exactly does that mean…stay tuned 🙂
But your views on certification?
To repeat my views, I’ve never been super pro or anti certifications. I have always seen certifications as a highlight of a person’s commitment to learning, growth and building of skills. Now I have an opportunity to lean into crafting the experience associated with certifications and beyond.
And no, my decision to not continue as a CST was already made before this opportunity materialized.
But will you still be speaking/training/etc?
Oh, don’t you worry. Not only is the answer yes, but even more. Ok, maybe that might worry some…lol.
So what’s next?
- Check out x2a.com‘s announcement.
- Follow x2a linkedin page.
- I’ll still be going live once a month and once a month with Diana.
- Contact me with any of your questions.
