MarTech Podcast™ // Marketing + Technology = Business Growth
Episode: Why Nataly Wrote Her Recent Book Brand Global, Adapt Local
Release Date: May 13, 2025
Host: Benjamin Shapiro
Guest: Natalie Kelly, CMO of Zappy and Co-Author of Brand Global, Adapt Local
Introduction
In this insightful episode of the MarTech Podcast™, host Benjamin Shapiro welcomes Natalie Kelly, the Chief Marketing Officer of Zappy and co-author of the compelling book Brand Global, Adapt Local. The conversation delves into Natalie's motivations for writing her latest book and explores the intricate balance between maintaining a global brand identity while effectively adapting to local markets.
Purpose Behind Brand Global, Adapt Local
At the heart of the episode lies Natalie Kelly's rationale for authoring Brand Global, Adapt Local. She emphasizes the critical need for global brands to resonate on a local level, ensuring authenticity and relatability in diverse markets.
Natalie Kelly (02:17): "This book is to help people who are in charge of global brands really understand how to show up locally. But it's also informed by the perspective of people who have gone abroad, lived in other countries, know what it's like to be on the ground in those markets building brands in those local markets, which is very different from being in a headquarter location distant from local markets."
Natalie underscores the significance of lived experiences in foreign markets, highlighting that building a local brand presence requires more than just strategic planning—it demands genuine understanding and adaptation to the nuances of each locale.
Challenges of Balancing Global and Local Branding
The conversation navigates through the challenges marketers face when trying to maintain a cohesive global brand while tailoring strategies to fit local contexts. Natalie shares her insights on overcoming these challenges by leveraging both global standards and local insights.
Natalie Kelly (01:48): "It's very different from being in a headquarter location distant from local markets."
Natalie points out the disconnect that often exists between headquarters and local markets, advocating for closer collaboration and deeper immersion in local cultures to bridge this gap effectively.
The Role of AI in Encoding Brand Voice
While the transcript primarily focuses on Natalie's book, the episode's broader theme encompasses the use of AI tools in defining and maintaining brand voice across diverse markets. Benjamin Shapiro introduces this topic as part of their discussion, setting the stage for how technology intersects with marketing strategies.
Benjamin Shapiro (01:15): "Today, Natalie is going to explain how marketers can effectively encode their brand voice using AI tools."
Although the transcript does not provide detailed insights into this segment, it hints at the innovative approaches Natalie employs to harness AI in ensuring brand consistency and adaptability.
Key Takeaways
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Local Authenticity is Crucial: Global brands must authentically engage with local markets to build meaningful connections, moving beyond superficial adaptations.
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Lived Experiences Inform Strategy: Incorporating perspectives from those who have firsthand experience in local markets is invaluable in crafting effective brand strategies.
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AI as a Strategic Tool: Leveraging AI can aid in encoding and maintaining a consistent brand voice while allowing for necessary local adaptations.
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Bridging the Headquarters-Market Gap: Establishing closer ties and better communication between global headquarters and local teams is essential for cohesive branding efforts.
Notable Quotes
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Natalie Kelly (02:17): "This book is to help people who are in charge of global brands really understand how to show up locally."
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Benjamin Shapiro (01:15): "Today, Natalie is going to explain how marketers can effectively encode their brand voice using AI tools."
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with Benjamin Shapiro expressing gratitude to Natalie Kelly for her valuable insights. Listeners are directed to Natalie's LinkedIn profile and Zappy IO for further engagement. Benjamin encourages the audience to subscribe for more daily marketing and technology knowledge, emphasizing the continuous journey of keeping customers satisfied.
Benjamin Shapiro (02:17): "Until next time, my advice is to just focus on keeping your customers happy."
Connect with Natalie Kelly:
- LinkedIn: Natalie Kelly
- Company Website: Zappy IO
Subscribe to the MarTech Podcast™:
- Available on all major podcast platforms and YouTube.
This episode of the MarTech Podcast™ offers a deep dive into the strategic considerations of global branding, enriched by Natalie's expertise and practical experiences. Whether you're a marketer aiming to expand your brand internationally or interested in the intersection of technology and marketing, this discussion provides valuable perspectives and actionable insights.