In a recent episode of The Current podcast, Chrysler and Saucony dive into the art of storytelling in branding—something we at Round Table Marketeers are deeply passionate about. The Current podcast focuses on the latest trends in marketing, branding, and cultural storytelling. In this episode, Chrysler and Saucony touch on how storytelling shapes brand messaging, connects with culture, and creates emotional engagement.
Storytelling: More Than Messaging
The episode explores how brands can elevate their storytelling beyond mere advertising. Both Chrysler and Saucony illustrate the power of aligning a brand’s story with the cultural narratives that matter most to their audience. This alignment isn’t about chasing trends; it’s about authentically connecting with the values and aspirations of your community.
At Round Table Marketeers, we see this approach as key to impactful marketing. As creatives and storytellers, we know the importance of the narrative. A story needs to be true to the brand, yes—but it also needs to be culturally resonant. It has to evoke real emotions, touch the people you want to reach, and become a meaningful part of their lives. Chrysler’s and Saucony’s examples show that it’s not about making your brand stand out through flashy campaigns; it’s about embedding your brand into people’s lives in a way that feels personal and relatable.
Crafting Narratives That Connect
A strong theme of the podcast is how to craft messages that genuinely resonate. Chrysler, for instance, uses storytelling to align their cars with the memories people make while traveling—that sense of freedom, nostalgia, and family bonds. Saucony, on the other hand, taps into their core community of runners, leaning into the shared experiences of challenges, triumphs, and the culture of movement.
For us, the lesson here is clear: the best brand stories come from listening—to the culture, to your customers, to the motivations and emotions that drive each purchase. Storytelling done well doesn’t just explain a product; it makes that product part of a shared human journey.
Messaging and Culture
One of the most compelling takeaways is how a brand’s message becomes more powerful when it reflects cultural understanding. Saucony has succeeded by positioning themselves within the running culture, where their authenticity is not just appreciated, but expected. Similarly, Chrysler doesn’t just sell vehicles; they sell the idea of family road trips and freedom, woven into American culture.
Why This Matters for Your Brand
As marketers, we’re reminded that a good story isn’t just about creative writing—it’s about understanding your audience, their culture, and the emotional experiences you want to foster. At Round Table Marketeers, we believe in streamlining relativity and emphasizing the importance of the narrative to grow and engage your community. This podcast is a great example of how storytelling can be used to make brands feel less like businesses and more like part of your everyday narrative.
If you’re interested in building genuine connections through storytelling, we’d love to discuss how we can help. At Round Table Marketeers, we’re all about crafting narratives that not only showcase your brand but make it a meaningful part of your audience’s life.