Ep 21: From Local to Global - How Businesses Break Into International Markets
In this episode, Jenny Lezon Norris, Market Growth Director, North America of Navigator Global breaks down what it really looks like for companies to take their products beyond the U.S. and tap into international markets. The conversation highlights how global growth often starts smaller than many business owners realize, often sparked by a single inquiry. Jenny shares practical advice on navigating regulations, choosing the right market strategy, spotting red flags, and building trusted relationships abroad, while also explaining why face-to-face connections still matter in international business. The episode offers a look at the opportunities available to companies that may never have considered exporting before and the resources that can help make it possible.
touchstoneadvisors.com
touchstoneadvisors.com
Creators and Guests
Host
Deborah Agrafojo
Deborah has influenced and directed strategic and owner-operator mergers and acquisitions in many different fields. She believes strongly that assisting a business to grow and develop strong practices is the best way to create a company that is poised for exit planning or gaining an equity growth partner.
Producer
David Chmielewski
At the end of 2013 David founded DirectLine Media, a video production company that specializes in creating memorable and compelling video content for businesses. Admired for his unique and creative visual story telling, David continues to work with small to large businesses and nonprofit organizations.
Guest
Jenny Lezon Norris
Jenny Lezon Norris serves as Market Growth Director, North America, for Navigator Global, a human-led online platform that supports companies in expanding internationally. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance from the University of Connecticut and an MBA from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and brings more than thirty years of experience in international trade and cross-border finance. In addition to her current role, Jenny maintains over a decade of experience as a licensed insurance broker and agent specializing in trade credit insurance. She has worked as a broker with Meridian Finance Group and as an agent with Allianz, advising companies on risk mitigation strategies that support international growth. Earlier in her career, Jenny spent seventeen years at UPS Capital Business Credit, where she led business development for cross-border equipment finance programs supporting U.S. exporters operating in Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, and Turkey. She began her international business career in the International Contracts Department at Gerber Garment Technology. Jenny has contributed to industry leadership through her service on the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) C4 Subcommittee and the Broker Advisory Council. She recently served as President of the Connecticut Turnaround Management Association (CT TMA) and remains an active member; she is also a current member of the Connecticut District Export Council. Jenny has traveled extensively in support of international business initiatives and is conversant in Polish and Spanish. Contact: Jenny.Norris@Navigator.Global Cell: 860.808.8400 LinkedIn: Jenny Lezon Norris | LinkedIn Company: Exporting Made Simple and Faster | Navigator Global US
Editor
Stefania Sassano
Known for being determined and focused, Stefania is often the first to memorize lines and dedicates significant effort to each role. She excels in both comedic and dramatic performances, embracing the motto by Mark Twain, "Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life," making every project both a professional commitment and a joy.