PLUGHITZ Live, a pioneering podcast network, has thrived for 17 years and counting. Founder Scott Ertz, an entrepreneur and news media producer, has navigated the fast-paced world of the latest tech, gaming, and general news. The network’s success is attributed to its ability to adapt and evolve, showcasing the resilience of this industry.
Scott’s foray into the world of media began in the halls of a tech high school, backed by the Poynter Institute for Media Studies, where he honed his skills in TV production. However, disillusioned by the constraints of traditional broadcast media, Scott ventured into the unchartered territory of podcasting when the medium was still in its infancy. In 2007, armed with a vision and fueled by a passion for technology, he launched the flagship show F5 Live: Refreshing Technology, under the banner of PLUGHITZ Live.
Reflecting on the nascent days of podcasting, Scott reminisces, “There was no infrastructure for creating RSS feeds, websites, or content during the early days. To do so, one had to be a techie and create content yourself.” Yet, undeterred by the lack of resources, Scott, along with his team, blazed a trail in the digital landscape, delivering fresh insights and engaging discussions on technology and gaming news to their audience.
One of the defining features of PLUGHITZ Live is its commitment to live shows, a format that Scott attributes to his background in live television and theater. This interactive approach was adopted to cultivate a direct connection with the audience, enabling real-time feedback and engagement. Over the years, PLUGHITZ Live has evolved its format, embracing structured segments and strategic partnerships to enhance the listener experience.
“Co-host Avram Piltch and I used to aim for an hour because we were live, working with other live shows to create a network-like experience,” says Scott, reflecting on the evolution of the F5 Live format. “But as the industry matured, so did we, streamlining our content to deliver more focused and in-depth discussions.”
When asked about moments that have stood out to him in the 17 years of shows, Scott shares the story of a small business owner a few years ago, who was struggling to find interest in a wooden, unusable prototype for his tech product. Following an interview on the podcast, the company transformed from a small booth at a convention to a giant company. That wooden prototype became a fully functional product, hitting major retail stores across the United States.
Today, PLUGHITZ Live boasts a diverse portfolio of podcasts, covering a wide range of topics from gadgets and gaming to internet culture and media trends. With over 400 episodes produced annually and a growing listener base of approximately 100,000 per month, the network continues to expand its footprint in the digital sphere.
Scott discusses the benefits and detriments resulting from the explosion in popularity of podcasts. “These days, everyone has either heard of a podcast or has one themselves,” he says. “More people understand how to use the platforms, subscribe to their favorite shows, or start one for themselves. But, the word has lost its meaning, which is a shame.”
He argues that the term “podcast” is often used for other types of similar but distinct forms of online media. Podcasts are distributed through RSS, by definition, and they are different from live shows on platforms like YouTube.
Looking ahead, Scott envisions further growth and innovation for PLUGHITZ Live, with plans to rebrand and diversify its content offerings in the coming year. “We’re not just a podcast network; we’re a platform infused with ideas, innovation, and collaboration,” he declares, emphasizing the network’s role in shaping the future of new media.
This 17-year-old podcast company operates on platforms like YouTube and Twitch as well, leveraging their industry knowledge and understanding of popular platforms. Scott Ertz emphasizes staying updated on industry changes and staying ahead of the curve. As he aptly puts it, “We came about just shortly after the word podcast itself came about, we’ve been in this space from the beginning. What we like to tell people is, if you want us to be on a particular platform, chances are we’re already there.” Indeed, PLUGHITZ Live’s journey is a testament to the enduring power of passion, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the digital age.
Media Contact
Name: Scott Ertz
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