Buffalo Plus: Behind the Podcast - The Making of BUFFALO PLUS

Episode Release Date: July 5, 2022

Hosts: Mike Catalana, Jenna Cottrell, Dan Fates
Podcast Description:
Buffalo Plus offers comprehensive coverage of the Buffalo Bills, brought to listeners by the experienced BuffaloPlus.com team—Mike Catalana, Jenna Cottrell, and Dan Fetes. With a combined 40 years of coverage, the podcast delivers exclusive insights and behind-the-scenes information directly from those in the locker room and on the field.

1. Introduction to the Episode

The episode begins with Jenna Cottrell welcoming listeners back to the Buffalo Plus podcast, introducing her co-hosts Mike Catalana and Dan Fates. She sets the stage for a special episode focused on the origins and development of the Buffalo Plus channel.

Notable Quote:
Jenna Cottrell [00:00]:
“Today, we're going to talk about how we started this channel, why we started this channel, and why we've gotten some comments that people think that we get along. Why it appears like we get along. No, I'm kidding. We do.”

2. Origins of the Buffalo Plus YouTube Channel

Mike Catalana delves into the inception of Buffalo Plus, highlighting the transition from traditional television news to prioritizing online media.

Notable Quote:
Mike Catalana [00:54]:
“We are from traditional television news backgrounds, all three of us, at obviously different times. ... This was the idea of prioritizing the online version of coverage of a team, and the Buffalo Bills were the perfect team to be doing it with.”

3. Transition from Traditional Media to Online Platforms

Dan Fates emphasizes the unique position of Buffalo Plus compared to other Bills YouTube channels, citing their traditional media access and daily presence at practices and games.

Notable Quote:
Dan Fates [02:24]:
“We are able to get that Traditional media access. We're there every day. We are there at practice, and then we're giving you this. This is your 6, 10 and 11 long form.”

4. Unique Perspectives and Content Expansion

Jenna discusses the gap in sports coverage for younger audiences who no longer follow traditional media like the 6 o'clock news. She explains how YouTube serves as the perfect platform to meet fans where they are.

Notable Quote:
Jenna Cottrell [04:01]:
“I always thought like, we got to meet people where they are now.”

Supporting Comments:
Dan adds that YouTube allows them to provide more in-depth analysis than the typical short segments found on traditional sportscasts.

5. Team Dynamics and Friendship

The hosts share their personal histories and how their professional relationships evolved into strong friendships. Mike recounts his long history covering the Bills, emphasizing his deep-rooted connection to the team.

Notable Quote:
Mike Catalana [08:35]:
“I've covered the team longer than anybody in western New York. ... I've seen a team evolve, covered that team, was around that team.”

6. Challenges and Audience Interaction

Dan Fates acknowledges receiving mixed feedback from listeners, including critical comments. However, he appreciates the engagement, believing that strong opinions foster meaningful discussions.

Notable Quote:
Dan Fates [10:29]:
“I think that's part of where Mike has said that ... you have to have strong points ... It's a great podcast and a great channel.”

Mike elaborates on the interactive nature of YouTube, contrasting it with the slower feedback loop of traditional media.

Notable Quote:
Mike Catalana [13:33]:
“What I love about the comments in this case is we get immediate feedback on what we're saying.”

7. Personal Stories and Support

Jenna opens up about her battle with cancer, highlighting the unwavering support from her co-hosts Mike and Dan. This personal revelation underscores the deep bond within the team.

Notable Quote:
Jenna Cottrell [31:22]:
“When I got sick with cancer, ... I can't even express how much Mike and Dan were just there for me as a human being.”

The hosts share lighthearted anecdotes about their friendship, blending humor with heartfelt moments to illustrate their camaraderie.

8. Future Plans and Growth

Looking ahead, Jenna expresses excitement about the potential growth of the channel as the Buffalo Bills continue to thrive. She encourages listeners to contribute ideas and engage with the content to help the channel evolve.

Notable Quote:
Jenna Cottrell [16:25]:
“This channel is still in its infant stages and we want to continue to grow it. ... it's exciting to see, like, what we could be covering.”

Mike and Dan echo this sentiment, emphasizing their commitment to providing valuable and unique content through their platform.

Notable Quote:
Mike Catalana [30:32]:
“For a TV station, I think it's the model of the way TV entities with other outlets should cover sports. ... this is the model of what this will be when they're both on the network someday.”

9. Conclusion

The episode wraps up with a reflection on the unexpected depth of their discussion. The hosts reiterate their appreciation for their audience and encourage continued engagement through likes, comments, and subscriptions.

Notable Quote:
Jenna Cottrell [35:24]:
“Wow. This episode, I wasn't expecting. I didn't see it getting deep. I got deep. ... we'll catch you next time on Buffalo Plus.”

Key Takeaways:

• Transition to Online Media: Buffalo Plus was founded to prioritize online coverage of the Buffalo Bills, catering to modern audiences who prefer digital platforms over traditional media.

• Unique Access and Insights: Leveraging their backgrounds in traditional media, the hosts provide exclusive content from practices, games, and behind-the-scenes interactions.

• Strong Team Dynamics: The genuine friendship and mutual respect among Mike, Jenna, and Dan enhance the podcast's authenticity and appeal.

• Engaged Audience: The interactive nature of YouTube allows for immediate feedback, fostering a dynamic relationship between the hosts and their listeners.

• Personal Resilience: Jenna's personal battle with cancer highlights the supportive and resilient nature of the Buffalo Plus team.

• Future Growth: The hosts are committed to evolving their content and expanding the channel in tandem with the Buffalo Bills' success.

Final Thoughts:

"Behind the Podcast: The Making of BUFFALO PLUS" offers listeners an in-depth look into the origins, challenges, and personal stories that shape the Buffalo Plus channel. Through candid conversations and shared experiences, Mike, Jenna, and Dan illustrate their dedication to delivering top-tier Bills coverage while fostering a strong, supportive community both within their team and among their audience.