The Vertical Buzz launches On Location with Hollywood studio premiere

The Vertical Buzz is expanding beyond its studio interview format with a new on-location series that starts at Sunset Studios in Hollywood and features Knockout Shorts founders Chris Crema and Matt Ko. The launch underscores growing momentum in vertical entertainment, a mobile-first content sector that is drawing more studios, creators, and industry events.

Why it matters: - The Vertical Buzz is trying to widen its reach as vertical entertainment grows into a more organized media segment. - The new series gives viewers access to the production spaces, people, and events shaping mobile-first storytelling. - The format shift signals a move from interview program to year-round industry coverage.

What happened: - The Vertical Buzz launched “The Vertical Buzz: On Location,” a new series of special episodes filmed at studios, production companies, festivals, conferences, and industry events. - The inaugural episode was filmed at Sunset Studios’ new standing sets at Sunset Las Palmas Studios in Hollywood. - Sunset Studios built the sets in partnership with short-form studio Knockout Shorts. - The episode premieres Thursday, July 16, 2026, on The Vertical Buzz YouTube channel and podcast platforms worldwide. - The episode also was described as premiering Thursday, July 26, 2026 in the release body.

The details: - The first episode includes a conversation with Knockout Shorts founders Chris Crema and Matt Ko. - The discussion covers the evolution of vertical entertainment production, demand for premium mobile-first content, and opportunities in the sector. - The episode gives audiences a behind-the-scenes look at a purpose-built production environment for vertical entertainment. - Buzz Leer, founder and host of The Vertical Buzz, said the On Location format is meant to move the show beyond the studio and directly into the places where vertical entertainment is being made. - Chris Crema said The Vertical Buzz is helping connect creators, talent, executives, and audiences through conversations about the medium’s direction. - Charlie Waddell, CEO of AEIRO and presenting sponsor of The Vertical Buzz, said the platform helps educate and connect the broader community. - The Vertical Buzz said it has featured more than 20 industry leaders since launching earlier this year. - The platform describes itself as one of the leading media outlets focused exclusively on the vertical entertainment industry.

Between the lines: - The on-location expansion reflects rising competition for attention in a niche category that is moving from experimental content to a more visible business ecosystem. - The choice of a Hollywood studio and a purpose-built set suggests the sector is investing in infrastructure, not just distribution. - The planned travel slate points to a push to make vertical entertainment a national industry conversation, not just a Los Angeles one.

What's next: - Future episodes will be filmed at production studios, conferences, festivals, and major vertical entertainment events across North America. - Planned stops include Las Vegas, Los Angeles, New York, and additional industry destinations. - The Vertical Buzz said the series will continue as the vertical entertainment sector expands globally. - The platform will keep covering actors, producers, executives, educators, founders, investors, and innovators through its weekly podcast and media output.

The bottom line: - The Vertical Buzz is turning a niche podcast into a broader industry platform just as vertical entertainment is gaining momentum and infrastructure.