#MediaMonday – Paul Schaum
Today’s #MediaMonday comes to us from Paul Schaum. He serves as a writer on various business-related topics for AZ Big Media and its host of publications as well as a producer on the newly launched AZ Big Podcast, a weekly podcast on all things Arizona business, economic development, tourism and more. He is also the digital marketing specialist for AZ Big Media, handling all things social across all of the media company’s various brands.
So, Paul, time to share!
Tell us how you got your start in the media? Tell us your story!
Writing has always been a passion of mine. In fact, I even like to consider myself somewhat of a poet. Nevertheless, I actually took to writing early on and ended up graduating with a degree in journalism. Obviously, my knack for being behind the pen didn’t wear off easily, as I find myself gravitating toward it at AZ Big Media, and thankfully, it’s welcomed by the powers that be, thus allowing me to scratch that itch from time to time.
Tell us how you came to start working at AZ Big Media?
It could be great timing, or it could just be luck. I had been working in marketing for an international sports betting company for four years before it was brought to my attention that the company itself would be relocating outside of Arizona. I had no desire to move, so I chose to take my talents elsewhere. AZ Big Media was really a match made in heaven, as it allowed me to really become engrained with my community.
Tell us about the outlets and types of story pitches you want for each thing you are covering?
Being that my focus is digital, I tend to gravitate toward the content that generates the most clicks and traffic on our website. With that in mind, I have been primarily covering food, sports, events and tourist attractions. Furthermore, I am also responsible for scheduling guests on our newly launched podcast covering all things Arizona business.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Paddock Lake, Wisconsin – a small farm town in the southeastern part of the dairy state. My wife likes to joke that it looks like a campground, and I mean, she’s not wrong, considering many of the locals ride around on golf carts more frequently than actual cars. One thing is for sure… I do NOT miss those brutal winters!
Favorite type of music?
There are a few different directions I could go here, but I will just say something up-tempo usually does the job. I’m talking anything from Michael Jackson & Shania Twain to Flo Rida & Florida Georgia Line. As long as my foot’s tapping, I’m happy with the music.
Favorite color?
This one is easy! My favorite color is lime green. I LOVE bright colors. They just make everything so joyful.
Favorite TV shows or movies?
I’m sure readers will have mixed responses to this, but I am a HUGE Marvel movie fan. The only catch is that I’m a bigger fan of Tony Stark, Steve Rogers and Bruce Banner than I am of Iron Man, Captain America and the Hulk. Yes, I’m a bit of a nerd.
Favorite local restaurants or other haunts?
One of my main editorial responsibilities at AZ Big Media is restaurant reviews, so I will go ahead and pass on this one. As a foodie, I’m equal opportunity delicious food!
Least favorite food?
I’m a very textural eater, seafood and mushrooms land on my list of least favorite foods. Although, I will try anything you put in front of me.
Contact Email: paul.schaum@azbigmedia.com
