Unable to sign into Podcast Connect

Hoping someone can give me some guidance. I've spent pretty much the whole weekend trying to work out why every time I try to sign into Podcast Connect I get an error page. After much research it seems it happens quite often but there doesnt appear to be any clear resolution on any thread I've read. Has anyone else been able to work out what the issue is?

I've tried all of the following without luck:

- authorised my computer via iTunes, made sure I was signed in with Apple ID & was able to download/purchase via the App Store (ie. made sure account is activated on my computer)
- updated OS & iTunes to latest versions
- tried Chrome & Safari, including private browsers
- tried signing in from another computer
- tried accessing Podcast Connect via the Submit a Podcast link in iTunes as well as through iTunes Connect & Podcast Connect links in browser
- cleared caches & cookies
- yelled and screamed.
HELP?!!!