Discover Montcalm Podcast

Flat River Dance Company – Joseph Curry

When you think of classical ballet instruction, your mind might not immediately picture a teenager with a bright blue mohawk listening to punk rock. But for Joseph Curry, co-owner and artistic director of Flat River Dance Company in Greenville, Michigan, that exact non-traditional start paved the way for an international professional dance career.

In the latest episode of the Discover Montcalm Podcast, host Duane Weed sat down with Joseph Curry to explore his journey from high school backstage stagehand to touring professional dancer, and ultimately to...

Michigan Maker Summit – the modern maker movement

The modern maker movement has transitioned from an informal network of hobbyists into a legitimate driver of independent manufacturing and product prototyping. In a recent corporate strategy segment, media producer Duane Weed sat down with Blake Sanborn to evaluate the systemic value that public maker spaces bring to regional commercial districts.  For up-to-date information go to michiganmakersummit.com

Michigan Maker Summit – building a community

Blake Sanborn highlights the progression of the semi-annual Michigan Maker Summit, emphasizing that a successful technical community relies on accessible infrastructure. By provi...

Montcalm Community College – History of Heritage Village

Walk onto the campus of Montcalm Community College (MCC), look to the west, and you’ll find yourself stepping directly backward in time. Nestled right on the college grounds is the MCC Heritage Village—a pristine, living history collection that captures the architectural and cultural soul of late 19th-century Montcalm County.

On this episode of the Discover Montcalm Podcast, host Duane Weed welcomes back prolific local author, educator, and historian Gary Hauck. Together, they explore the remarkable grassroots history of the villag...

Beyond the Battlefield: Army Sniper Bruce Harrington Shares a Story of Humour, Hardship, and Healing

Every community has its heroes, but we don’t always get the chance to sit down and truly understand the footprints they’ve left behind. On the latest episode of the Discover Montcalm Podcast – Veteran Spotlight, host Duane Weed and co-host Kara Stevens opened up the studio for a deeply moving installment of our Veteran Spotlight series.

Our special guest was Greenville native and U.S. Army Infantry Veteran Bruce Harrington. Joining him on the co...

Quick answer: The Clifford Lake Inn, established in 1881, has a vibrant history, transitioning from a recreational resort to a Prohibition speakeasy. Rebuilt after a 1929 fire, it became a Michigan Historical Site in 1986. Many believe it’s haunted, with paranormal investigators reporting unexplainable phenomena and identifying entities, contributing to its enduring secrets and ghostly tales.

Key Takeaways

The Clifford Lake Inn was established in 1881 by Lewis Smith and James Richards. During the 1920s Prohibition era, the inn secretly operated a speakeasy in its basement. A catastrophic fire in 1929 destroyed approximately 85% of the structure. The inn wa...

Quick answer: For beginners, achieving good podcast audio quality is crucial. Tips include encouraging guests to use external microphones, optimizing your recording space with simple solutions like blankets, ensuring proper microphone placement close to your mouth, and prioritizing local recording for cleaner interviews. DW Video & Multimedia, LLC in Howard City, Michigan, also offers podcast production assistance.

Key Takeaways

Audio quality is critical for podcasts, even with modern technology making creation easier.For remote interviews, encourage guests to use external microphones and consider services like Auphonic or Descript for post-production.Improve recording spaces by minimizing hard reflective...

Quick answer: The Howard City Area Chamber of Commerce, founded in 2023, serves as a vital community ambassador, strengthening local connections, supporting businesses, and promoting the unique aspects of Howard City, Michigan. It works to create awareness of local businesses, organizations, attractions, and events, fostering collaboration and giving businesses a voice in community developments.

Key Takeaways

The Howard City Area Chamber of Commerce was founded in 2023 with the mission “Where Community Connects.”It acts as a community ambassador, promoting local businesses, organizations, attractions, and events in Howard City, Michigan.The Chamber maintains representation on local boards and comm...

Quick answer: Bree Teegardin’s inspiring journey began at age eight when she was diagnosed with childhood leukemia. Her story, shared on the Discover Montcalm Podcast, details her battle through chemotherapy, a bone marrow transplant, and severe complications. Despite immense challenges, Bree found strength and hope through unwavering family, friend, and community support, continuing to inspire others with her courage.

Key Takeaways

Bree Teegardin was diagnosed with leukemia at eight years old.Her treatment involved chemotherapy, a bone marrow transplant, and extensive recovery from complications.Community support, including meals and prayers, provided significant assistance to the To...

Quick answer: Shelley Irwin is a respected West Michigan radio personality, host of The Shelley Irwin Show, and a storytelling expert. With over two decades at WGVU, she emphasizes how authentic stories inspire, educate, and connect people, advising businesses to use storytelling to build stronger customer relationships. Her career exemplifies the power of following one’s passion.

Key Takeaways

Shelley Irwin is a respected West Michigan radio personality, host of The Shelley Irwin Show, and an expert in storytelling.She advises businesses to leverage storytelling to build stronger customer relationships by focusing on human narratives.Irwin’s br...

Quick answer: For beginners, podcasting can start with existing equipment like a smartphone or computer. To improve audio quality, a dynamic USB microphone such as the Samson Q2U or similar Audio-Technica models is recommended, plugging directly into a computer. Free software like Audacity and DaVinci Resolve can assist with recording and editing.

Key Takeaways

Beginners can start podcasting using existing equipment like a smartphone or basic computer.For better audio quality, a dynamic USB microphone (e.g., Samson Q2U) is recommended.Free software options such as Audacity and DaVinci Resolve are available for recording...

Quick answer: The Discover Montcalm Podcast’s “Veteran Spotlight” features Army veteran Steve Barnes, who shares his experiences from Cedar Springs to Desert Storm, serving in a National Guard maintenance company. He discusses the challenges veterans face returning home and emphasizes the critical role of community organizations like the VFW and American Legion in providing support and resources for veterans.

Key Takeaways

Army veteran Steve Barnes shared his journey from Cedar Springs, Michigan, to active deployment in Operation Desert Storm.He served in a National Guard maintenance company, supporting military vehicles and equipment during the Gulf War.Ba...

Quick answer: Podcasting for beginners starts with identifying a clear purpose and maintaining consistency. Avoid overthinking the technology, as many podcasts can begin with just a smartphone and a quality microphone. Focus on delivering valuable content with excellent audio quality to build brand awareness, generate leads, and engage your audience effectively.

Key Takeaways

Podcasting is a powerful tool for business marketing, lead generation, local branding, and audience engagement.Beginners should start with a clear purpose and maintain consistency in their podcasting efforts.Modern podcasting technology is user-friendly; many podcasts can be started with a smartphone and...

Quick answer: The Greenville American Legion, Ray I. Booth, Post #101, is an organization that supports veterans by connecting them with benefits, mental health resources, and camaraderie, as shared by Jerry Collins. Founded in 1919, it also deeply serves the Montcalm County community through events, volunteer opportunities, and family support, extending membership beyond combat veterans to include their families.

Key Takeaways

The American Legion supports veterans with VA healthcare information, benefits assistance, financial aid, mental health support, and community connections.Eligibility for the American Legion includes veterans with honorable discharges and extends to family members through the Sons...

Tech Tuesdays – Understanding Agentic AI for Small Business

Hosts:
Duane Weed
Steven Rainwater

Topics Covered:
What is Agentic AI?
Differences between ChatGPT and Agentic AI
AI workflow automation
AI assistants for business
Customer relationship management tools
Business automation software
AI email and task management
Nelson Operating System overview
How AI can help small businesses grow
Common fears and misconceptions about AI

Mentioned Resources:
Business Growth Engine
Nelson Operating System
OpenAI
Google

Contact:
Duane Weed, DW...

Quick answer: Flat River Medical helps build healthcare careers in Montcalm County by offering Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training programs, which can be completed in as little as two weeks. Founded in 2015 by Melody Teagarden, the program provides flexible class schedules and assists students in exploring funding opportunities through Michigan Works, making healthcare accessible to diverse individuals.

Key Takeaways

Flat River Medical provides Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training programs.Students can complete CNA training in as little as two weeks.The program offers flexible daytime and evening classes, accommodating students as young as 16.Funding opportunities through...

Tech Tuesdays: How to Start a Podcast (Beginner to Pro Tips)

If you’ve ever thought about starting your own podcast, this episode of the Discover Montcalm Podcast is your roadmap.

In this Tech Tuesdays segment, host Duane Weed sits down with Steven from Business Growth Engine to break down everything you need to know—from choosing your format to selecting equipment and staying consistent.

Start with Your Content

Your podcast should:

Be real and conversational
Focus on topics you enjoy
Provide value to your audience
In-P...

Supporting Veterans in Montcalm County – VFW Sheridan & Honor Veterans and Soldiers Foundation

In this powerful episode of the Discover Montcalm Podcast, host Duane Weed sits down with Buck Rush, a dedicated local leader serving veterans across Montcalm County.

Buck represents two impactful organizations:

Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 5065 in Sheridan
Honor Veterans and Soldiers Foundation

Together, these organizations are making a real difference—helping veterans, supporting families, and ensuring no one is left behind.

Welcome to the first edition of Tech Tuesdays from the Discover Montcalm Podcast.

In this episode, Duane Weed and Steven from Business Growth Engine discuss how Opus Pro helps businesses turn long videos into short-form content for social media.

Learn how to create:

🎥 Reels
📱 Shorts
📈 Marketing videos
📝 Captions
📅 Scheduled posts

This episode is perfect for small business owners, creators, podcasters, and anyone trying to grow online.

Quick answer The Tie Dye Festival in Howard City, Michigan, is a free, family-friendly music event held annually in August at Burley Park. It features approximately 24 live bands, free tent and RV camping, and various vendors. Rooted in a wedding anniversary celebration, the festival promotes peace, love, and music, supporting community causes through donations and sponsorships.

Key Takeaways

The Tie Dye Festival is a free, family-friendly music event held annually in August at Burley Park in Howard City, Michigan.It features around 24 live bands across two days, offering diverse music styles, along with free tent and...

Quick answer: Nate and Jake’s Meadery in Edmore, MI, is a unique destination featured on the Discover Montcalm Podcast. It offers handcrafted mead, an ancient alcoholic beverage made from honey, water, and yeast, complemented by a creative food menu. Located in a historic downtown building, the meadery is expanding its offerings and community collaborations, bringing fresh energy to Montcalm County’s dining scene.

Key Takeaways

Nate and Jake’s Meadery is located in downtown Edmore, MI, inside a historic late-1800s building.Mead, one of history’s oldest alcoholic beverages, is made with honey, water, and yeas...

Quick answer: The Discover Montcalm Podcast has achieved digital dominance in Montcalm County, Michigan, becoming a top local resource. In 2025, it garnered 111,689 unique visitors and nearly 500,000 page views, serving as a digital town square where local stories drive tourism, commerce, and community pride. Produced by DW Video & Multimedia, LLC, it continues to expand its reach.

Key Takeaways

The Discover Montcalm Podcast achieved significant digital dominance in 2025, recording 111,689 unique visitors and nearly 500,000 page views.It serves as a digital town square for Montcalm County, enabling local businesses, non-profits, and families to share their stories.The podcast’s su...

Quick answer: Howard City, Michigan’s downtown history, as explored in the Discover Montcalm Podcast with historian Don Bauman, reveals a vibrant community shaped by its South Main Street businesses. Key landmarks included the Congregational Church and a post office, alongside various shops. Wartime letters connected over 300 servicemen, and Saturday nights fostered strong community bonds through shopping, socializing, and shared entertainment.

Key Takeaways

The Congregational Church on South Main Street served as a significant community hub, hosting high school graduations until 1934 and temporarily housing other congregations.Downtown Howard City, Michigan, experienced growth with a new post of...

Quick answer Howard City, Michigan, has a rich history as a Montcalm County hub, with its downtown serving as a center for commerce and community. Notable features include historic buildings like the former Golden Hotel, industries such as the Wolverine factory, and a strong sense of community service, particularly during World War II. Its history is actively preserved through initiatives like the Discover Montcalm Podcast.

Key Takeaways

Howard City’s downtown was a central hub for commerce, community, and connection in Montcalm County.The town’s history includes significant structures like the former Golden Hotel (now Lati...

Quick answer: Chambers Powder Coating, owned by young entrepreneur Cody Chambers, offers custom powder coating services near Greenville, Michigan. Featured on the Discover Montcalm Podcast, the business specializes in durable, baked-on finishes for automotive parts and custom items, with over 2,000 color options. Cody also provides sandblasting and Cerakote services, serving Montcalm County and West Michigan.

Key Takeaways

Chambers Powder Coating is owned by young entrepreneur Cody Chambers and is featured on the Discover Montcalm Podcast.The business specializes in custom powder coating services for items like automotive wheels, parts, and drinkware, offering over 2,000 color options and...

Quick answer The CAD and Engineering program at Montcalm Area Career Center prepares students for careers in design, engineering, and problem-solving. Students gain hands-on experience, starting with CAD fundamentals (AutoCAD) and progressing to engineering design (SOLIDWORKS). The program emphasizes practical application through 3D printing, laser/plasma cutting, and participation in statewide engineering competitions, fostering teamwork and real-world connections.

Key Takeaways

The CAD and Engineering program at Montcalm Area Career Center prepares students for careers in design, engineering, and problem-solving.Students learn CAD fundamentals (AutoCAD) before progressing to engineering design using professional software like SOLIDWORKS.The program...

Quick answer: The Central Montcalm Art Showcase is an annual student art exhibition held every March at Central Montcalm Middle High School in Stanton, Michigan. Led by art teacher Laura Ruggles, this immersive event features student artwork, interactive exhibits, and community creative partners. It’s designed as a family-friendly experience to celebrate visual arts and inspire the next generation of artists across Montcalm County.

Key Takeaways

The Central Montcalm Art Showcase is an annual student art exhibition held each March at Central Montcalm Middle High School in Stanton, Michigan.The event is led by art teacher La...

Quick answer: Gerald Wellman, known as Papa Gnome, is a West Michigan local legend who spreads joy and supports his community. Inspired by health struggles and depression, he crafts iconic gnome hats to uplift spirits and protect his health. He uses his platform for philanthropy, supporting local causes like I Am Third Kids Meals, Cannonsville Critters, and Hearts of Ionia, turning negativity into positive action.

Key Takeaways

Papa Gnome is Gerald Wellman, a West Michigan local legend known for his distinctive handmade gnome hats.His journey began after facing health issues (actinic keratosis, PKD) and depression...