Discover Montcalm Podcast

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...

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...

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...

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. K...

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 insp...

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 Takeaw...

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...

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 suppo...

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 power...

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 includ...

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 f...

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...

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 wi...

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 T...

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, po...

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...

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...

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 Takeaw...

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 th...

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 th...

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 We...

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 e...

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 gene...

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...

Quick answer: The Montcalm Community College Tech Fest is an annual community technology festival designed to inspire high school students, college students, and community members in Montcalm County and West Michigan. Now in its third year, the self-paced, hands-on event allows attendees to explore technology through student-led stations and demonstrations by industry partners, fostering curiosity...