Who the Heck is Dirks Dirkland

Behind the Mic with Dirks Dirkland: The Story of Montcalm Mayhem

Every community has its unique voices, but few have burst onto the local scene quite like Dirks Dirkland, the self-appointed news correspondent for Montcalm Mayhem. On a hilarious and lighthearted episode of the Discover Montcalm Podcast when content creator  Duane Weed sat down with Ryan—the creator behind the mustache and glasses—to learn how a fun idea filmed on a smartphone turned into a regional social media phenomenon.

“Ron Burgundy Lost on M-91”

Ryan describes the Dirks Dirkland persona as “kind of like Ron Burgundy got lost on M-91.” Having held the character idea in the back of his mind for years, Ryan finally decided to set up his phone camera and test it out.

The response from Montcalm County was immediate. His very first video racked up nearly 50,000 views, launching a run of over 100 videos that cover everything from local sports highlights and community polls to good-natured local humor.

Keeping It Light and Positive

While traditional news often focuses on accidents or heavy headlines, Ryan made a conscious choice to steer Montcalm Mayhem toward comedy, positivity, and local pride.

Whether he is running a county-wide “Pizza War” bracket or poking lighthearted fun at local rivalries, the goal remains simple: get people to laugh and celebrate life in Montcalm County. That positive approach has resonated deeply with locals—so much so that residents frequently recognize Ryan in stores like Meijer and Walmart, even when he isn’t wearing his signature Dirks glasses.

Rolling Out the “Mayhem Mobile”

Montcalm Mayhem’s rapid growth has caught the attention of community supporters near and far. Former Montcalm County resident Bill Hurt, who now resides in Texas, stepped up to sponsor an official vehicle wrap, officially birthing the “Mayhem Mobile” to help Dirks hit the road for future on-location appearances.

Connect with Montcalm Mayhem

Residents can follow Dirks Dirkland’s latest videos, participate in local polls, or submit lighthearted news tips directly to the crew:

• Facebook: Search Montcalm Mayhem (@MontcalmMayhem)

• Email: montcalmmayhem@gmail.com

To feature your business, community initiative, or local event on the Discover Montcalm Podcast or Chatting Local, contact host Duane Weed at 231-250-9624 or visit dwvideo.com or chattinglocal.com.

To feature your nonprofit, community initiative, or local business on the Discover Montcalm Podcast or Chatting Local, contact host Duane Weed at 231-250-9624 or visit dwvideo.com or chattinglocal.com.

To feature your business, non-profit, or local story on the Discover Montcalm Podcast or Chatting Local, contact host Duane Weed at 231-250-9624 or visit dwvideo.com or chattinglocal.com.

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