The Rumors are True Podcast

In this episode of The Rumors Are True, Jeremy sits down with Dale Thompson, the unmistakable voice behind the legendary Christian metal band Bride. Known for their bluesy, hard rock edge and fearless approach to faith and music, Dale reflects on the early days of Bride, sharing stories from the band’s rise in the late ’80s and ’90s and the challenges of carving out a unique space in both the Christian and mainstream rock scenes. His candid perspective offers a deeper look at the passion and conviction that fueled the band’s longevity. The conversation also dives into Dale’s personal journey—his evolving faith, the highs and lows of life on the road, and how his perspective has shifted over the years. With honesty and humor, he opens up about the realities behind the music, from industry struggles to staying creatively inspired decades into his career. Fans of Bride and newcomers alike will appreciate this engaging and heartfelt discussion, packed with behind-the-scenes stories, spiritual insight, and a reminder of why Dale Thompson remains such a compelling and influential voice in rock music. Produced by Wesley Hill @thebigwes Artwork by Jared Chase Bowser @jaredchasebowser Music by Brian Jerin R.I.P.

On this episode of The Rumors Are True, Jeremy sits down with Stephen Keech, best known as the longtime front man of Haste the Day, to unpack his journey through one of the most influential eras of metalcore. The conversation dives into Stephen stepping into the band during a pivotal transition and helping shape albums like Pressure the Hinges, as well as the intense touring years that built their passionate fanbase. Together, they reflect on the band’s early momentum, their eventual breakup, and what it meant to come back years later with renewed purpose and perspective. Jeremy and Stephen also explore the deeper personal side of his story—life beyond the stage, including his evolution in faith, family life, and how his beliefs have shifted over time. Stephen shares how growing up in a faith-centered environment and later navigating the music industry challenged and reshaped his worldview, giving him a more nuanced and personal understanding of spirituality. That honesty brings a refreshing depth to the conversation, especially for listeners who have followed the Christian hardcore scene and its changing identity over the years. The episode rounds out with a look at the present and future of Haste the Day, including their recent resurgence and new music on the horizon. Stephen talks about what it’s like revisiting the band’s legacy while still pushing forward creatively, and how the fire to create heavy music never really left. It’s a candid and insightful discussion that balances nostalgia with growth, giving listeners both a behind-the-scenes look at the band and a meaningful perspective on life, music, and staying true to your calling. Produced by Wesley Hill @thebigwes Artwork by Jared Chase Bowser @jaredchasebowser Music by Brian Jerin R.I.P.

In this episode of The Rumors Are True, Jeremy sits down with Michael Abrams of Valley of Doves, a standout artist from the influential indie label Fever Ltd., for a thoughtful and engaging conversation about music, creativity, and the stories behind the songs. Michael reflects on the origins of Valley of Doves, the band’s sonic direction, and how their connection with Fever Ltd. helped shape their artistic identity. The discussion dives into the challenges and rewards of creating music in a niche scene, the evolution of their sound, and the deeper themes that run through their work. Along the way, Michael shares personal insights into his journey as a musician, offering listeners an honest look at perseverance, inspiration, and the passion that fuels independent artistry. Produced by Wesley Hill @thebigwes Artwork by Jared Chase Bowser @jaredchasebowser Music by Brian Jerin R.I.P.

In this episode of The Rumors Are True podcast, Jeremy sits down with Jon Berndtson of The Beautiful Mistake for an honest and reflective conversation about music, faith, and the band’s enduring legacy in the independent and alternative scene. Jon shares the story of how the band formed in Southern California and how their sound evolved as they began writing emotional, melodic music that connected deeply with listeners in the early 2000s underground scene. Throughout the discussion, Jon looks back on the band’s early years, including the creation of their influential album Light a Match, For I Deserve to Burn and their time with The Militia Group. He talks about the challenges and excitement of touring, building a fanbase during the pre-social media era, and the relationships that shaped the band along the way. Jon also reflects on the band’s hiatus, the personal growth that happened during that time, and what ultimately led to reconnecting with the music and legacy of The Beautiful Mistake years later. Jeremy and Jon also dive into the themes behind the band’s music, the emotional honesty that defined their songwriting, and the lasting impact their songs have had on fans who discovered the band during a formative time in their lives. The conversation highlights how The Beautiful Mistake’s music continues to resonate today, while offering listeners a deeper look into the heart and story behind one of the scene’s most beloved bands. Ads do not influence the answers you get from ChatGPT. Your chats stay private. Learn about ads and personalizationProduced by Wesley Hill @thebigwes Artwork by Jared Chase Bowser @jaredchasebowser Music by Brian Jerin R.I.P.

On this episode of The Rumors Are True, we welcome Nick Radovanovic — known for his time with Acceptance and the punk outfit Hangnail. Nick reflects on his early introduction to punk and hardcore, the DIY spirit that shaped his musical foundation, and the relentless touring years that helped forge both his sound and his character. From basement shows to bigger stages, he shares stories about the relationships, challenges, and defining moments that came with being part of a tight-knit scene. Beyond performing, Nick has built a successful career in production and mixing, working behind the board to help artists craft and refine their sound. He talks about the transition from drummer to producer, what he’s learned about creativity from both sides of the glass, and how his passion for great records continues to drive him. With honesty and perspective, Nick discusses longevity in music, navigating change, and finding purpose in every season — proving once again that the rumors are true. Produced by Wesley Hill @thebigwes Artwork by Jared Chase Bowser @jaredchasebowser Music by Brian Jerin R.I.P.

In this new episode of The Rumors Are True Podcast, host Jeremy Alan Gould sits down with David Bunton, known for his work with The Showdown and Hope Deferred, for a wide-ranging and thoughtful conversation about his journey through heavy music. David reflects on his early days with The Showdown, the impact those formative years had on his creative voice, and how those experiences continue to shape his approach to songwriting and performance today. The episode digs into the evolution of his vocals, the grind of touring, and the lessons learned from decades of staying committed to music in an ever-changing scene. The conversation also explores the rebirth and renewed momentum of Hope Deferred, giving listeners insight into how the band came back together and what drives their current creative direction. David opens up about balancing faith, creativity, and authenticity while navigating both personal growth and artistic expectations. His reflections offer a grounded look at longevity in heavy music and the importance of staying true to yourself as an artist. Along the way, the episode is filled with stories, influences, and unexpected tangents that longtime fans will appreciate, while newer listeners will get a strong sense of who David is beyond the bands. Equal parts nostalgic and forward-looking, this episode captures the spirit of reflection, honesty, and passion that defines The Rumors Are True Podcast. Produced by Wesley Hill @thebigwes Artwork by Jared Chase Bowser @jaredchasebowser Music by Brian Jerin R.I.P.

In this new episode of The Rumors Are True Podcast, host Jeremy Alan Gould welcomes Lance Black, known for his work with Silage, Parkway, and Celebrity, for a candid conversation that traces his unique path through the alternative and punk scenes. Lance reflects on his early days in Silage, sharing stories about finding his voice, navigating the music industry at a young age, and what it was like to be part of a band that helped shape a specific era of underground and faith-adjacent rock music. The discussion offers an honest look at the excitement, pressure, and learning curves that came with early success. The episode also dives into Lance’s time with Parkway and Celebrity, exploring how his songwriting and perspective evolved as the music and scene around him changed. Lance talks about creativity, collaboration, and the realities of sustaining a career in music beyond the spotlight. His insights shed light on the importance of growth, adaptability, and staying grounded while moving through different bands and creative seasons. Throughout the conversation, Lance shares thoughtful reflections, memorable stories, and behind-the-scenes moments that longtime fans will appreciate, while offering meaningful context for newer listeners discovering his work for the first time. Equal parts reflective and insightful, this episode captures the spirit of longevity, reinvention, and authenticity that The Rumors Are True Podcast is known for. Produced by Wesley Hill @thebigwes Artwork by Jared Chase Bowser @jaredchasebowser Music by Brian Jerin R.I.P.

This week on The Rumors Are True Podcast, we’re joined by Travis Bryant, a key figure in the underground alternative and emo scenes through his work with Terminal, Goodbye Tomorrow, and Alive in Wild Paint. Travis reflects on his early introduction to music, the inspiration behind picking up a guitar, and how discovering the DIY punk and emo community shaped both his sound and mindset. He talks about the formation of Terminal, the excitement and challenges of those early years, and how writing and performing music became a vital outlet during a formative time in his life. The conversation dives deeper into Travis’s time with Goodbye Tomorrow and Alive in Wild Paint, exploring how those projects marked a creative evolution and a shift in musical direction. He shares insight into the songwriting and recording process, the differences in band dynamics, and what it was like pushing himself artistically while navigating the realities of touring, burnout, and change. Travis also opens up about the lessons learned from being in multiple bands and how each experience helped shape his approach to creativity. Travis and the host also discuss the broader music scene—then and now—including how the industry, touring culture, and fan connections have evolved since the early 2000s. He offers thoughtful perspective on longevity in music, balancing passion with real life, and what it means to look back on a body of work years later. Filled with nostalgia, honesty, and behind-the-scenes stories, this episode is a meaningful listen for longtime fans of the scene, musicians, and anyone curious about the realities of growing up through music. Produced by Wesley Hill @thebigwes Artwork by Jared Chase Bowser @jaredchasebowser Music by Brian Jerin R.I.P.

On this episode of The Rumors Are True Podcast, host Jeremy Alan Gould sits down with Josh Ashworth, vocalist of influential metalcore band Society’s Finest, for a deep and honest conversation about his journey through music and life. Josh reflects on the formation and evolution of Society’s Finest, their role in shaping the late ’90s and early 2000s hardcore and metalcore scene, and what it meant to be part of the Christian and underground music worlds during that era. He shares stories from the road, the creative process behind the band’s most recognized material, and the camaraderie and tension that often came with touring and growing up in a tight-knit scene. The conversation expands into the realities of the music industry at the time, including the pressures of expectations, label relationships, and the balance between artistic integrity and survival. Josh offers insight into how the scene functioned before social media, when word of mouth, live shows, and community played a central role in a band’s success or longevity. He also discusses how the band’s message and intensity connected with listeners who were searching for honesty and meaning through heavy music. Josh also opens up about personal struggles, including battles with addiction, identity, and burnout, and how those experiences ultimately reshaped his perspective on life, creativity, and faith. His reflections are raw and unfiltered, shedding light on the human cost that can come with years of touring and high expectations. These moments bring depth and vulnerability to the episode, making it about far more than just music. Throughout the episode, Josh and Jeremy reflect on legacy—what it means to look back on a band like Society’s Finest years later, how its influence still resonates, and how Josh views that chapter of his life today. Filled with nostalgia, hard-earned wisdom, and thoughtful insight, this episode is a must-listen for fans of heavy music, scene history, and anyone interested in the real stories behind the songs. Produced by Wesley Hill @thebigwes Artwork by Jared Chase Bowser@jaredchasebowser Music By Brian Jerin R.I.P.

This week on The Rumors Are True, we sit down with acclaimed producer, songwriter, and engineer Matt Squire, whose career has helped shape the sound of modern pop-punk, rock, emo, and mainstream pop. From his early roots in the Washington, D.C. DIY and hardcore scenes to producing chart-topping records for artists like Panic! at the Disco, All Time Low, Underoath, Ariana Grande, and more, Matt’s journey spans underground culture to global success. His path from band member to sought-after producer offers a unique perspective on creativity, collaboration, and longevity in the music industry. In this conversation, Matt opens up about his beginnings, the key turning points in his career, and how his early scene involvement continues to influence his approach in the studio. He shares insights into producing across multiple genres, the importance of building trust with artists, and how a producer can help bring out an artist’s best work while still honoring their vision. The discussion also dives into songwriting, studio dynamics, and the evolving role of producers in today’s music landscape. Matt also reflects on how the music industry has changed over the years, from shifts in technology to new ways artists can find success. Whether you’re a musician, producer, or longtime fan of the bands and records he’s worked on, this episode offers an honest, behind-the-scenes look at the craft, challenges, and passion that go into creating lasting music. Produced by Wesley Hill @thebigwes Artwork by Jared Chase Bowser @jaredchasebowser Music by Brian Jerin R.I.P.

In this week’s episode of The Rumors Are True Podcast, we sit down with Will McGinniss, co-founder and longtime bassist of the iconic band Audio Adrenaline. Will reflects on the early years of the group, the creative energy that fueled their rise, and the evolution of their sound as they became one of the most influential bands in modern Christian rock. He shares personal stories from life on the road, the band’s biggest milestones, and the friendships that shaped their journey. The conversation also dives into Will’s work with Flicker Records, the groundbreaking label he helped launch. He talks about its mission, the artists they championed, and how the label carved out a space for fresh voices in the alternative Christian music scene. Will discusses the creative risks they took, the industry challenges they navigated, and the spirit of community that made Flicker stand out. Throughout the episode, Will offers honest reflections on faith, music, mentorship, and legacy. Whether you grew up on Audio Adrenaline or discovered Flicker Records through its standout roster, this episode gives listeners an inside look at the passion and purpose behind some of the era’s most impactful music. Tune in for stories, insights, and a look back at a career that continues to influence artists today. Produced by Wesley Hill @thebigwes Artwork by Jared Chase Bowser @jaredchasebowser Music by Brian Jerin R.I.P.

In this week’s episode of The Rumors Are True Podcast, we sit down with Zak Shultz—musician, songwriter, and all-around scene veteran known for his work with Stairwell, The W’s, and My Red Hot Nightmare, as well as his years behind the scenes at Tooth & Nail Records. Zak shares stories from his early days navigating punk, ska, and alternative music, how each band shaped his creative journey, and what it was really like working at one of the most influential indie labels of the era. We dig into the highs, the challenges, the unexpected opportunities, and the lessons he picked up along the way. Whether you’re a longtime fan of these bands, a Tooth & Nail deep-diver, or just love hearing the real stories behind the music, this episode is packed with insight, nostalgia, and plenty of fun. Produced by Wesley Hill @thebigwes Artwork by Jared Chase Bowser @jaredchasebowser Music by Brian Jerin R.I.P.