This episode of The Rumors Are True Podcast welcomes Dan Koch, known for his work in Sherwood, Havana Swim Club, and as the host of multiple thoughtful podcasts including You Have Permission and Pretty Good Vibrations. Dan shares stories from his journey in the music world, from his time as guitarist and songwriter in Sherwood to his newer creative explorations in electronic music and production with Havana Swim Club. Along the way, he reflects on how his experiences in the industry have shaped his perspective as both a musician and a creator of meaningful conversations.

Beyond the music, the episode dives into Dan’s passion for podcasts and the unique space he’s built through shows like You Have Permission and Pretty Good Vibrations. Listeners will get a deeper look at how he bridges creativity, curiosity, and connection across mediums—whether through a catchy melody, a textured beat, or an engaging discussion. It’s an inspiring conversation that highlights Dan’s versatility and his commitment to exploring both art and ideas.

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, we’re joined by Dave Swanson, best known for his work with Life In Your Way and The Frozen Ocean. Dave shares stories from his time in the Connecticut hardcore/metalcore scene and how Life In Your Way grew to become a band that blended heavy music with heartfelt and faith-driven lyrics. He reflects on the unique journey of the band, their impact within the scene, and what it was like to be part of a community that emphasized passion and authenticity as much as the music itself.

The conversation also dives into his later project, The Frozen Ocean, where Dave explored a more atmospheric and expansive sound that showcased another side of his creativity. He opens up about the transition from the intensity of hardcore to more melodic and ambient songwriting, and how those experiences shaped him both musically and personally. Fans of his bands and those curious about the evolution of underground music will enjoy this deep dive into Dave’s story, his creative process, and the lasting connections that music has built along the way.

Produced by Wesley Hill @thebigwes

Artwork by Jared Chase Bowser @jaredchasebowser

Music by Brian Jerin R.I.P.

This episode of The Rumors Are True Podcast features an in-depth conversation with Ben Crist, the voice and songwriter of The Glorious Unseen. Known for crafting raw, atmospheric worship music that spoke to a generation hungry for honesty, Ben shares the story of how the band came together and the heart behind their deeply emotional songs. He talks about the unique balance of creating music that felt authentic both as worship and as art, as well as the challenges of navigating faith, creativity, and personal struggles along the way.

The episode also highlights the impact of their standout releases, including Tonight the Stars Speak and The Hope That Lies in You, albums that gave us unforgettable songs like “Hear Our Prayers,” “Meet Me Where I’m At,” and “Burn in Me.” Ben reflects on what inspired much of this music, the ways it connected with listeners in raw and vulnerable moments, and the lasting influence The Glorious Unseen continues to carry today. Fans of heartfelt storytelling and those who found solace in the band’s music will enjoy hearing Ben’s reflections, behind-the-scenes insights, and thoughts on where life and music have taken him since.

Produced by Wesley Hill @thebigwes

Artwork by Jared Chase Bowser @jaredchasebowser

Music by Brian Jerin R.I.P.

This episode of The Rumors Are True Podcast brings Milam Byers, Davy Baysinger, and Sam Barnhart from the influential rock band Bleach for a deep and heartfelt conversations. The guys open up about the band’s beginnings in Nashville, their creative process in the studio, and what it was like carving out their place in the late ‘90s/early 2000s alternative rock world. They share road stories, the ups and downs of touring, and the experiences that shaped them both as musicians and as friends.

Listeners will also hear about the band’s connection to their fans, how their music continues to resonate years later, and what it meant to be part of such a pivotal moment in underground and faith-driven music. With plenty of laughter, nostalgia, and honest reflection, this episode paints a vivid picture of Bleach’s journey and why their songs still matter today.

Produced by Wesley Hill @thebigwes

Artwork by Jared Chase Bowser @jaredchasebowser

Music by Brian Jerin R.I.P.

In this special three-part series of The Rumors Are True, host Jeremy Alan Gould sits down with Sam Barnhart, Davy Baysinger, and Milam Byers of the beloved alt-rock band Bleach for an unforgettable deep-dive into their story. Across these episodes, the band opens up about their early days cutting their teeth in the late ’90s scene, the friendships and creative spark that fueled their music, and the highs and lows of life on the road. They share honest reflections on personal loss, the challenges of sustaining a band, and the bittersweet decision to step away from the spotlight. With a mix of heartfelt storytelling, candid humor, and behind-the-scenes memories, the trio recounts how time apart led to growth—and what ultimately brought them back together for an emotional and inspiring reunion. Whether you’re a lifelong Bleach fan or discovering their music for the first time, these conversations capture the heart, soul, and enduring legacy of a band that left an indelible mark on their listeners and on the alternative rock landscape.

Produced by Wesley Hill @thebigwes

Artwork by Jared Chase Bowser @jaredchasebowser

Music by Brian Jerin R.I.P.

On this special three-part series of The Rumors Are True, we’re honored to welcome Davy Baysinger, Sam Barnhart, and Milam Byers from the beloved alt-rock band Bleach to celebrate their long-anticipated reunion. As a cornerstone of the late ’90s and early 2000s alternative and Christian rock scenes, Bleach built a reputation for honest, emotional songwriting, anthemic guitar-driven sound, and high-energy live shows that left a lasting impression on fans around the world. In these episodes, the guys open up about the band’s origins, the unique chemistry that brought them together, and the journey through success, personal loss, creative shifts, and eventual disbandment. They reflect deeply on what the band meant to them then—and what it means now—as they revisit the passion and purpose that inspired them to make music in the first place. We also talk about the heart behind their reunion, the unexpected spark that brought them back to the stage, and the renewed connection they feel with each other and their fans. Whether you’ve been singing along since Static or Again, For the First Time, or you’re just now discovering Bleach, these episodes offer a raw, heartfelt, and often hilarious look at the life of a band that never really left our hearts.

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, we welcome Brandon Mullins, vocalist of the post-hardcore band Across Five Aprils and metalcore outfit Embraced. Brandon takes us back to the early 2000s underground scene, where both bands made their mark with emotionally intense lyrics, chaotic live shows, and a DIY spirit that resonated with fans across the country. He talks about joining Across Five Aprils, recording their breakthrough releases like A Tragedy in Progress, and the evolution of the band’s sound and lineup over the years.

We also explore his earlier days with Embraced, a band known for blending melodic elements with brutal heaviness, and how that experience shaped his approach as a frontman. Brandon shares honest reflections on touring life, navigating the ups and downs of the music industry at a young age, and how it felt to step away from it all. He also opens up about his reconnection with music years later, the lasting friendships from those years, and the legacy of both bands in the scene.

Whether you were stage-diving at a VFW hall back in the day or discovering these bands for the first time, this is a deep and personal conversation you won’t want to miss.

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, we welcome Dan Bonebrake, a key figure in the South Florida underground music scene and a seasoned musician known for his work with Dashboard Confessional, The Vacant Andys, Seville, War Generation, and more. Dan dives deep into his musical journey, tracing his roots in the 1990s alternative and emo scenes and offering a personal perspective on the cultural moment that helped launch Dashboard Confessional into the national spotlight.

He shares stories from his time in The Vacant Andys—one of the foundational bands in the scene—and how that experience connected him with Chris Carrabba. Dan discusses the formation of Seville, a short-lived but beloved project, and how it became a key bridge between the early South Florida sound and the evolving emo genre. He also talks about his later work in War Generation and other creative pursuits over the years, giving listeners a glimpse into both the highs and challenges of life as a working musician.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering this era of alternative music, Dan brings honesty, insight, and a wealth of behind-the-scenes stories to this can't-miss conversation.

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, we’re joined by two voices from the world of music podcasting: Dana Bollen from Two Week Notice and Andrew Mall from Live Free or DIY. Dana shares stories from his time as a tour manager for Piebald, as well as behind-the-scenes insights from his popular podcast, which has featured a wide range of artists from the alternative and punk scenes. Andrew, a scholar and author of God Rock, Inc., brings his unique perspective on faith, DIY culture, and underground music communities, as explored through his own podcast. Together, they talk about podcasting, their shared love for music, and the sometimes overlooked spaces where faith, fandom, and creativity intersect. A fun, thoughtful conversation you won’t want to miss.

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, legendary frontman Les Carlsen of the pioneering Christian metal band Bloodgood joins the show for a powerful and heartfelt conversation. Les opens up about his musical journey—from his early days in theater and rock 'n' roll to fronting one of the most influential Christian metal bands of the 1980s and beyond.

Listeners will hear Les share stories of the early Bloodgood days, including how the band formed, their mission to combine faith and heavy metal, and the impact they made on stages across the country. He speaks candidly about his personal faith, the role of prayer in their music, and the deep spiritual purpose behind their performances.

The episode also explores Les’s recent solo work, including new music he’s releasing that continues to carry the same passion and message he's always been known for. He reflects on the legacy of Michael Bloodgood, his longtime bandmate and friend, and how his passing has shaped the future of the band and Les’s own creative vision moving forward.

This is a meaningful and inspiring conversation that offers a glimpse into the heart and soul of one of Christian metal’s most respected voices. Fans of Bloodgood and anyone interested in faith-driven artistry will find a lot to connect with in this episode.

Produced by Wesley Hill @thebigwes

Artwork by Jared Chase Bowser @jaredchasebowser

Music by Brian Jerin R.I.P.