Show notes
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 @thebigwesArtwork by Jared Chase Bowser@jaredchasebowserMusic By Brian Jerin R.I.P.