Listen, They're Fine

Brandon (Bubba) Ogborn, John Ahern & Wyatt Gray · listentheyrefine.com

Listen, They're Fine is the brutally honest parenting podcast for anyone tired of perfect families on social media. Hosts Bubba and John are best friends and neighbors with wildly different approaches to raising kids. Bubba's the chaos parent - wine mom energy, creative solutions, and yes, his 4-year-old knows some colorful language. John's the engineer dad with color-coded schedules, researched gear recommendations, and theories about everything. Each week, they dive into the beautiful disaster of modern parenting - from navigating school politics to dealing with their own childhood trauma while trying not to mess up their kids. Expect heated debates about screen time, birthday party etiquette, and whether goldfish crackers count as a food group. This isn't gentle parenting advice from certified experts. This is two regular dads figuring it out in real time, fighting like siblings, and giving you permission to be imperfect. Episodes drop weekly and feature everything

43 episodes

11d ago latest

weekly cadence

English language

Explicit rating

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Episodes 44

Defunding Paw Patrol, Shark Snorkeling & Nurturing Patience (Episode 43)
4d ago · 1:13:26
Bubba has a bone to pick with Keith Chapman the creator of the hit television series Paw Patrol and John takes the opportunity to turn a family snorkeling trip into a learning experience about how you don't always get what you want. Plus a lively discussion of whether WiFi is a human right. This week's LTF recommendation is the children's book All the World by Liz Scanlon, available at your local public library.
Ani DiFranco, Back-to-School Blues and Sibling Violence (Episode 42)
11d ago · 1:20:01
Bubba wrestles with the moral dilemma of whether to put a squirrel out of its misery, John feels down in the dumps now that summer is over and his kids are going back to school, plus the ugly truth about 15 minute swim school is finally revealed.
Early-Onset Old Man Syndrome (Episode 41)
18d ago · 1:22:30
On this week's episode of guys discuss Bubba's new hairstyle, what a grief support group is really like and his recent appearance on the morning news. Plus John shares a harrowing tale of encountering a stranger during one of his regular night walks. John also recommends the children's book It's Not the Stork!: A Book about Girls, Boys, Babies, Bodies, Families and Friends by Robie H. Harris. It's an episode you won't want to miss!
“I hate my daughter's therapist & water parks are disgusting” (Episode 40)
25d ago · 49:01
On this week's episode the guys debate the finer points of what counts as an "everything shower", whether's Bubba's daughter's therapist is trolling him and whether it's safe to drink well water when you're visiting family out in the country.
Air travel is for the 1% & Malls are Dying (Episode 39)
1mo ago · 1:01:03
On this week’s episode, Bubba has returned from his trip back home to Michigan and has decided that we, the common folk, should no longer be allowed the privilege of jet travel. Meanwhile John takes his children on a walk down memory lane to a magical past when malls were places you actually wanted to spend time in.
“I 3D printed you an apology." (Episode 38)
1mo ago · 59:37
On this week's episode of Listen, They're Fine Bubba recounts how his son kissed a girl then proceeded to get in a fistfight, while John explains the concept of a "Fugler Doll" and why his kids are obsessed with them.
Fireworks, Bike Rides and Suspiciously Friendly Beachgoers (Episode 37)
1mo ago · 1:25:10
Summer is in full swing here at the Listen, They're Fine Podcast. This week the guys discuss how to find the best spot at the beach, the struggle of being both prepared as a parent and leaving room to be spontaneous with your kids, and what to do when your children keep losing their shoes.
Summer Update from Bubba & John
1mo ago · 5:11
Bubba is traveling with his family but the Listen, They're Fine guys still found time to get together to watch some of their old family home movies. Enjoy this special episode featuring a trip down to the old swimming hole, uncles wielding crossbows and the Amish performing traditional folk music. Available now on YouTube: https://youtu.be/sg3mSjEWgXw
Tooth Troubles & Tracking my Wife's Movements (Episode 36)
2mo ago · 1:17:35
A trip to the San Diego Safari Park leads to some grumpy kids and Bubba learns the hard way that forgetting to pay your electric bill has consequences. Also the guys share all the ways that their wives are more productive then them. Plus a PSA on the danger of eating too many popsicles.
Bible Camp, Funcles and Cotton Candy (Episode 35)
2mo ago · 1:05:56
On this week's episode of Listen, They're Fine the guys discuss the phenomena of "Fun-Uncles" and the ethical implications of sending your kids to Vacation Bible Schools instead of an expensive summer camp.
Father’s Day: Wife Gripes (Episode 34)
2mo ago · 1:06:41
Father's Day is a time to reflect on all the blessings that come with being a family man. It's also an opportunity to air grievances about your children and significant others. On this episode the guys share some of their favorite "wife gripes", talk about the vortex of negativity that is the Nextdoor App as well as recommend some of their favorite movies to watch with the family.
“Two grapes and a hate crime.” (Episode 33)
2mo ago · 1:48:28
Listen, They're Fine isn't afraid to ask the tough questions like, "is it ever okay to spank your child?" and "is it ethical to take your kid into the voting booth with you on election day?" plus Bubba recounts his challenging weekend of solo parenting while his wife is on a ladies trip and John gets real about why he doesn't like tapas.
Axe Murderers, TikTok Toys and The Great Hackysack Shortage - (Episode 32)
2mo ago · 1:41:54
A new wrinkle is added to a childhood story about the axe murderer next door with a special call-in appearance by none other than John's Mom! Plus Bubba provides an update on his daughter's beatboxing career as well as a discussion about Stater Brothers Grocery and how to disconnect from your work brain while with the family.
“Cancer-free at LEGOLAND” (Episode 31)
3mo ago · 1:33:12
Now that pee wee baseball season is over John and his family can focus on their real passion, trips to LEGOLAND. Meanwhile Bubba's family trip to Las Vegas is nearly derailed by a sudden and potentially deadly testicle diagnosis. What will happen next?! Tune in for another exciting episode of Listen, They’re Fine! Weekly Recommendations: Bubba recommends letting your kids explore the playground at the John Wayne airport & John recommends the Michael J. Fox memior FUTURE BOY (available in convenient audiobook format)
“Every school has a Chaz Danger.” (Episode 30)
3mo ago · 1:16:22
On this week's episode of Listen, They Fine the guys tackle of topic of how to deal with a child who is developing a bad habit of lying and whether popular culture was too hard on Ashlee Simpson. Recommendations: John recommends the new Social Distortion album, Born to Kill Bubba recommends going all out at your next trip to the beach with the kids
“Who poops on an airplane?!” (Episode 29)
3mo ago · 1:40:27
On this week's episode Bubba recounts his recent family adventures in Wisconsin and John experiences the thrill of chaperoning a pack of wild children on the school field trip to the aquarium. Plus some pro-tips on how to save big on a hair transplant and what to do when your UBER drive won't stop talking. Recommendations: John recommends watching the James Cameron Director's Cut of the movie ALIENS and patroning your local furniture maker to get a surprisingly affordable price on a new couch. Bubba recommends that amusement parks become publicly owned enterprises as a way to stop the rampant
“Sometimes winning the fight feels worse…” (Episode 28)
3mo ago · 1:21:31
On a very special episode of Listen, They're Fine we have a surprise guest of John's Dad reminiscing about his party days in the mid-1980s, plus Bubba shares some words of wisdom about how to make sure all your kids feel included in their sibling's birthday celebrations. Recommendations: John recommends THE FUN JUNGLE mystery book series for kids and the memior "In a Sunburned Country" by Bill Bryson for adults Bubba recommends listening to The Smashing Pumpkins and cooking your family a delicious fondant potato dish from the Groovy Foodie Sarah Bahn (link)
My Son is a Proud Toy Gun Owner (Episode 27)
4mo ago · 1:12:17
On this week's episode of Listen, They're Fine the guys discuss the evils of doo-wop music, what could be done to improve school talent shows and how turn your children's neighborhood lemonade stand into a viral hit on Instagram.
“My wife could beat up your husband.” (Episode 26)
4mo ago · 1:28:47
On this week's episode the guys tell a harrowing tale about how far they would go to protect their families at an Orange County hamburger restaurant. Plus Bubba makes a call to action for dads to get more involved in the PTA and John shares his best practices for organizing a neighborhood scavenger hunt that's guaranteed to keep your kids busy for approximately 25 minutes.
Knife fight with a kitchen rat (Episode 25)
4mo ago · 36:39
When is it appropriate to swap out your kid’s dead pet for a near identical alive one? Find out on this week’s special mini-sode of Listen They’re Fine, when Bubba and John share their expertise on how to properly deal with animals in the family home. (both the welcome and unwelcome kind)
Hot Teacher Pyramid Scheme (Episode 24)
4mo ago · 1:24:35
Easter is time of renewal but also a time for your children to throw a tantrum and hurl plastic eggs at your head. Plus Bubba recounts the time his schoolteacher pressured to sign him up with AMWAY. Recommendations: John recommends listening to the music of Swedish singer-songwriter and guitarist Jose Gonzalez Bubba recommends visiting your local McDonald's to try their new BIG ARCH hamburger sandwich
“Children of the Old World” (Episode 23)
5mo ago · 1:23:51
What's the best way to celebrate Easter with your kids? Do you make an offering of painted eggs to the pagan bunny spirts or enjoy a crucifixion reenactment at your local megachurch? Plus the guys discuss mosquitos, biohacking and what to do when you catch your son stealing. This week's recommendations: Bubba recommends listing to the band RADIOHEAD (particularly the album OK COMPUTER) plus the comedian Sarah Haskin's YouTube series TARGET WOMEN. John recommends the Netflix documentary "The Rise of the Red Hot Chili Peppers: Our Brother, Hillel"
“No cosmic questions at bedtime.” (Episode 22)
5mo ago · 1:20:52
On this week's episode Bubba & John talk about the highs and lows of attending a birthday party at the local trampoline park, at what point does deep tongue kissing cross the line into full on sex, and which colonge is appropriate to wear to the beach. This week's recommendation include: The movie ETERNITY (2025) available on Apple TV, the book "It's Not the Stork!: A Book About Girls, Boys, Babies, Bodies, Families and Friends" by Robie H. Harris and Michael Emberley & taking the whole family out for a day of Ocean Kayaking.
“The dog eats at the top of the hour." (Episode 21)
5mo ago · 1:34:29
On the latest episode of Listen They're Fine the guys discuss how to construct a winning wooden car for the Cub Scouts Pinewood Derby, debate who is more addicted to their phones (old people or children) and break down exactly what they did to upset their wives this past week. Plus Bubba unveils his favorite joke of all time. visit www.listentheyrefine.com for bonus content
“Vacation is over, come get these kids.” (Episode 20)
5mo ago · 1:38:40
On this week's episode the guys dig deep into the differences between bat mitzvahs vs. quinceañeras (like which is more fun to drink at). As well as bemoan the fact that once you hit 40, the hip, cool speakeasy bars stop letting you in. Plus some tips on staying sane while your wife is out of town. Recommendations: John recommends you listen to the the audiobook of "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep" by Phillip K. Dick Bubba suggests Raw Dogging (no headphones, no distractions) while walking around a public park

Episodes

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Listen, They're Fine

Episodes 44

Defunding Paw Patrol, Shark Snorkeling & Nurturing Patience (Episode 43)

Ani DiFranco, Back-to-School Blues and Sibling Violence (Episode 42)

Early-Onset Old Man Syndrome (Episode 41)

“I hate my daughter's therapist & water parks are disgusting” (Episode 40)

Air travel is for the 1% & Malls are Dying (Episode 39)

“I 3D printed you an apology." (Episode 38)

Fireworks, Bike Rides and Suspiciously Friendly Beachgoers (Episode 37)

Summer Update from Bubba & John

Tooth Troubles & Tracking my Wife's Movements (Episode 36)

Bible Camp, Funcles and Cotton Candy (Episode 35)

Father’s Day: Wife Gripes (Episode 34)

“Two grapes and a hate crime.” (Episode 33)

Axe Murderers, TikTok Toys and The Great Hackysack Shortage - (Episode 32)

“Cancer-free at LEGOLAND” (Episode 31)

“Every school has a Chaz Danger.” (Episode 30)

“Who poops on an airplane?!” (Episode 29)

“Sometimes winning the fight feels worse…” (Episode 28)

My Son is a Proud Toy Gun Owner (Episode 27)

“My wife could beat up your husband.” (Episode 26)

Knife fight with a kitchen rat (Episode 25)

Hot Teacher Pyramid Scheme (Episode 24)

“Children of the Old World” (Episode 23)

“No cosmic questions at bedtime.” (Episode 22)

“The dog eats at the top of the hour." (Episode 21)

“Vacation is over, come get these kids.” (Episode 20)

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Episodes 44

Defunding Paw Patrol, Shark Snorkeling & Nurturing Patience (Episode 43)

Ani DiFranco, Back-to-School Blues and Sibling Violence (Episode 42)

Early-Onset Old Man Syndrome (Episode 41)

“I hate my daughter's therapist & water parks are disgusting” (Episode 40)

Air travel is for the 1% & Malls are Dying (Episode 39)

“I 3D printed you an apology." (Episode 38)

Fireworks, Bike Rides and Suspiciously Friendly Beachgoers (Episode 37)

Summer Update from Bubba & John

Tooth Troubles & Tracking my Wife's Movements (Episode 36)

Bible Camp, Funcles and Cotton Candy (Episode 35)

Father’s Day: Wife Gripes (Episode 34)

“Two grapes and a hate crime.” (Episode 33)

Axe Murderers, TikTok Toys and The Great Hackysack Shortage - (Episode 32)

“Cancer-free at LEGOLAND” (Episode 31)

“Every school has a Chaz Danger.” (Episode 30)

“Who poops on an airplane?!” (Episode 29)

“Sometimes winning the fight feels worse…” (Episode 28)

My Son is a Proud Toy Gun Owner (Episode 27)

“My wife could beat up your husband.” (Episode 26)

Knife fight with a kitchen rat (Episode 25)

Hot Teacher Pyramid Scheme (Episode 24)

“Children of the Old World” (Episode 23)

“No cosmic questions at bedtime.” (Episode 22)

“The dog eats at the top of the hour." (Episode 21)

“Vacation is over, come get these kids.” (Episode 20)