Back To Bluey
Back to Bluey is a podcast where dads and Bluey superfans Darin Lundberg and Robert Yaniz Jr. explore the beloved Australian animated series Bluey. Each episode focuses on a single episode of the show, discussing its themes about parenthood, childhood, and life. The hosts believe the series is aspirational, inspirational, heartwarming, and humorous, and they aim to provide fun, positive conversations about one of the finest children's programs in recent memory.
Episodes
Episode 63: Baby Race (with Kai Yaniz)
In episode 63 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert welcome returning guest (and Rob's wife) Kai Yaniz as we get ready, set, and go with "Baby Race" (season 2, episode 50). We'll discuss how this fan-favorite episode captures the challenges of first-time parenthood, reminisce about how we ran our own races as new parents, and dissect how Chilli's adjustment bout with mom guilt can serve as a mission
Episode 62: My Bluey Story (w/ Stanford Clark)
In episode 62 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert welcome Movies Past and Present host Stanford Clark to share his "My Bluey Story." We'll discuss the unique way in which Stanford was formally introduced to Bluey's world, his take as a relative newbie to the fresh look of THE BLUEY MOVIE, and — of course — his initial thoughts on Back To Bluey fan favorites Muffin, Calypso, and Lucky's Dad.
Episode 61: The Bluey Movie D23 Panel
In episode 61 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert react to the first footage of The Bluey Movie and the accompanying D23 panel about the 2027 film. We'll address the (controversial?) reaction to the new CG-animated style, gush over our favorite details creator Joe Brumm and his team shared at D23, and reveal our expectations for the Heelers' leap to the big screen.
Episode 60: Pizza Girls
In episode 60 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert marvel at the mud-pizza empire at the center of the "Pizza Girls" (season 3, episode 19). We'll dissect what the episode says about nostalgia, address how it's a stealth Muffin spotlight, and open up about what toys we still get sentimental about.
Episode 59: Featherwand
In episode 59 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert stumble across a magical "Featherwand" (season 2, episode 3). We'll discuss how the episode complicates the in-universe role of magic, contemplate how it fits in with Bingo's social-emotional development, and question whether today's challenged attention spans contributed to BLUEY's success.
Episode 58: Minisode Roundup #3
In episode 58 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert launch into another Minisode Roundup. In "Muffin Unboxing," we'll decipher the secrets revealed about the other Heeler household and explore whether our favorite hot-headed toddler is indeed a social media influencer. Then, in "Butlers," we'll return to the dream house car for a closer look at its expansive staff of butlers, marvel at its collection
Episode 57: My Bluey Story (with Jeannette Miller)
In episode 57 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert welcome writer and performer Jeannette Miller to share her "My Bluey Story." We'll discuss how Jeannette's family introduced her to the Heelers, why she keeps coming back to a show that ambushes adult viewers with emotional punch, and the surprising episodes she'd suggest to Bluey newcomers.
Episode 56: Takeaway
In episode 56 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert stop by to pick up some spring rolls in "Takeaway" (season 1, episode 14). They'll discuss the beloved 1990s sitcom that inspired the episode, what Bandit's struggle says about the everyday challenges of parenting, and how this installment marks an important step in the evolution of Bluey.
Episode 55: Granny Mobile
In episode 55 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert hop on for a ride in the much-coveted "Granny Mobile" (season 3, episode 33). We'll discuss how the episode builds off of Rita and Janet's previous appearances, why it serves as a culmination of Muffin's arc, and what it says about dealing with challenging kids (and adults). Then later, we'll discuss the potential effects that AI might have on anima
Episode 54: Curry Quest (with Kyle Mammen)
In episode 54 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert welcome back therapist Kyle Mammen, who continues to break ground as the show's first returning guest. Together, we'll set off on a "Curry Quest" (season 3, episode 8) of epic proportions. Along the way, we discuss how the mythological hero's journey inspired the episode, its relevance to narrative therapy, and how we're all preparing to face our ow
Episode 53: Daddy Dropoff
In episode 53 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert close out their "daddy" two-parter with "Daddy Dropoff" (season 2, episode 8). This time it's Darin's personal pick and the one that hits closer to home for him. We'll dig into Bandit's superhuman patience, the quiet, lasting impact of showing up for your kids, and why this episode's flash-forward ending hits different. Plus, we touch base on the fi
Episode 52: Daddy Putdown
In episode 52 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert open their "daddy" two-parter with "Daddy Putdown" (season 1, episode 51). One of our hosts was floored by the episode, while the other was simply charmed by it. We'll unpack why "Daddy Putdown" packs a secret punch, marvel at Bandit's quiet lesson about empathy, and reveal what it means when a kids' show portrays dads as capable. Then we'll discuss
Episode 51: Bluey's Big Play
In episode 51 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert kick off a whole new season in theatrical fashion with an in-depth breakdown of the Disney+ release of "Bluey's Big Play: The Stage Show." How does this 50-minute production adapt the visual style, signature pacing, and thematic impact of the animated series? We'll discuss how it offers greater context to Brandy and Chilli's estrangement as well as
Episode 50: Grannies
In episode 50 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert wrap up season 3 with another milestone listener's choice, finally welcoming Rita and Janet with "Grannies" (season 1, episode 28). We'll discuss how the episode leans into and subverts expectations, why this game has become such a key part of BLUEY's iconography, and what listeners can expect from Back To Bluey Season 4.
Episode 49: Escape
In episode 49 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert hitch a ride in the dreamhouse car for their "Escape* (season 2, episode 21). We'll explore why parents need time away from the kids, the origins of the Heelers' games, and what Bluey and Bingo's imagination might mean for the future.
Episode 48: Minisode Roundup #2
In episode 48 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert return for another Minisode Roundup. This time, we kick off 2026 by marveling at the elegant (and wordless) parallel stories of "Alongside," and give the littlest Heeler the standing ovation she deserves in "Drums."
Episode 47: Verandah Santa
In episode 47 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert settle in for a long winter's game of "Verandah Santa" (season 1, episode 52). We'll discuss how this Christmas episode captures the reason for the season, why it's a pivotal moment for the Heeler kids, and which festive TV specials have become part of our traditions.
Episode 46: My Bluey Story (with Dallin Curtis)
In episode 46 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert welcome mutual friend and "Film Fanatic" Dallin Curtis for another edition of "My Bluey Story." We'll discuss how BLUEY stands out from a filmmaking perspective, why the series' appeal extends beyond most "children's" programming, and what we hope to see in the upcoming BLUEY movie.
Episode 45: The Quiet Game
In episode 45 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert play along with "The Quiet Game" (season 2, episode 37). We'll discuss how it builds out mythos surrounding Muffin, why guest star Robert Irwin is such a great addition to the Bluey-verse, and how Bandit really does do these things to himself.
Episode 44: Bingo
In episode 44 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert spend some quality play time with the youngest Heeler in "Bingo" (season 2, episode 9). We'll discuss how the episode highlights what we love about Bingo, the larger point it makes about coping and problem-solving, and where it fits within the show's continuity. And don't forget to stick around for our conversation about 2025 Halloween costumes and
Episode 43: My Bluey Story (w/ Chauncey Telese)
In episode 43 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert welcome a brand-new guest for another "My Bluey Story!" Chauncey Telese of LAPodfidential joins us to break down why BLUEY stands out among today's children's entertainment, share which episodes stick with him the most, and why the show resonates so much specifically with busy, working dads.
Episode 42: Yoga Ball
In episode 42 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert bounce along to "Yoga Ball" (season 1, episode 16). We'll examine how its story gently handles the role of boundaries in connection, champion Bingo as the undeniable heart of the show, and spotlight the playful pop culture nods the BLUEY team has sprinkled throughout the series.
Episode 41: Bike
In episode 41 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert get to pedaling as they dig into "Bike" (season 1, episode 11). We'll discuss Bandit's wait-and-see approach to parenting, analyze the kids' different ways of coping with challenges, and dissect the latest update on BLUEY: THE MOVIE.
Episode 40: Minisode Roundup #1
In episode 40 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert embark on their first Minisode Roundup. We'll admire Bandit's improvisational storytelling in "Three Pigs" before discussing the noir-inspired antics of master sleuth "Browny Bear."
Episode 39: My Bluey Story (w/ Jason of Binge Movies)
In episode 39 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert welcome mutual friend and brother-in-podcasting Jason of Binge Movies for a My Bluey Story like no other. What does an adult who isn't a parent make of the Heeler family and the Bluey phenomenon as a whole? We'll discuss Jason's (in)experience with the show, which episodes stand out to him, and why he thinks the show resonates with us.
Episode 38: Calypso
In episode 38 of Back To Bluey, Robert and Darin pay a visit to the one and only "Calypso" (season 1, episode 17). We'll discuss how the title character's debut encapsulates everything we love about her, examine how her classroom serves a greater purpose, and then circle back to a previous "My Bluey Story" for some additional insights.
Episode 37: Smoochy Kiss
In episode 37 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert pucker up for "Smoochy Kiss" (season 3, episode 35). We'll discuss what the Heelers teach us about long-term relationships, how the episode breaks gender stereotypes, and where the Bluey brand is over a year after "Surprise."
Episode 36: Driving
In episode 36 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert hit the road with "Driving" (season 3, episode 20). We'll discuss how the episode's imaginative play leads Chilli and Bluey to a better understanding, what it says about parenting in today's busy world, and whether the series works as a parenting guide.
Episode 35: My Bluey Story (w/ Savannah Lundberg)
In episode 35 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert welcome a very special guest with another edition of "My Bluey Story"! Darin's daughter, Savannah, shares how she discovered the show, why it matters to her, and which episode she resonates with the most.
Episode 34: Stumpfest
In episode 34 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert get hyped up for "Stumpfest" (season 2, episode 6). We'll discuss what the episode really says about masculinity, speculate about that mysterious lemonade, and reminisce about the "very special" episodes of our youth.
Episode 33: Seesaw
In episode 33 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert try to have a balanced conversation about "Seesaw" (season 2, episode 28). We'll discuss the subtle power of Pom Pom's appearance, question Bandit's motives, and explore how the show speaks more to adults than kids.
Episode 32: Stories
In episode 32 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert tell themselves some "Stories" (season 3, episode 28). We'll discuss how the episode gives two beloved supporting players their flowers, the show's delicate approach to celebrity guests, and the nuanced way it tackles self-worth.
Episode 31: Fairies
In episode 31 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert face the mischievous wrath of "Fairies" (season 1, episode 30). We'll investigate the truth behind the magical shenanigans in the Heeler house, explore whether the kids are really the focus, and tease what we have lined up for Back To Bluey Season 3. Holly Baxter's article on BLUEY: https://www.independent.co.uk/independentpremium/bluey-bandit-he
Episode 30: Flat Pack
In episode 30 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert wrap up our own season 2 with the existential symbolism of "Flat Pack" (season 2, episode 24). We'll unpack the spiritual and philosophical interpretations of this seemingly simple tale and tease what listeners can expect when Back To Bluey Season 3 rolls around.
Episode 29: Stickbird
In episode 29 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert stop and reflect on the Heelers' contemplative beach visit in "Stickbird" (season 3, episode 41). We'll discuss why this is an especially relatable episode for us and break down our complicated reaction to the announcement of a BLUEY movie.
Episode 28: Bin Night
In episode 28 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert celebrate the little things during "Bin Night" (season 2, episode 42). We'll discuss what the seemingly simple episode reveals about our beloved Heelers, how it embodies the show's open, loving spirit, and whether Bluey is destined for a life of science. Give it a listen, if you like.
Episode 27: My Bluey Story (w/ Brett Parker)
In episode 27 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert welcome Brett Parker of Dissect That Film to share his Bluey story. We'll break down how the series stands out among today's "children's" entertainment, why Bandit is #DadGoals, and how Bluey's 7-minute runtime has impacted the show's success.
Episode 26: The Show
In episode 26 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert attend "The Show" (season 2, episode 19). We'll discuss how this Mother's Day episode deftly takes the Heelers to dark places, the greater implications behind its message, and why it's a fitting companion for our previous chat about "Sleepytime."
Episode 25: Sleepytime (Listener's Choice)
In episode 25 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert commemorate this milestone with an in-depth chat about the winner of our first listener poll, "Sleepytime" (season 2, episode 26). We'll discuss why Bingo's cosmic adventure is a fan favorite, how it conveys so much meaning with so few words, and what it says about the parent-child relationship.
Episode 24: Bumpy And The Wise Old Wolfhound
In episode 24 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert proudly bust out their purple underpants for "Bumpy And The Wise Old Wolfhound" (season 1, episode 32). We'll discuss what Bingo's mysterious ailment could be, whether Bluey herself has a future in filmmaking, and speculate whether the series is produced with a canine audience in mind.
Episode 23: Pass The Parcel
In episode 23 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert play by Lucky's Dad's rules in a contentious round of "Pass The Parcel" (season 3, episode 14). We'll discuss the show's take on modern versus traditional parenting, identify what makes this episode unique, and address a particularly egregious take on the series as a whole.
Episode 22: My Bluey Story (w/ Kai Yaniz)
In episode 22 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert welcome a very special guest, Robert's wife Kai Yaniz, to share her Bluey story with us. We'll discuss the show's impact on the Yaniz household, which episodes resonate with Kai the most, and her complicated feelings about one of the show's most divisive characters.
Episode 21: Copycat
In episode 21 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert hold a mirror up to the heartfelt and humorous "Copycat" (season 1, episode 38). We'll discuss how the show's structure subverts familiar concepts, its elegant approach to sensitive topics such as death, and the impactful lesson Bluey takes from this experience.
Episode 20: Chest
In episode 20 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert sit down for a friendly game of "Chest" (season 3, episode 11). We'll discuss the gendered significance of the game, how Chilli and Bandit approach parenting differently, and whether the series creates unrealistic expectations for parents.
Episode 19: Army
In episode 19 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert go patrolling with Rusty and Jack in "Army" (season 2, episode 16). We'll discuss the heartbreaking nature of Jack's story, why Calypso is just the best, and which BLUEY character would be perfect to lead a spin-off.
Episode 18: The Sleepover
In episode 18 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert head over to the Heeler house for a mischief-laden night in "The Sleepover" (season 1, episode 39). We'll discuss the dynamic among the kids, how we handle bedtimes "for real life," and whether this is Muffin's finest hour.
Episode 17: My Bluey Story (w/ Kyle Mammen)
In episode 17 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert welcome the show's first-ever guest, therapist Kyle Mammen, to share his Bluey story with us. We'll discuss how Kyle uses the show with his clients, explore what makes BLUEY's storytelling so unique, and share how Kyle's influence directly inspired Back To Bluey.
Episode 16: Pavlova
In episode 16 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert take a taste of "Pavlova" (season 3, episode 17). We'll discuss how the show uses food to capture the delicate balance of parenting, Bandit's hilarious "mastery" of the French language, and our own histories with the titular dish itself.
Episode 15: The Pool
In episode 15 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert take a dip into the show's early days with "The Pool" (season 1, episode 22). We'll reflect on the dynamic of Bandit and Chilli's marriage (as well as our own), how the show has some growing up to do, and which acclaimed 1990s cartoon fits somewhere within the BLUEY wheelhouse.
Episode 14: The Sign, Part 2
In episode 14 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert wrap up their two-part conversation about "The Sign" (season 3, episode 49). We'll talk all about the Heelers' plans to move, the surprisingly divisive fan reaction to this storyline, and—of course—that emotionally charged ending.
Episode 13: The Sign, Part 1
In episode 13 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert kick off season 2 with part 1 of a super-sized chat about the biggest episode of BLUEY to date, "The Sign" (season 3, episode 49). We'll discuss the episode's two intersecting storylines, callbacks galore, and Brandy's brief but impactful appearance.
Episode 12: Puppets
In episode 12 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert close out this first season with a second dose of Unicorse as we discuss "Puppets" (season 3, episode 29). We'll consider how this appearance builds on the character's debut, ponder whether that mind-blowing final scene should have been saved for BLUEY's series finale and reflect on our favorite conversations to date.
Episode 11: Unicorse
In episode 11 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert finally cross paths with one of BLUEY's most infamous characters, the titular "Unicorse" (Season 3, Episode 8). We'll chat about how Unicorse himself functions as a parenting tool, whether he serves a larger satirical purpose, and if this BLUEY episode is indeed better than others simply because it has a unicorn in it.
Episode 10: Sticky Gecko
In episode 10 of Back To Bluey, Darin and Robert "hurry up and wait" as they face the inevitable descent of "Sticky Gecko" (Season 2, Episode 12). We'll discuss the value in Chilli's frustration, reveal which beloved sitcom Bluey reminds us of, and ponder what the Heeler family is like when they aren't on camera.
Episode 9: Promises
In episode 9 of BACK TO BLUEY, Darin and Robert dissect the true nature of promises and, well, "Promises" (season 3, episode 4). We'll cover how the episode traces the Heeler family's evolution of what promises mean and what function they serve in a household as well as the implication of that final emotional beat.
Episode 8: Born Yesterday
In episode 8 of BACK TO BLUEY, Darin and Robert feel like new hosts after an in-depth chat about "Born Yesterday" (season 3, episode 6). We'll discuss the power of games to change our perspectives, the continued supremacy of Lucky's Dad, and whether the BLUEY phenomenon is at risk of overexposure.
Episode 7: Octopus
In episode 7 of BACK TO BLUEY, Darin and Robert lay some ground rules for an impromptu game of "Octopus" (season 2, episode 41). We discuss the value in stepping outside the Heeler household, the lessons we can learn from Chloe and her dad's own playtime, and whether the episode was always intended to capture fans' own experiences watching BLUEY.
Episode 6: Markets
In episode 6 of BACK TO BLUEY, Darin and Robert stroll through the enticing fun and bustle of "Markets" (season 1, episode 20). We'll discuss how Bluey's dilemma comments on karma and spirituality, what the show has to say about money management, and whether needless censorship is starting to creep up behind the scenes.
Episode 5: Handstand
In Episode 5 of BACK TO BLUEY, Darin and Robert talk the connections we make amidst the chaos of life (and birthday parties) in "Handstand' (season 2, episode 44). We marvel at the episode's unique structure, speculate whether there are any details we missed, and talk about how the team behind BLUEY might be subtly prepping fans for a feature-length adaptation.
Episode 4: Grandad
In episode 4 of BACK TO BLUEY, Darin and Robert discuss the evolving dynamic between parent and child with "Grandad" (season 2, episode 29). We'll consider whether Grandad is the source of the Heeler family's signature sense of play, what the episode says about Chilli's tireless devotion to her family, and of course, that heartbreaking final shot.
Episode 3: Faceytalk
In episode 3 of BACK TO BLUEY, Darin and Robert explore the complicated relationship between children and technology in "Faceytalk" (season 3, episode 23). We'll chat about how the show remains timeless even while using modern technology, what it has to say about the delicate balance of co-parenting, and why there might be more to Muffin than meets the eye.
Episode 2: The Magic Xylophone
In Episode 2 of BACK TO BLUEY, Darin and Robert go back to the very beginning of Bluey with "The Magic Xylophone" (season 1, episode 1). We'll discuss what drew Robert into the series initially, how the Heeler family and the world of Bluey is portrayed in this first episode, and why Bingo might be the show's unsung hero.
Episode 1: Camping
In episode 1 of BACK TO BLUEY, Darin and Robert go on a fun-filled camping trip with the Heeler family to discuss the Bluey episode that first hooked Darin on the show. We'll talk all about "Camping" (season 1, episode 43) and what we can learn from the endearing yet short-lived friendship between Bluey and Jean-Luc.
Episode 0: Hello, Bluey!
Darin! Robert! (Back to) Bluey! In this introductory episode, Darin and Rob discuss how and why they decided to launch a new show covering Bluey. We'll discuss how we each discovered the now-globally beloved animated series, outline the podcast's format going forward, and give listeners a taste of what they can expect in each episode.
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