There is a lot to love about this podcast. The story is incredible and some of the breakthroughs between mother and son were truly touching. The storytelling, however, is a little corny. The sappy sentimental music that overlays some of the more traumatic events and tough conversations was distracting and made it hard to take seriously. It’s wonderful that Danny can open up so much and be vulnerable but it’s almost too self-aware, teetering dangerously close to disingenuous at times. Like when Daren poses a more “profound” question to Danny and Danny’s like “whoa! I never thought of it that way!” You can kind of hear the thoughts in their heads like “oh yeah, this is good. People are going to love this.” These guys are kind of annoying but, like, in an endearing way?

A surprisingly entertaining story about an enduring friendship between Darren and Danny as Danny recalls how is weirdo dad managed to make all in his path miserable. The two friends recall and unravel stories of childhood trauma along with a host of relatives, neighbors and randos who all have endoured the rath of genius and massive a-hole, Mr. Jacobs. Danny uses the podcast as a therapeutic attempt to recover from childhood trauma with optimism and humor.

I’ve been struggling with this podcast. The subject matter is incredibly compelling, but the hosts need to just get on with telling the story. They seem too focused on the ‘work of the podcast’ – constantly commenting on whether something will ‘make the cut’ or discussing the podcast direction mid-episode. It feels like they’re too aware of themselves as hosts, like actors who are too conscious of being on stage rather than just being in the moment. I don’t want to hear them narrate their process – I want to hear the story. Let the story be the focus, not the behind-the-scenes commentary.

By me , this podcast is absolutely precious. I’m sorry you all had to go thru that. You and Darien are fabulous together. Hugs to your Mom ! Love you all!!!

This podcast was sooooooo good! I feel like I just finished a good book and I’m sad it’s over. Warning: the ending caused tears to stream down my face, fighting the ugly cry, digging for tissues in the glove box on my way into work. Just a truly great listen. ❤️ Thank you for sharing your story with such vulnerability. As a mom, I could feel Sandy’s pain and love for her son. And Darren is such a good friend! Also, I never listen to credits and I listened EVERY-TIME to Sandy. Excellent job!!

Yet here I am!!!!! The final episode…. The letter!!!!!! All the things I wish I had said. And Darren, everyone should have a friend like Darren.

This show captivated me from the moment I hit play. Danny and Darren’s playful dynamic, their ability to explore tough issues with sensitivity and humor, their creativity in presenting episode themes with a mix of acting out the scenarios, interviews and introspective conversations has been such an enlightening and entertaining experience. Danny and Sandy’s journeys have been so moving. The amount of pain they have overcome and the point of healing they’ve reached has been so inspiring. I laughed, I cried, I reflected, and I celebrated with them. This podcast has helped me so much on my journey forgiving a narcissistic person. I am forever grateful I happened to stumble upon this podcast.

It's a sacred privilege to have a window into the dynamics of this family. I feel honored. I pray God's healing blessings on all of them, and will add that the story is very well-told from a production point of view. ❤️ this is always the first podcast I listen to when there's a new episode.

the last episode had me in tears. what a masterclass in storytelling, honesty, and truth. thank you for being so brave, so thoughtful, and so committed to this. i feel so honored i got to hear this story. thank you, thank you, thank you. “you did the best you could.” - WOW.

Thank you so much for sharing your life story with everyone. It was touching, real, brave and heartwarming. Also, thoroughly enjoyable and so well done. Great job.