Why do you think phones aren't listening? All of my anecdotal evidence leads me to believe that they absolutely will, depending on the apps installed.
I've been using LineageOS and GrapheneOS for maybe 8 years or so, and never have any social media / google apps installed, as well as ad / tracker blocking.
My friends, family, co-workers etc. are often served ads for very specific things immediately after we were talking about them. Toys, tools, kitchen equipment, even flights to countries or cities that were being discussed. All far too specific to be coincidence.
So while the phone itself may not be listening, apps can, depending on permissions etc.
Is it supposed to be interpreted as see them tiddies, maybe?