Hi there Caleb_James,
Thank you for choosing Apple Support Communities!
It sounds as though when using AirPods with your iPhone you're seeing that the AirPods show as connected but are not playing music. You're in the right place, and we'd be glad to assist in seeking a solution.
Below is a resource that can help:
If your AirPods won't connect
Let's verify the AirPods show as connected by tapping Settings>Bluetooth.
If the AirPods show as connected, open Control Center on your iPhone and then tap and hold the audio in the upper-right corner. Are you able to select your AirPods as an audio device?
This resource below can provide more information on selecting the AirPods as your audio device:
Set up and listen to Bluetooth devices on iPhone
We hope this helps,
Cheers!