In this powerful episode of The Built Different Podcast, host Zach Clinton welcomes Ryan Dobson — speaker, author, son of Dr. James Dobson, and co-founder of REBEL Parenting. Ryan opens up about what it was like growing up in one of America’s most well-known Christian families, the pressure and privilege of following in his father’s footsteps, and how he found his own voice through years of struggle, growth, and raw honesty.
But this conversation goes deeper. Ryan shares the deeply personal journey of walking alongside his wife, Laura, as she battles cancer — and how their faith, marriage, and mission have been reshaped in the fire. As June marks Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, this episode offers a timely and tender reminder of the strength found in vulnerability, the power of presence, and the importance of knowing where to turn when life gets heavy.
Whether you’re a husband, a father, a son, or just someone looking for hope in the hard places — this episode is for you.
Links & Resources:

Built for Battle: What SEAL Team 6 Teaches About Leadership, Identity, & Faith, Ep. 296
50:05

Unembarrassed of Jesus: Follow From a Distance and Lose Your Faith; Follow Closely and Change the World with Pastor Travis Johnson, Ep. 295
29:38

Choosing Reconciliation Over Retaliation: Learning How to Build Bridges When Many are Burning Them, Ep. 294
36:51