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:

The Death of Entitlement: Developing the Marriage You Were Reborn to Live with Gary Thomas, Ep. 284
39:25

Developing an Even If Faith: Trusting the God Who Delights in Impossibility This New Year with Dylan Mandell, Ep. 283
56:10

Transformed by His Promises: Developing Habits to Renew Your Mind, Rewire Your Brain, & Restore Your Life in the New Year with Dr. Karl Benzio & Rose Ann Forte, Ep. 282
34:54