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The Fifth Wall
When you build a life in public, you draw clear boundaries between the stage and the street. But what happens when real life crashes through the backdrop? In this entry, I reflect on 1,100 days of blogging, an unexpected collision, and the night the “Fifth Wall” finally shattered.
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The Out-of-Pocket Reality of Teaching in 2026
A quick payday haul turns into a reflection on teacher realities, budget cuts, and wardrobe refreshes. From a Nine Inch Nails t-shirt to out-of-pocket classroom supplies, taking care of the basics brings a surprising sense of quiet satisfaction.
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The victory lap
After a total-loss car accident and weeks of stress, getting back on the road in a new car was just the beginning. From standing shoulder-to-shoulder at the “No Kings” rally in Livonia to an unforgettable night seeing Mike D live at the Masonic Temple in Detroit, this weekend was a…
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What AI thinks of Rebuilding Rob
What happens when you ask AI to describe your blog from memory? A meta-reflection on 1,100+ days of daily writing, grit, and intentional living on Rebuilding Rob.
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The Halloween Pass
Costumes, Connors, and Cutting Through the Holiday Bullshit Special thanks once again to rojie for today’s prompt. if you haven’t done so already, definitely check out her blog justrojie.com. What do you think will be the most popular Halloween costume this year? And why? I’ll tell you what: when it comes…
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Rob Ranks Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, season 3
Is Season 3 really the weakest entry of Strange New Worlds? Rob breaks down the highs, the misses, the comedy overreach, and that jaw-dropping cliffhanger in his definitive countdown from worst to best.
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The Best Online Course I Never Wanted to Take
An unexpected traffic safety letter sparks a look back at the early days of online learning at Wayne State—and how a recent accident led to a “new to me” 2022 Chevy Equinox.
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Solo Flight
Buying a car on your own hits differently. Rob reflects on walking into a dealership completely solo to secure a 2022 Chevy Equinox—a quiet, empowering milestone in rebuilding an independent life.
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From Regret to Triumph: The Sacred Catharsis of Prince’s “Purple Rain”
Explore why Prince & The Revolution’s “Purple Rain” remains one of the most emotionally charged tracks in rock history. From a mournful minor-key cadence to a cathartic, triumphant guitar solo, this deep dive breaks down a single live performance that turns regret into pure survival.
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The Rebuilding of Nog
From an illiterate street kid on Deep Space Nine to a decorated Starfleet officer, discover why Nog possesses the greatest character arc in Star Trek history.