Middle of the Fence

Andre Spruell

Welcome to Middle of the Fence, the podcast hosted by Andre Spruell that explores what it means to grow up between two different worlds. Raised in one of New Jersey’s highest-crime areas while attending private school in one of the wealthiest counties in the country, Andre experienced firsthand the contrast between environments, perspectives, expectations, and identities. But Middle of the Fence goes beyond just one story. This podcast dives into the experiences of people who have had to navigate different sides of life...whether socioeconomic, cultural, racial, religious, professional, or personal and the lessons, struggles, and growth that come from living between those worlds. Through authentic solo episodes, thought-provoking interviews, and honest conversations, Middle of the Fence tackles topics such as identity, mental health, personal growth, relationships, success, social pressure, faith, culture, and self-discovery. At its core, the podcast is about finding common ground in a divided world and reminding people that no matter what side of the fence we grew up on, we’re all more alike than we think. New episodes every Wednesday.

  1. Why We Judge People So Quickly | Ep. 52

    2d ago

    Why We Judge People So Quickly | Ep. 52

    How often do you decide who someone is before they've even finished introducing themselves? Whether it's the way someone dresses, speaks, carries themselves, or the assumptions we make based on appearance, first impressions happen almost instantly. But are they actually accurate? In this episode of Middle of the Fence, Andre Spruell explores the psychology behind first impressions, why our brains are wired to make snap judgments, and how confirmation bias can reinforce beliefs that aren't always true. You'll also learn about the concept of thin slicing—our ability to form opinions within seconds—and why those opinions can sometimes help us... but often hold us back. More importantly, this conversation challenges us to replace assumptions with curiosity and reminds us that meaningful relationships are built by looking beyond what we see at first glance. Whether you're navigating friendships, dating, networking, leadership, or everyday conversations, this episode will encourage you to slow down, ask better questions, and see people more completely. In this episode, we discuss: • Why first impressions happen so quickly • The psychology of confirmation bias • What "thin slicing" really means • Why our brains are wired to judge • How assumptions shape relationships • The importance of curiosity over certainty • Building stronger human connections • Looking beyond appearances If this episode resonates with you, please follow the podcast, leave a rating and review, and share it with someone who values meaningful conversations. Because no matter what side of the fence you grew up on, we're all more alike than we think. ___________ 📲 Follow & leave a 5-star rating on Spotify and Apple Podcasts to support this show.  🎥 Watch full episodes on YouTube: @andrespruell __ For more Middle of the Fence, visit: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/middleofthefence/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Middle-of-the-Fence-61572183504501/ Website: https://www.middleofthefence.com/

    12 min
  2. What I've Learned About Belonging After 50 Episodes | Ep. 50

    Jun 17

    What I've Learned About Belonging After 50 Episodes | Ep. 50

    For 50 episodes, Middle of the Fence has explored the spaces between cultures, backgrounds, identities, and life experiences. But what happens when the host reflects on what he's learned from the journey itself? In this milestone episode, Andre looks back on the lessons, conversations, challenges, and personal growth that came from creating the podcast. From growing up between different worlds to navigating identity, loneliness, purpose, and belonging, this episode explores how the meaning of "belonging" has changed over time. Andre shares: • Why he started Middle of the Fence • What 50 conversations taught him about people • The hidden challenges of building something meaningful • The loneliness that often accompanies growth • The pressure of being a bridge between worlds • Why belonging starts with self-acceptance • A message for anyone who feels stuck between worlds Whether you've been listening since Episode 1 or you're discovering the show for the first time, this conversation serves as a reflection on the journey so far and a reminder that no matter where we come from, we're often more alike than we think. Thank you for being part of the first 50 episodes. ___________ 📲 Follow & leave a 5-star rating on Spotify and Apple Podcasts to support this show.  🎥 Watch full episodes on YouTube: @andrespruell __ For more Middle of the Fence, visit: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/middleofthefence/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Middle-of-the-Fence-61572183504501/ Website: https://www.middleofthefence.com/

    19 min
  3. Why Some People Never Feel Fully Accepted | Ep. 48

    Jun 3

    Why Some People Never Feel Fully Accepted | Ep. 48

    Why do some people feel like they fit in almost everywhere but still struggle to feel like they truly belong? In this episode of Middle of the Fence, Andre Spruell explores the hidden emotional challenges of growing up between different worlds, cultures, social circles, and expectations. From code-switching and adaptation to belonging and authenticity, Andre reflects on his own experiences navigating different environments and discusses why constantly adjusting yourself for acceptance can eventually lead to emotional exhaustion. This episode explores: • The difference between fitting in and belonging • Why humans crave acceptance • The impact of social media on identity • Code-switching beyond language • Growing up between different worlds • Authenticity, self-acceptance, and personal growth If you've ever felt caught between different environments or struggled to feel fully accepted, this conversation may resonate with you. Question of the episode: Have you ever felt like you had to change parts of yourself depending on who you were around? ___________ 📲 Follow & leave a 5-star rating on Spotify and Apple Podcasts to support this show.  🎥 Watch full episodes on YouTube: @andrespruell __ For more Middle of the Fence, visit: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/middleofthefence/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Middle-of-the-Fence-61572183504501/ Website: https://www.middleofthefence.com/ .

    13 min
4
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

Welcome to Middle of the Fence, the podcast hosted by Andre Spruell that explores what it means to grow up between two different worlds. Raised in one of New Jersey’s highest-crime areas while attending private school in one of the wealthiest counties in the country, Andre experienced firsthand the contrast between environments, perspectives, expectations, and identities. But Middle of the Fence goes beyond just one story. This podcast dives into the experiences of people who have had to navigate different sides of life...whether socioeconomic, cultural, racial, religious, professional, or personal and the lessons, struggles, and growth that come from living between those worlds. Through authentic solo episodes, thought-provoking interviews, and honest conversations, Middle of the Fence tackles topics such as identity, mental health, personal growth, relationships, success, social pressure, faith, culture, and self-discovery. At its core, the podcast is about finding common ground in a divided world and reminding people that no matter what side of the fence we grew up on, we’re all more alike than we think. New episodes every Wednesday.