Middle of the Fence

Andre Spruell
  • 4.0 (8)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE

Welcome to Middle of the Fence, the captivating podcast that delves into the stark duality of a unique upbringing, combining the raw experiences of being raised in one of New Jersey’s highest-crime areas while having the privilege of receiving a top-tier private school education in Morris County, one of the wealthiest counties in the nation. In each episode, Andre Spruell uncovers the complex interplay between these two contrasting worlds, exploring the challenges, triumphs, and unique perspectives that arise from this extraordinary upbringing. Through personal anecdotes, thought-provoking interviews, and in-depth discussions, Andre sheds a light on the rich tapestry of experiences that shaped his identity and worldview. Middle of the Fence offers an authentic and unfiltered glimpse into the dynamics of socio-economic disparities, shedding light on the intersections of privilege, resilience, and community. With a keen focus on personal growth, social justice, and understanding, this podcast aims to bridge the gap between different realities, inspiring listeners to challenge their preconceptions and foster empathy in a world marked by diversity. Tune in to Middle of the Fence and embark on a journey that explores the complex nuances of life, unveiling the unexpected connections and shared humanity that exist even amidst divergent circumstances.

  1. 1D AGO

    The Identity Tug-of-War: Why You Feel Like Different People in Different Environments | Ep. 39

    Have you ever felt like you're a completely different person depending on where you are? At work, you move one way.  With family, another.  With friends, another. If that sounds familiar, you're not fake...you’re navigating an identity tug-of-war. In this episode of Middle of the Fence, Andre Spruell dives into what it really means to grow up and operate between different worlds and how that shapes your sense of self. You’ll learn:  Why identity conflict is more common than you think  The truth behind adapting vs. losing yourself  How different environments influence who you become  A 3-step framework to strengthen your self-identity:  Awareness  Alignment  Consistency This episode challenges you to stop choosing between versions of yourself and start becoming one integrated, authentic version that can stand in any room. 🎯 Reflection Question: If all the different versions of you sat at the same table… which one would lead? ______________________________________ 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/ **To support the podcast, please Follow and give us a 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Rating** “No matter what side of the fence you grew up on, we’re all more alike than we think.”

    11 min
  2. From Survival Mode to Success: How Environment, Mindset & Discipline Shape Your Life with Flow Menez | Ep. 38

    MAR 25

    From Survival Mode to Success: How Environment, Mindset & Discipline Shape Your Life with Flow Menez | Ep. 38

    In this episode of Middle of the Fence, Andre sits down with entrepreneur and video strategist Flow Menez to explore how growing up in a chaotic environment can shape your mindset, behavior, and identity. Flow shares his experience navigating survival mode, anxiety, and control from a young age, and how those patterns followed him into adulthood. Through mindfulness, breathwork, and intentional self-development, he was able to shift his mindset and take control of his life. The conversation also dives into entrepreneurship, content creation, and how Flow turned his skills with a camera into a thriving business—proving that in today’s digital world, you can monetize almost anything with the right strategy. Topics include:  Survival mode vs. growth mindset  The impact of environment on identity  Anxiety, control, and emotional awareness  Breathwork and mindfulness practices  Building a business through social media  The compound effect of habits  Redefining masculinity and accountability This episode is a powerful reminder that your past may shape you, but it doesn’t have to define you. — Follow Flow YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TopTierContractorsOnly TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@flowmenez 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/ **To support the podcast, please Follow and give us a 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Rating** “No matter what side of the fence you grew up on, we’re all more alike than we think.”

    58 min

  3. MAR 18

    The Pressure to Be the Bridge | Ep. 37

    If you grew up between two worlds, you probably became the bridge. The one who explains both sides.  The one who keeps the peace.  The one who carries tension so others don’t have to. But over time… that role comes with a cost. In Episode 37 of Middle of the Fence, Andre Spruell explores the emotional labor of being “the bridge” — and how constantly navigating different environments, expectations, and identities can lead to burnout. This episode breaks down: • Why you become the “bridge”  • The hidden emotional labor behind it  • How Role Strain Theory explains the pressure  • The impact of Stereotype Threat on identity  • Why setting boundaries is key to growth And most importantly: You don’t have to carry everything. Sometimes growth means choosing when to step back. Enjoying the podcast? Here's the best ways to support... > Rate us 5-⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and comment on here > Subscribe on YouTube --> @andrespruell >Follow us on Instagram --> @middleofthefence

    11 min

  4. MAR 11

    The Hidden Cost of Self-Awareness | Ep. 36

    Self-awareness is often considered one of the most important traits for personal growth and emotional intelligence. But what happens when self-awareness becomes overwhelming? Research suggests that while 95% of people believe they are self-aware, only about 10–15% actually are.  In this episode of the Middle of the Fence Podcast, Andre Spruell explores the hidden cost of hyper self-awareness and why constantly analyzing environments, conversations, and emotions can lead to emotional exhaustion. Many people develop self-awareness through reflection or personal development. Others develop it because their environment required them to: • Read people’s energy  • Watch for danger or conflict  • Understand body language  • Adapt to different social environments While these skills can strengthen emotional intelligence and leadership ability, they can also create mental pressure through overthinking, emotional fatigue, and the constant feeling of needing to manage how others perceive you. This episode explores how to balance awareness with peace, and why learning when to turn that awareness off can be just as important as developing it. 🎙 Middle of the Fence Podcast Exploring the experience of navigating life between different environments and perspectives. Because no matter what side of the fence you grew up on — we’re all more alike than we think. Follow Us Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/middleofthefence/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@andrespruell/podcasts Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572183504501

    13 min

  5. MAR 4

    The Survival Mindset | Ep. 35

    Many people think trauma comes from one major life event. But what if trauma is something that slowly forms through the environments we grow up in? In this episode of Middle of the Fence, Andre explores the survival mindset — the mental patterns that develop when peace, stability, or emotional safety aren’t guaranteed. Growing up in difficult environments can build resilience and strength, but those same survival traits can follow us into adulthood in ways we don’t always recognize. Andre discusses how hyper-independence, guarded emotions, and always preparing for the worst can become ingrained survival mechanisms, and how awareness allows us to shift from simply surviving to truly evolving. Your past explains why you move the way you do. But it doesn’t define your future. __________________ Episode Reflection Question What’s something you experienced growing up that you didn’t realize affected you until later in life? __________________ Follow the Podcast Instagram  @middleofthefence Host  @andrespruell __________________ Give us a 5-Star rating⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ + Follow for more!

    12 min

  6. FEB 25

    Own Your Story: Stop Minimizing Yourself | Ep. 34

    There comes a point in your life when you realize the parts of your story you once felt insecure about are actually the parts that shaped your strength. In this episode of Middle of the Fence, Andre explores what it truly means to own your story. Not just the highlights, but the vulnerabilities too. From growing up between two very different environments to struggling with a childhood stutter and confidence issues, this conversation dives into: • Why we minimize ourselves to fit in • How your background builds awareness and adaptability • The difference between rewriting habits vs. rewriting your past • Why your story is your advantage You cannot change what happened in your past. But you can change how you stand on it. Question to reflect on: Have you ever hidden parts of yourself just to feel accepted? — Follow @middleofthefence on Instagram Subscribe and leave a 5-⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating if this episode resonated with you. No matter which side of the fence you grew up on...we’re more alike than we think.

    13 min

  7. FEB 18

    School Days: Biggest Challenges & Triumphs | Ep. 33

    In this episode of Middle of the Fence, Andre Spruell takes you inside his early school days and the challenges and triumphs that came along with that. From not having textbooks at the start of the school year and wearing knockoff uniforms, to long daily commutes fueled by family sacrifice, these experiences revealed early lessons about resilience, belonging, and perseverance. Despite feeling different, Andre discovered confidence through academics, sports, leadership, and friendships that crossed racial and socioeconomic lines. This episode explores how adversity shapes identity—and how the environments that make you feel like you don’t belong can ultimately become the foundation for who you become. Whether you grew up in Tough Terrain, Affluent Acres, or somewhere in the middle, your story matters. — Follow the podcast:  Instagram: @middleofthefence  YouTube and Instagram: @andrespruell — New episodes every Wednesday.

    16 min
  8. Resilience, Faith & Redefining Success with Josh Banton | Ep. 32

    FEB 11

    Resilience, Faith & Redefining Success with Josh Banton | Ep. 32

    What did resilience cost you and what did it give back? In Episode 32 of Middle of the Fence, Andre sits down with artist and songwriter Josh Banton to unpack resilience, sacrifice, fatherhood, faith, and redefining success. From being raised in Brownsville, Brooklyn to living in Jamaica during pivotal teenage years, Josh shares how leaving comfort shaped his perspective and built his character. They discuss: • Growing up between cultures  • The cost of resilience  • Marriage at 23 & fatherhood at 25  • Why success isn’t about accolades anymore  • Balancing music, trucking & family life  • Faith as a foundation  • Refusing to be boxed into one genre  • The inspiration behind his upcoming single “Stand On It” This episode is for anyone navigating growth, responsibility, and purpose in real time. ____________________________ 🎵 Connect with Josh Banton @joshbantonn across all social media platfroms New single “Stand On It” — Coming Soon Follow him for updates and release announcements. ____________________________ ⭐ Support the Podcast If you enjoyed this episode: • Leave a 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts or Spotify  • Follow Middle of the Fence on your favorite platform  • Share this episode with someone who needs it Your support helps the show grow and reach more listeners.

    56 min
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4
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

Welcome to Middle of the Fence, the captivating podcast that delves into the stark duality of a unique upbringing, combining the raw experiences of being raised in one of New Jersey’s highest-crime areas while having the privilege of receiving a top-tier private school education in Morris County, one of the wealthiest counties in the nation. In each episode, Andre Spruell uncovers the complex interplay between these two contrasting worlds, exploring the challenges, triumphs, and unique perspectives that arise from this extraordinary upbringing. Through personal anecdotes, thought-provoking interviews, and in-depth discussions, Andre sheds a light on the rich tapestry of experiences that shaped his identity and worldview. Middle of the Fence offers an authentic and unfiltered glimpse into the dynamics of socio-economic disparities, shedding light on the intersections of privilege, resilience, and community. With a keen focus on personal growth, social justice, and understanding, this podcast aims to bridge the gap between different realities, inspiring listeners to challenge their preconceptions and foster empathy in a world marked by diversity. Tune in to Middle of the Fence and embark on a journey that explores the complex nuances of life, unveiling the unexpected connections and shared humanity that exist even amidst divergent circumstances.

Information

  • Creator
    Andre Spruell
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    40
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Middle of the Fence
  • Show Website
    Middle of the Fence