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

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/ [https://www.instagram.com/middleofthefence/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Middle-of-the-Fence-61572183504501/ [https://www.facebook.com/p/Middle-of-the-Fence-61572183504501/] Website: https://www.middleofthefence.com/ [https://www.middleofthefence.com/]

Why the World Cup Means More Than Soccer | Ep. 49

The FIFA World Cup is often viewed as the biggest sporting event in the world. But why does it create such a powerful emotional connection for so many people? In this special World Cup edition of Middle of the Fence, Andre explores how sports can become a gateway to identity, belonging, culture, and heritage. Drawing from his experience growing up Black American and Argentinian, he reflects on how the World Cup helped him connect with his roots and understand the value of embracing multiple identities. Andre also discusses the emotional impact of collective identity, the unifying power of sports across social and economic backgrounds, and why Lionel Messi's journey resonates with so many people around the world. Whether you're a lifelong soccer fan or someone interested in personal growth, identity, and culture, this episode offers a deeper look at what the World Cup reveals about human connection. Question of the episode: What's something from your culture or upbringing that will always be part of who you are? ___________ 📲 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/ [https://www.instagram.com/middleofthefence/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Middle-of-the-Fence-61572183504501/ [https://www.facebook.com/p/Middle-of-the-Fence-61572183504501/] Website: https://www.middleofthefence.com/ [https://www.middleofthefence.com/]

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/ [https://www.instagram.com/middleofthefence/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Middle-of-the-Fence-61572183504501/ [https://www.facebook.com/p/Middle-of-the-Fence-61572183504501/] Website: https://www.middleofthefence.com/ [https://www.middleofthefence.com/] .

How Environment Shapes Relationships | Ep. 47

The environments we grow up in shape the way we communicate, trust, express emotion, handle conflict, and connect with others more than most people realize. In this episode of Middle of the Fence, Andre Spruell discusses how environment influences relationships across friendships, family, dating, networking, mentorship, and community. Topics include: • Emotional conditioning • Code switching • Socioeconomic pressure • The pressure to “make it out” • Feeling like you’re playing catch-up • Growth creating distance in relationships • Emotional survival vs vulnerability • The lonely chapter during personal growth • Feeling divided between different worlds This episode explores the emotional complexity of growing up between different environments and how those experiences shape identity, belonging, and human connection. ___________ 📲 Follow & leave a 5-star rating on Spotify and Apple Podcasts to support this show.  🎥 Watch full episodes on YouTube: Middle of the Fence __ For more Middle of the Fence, visit: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/middleofthefence/ [https://www.instagram.com/middleofthefence/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Middle-of-the-Fence-61572183504501/ [https://www.facebook.com/p/Middle-of-the-Fence-61572183504501/] Website: https://www.middleofthefence.com/ [https://www.middleofthefence.com/]

Overcoming Depression, Faith & Growing Up Between Two Worlds ft. Marlyn | Ep. 46

On Episode 46 of Middle of the Fence, Andre Spruell sits down with Marlyn, host of The Raw Faith Podcast, for a powerful conversation about faith, identity, mental health, resilience, and navigating life between two completely different environments. Marlyn shares her experiences growing up between Harlem and suburban New Jersey while overcoming emotional struggles, learning disabilities, depression, anxiety, and the pressure of trying to find where she truly belonged. The conversation also dives into: * Code-switching and identity * Faith and healing * Leadership lessons from her father raising 5 daughters * The impact of mentorship and teachers * Using your voice with purpose * Learning how to embrace who you are This episode is for anyone who has ever felt caught between two worlds while trying to become the best version of themselves. ___________ Follow Marlyn & The Raw Faith Podcast: Instagram: @therawfaithpodcast YouTube: The Raw Faith Podcast ___________ 📲 Follow & leave a 5-star rating on Spotify and Apple Podcasts to support this show.  🎥 Watch full episodes on YouTube: Middle of the Fence __ For more Middle of the Fence, visit: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/middleofthefence/ [https://www.instagram.com/middleofthefence/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Middle-of-the-Fence-61572183504501/ [https://www.facebook.com/p/Middle-of-the-Fence-61572183504501/] Website: https://www.middleofthefence.com/ [https://www.middleofthefence.com/]