Why We Need Third Places – Episode #17
Host: Jude DiMeglio TrangGuest: Andy Littleton
Description:In this episode ofGift of Need, Jude welcomes pastor, writer, and community leader Andy Littleton for a conversation about “third places”—the gathering spaces that connect us beyond home and work. Drawing on his experiences as an author, pastor and baseball enthusiast, Andy shares how community, church, and creativity can become places of belonging. Together, they explore how needs and gifts intersect to shape meaningful connections in our neighborhoods and lives.
We talk about:
· Andy’s upbringing between two worlds—church life and the trades—and how it shaped his vocation
· His journey back into baseball as a source of rest, reflection, and community
· The concept of “third places” and why they matter for human connection and democracy
· How personality influences where and how people engage with community spaces
· Ways churches can serve as third places and create space for honesty, openness, and need
· Mission Church’s practices, from weekly community meals to neighborhood murals and greenery projects
· Matching gifts with needs through circles of care and asset-based community development
Join the Conversation:We’d love to hear how you’ve seen the “gift of need” show up in your life. Share your story in the comments or leave a review. Please follow this podcast and rate it. Support my work by subscribing to my free newsletter to get future episodes and newsletters sent right to your inbox. Connect with Andy at:
Music Credit:Gabe Kubanda / Damn Plans (Instrumental) © 2021 Kubanda Music
Engineer:
Ray Ingegneri, Third Street Productions, Tucson, AZ
