Shows
Middle of the FenceLoneliness of Becoming | Ep. 30Have you ever felt lonely? Not because you had no one, but because you were becoming someone new?In this episode of Middle of the Fence, Andre Spruell dives into The Loneliness of Becoming — a powerful and often misunderstood phase of personal growth. This episode explores why growth can feel isolating, why discipline creates distance, and why evolving into a new version of yourself can leave you feeling disconnected from familiar people, habits, and environments.Andre shares personal stories about growing up feeling different, navigating family dynamics, embracing therapy, and learning how loneliness is...
2026-01-2811 minMiddle of the FenceThe Guilt of Growth – Why Personal Growth Feels Uncomfortable | Ep. 29Have you ever felt like becoming better was somehow making you worse?In Episode 29 of Middle of the Fence, Andre Spruell dives into a feeling many of us experience but rarely talk about—the Guilt of Growth.As you grow, your routines change. Your priorities change. Your availability changes. And sometimes, the people who knew the old version of you struggle to accept the new one.This episode explores the emotional side of personal growth: • Feeling guilty for saying no • Outgrowing old habits and relationships • The fear of leaving peo...
2026-01-2112 minMiddle of the FenceHistory of the Suburbs: How Affluent Acres Was Built | Ep. 28The suburbs didn’t just happen — they were built intentionally.In this solo episode of Middle of the Fence, Andre breaks down the history of American suburbs, starting earlier than most people are taught. From streetcar suburbs in the early 1900s to redlining, federal housing policy, and the construction of interstate highways, this episode explores how access, capital, and infrastructure shaped suburban life as we know it today.Andre also shares personal stories of growing up commuting between Tough Terrain and Affluent Acres, and why the sacrifices involved in crossing that invisible fence often go unno...
2026-01-1414 min
Middle of the FenceStay True to Yourself: Identity, Growth & Self-Belief with Juan Gamarra | Ep. 27Juan Gamarra joins Middle of the Fence to discuss immigrating to the U.S. at a young age, navigating identity, embracing discomfort, and redefining success through value, ownership, and mindset.This episode is for anyone growing up between two worlds and learning how to stay true to themselves while building confidence and freedom.Middle of the Fence is a podcast for anyone who grew up between two worlds — never fully fitting into one, but learning from both. It’s about identity, mindset, and using life between the lines to build confidence, discipline, and purp...
2026-01-0744 min
Middle of the FenceGoal Setting for 2026: Why Discipline Beats Motivation Every Time | Ep. 26As we head into 2026, it’s time to get honest about what actually creates change.In this episode of Middle of the Fence, Andre Spruell breaks down the truth about goal setting, including why motivation fades, why discipline lasts, and how small habit shifts can completely transform your life.Drawing from personal experience and behavioral psychology research, Andre explains why so many people fail to reach their goals and how you can avoid the same cycle by creating structure, clarity, and accountability.This episode covers: • Why reflection is essential for growth • The psyc...
2025-12-3121 min
Middle of the FenceChristmas on Both Sides of the Fence | Sacrifice, Gratitude & Growing Up Between Worlds | Ep. 25Christmas doesn’t look the same for everyone and that contrast can shape us for life.In this Christmas Special episode of Middle of the Fence, I reflect on growing up between Tough Terrain and Affluent Acres, where some Christmases were full of gifts and others were defined by sacrifice, gratitude, and family resilience.I share personal stories from childhood, high school, college, and my early 20s...from years where the living room was overflowing with gifts, to Christmases where one meaningful present had to be enough. These moments revealed deeper lessons about financial struggle, pr...
2025-12-2312 min
Middle of the FenceFrom Survival to Self-Belief: Immigrant Roots, Identity & Fitness with Sofia Nazari | Ep. 24In this episode of Middle of the Fence, Andre Spruell is joined by Sofia Nazari for a raw and reflective conversation about immigrant roots, identity shifts, discipline, and transformation.Sofia opens up about growing up in an extended Afghan household, facing financial struggle, cultural misunderstanding, and early responsibility, experiences that shaped her mindset long before adulthood. Together, they unpack the realities of growing up on the Tough Terrain side of the fence and how those environments often forge resilience, confidence, and grit.The episode also explores Sofia’s health and fitness journey, including her mindset sh...
2025-12-1739 minMiddle of the FenceProtectors or Predators? Police Brutality | Ep. 23In Episode 23 of Middle of the Fence, Andre breaks down a tough but necessary conversation: police brutality, systemic bias, and how policing looks drastically different on the “Tough Terrain” vs. “Affluent Acres” sides of the fence. Drawing from lived experience, academic research, traffic-stop data, and a 2006 FBI report on white supremacist infiltration in law enforcement, this episode examines how communities across America experience the police in two completely different realities.Andre explores:• Over-policing in urban communities and the “TSA treatment” many people of color face daily• Generational trauma and its long-term effects on trust in law enforcement
2025-12-1015 minMiddle of the FenceMedia Perception — Representation & Reality | Ep. 22In this episode, Andre explores how media, from TV shows and movies to news cycles and social feeds, shapes the way we view neighborhoods, people, class, race, and opportunity. Using personal experiences and academic research, he breaks down why the “hood” is often portrayed negatively, why the suburbs are glamorized, and how these narratives influence our assumptions without us noticing. You’ll hear: • The real impact of media stereotypes on identity • Why Black poverty is overrepresented in the news • How being biracial and navigating two worlds shaped Andre’s perspective • Why questioning media narratives matters mo...
2025-12-0323 minMiddle of the FenceTwo Tables, One Thanksgiving (Thanksgiving Special) | Ep. 21This Thanksgiving, we’re sitting at two different tables, but celebrating the same heart of gratitude 🦃✨Andre reflects on: • Thanksgiving traditions in a big Hispanic & Black family household • Cultural dishes and making the most of what you have • Discovering suburban holiday traditions (like cranberry sauce for the first time 😅) • The 3 things he’s grateful for in 2025: opportunity, people & growth • Why giving flowers while people are here matters mostAn 11-minute episode to remind us what truly counts before the feast 🍽️New episodes every Wednesday!Follow @middleofthefence on Inst...
2025-11-2611 min
Middle of the FenceChasing Perfection, Building Legacy & Leadership with Matt Riddick | Ep. 20This week on Middle of the Fence, Andre Spruell welcomes Matt Riddick, JD — a respected leader, mentor, and philanthropist whose story embodies resilience and purpose.From his roots in Philadelphia’s “Tough Terrain” to his career leading organizations and mentoring future leaders, Matt shares lessons on: – Chasing perfection without losing peace – Building genuine connection in a disconnected world – Turning education and empathy into opportunity – Defining legacy through service, not statusIt’s a masterclass in leadership, mindset, and authenticity.🎧 Full video episode available on YouTubeFollow Middle of the Fenc...
2025-11-1936 minMiddle of the FenceReal Estate on Both Sides: Opportunity or Exploitation? | Middle of the Fence Ep. 19In Episode 19 of Middle of the Fence, host Andre Spruell breaks down how real estate looks completely different depending on which side of the fence you’re on — Tough Terrain or Affluent Acres.From reverse mortgages that strip generational wealth in Black and Brown communities to lowball cash offers and heir’s property losses, Andre exposes the financial traps that keep people in urban environments from getting ahead. Then, he flips the script and explores how suburban access to credit, lower taxes, and intergenerational wealth creates long-term stabil...
2025-11-1216 minMiddle of the FenceBonus: WWE Glory Days – Our Top Wrestlers, Entrance Themes & Finishers (Ep. 18)Andre Spruell and Jeremy Paulino return with bonus content from Episode 18 of Middle of the Fence Podcast — and this one’s for the wrestling fans. 💪The duo relives the golden era of WWE, ranking their favorite wrestlers, entrance themes, and finishers that defined the sport’s glory days. From Stone Cold and The Rock to Shawn Michaels and The Undertaker, this conversation is pure nostalgia and energy.🎙️ Hosts: Andre Spruell 🎧 Guest: Jeremy Paulino 🏆 Episode Theme: WWE Glory Days – The moments, music, and moves that made wrestling un...
2025-11-0708 min
Middle of the FenceFaith, Identity & Resilience: From the Bronx to NJ with Jeremy Paulino | Ep. 18In this episode of Middle of the Fence, Andre Spruell welcomes Jeremy Paulino (@jeremypaulin0) for a powerful conversation about faith, transformation, and personal growth. Jeremy shares his story of growing up in the Bronx, adjusting to life in New Jersey, and discovering his purpose through Christ.Together, Andre and Jeremy open up about spiritual trauma, rediscovering faith, overcoming depression, and walking boldly in belief. Whether you’re on the Tough Terrain or Affluent Acres side of the fence, this episode reminds us how vulnerability and faith can build real connection.💡 Topics inclu...
2025-11-0542 min
Middle of the FenceFrom Layoffs to Life Lessons: My Sister’s Journey Through Resilience, Motherhood & Corporate Life | Ep. 17This week on Middle of the Fence, I’m joined by my sister Alexia Lawrence — the oldest of our siblings and one of my biggest inspirations.Alexia shares her journey of navigating both Tough Terrain and Affluent Acres. From growing up in diverse spaces to climbing the corporate ladder, facing an unexpected layoff the same week she found out she was pregnant, and learning that sometimes the toughest moments bring the biggest blessings.We open up about:The pressure of being the eldest childBalancing identity between two worldsMental health, therapy, and self-acceptanceWomen of c...
2025-10-2952 minMiddle of the FenceThe Power of Education in Breaking Cycles | Ep. 16Education is often called the great equalizer, but depending on which side of the fence you grew up on, it can be a ladder out—or another broken promise.In this episode, Andre Spruell explores how access to education shapes opportunity, identity, and generational outcomes. From underfunded schools in the Tough Terrain to resource-rich classrooms in the Affluent Acres, Andre breaks down the systemic disparities that keep families trapped in cycles of poverty—and the mindset shifts and community efforts that can help break them.Drawing from his own experience growing up in an urban neig...
2025-10-2216 minMiddle of the FenceNew Keys, New Mindset — What Moving Out Really Teaches You | Ep. 15Moving out can mean freedom or survival—depending on which side of the fence you grew up on.In this episode of Middle of the Fence, host Andre Spruell explores what independence looks like from both the Tough Terrain (urban environments built on resilience and self-sufficiency) and Affluent Acres (suburban upbringings rooted in stability and support).Andre breaks down how socioeconomic background shapes our experience of living alone—from paying rent and managing bills to coping with solitude and building emotional strength.💭 Key takeaways:Freedom vs. fragili...
2025-10-1519 minMiddle of the FenceDurags and Yerba Mate | Ep. 14Episode 14: Durags and Yerba Mate | Middle of the Fence PodcastIn this episode, host Andre Spruell dives deep into his dual heritage, Black American and Argentinian, exploring how both cultures shaped his identity, values, and perspective. From sipping yerba mate with his grandfather to wearing a durag as a symbol of pride, Andre reflects on the history, meaning, and overlap between these two worlds.Discover the cultural roots behind Argentinian traditions, the African influence in Argentina, and the powerful symbolism of Black culture...
2025-10-0816 minMiddle of the FenceMother’s Love, Father’s Absence: Lessons That Built Me | Ep. 13In this episode of Middle of the Fence, host Andre Spruell reflects on the powerful and contrasting lessons he learned from both of his parents. Growing up straddling Tough Terrain (urban challenges) and Affluent Acres (suburban privilege), Andre shares how love, consistency, absence, and resilience shaped his values, relationships, and personal growth.From his mother, he gained unwavering love, cultural grounding in his Argentinian roots, and the strength of emotional support. From his father, he learned the hard truths of absence, safe choices, and the importance of breaking generational cycles. Together, these experiences reveal how parental influence—wh...
2025-10-0119 min
Middle of the FenceBrotherhood, Identity & Art: Growing Up on Both Sides of the Fence | Ep. 12In Episode 12 of Middle of the Fence, I sit down with my brother, Ahmir Spruell, for a raw and heartfelt conversation on brotherhood, creativity, and identity. We share stories of growing up together between Tough Terrain and Affluent Acres, the role art played in Ahmir’s self-discovery, and navigating challenges around race, culture, and sexuality.From childhood memories to powerful lessons about confidence, acceptance, and resilience, this episode highlights how family bonds and self-expression can shape the path toward authenticity.Tune in for:How art helped Ahmir find hi...
2025-09-2448 minMiddle of the FenceBalancing Two Worlds: Hood vs. Suburbs | Ep. 11In this episode of Middle of the Fence, host Andre Spruell breaks down the historical roots of both worlds—suburban expansion after World War II, white flight, and redlining—and connects them to his own lived experiences navigating between Orange, NJ and affluent neighboring communities.From riding past graffiti-covered streets into neighborhoods with white picket fences, to balancing two social codes (“don’t get played” vs. “don’t get judged”), Andre shares the lessons, pressures, and unique perspective that come with growing up between two worlds.This conversation dives deep into:The history of subur...
2025-09-1720 minMiddle of the FenceLove on Both Sides: Dating in Tough Terrain vs. Affluent Acres | Ep. 10What does love look like on both sides of the fence? In this episode of Middle of the Fence, host Andre Spruell explores dating and relationships through two very different lenses—Tough Terrain (urban grit, survival, and struggle love) and Affluent Acres (status, reputation, and conditional love).Andre shares his personal experiences navigating romance across both worlds—from being judged by status and financial background, to understanding how urban environments shape independence and relationship expectations. Along the way, he reflects on the biggest lessons learned in love: authenticity, values, and being with someone who...
2025-09-1021 min
Middle of the FenceBreaking Cycles, Finding Voice, and Bridging Worlds with Kendall Gregory | Episode #9In this episode of Middle of the Fence, Andre Spruell sits down with longtime friend and former classmate Kendall Gregory to explore her journey growing up in an affluent suburban town while navigating the challenges of family divorce, addiction, and self-discovery.Kendall opens up about:Growing up in a “picture-perfect” community with hidden strugglesChoosing to break generational cycles of addiction and be a role model for her younger sister.How sports and music helped her find her voice as one of the few women in a male-dominated industry.The life-changing perspective of international travel and...
2025-09-0344 minMiddle of the FenceEarly Aspirations and Dreams: Finding Purpose | Episode #8From wanting to be a doctor in first grade to chasing the dream of basketball through college, my identity was tied to aspirations that shaped my life. When two ACL injuries ended that dream, I was forced to ask myself: Who am I without basketball?In this deeply personal episode of Middle of the Fence, I open up about:The contrast of growing up between Tough Terrain and Affluent Acres.How childhood aspirations shaped my identity.Facing the reality of losing the game I loved after 17 years.The emotional battle with depression...
2025-08-2724 min
Middle of the FenceResilience, Diversity & Rewriting Your Story with Michelle Murphy | Episode #7On this episode of Middle of the Fence, Andre Spruell welcomes Michelle Murphy — a lifelong family friend and life coach who grew up on the Tough Terrain side of the fence in New York City’s Lower East Side before experiencing suburban life.Michelle shares her journey of resilience, overcoming family challenges, and developing the tough skin that shaped her path. She reflects on the value of diversity, navigating cultural contrasts, and the lessons she’s learned as a cycle breaker raising her own children. Michelle also opens up about finding purpose, embracing self-love, and guiding others as the...
2025-08-2050 minMiddle of the FenceSummers on Both Sides: Tough Terrain vs. Affluent Acres | Episode #6This solo episode of Middle of the Fence takes you inside my summer experiences growing up between two completely different worlds — the vibrant, gritty energy of the Tough Terrain and the structured, privilege-filled days of the Affluent Acres.From block parties, ice cream trucks, and hot city streets to beach houses, boat rides, and summer camps, I share what these contrasting summers taught me about adaptability, social class, and community culture. You’ll hear:How science proves it’s literally hotter in low-income neighborhoods during summerWhy structured activities shape affluent summers — and what’s m...
2025-08-1317 min
Middle of the FenceBridging Tough Terrain and Affluent Acres with Yami Soriano - Episode #5🎙️ Middle of the Fence Podcast | In this inspiring episode, Andre Spruell sits down with Yami Soriano to share her story of growing up on the “Tough Terrain” side of the fence in East Orange, NJ. Yami opens up about her Afro-Latina identity, life in a Dominican household, and the challenges of navigating cultural perceptions while finding her confidence.Together, Andre and Yami explore the parallels between urban and suburban worlds, how family and community shape our values, and why experiencing different environments can change the way we see ourselves and others.💬 Whether you were raised...
2025-08-0649 min
Middle of the FenceBridging Tough Terrain and Affluent Acres with Drake Brown - Episode #4In this episode of Middle of the Fence, host Andre Spruell reconnects with longtime friend Drake Brown to explore what it means to grow up between two vastly different worlds: Tough Terrain (urban, high-pressure environments) and Affluent Acres (suburban, privileged spaces).From navigating predominantly white private schools as Black men, to experiencing microaggressions, culture shock, and building resilience, this conversation dives deep into race, identity, empathy, and personal growth.💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How growing up in different environments shape...
2025-07-3049 minMiddle of the FenceWhen the Grass Is Greener: The Affluent Acres Experience - Episode #3What happens when a kid from a gritty urban neighborhood attends school in an elite, suburban environment? In this solo episode, host Andre Spruell dives deep into his formative years spent on the "Affluent Acres" side of the fence—a stark contrast to his everyday life in the "Tough Terrain."Andre shares raw reflections and vivid stories about navigating privilege, unspoken social codes, and racial identity in predominantly white, wealthy spaces. From awkward classroom moments to quiet realizations about access, advantage, and assimilation, this episode explores the cost and benefit of crossing socioeconomic lines at a young ag...
2025-07-2334 minMiddle of the FenceBeing A Black Man As a Kid | Episode #2Episode 2: Being a Black Man as a Kid – Adultification, Resilience & Empathy | Middle of the Fence PodcastIn this episode of Middle of the Fence, host Andre Spruell dives deep into the real-life experiences of growing up as a Black and Argentinian kid navigating both "Tough Terrain" (urban, underprivileged environments) and "Affluent Acres" (wealthy, suburban spaces).Andre shares personal stories about:The adultification of Black children—how Black kids are forced to grow up faster due to societal biasesThe racial challenges of private school life in p...
2025-07-1633 minMiddle of the FenceIntroduction | Episode #1Welcome to the premiere episode of Middle of the Fence, hosted by Andre Spruell — a storyteller and podcast creator who grew up straddling two starkly different environments: the gritty streets of Orange, NJ and the affluent suburbs of Morris County.This isn’t your typical true crime, politics, or toxic masculinity podcast. Instead, Middle of the Fence explores the reality of navigating life between what Andre calls the "Tough Terrain" (urban communities facing systemic and economic challenges) and "Affluent Acres" (privileged suburban neighborhoods with access and opportunity). Andre shares raw, personal stories from his...
2025-07-0926 min