Middle of the Fence
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.
Middle of the Fence
From Survival to Self-Belief: Immigrant Roots, Identity & Fitness with Sofia Nazari | Ep. 24
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In 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 shift from survival to building, the power of self-talk, and why her transformation was more about identity than appearance.
This conversation touches on:
- Immigrant upbringing & cultural identity
- Extended family dynamics
- Mental discipline & personal growth
- Fitness as a form of self-belief
- Redefining what “worth it” really means
A powerful reminder that growth doesn’t come from comfort — it comes from persistence, reflection, and belief in yourself.
🎧 New episodes of Middle of the Fence every Wednesday.
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Follow Sofia on Instagram- @sofnazari
Follow Andre across all social media platforms - @andre
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