S1E1 Introducing Getting to Third Space with Lamar & Tom

Join Lamar Roth & Tom Klaus (two former clergy, former counselors, and still lifelong friends after all these years) in this podcast on how to talk with one another. Together they explore how to get to a Third Space - a space where two or more people with opposing viewpoints, ideologies, and worldviews can come together to hear, listen, share, and connect with one another. Together Lamar and Tom hope to carve out a Third Space where everything can be on the table for open, straightforward, honest, and, yet kind and respectful inquiry.

Honestly, getting to Third Space has proven to be increasingly difficult over the past few years.

The idea for Getting to Third Space with Lamar & Tom was planted during the COVID-19 pandemic as the two talked frequently about the divisions created by the virus and vaccinations. Together they puzzled over the information and disinformation being circulated. They were both amazed and saddened as people began to line up on opposite sides of this, and other issues facing our country. Together they wondered how to create a space for people to begin to hear, listen, and appreciate one another again. Getting to Third Space with Lamar & Tom was born.

Both Lamar and Tom have enjoyed interesting and fulfilling careers. Lamar was a licensed, practicing psychotherapist, a college administrator, and human resource director. Tom was a social service program developer, executive director, and educator.

Today Lamar is an accomplished photographer and Tom is a mediocre golfer. Though they live half a continent apart, they grew up near each other in rural Iowa. They first met in high school and have been friends ever since.

Besides double dating once or twice in high school, this is not Lamar & Tom’s first collaboration. In the 1990’s they co-wrote a counseling book together that was used as text in several schools around the U.S.

Beginning in September 2023, this podcast plans to release on a regular schedule this Fall.

If you have suggestions or ideas for future episodes, or even a question, you can contact either Lamar or Tom at the following email addresses:

Lamar - lamar.3rdspace@gmail.com

Tom - tom.3rdspace@gmail.com