"We’re taught in the U.S. that we are the pillars of the world. But living abroad, you realize how untrue that is." – James

Niall Mackay, Adrie, Mischa, James, Will and Shelly gather at East West Brewing Company to celebrate Vietnam Women’s Day and reflect on what it means to live as expats in Vietnam. The conversation weaves through cultural observations, from the special significance of Vietnam Women’s Day to the complexities of being an American living abroad. They dive into personal stories about embracing new cultural perspectives, the quirks of expat life, and the unique charm of Vietnam that makes it feel like home. With plenty of laughs, unexpected debates, and a bit of free-flowing beer, this episode captures the essence of Saigon's expat community while offering thoughtful reflections on life, freedom, and the challenges of living between worlds.

Key Takeaways:

• The Appeal of Vietnam for Expats: "The American dream doesn’t exist in America, it exists in Vietnam," says James, as they discuss how Vietnam offers a unique sense of freedom and opportunity for foreigners.
• The History of Vietnam Women’s Day: A discussion on the origins of Vietnam Women’s Day and how it commemorates the sacrifices of women in Vietnamese history.
• The Double-Edged Sword of American Identity Abroad: James shares stories of pretending to be Canadian while traveling, reflecting on the global perception of Americans.
• Reflections on Gun Culture in America: A candid conversation about the gun culture in the U.S., personal stories of mass shootings, and how life abroad changes perspectives on safety and freedom.

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Episode Sponsors:

7 Bridges Brewing Co. - An award winning Vietnamese craft brewery from Da Nang, with breweries across Vietnam!

Tenzing Pacific - I highly recommend them for their professional advice related to personal, family, and business insurance.

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