“Life is not about the money in your bank account. Life is for living, and your investments, your insurance, all those things should be about allowing you to live the life you want.” – Robin Copley

It wasn’t easy to share, but I opened up about my own financial mistakes in Vietnam—losing tens of thousands of dollars because I trusted the wrong person. Robin Copley, my financial planner now, joined me to unpack what went wrong, what red flags I should have seen, and what every expat needs to know about money here.

I walked away from this conversation feeling relieved, but also more aware. Relieved because I know I’m back on track with someone I can trust. Aware because Vietnam really is a financial superpower if you manage things properly—but also a financial nightmare if you don’t.

5 Key Talking Points

• Why living in Vietnam can be a “financial superpower” if you manage money wisely.
• The biggest financial mistakes expats make—and how to avoid them.
• Hidden commissions and fees in products sold to expats.
• The importance of fiduciary responsibility and transparency in financial advice.
• Why money is only a tool—the real goal is the life you want to live.

Chapters & Timestamps

1. [00:00 ] Why Vietnam is a financial superpower – The balance between cost of living and income potential.
2. [00:02 ] My financial horror story – Losing tens of thousands through bad advice.
3. [00:09 ] Red flags and hidden commissions – Robin explains how expats are often misled.
4. [00:23 ] Investments as tools, not goals – Shifting the focus from money to lifestyle.
5. [00:27 ] Practical advice for expats – Motorbike licenses, medical insurance, and saving strategies.

[00:38 ] Life beyond money – Robin’s philosophy on living fully while planning responsibly.

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