Growth and Friendship in Vietnam | Sandler Ernst S14 E1

"I was born in a house without electricity, and now I help create families through adoption. It’s like winning the lottery."  I catch up with one of the very first guests ever on A Vietnam Podcast — my friend Sandy. The last time we recorded together, it was 2019. We were sitting in my apartment with a tiny mic that picked up every sound in the room. Now, six years later, Sandy is back in Vietnam — this time not just as a tourist, but as an adoption lawyer who’s come full circle in the most meaningful way. This conversation felt really personal. Sandy and I both started as English teachers here in Saigon, and like many of us, we weren’t “just” that. I loved hearing about how far he’s come — from law school struggles to helping families grow through adoption. He also shares what it’s like to see Vietnam now through a very different lens. Whether you’re a long-time expat, a first-time visitor, or someone curious about the paths people take after teaching abroad, this episode is for you. Key Talking Points:How we met and recorded one of the very first podcast episodes in my apartment with a broken micWhy the phrase “just an English teacher” misses the full storySandy’s journey from adopted child to adoption lawyerHow law school nearly broke him — and why it was still worth itWhat keeps bringing Sandy back to Vietnam, and the changes he’s noticed over time Chapeters and Timestamps:04:00 – Our first recording memories: Bad mics, hot bedrooms, and blanket forts07:00 – “Just an English teacher” and why that phrase frustrates me09:00 – Sandy’s journey to come to Vietnam instead of China17:00 – Law school, burnout, and becoming an adoption lawyer23:30 – Why Sandy keeps coming back to Vietnam31:00 – Observations as a lawyer: Safety, laws, and business freedom36:00 – What Sandy misses about Vietnam when he’s away 39:30 – Cost of living vs. quality of life This Season is sponsored by Premier Dental. Discover "Send me a message!" This Season is sponsored by Premier Dental. Discover the potential of a confident and healthy smile with the excellent dental clinic in Ho Chi Minh The full list of winners is here.  Support the show 🎙️ Start Your Podcast Today! 👉 Book a FREE Discovery Call with me and let’s bring your idea to life! 🎥 Edit Videos Like a Pro with Descript! 👉 I use Descript to create my content—try it for FREE here: 🔒 Protect Your Privacy with NordVPN! 👉 Get 70% OFF their 2-year plan and enjoy a secure, ad-free internet! These are affiliate links, and I’ll earn a small commission if you sign up, at no extra cost to you. ✅ Subscribe for More! If you enjoy content about life in Vietnam, food adventures, and great conversations, hit that subscribe button. 📸 Follow Me on Instagram 🌐 Visit My Website 🎉 Join Our Community!