The world opens up through conversation as we welcome back David El Vampiro after a three-year hiatus from the show. A gifted educator with a passion for global exploration, David takes us on a journey from the classrooms of Southern California to the coffee fields of Colombia and the ancient temples of Cambodia.
David's career trajectory reveals how life's unexpected turns often lead to the right destination. After leaving a challenging situation in Fresno, he found his calling teaching English Language Development to high school students in the Inland Empire. His teaching experiences reflect a genuine commitment to helping students develop authentic language skills rather than relying on technological crutches like Google Translate.
The heart of our conversation explores David's recent travels through Colombia, where he discovered the secrets of exceptional coffee production, savored affordable yet delicious local cuisine, and connected with friendly locals. His detailed accounts of roasting techniques challenge our conventional coffee consumption habits, suggesting that truly excellent beans require no additives. Meanwhile, his adventures in Southeast Asia—navigating tuk-tuks through Cambodian streets and discovering the stark contrast between accommodations—offer practical insights for aspiring travelers alongside captivating storytelling.
Throughout our wide-ranging discussion, we weave between memories of growing up in East LA, college struggles with engineering programs, and the hunt for authentic regional Mexican cuisines. David's storytelling bridges cultural gaps, reminding us how food, language, and community shape our identities whether at home or abroad.
Whether you're planning your next international adventure, curious about teaching as a career, or simply enjoy authentic conversations that traverse continents, this episode delivers both entertainment and insight. Join us for this global journey, and discover how travel broadens perspectives while simultaneously deepening our appreciation for our roots.
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