In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula discusses American Express strategies for 2025 with guest Stephan Krasowski, recorded live at the 2024 Chicago Seminars in Elk Grove Village.
They delve into optimal ways to utilize Amex points, miles, benefits, and rewards, including tips on upgrading and downgrading cards, maximizing Amex offers, and ensuring spend thresholds for substantial rewards.
Additional discussions include strategies for new users, retention offers, leveraging community knowledge, and specific Amex card recommendations. They also touch upon broader topics like balancing risk in the points and miles hobby, and sharing anecdotes from their travel and financial journeys.
00:00 Introduction to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast
00:49 Upcoming Events and Announcements
02:41 Live Podcast at Chicago Seminars
03:11 American Express Strategies and Insights
05:07 Navigating Credit Card Risks and Rewards
15:45 Maximizing Hotel and Travel Benefits
25:58 Managing Credit Card Slots and Offers
27:56 Optimizing American Express Benefits
28:56 Advanced Amex Strategies and Delta Cards
29:44 Navigating No Lifetime Language Offers
29:57 Maximizing Delta Reserve Business Upgrades
30:30 Creative Spending and Gift Card Strategies
36:38 Exploring Obscure Credit Card Issuers
47:19 Retention Offers and Downgrading Strategies
49:16 Final Q&A and Closing Remarks
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