Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast

Join host Justin Vacula on the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast as he shares tips on low-cost travel using points, miles, benefits, and rewards from credit cards. This episode features an insightful interview with James from the Churn and Burn podcast discussing Dell credits, the business platinum card, and creative ways to maximize credit card rewards. Justin also announces various travel events for 2025, including ZorkFest and Greater Philadelphia Travel: Credit, Miles, and Points meetups. Learn about personal use of Dell rewards and leveraging buyers’ clubs for good returns. Discover how a miles and points lifestyle can change perspectives and lead to a fulfilling, flexible life. Stay tuned for part two of this collaboration. 00:00 Introduction to Low-Cost Travel with Points and Miles 01:23 Special Announcements and Upcoming Events 03:16 Welcome by the Churn and Burn Podcast 04:44 Justin's Journey into Points and Miles 06:03 Gambling and Casino Promotions 12:55 Dell Credits and Personal Use Items 28:26 Introduction to Buyer's Clubs 30:36 Maximizing Dell Credits 34:32 Exploring American Express No Lifetime Language Offers 36:53 Upcoming Travel Plans 40:45 Cruise Lifestyle and Casino Offers 47:30 Philosophical Reflections on Value 53:21 Conclusion and Future Events -- Main website, including episode transcripts: https://hurdygurdytravelpodcast.com Referral links: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ Join me for in-person meetups I host in Willow Grove, PA: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ SubscribeStar: https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdy-gurdy-travel SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8EcIcoNU1HK4KKhQtTkAWw Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast Google Play: https://www.play.google.com/music/listen?u=0#/ps/l5bmuntd4wpvtklvg42ejg42ejg4apiu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/HGTravelPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/justinvacula Copy and paste the podcast RSS feed -- http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss -- to listen on your favorite podcast-playing platform!

This Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast episode features a trip report on a Las Vegas double birthday celebration with guest Mandi Johnson. Highlights include maximizing dining and spa credits, leveraging tier matches for free rewards, and enjoying quality dining at low or no cost. Upcoming travel plans, event appearances, and recent credit card approvals are also discussed, showcasing the potential of credit card rewards to enhance and add travel experiences. Learn how to make money, save money, and travel at low cost. 00:00 Introduction to Low-Cost Travel 00:49 Las Vegas Double Birthday Trip Overview 01:20 Announcements and Upcoming Events 03:04 Welcome Mandi Johnson 03:54 Birthday Rewards and Vegas Adventures 04:56 Points Strategies 07:20 Exploring Las Vegas: Food and Fun 08:17 Maximizing Rewards and Benefits 11:26 Wynn and Fontainebleau Experiences 18:31 Dining Adventures and Freebies 26:20 MyVegas Freeplay Success 30:41 Maximizing Grocery Spending with Multiple Cards 31:15 Gift Card Reselling 31:29 MGM MasterCard Rewards and Quirks 32:07 Dining in Vegas at low to no cost 32:39 Caesars and MGM Tier Matching 33:52 Vegas Hotel Stays and Points Optimization 42:30 Phone Army and MyVegas Games 45:34 Recent Credit Card Approvals and Strategies 54:03 Cruise Plans and Other Travels for 2025 59:46 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts -- Main website, including episode transcripts: https://hurdygurdytravelpodcast.com Referral links: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ Join me for in-person meetups I host in Willow Grove, PA: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ SubscribeStar: https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdy-gurdy-travel SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8EcIcoNU1HK4KKhQtTkAWw Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast Google Play: https://www.play.google.com/music/listen?u=0#/ps/l5bmuntd4wpvtklvg42ejg42ejg4apiu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/HGTravelPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/justinvacula Copy and paste the podcast RSS feed -- http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss -- to listen on your favorite podcast-playing platform!

In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula engages in a deep and insightful conversation with Anna Murphy and Merlin Sutter of the band Cellar Darling. The conversation was originally recorded in 2018 and now has remastered audio. The discussion covers many topics, including their musical journey, the impact of Stoic philosophy on their work, and personal reflections on overcoming adversity, creative expression, and coping with emotions. The episode delves into the band's songwriting processes, their thematic incorporation of Stoic ideas, particularly from Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus, and the personal and collective challenges they have faced. Murphy and Sutter also discuss the philosophical underpinnings of their songs like 'Hullabaloo,' 'Challenge,' 'The Hermit,' and their unique sound that blends folk and rock. The musicians share their thoughts on the balance between intense emotional experiences and rational thought, their inspirations, and the importance of self-reflection and connection. The conversation also highlights the therapeutic aspects of music and philosophy for dealing with life's uncertainties and hardships. -- Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Low-Cost Travel 00:48 Special Guest Announcement 01:44 Upcoming Events and Announcements 03:31 Cellar Darling's Musical Journey 04:46 Exploring Stoic Philosophy in Music 07:27 The Song 'Challenge' and Personal Struggles 14:16 The Hermit: Love of Solitude 17:38 Rebels: Challenging Society 23:19 Honoring the Dead: A Celebration of Life 24:00 Stoic Philosophy and Grief 25:30 Friendship and Time: Under the Oak Tree 26:23 The Prophet Song and Personal Connections 27:36 Creating Stories: Star Crusher and Beyond 29:28 The Elements: Water, Fire, Wind, and Earth 31:35 Avalanche: A Monotonous Mantra 33:04 Hedonia: A Fantasy World 34:32 The Essence of Stoicism and Art 40:45 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans -- Main website, including episode transcripts: https://hurdygurdytravelpodcast.com Referral links: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ Join me for in-person meetups I host in Willow Grove, PA: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ SubscribeStar: https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdy-gurdy-travel SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8EcIcoNU1HK4KKhQtTkAWw Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast Google Play: https://www.play.google.com/music/listen?u=0#/ps/l5bmuntd4wpvtklvg42ejg42ejg4apiu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/HGTravelPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/justinvacula Copy and paste the podcast RSS feed -- http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss -- to listen on your favorite podcast-playing platform!

In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula is joined by returning guest Mark Konchinsky to discuss leveraging the Weis Markets Rewards Program for free groceries and discounted gas. The discussion includes strategies for earning and redeeming points through purchasing prepaid/gaming gift cards, including FanDuel, DraftKings, and GameOn. Justin and Marc discuss strategies to account for store policies and use multiple credit cards to split up a transaction to avoid adverse action with banks. 00:00 Introduction to Low-Cost Travel with Points and Miles 00:56 Announcements and Upcoming Events 02:44 Welcome Back, Mark Konchinsky 02:58 Understanding Weis Rewards Program 04:55 Maximizing Points Buying Gift Cards 06:24 Redeeming Points for Groceries and Gas 15:49 Credit Card Strategies for Grocery Purchases 21:01 Navigating Weis Store Policies 22:15 Strategies for Splitting Tender 22:48 Maximizing Credit Card Signup Bonuses 23:52 Choosing the Right Gift Cards 28:07 Online Gambling and Rewards 34:28 Future Promotions and Best Practices 35:21 Pending Credit Card Applications 38:56 Upcoming Travel Plans and Events 42:39 Closing Remarks and Future Episodes -- Main website, including episode transcripts: https://hurdygurdytravelpodcast.com Referral links: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ Join me for in-person meetups I host in Willow Grove, PA: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ SubscribeStar: https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdy-gurdy-travel SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8EcIcoNU1HK4KKhQtTkAWw Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast Google Play: https://www.play.google.com/music/listen?u=0#/ps/l5bmuntd4wpvtklvg42ejg42ejg4apiu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/HGTravelPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/justinvacula Copy and paste the podcast RSS feed -- http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss -- to listen on your favorite podcast-playing platform!

Justin Vacula and special guest Brian Cohen of Award Magic discuss optimizing American Express membership rewards for flights, hotel stays, and cashback. Justin and Brian address listener questions about speculative transfers and the ANA round-the-world sweet spot. Justin and Brian provide strategies for earning and redeeming points, managing credit cards effectively, and navigating the world of miles and points. 00:00 Introduction to Low-Cost Travel with Points and Miles 01:08 Announcements and Upcoming Events 02:57 Interview with Brian Cohen: Redeeming Membership Rewards 03:03 Travel Experiences and Booking Strategies 06:14 American Express Redemptions and Strategies 14:12 Maximizing Credit Card Rewards 27:12 Client's Last-Minute Travel Dilemma 27:45 Positioning Flights: Tips and Tricks 31:11 Hotel Points and Transfers 34:39 Cashing Out Membership Rewards 36:49 Speculative Transfers and Airline Miles 38:32 Listener Questions and ANA Round the World Ticket 39:43 Amex Goals and Strategies for 2024 40:39 Cheesecake Factory and Gift Card Hacks 43:44 United Travel Bank and Future Plans 47:29 Community and Events 48:57 Final Thoughts and Recommendations 53:34 Closing Remarks and Upcoming Events -- Main website, including episode transcripts: https://hurdygurdytravelpodcast.com Referral links: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ Join me for in-person meetups I host in Willow Grove, PA: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ SubscribeStar: https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdy-gurdy-travel SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8EcIcoNU1HK4KKhQtTkAWw Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast Google Play: https://www.play.google.com/music/listen?u=0#/ps/l5bmuntd4wpvtklvg42ejg42ejg4apiu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/HGTravelPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/justinvacula Copy and paste the podcast RSS feed -- http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss -- to listen on your favorite podcast-playing platform!

In this audio-remastered episode, Justin Vacula critiques self-proclaimed financial expert Dave Ramsey's views on credit scores and debt. Vacula argues that Ramsey's negative perspective on credit is misleading and fails to acknowledge responsible credit usage. Justin explains how individuals can use credit cards wisely to build their credit scores, earn rewards, and save money without falling into debt paying interest. Vacula emphasizes the benefits of leveraging credit for various expenses while debunking Ramsey's claims about the necessity of avoiding credit entirely. The episode encourages listeners to utilize credit responsibly to enhance their financial well-being. This episode is a response to The Ramsey Show Highlights’ video ‘How to Improve Your Credit Score Without Debt’ (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3k0ObI4OBbY&t=0s) Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Travel Rewards 00:33 Critiquing Dave Ramsey's Credit Advice 01:27 Understanding Credit Scores 02:42 Debunking Myths About Debt and Credit 05:38 Benefits of Responsible Credit Use 07:59 Dave Ramsey's Misconceptions 09:54 Real-Life Examples and Counterarguments 14:39 The Value of Credit Card Rewards 31:17 Dave Ramsey's Out-of-Touch Criticism 33:37 Leveraging Credit for Business Growth 34:56 Building Credit: Myths and Realities 35:41 Debunking Dave Ramsey's Arguments 36:37 The Benefits of Responsible Credit Use 38:34 Real-Life Examples and Counterarguments 45:32 The Unrealistic Nature of Cash-Only Living 55:33 The Power of Credit Card Rewards 58:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Main website, including episode transcripts: https://hurdygurdytravelpodcast.com Referral links: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ Join me for in-person meetups I host in Willow Grove, PA: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ SubscribeStar: https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdy-gurdy-travel SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8EcIcoNU1HK4KKhQtTkAWw Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast Google Play: https://www.play.google.com/music/listen?u=0#/ps/l5bmuntd4wpvtklvg42ejg42ejg4apiu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/HGTravelPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/justinvacula Copy and paste the podcast RSS feed -- http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss -- to listen on your favorite podcast-playing platform!

This episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, hosted by Justin Vacula, features a detailed discussion with guest Darren Remsburg on maximizing savings through the Giant Pennsylvania Fuel and Grocery Rewards Program. Justin shares upcoming speaking events and meetups, provides tips on using credit card points, and emphasizes the benefits of the Giant program, highlighting strategies to get free gas and discounts on groceries. The episode also covers the effective use of various reward credit cards and the nuances of managing multiple giant accounts for optimal benefits. 00:00 Introduction to Low-Cost Travel with Points and Miles 00:32 Host Introduction and Episode Overview 01:01 Upcoming Events and Announcements 02:06 Welcoming Back Darren Remsburg 02:50 Maximizing Pennsylvania's Giant Fuel and Grocery Rewards 03:22 Earning and Redeeming Points for Gas 08:29 Credit Card Strategies for Maximizing Rewards 30:03 Managing Multiple Giant Accounts and Transactions 33:20 Navigating Store Policies and Friendly Interactions 34:27 Strategies for Smooth Transactions and Avoiding Fraud Alerts 36:02 Maximizing Rewards with Gift Cards and Promotions 37:31 Exploring Rewards Earning Debit Cards 39:35 Leveraging Giant's 5X Promotions and Holiday Rewards 45:35 Understanding Giant's Choice Points System 52:58 Visa and MasterCard Gift Cards: Flexibility and Use Cases 01:03:47 Concluding Thoughts and Upcoming Events Main website, including episode transcripts: https://hurdygurdytravelpodcast.com Referral links: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ Join me for in-person meetups I host in Willow Grove, PA: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ SubscribeStar: https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdy-gurdy-travel SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8EcIcoNU1HK4KKhQtTkAWw Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast Google Play: https://www.play.google.com/music/listen?u=0#/ps/l5bmuntd4wpvtklvg42ejg42ejg4apiu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/HGTravelPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/justinvacula Copy and paste the podcast RSS feed -- http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss -- to listen on your favorite podcast-playing platform!

Navigating the Changing Landscape of Casino Status Matching and Earning In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, hosted by Justin Vacula and co-host Darren Remsburg, listeners are guided through the evolving landscape of casino status matching with a focus on Wyndham, Caesars Rewards, and Ocean Casino. The discussion highlights recent changes affecting status matchers, strategies to maintain casino statuses, and the impact of these changes on miles and points enthusiasts. Additionally, the episode covers announcements about upcoming travel and gambling events, such as Zorkfest 2025, and gives tips on leveraging credit card rewards effectively. Practical advice on earning casino tiers through various means, including video poker and MGM Mastercard, is provided to help listeners maximize their travel benefits despite the shifting rules. 00:00 Introduction to Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast 00:47 Navigating Casino Status Matching Changes 01:09 Upcoming Events and Announcements 02:59 Welcome Back, Darren Remsburg 03:30 Wyndham and Caesars Status Matching Updates 05:35 Caesars Diamond Status Benefits 07:06 Strategies for Earning Casino Status 11:18 Caesars Credit Card and Tier Points 14:12 Video Poker and Tier Credits 22:46 Ocean Casino Status Matching Update 28:48 Tracking Tier Points and Betting Strategies 30:07 Maximizing Casino Offers and Bonuses 32:40 Status Matching and Credit Card Strategies 43:03 Founder's Card and Other Status Opportunities 46:15 Subscriber Questions and Advice 53:43 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts Main website, including episode transcripts: https://hurdygurdytravelpodcast.com Referral links: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ Join me for in-person meetups I host in Willow Grove, PA: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ SubscribeStar: https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdy-gurdy-travel SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8EcIcoNU1HK4KKhQtTkAWw Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast Google Play: https://www.play.google.com/music/listen?u=0#/ps/l5bmuntd4wpvtklvg42ejg42ejg4apiu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/HGTravelPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/justinvacula Copy and paste the podcast RSS feed -- http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss -- to listen on your favorite podcast-playing platform!

Stefan Krasowski, an expert in maximizing American Express rewards and organizer of the Chicago Seminars, shares invaluable tips for optimizing points and benefits. He discusses strategies for new users, the benefits of specific Amex cards, and advanced tactics for upgrading and downgrading cards. Stefan highlights effective ways to navigate credit card risks, manage account offers, and leverage community knowledge. Anecdotes from his travel journey add a personal touch, making for an engaging conversation for both newbies and seasoned travelers.

You’re listening to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast. I’m your host, Justin Vacula, here to help you travel the world at next to no cost with credit card points, miles, benefits, and rewards. Make money, save money, and take advantage of great deals! Thanks for joining me for today’s episode, a discussion with Riley of the website CardCenter.cc where you can buy and sell gift cards. We talk about gift card reselling and how points and miles enthusiasts can resell gift cards to accelerate credit card spending to make money and build points balances. This episode was recorded in early October of 2024. Before today’s episode, some quick announcements. Early bird ticket sales for Zorkfest 2025, a miles, points, and gambling event, are now live at zorkfest.travelzork.com. I spoke at the successful Zorkfest 2024 event and hope to see you at Zorkfest 2025 in Las Vegas. I’m also looking forward to other events in 2025 and had a successful 2024 speaking at events with Award Travel 101, Frequent Traveler University, and both Chicago Seminars events. If you’re an event organizer and would like to have me speak at your 2025 event, please contact me. Visit meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints to RSVP for the monthly Greater Philadelphia Travel: Credit, Miles, and Points meetups I host in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania. The next meetups are on November 17th and December 15th, 2024. Find a link in the show notes. For more content between podcast episodes, follow Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast on Facebook and X, formerly known as Twitter. Follow Justin Vacula on Instagram. Search Hurdy Gurdy Travel on SubscribeStar.com to financially support my efforts starting at the $5/month tip jar level. -- Main website, including episode transcripts: https://hurdygurdytravelpodcast.com Referral links: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ Join me for in-person meetups I host in Willow Grove, PA: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ SubscribeStar: https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdy-gurdy-travel SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8EcIcoNU1HK4KKhQtTkAWw Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast Google Play: https://www.play.google.com/music/listen?u=0#/ps/l5bmuntd4wpvtklvg42ejg42ejg4apiu Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/HGTravelPodcast Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/justinvacula Copy and paste the podcast RSS feed -- http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss -- to listen on your favorite podcast-playing platform!