Revolutionizing Your Journey: Travel With Points & Miles

In this week’s Quick Hits, DeAndre breaks down a wave of significant updates across the points-and-miles ecosystem — most of which fall into the “unfortunate but important” category. Several significant devaluations hit at once, including the end of one of the most famous sweet spots in award travel: 10,000 Turkish Miles to Hawaii on United. Capital One and American Express also announced transfer ratio cuts, continuing a broader trend of points inflation across loyalty programs.Amid the bad news, DeAndre highlights one bright spot: Mesa’s first-ever hotel transfer partner, Omni Hotels & Resorts, which comes with a limited-time path to Omni Champion elite status through 2026. With honeymoon travel just days away, DeAndre also gives listeners a heads-up that upcoming Quick Hits will be shorter but still include the most significant weekly developments.Key takeaways: Turkish devaluation: The iconic 10k-to-Hawaii sweet spot is gone; United flights to Hawaii now cost 25k miles each way.Domestic hikes: Turkish domestic United awards increased from 10k to 15k each way.Polaris to Hawaii jumps: A massive jump from 15k to 40k miles per direction.Transfer cuts at Capital One: Emirates transfers drop to 1:0.75 starting January 13.Membership Rewards devaluation: Amex → Cathay Pacific shifts to 5:4 beginning March 1.New Mesa partnership: Mesa launches its first hotel transfer partner — Omni Hotels & Resorts.Elite status opportunity: Transfer 30k Mesa points for a free Omni night and receive Omni Champion status through 2026.Omni perks: Upgrades, early check-in, late checkout, a welcome amenity, daily beverage, pressing/shoe shine.Footprint insight: Omni has ~50 premium properties across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.Programming note: Quick Hits will continue during the honeymoon, but in shorter form, focusing on essential news.Interested in Financial Planning?Truicity Wealth ManagementResources:Book a Free 30-minute points & miles consultationStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre Coke: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGoTravelsMentioned in this episode:Check out this month's sponsor and support our showJoin the loyalty program for renters at joinbilt.com/journeyhttps://joinbilt.com/journey

In this episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, DeAndre Coke sits down with points-and-miles legend Greg Davis Keene (Greg the Frequent Miler) for an inspiring conversation about his evolution from tech professional to one of the most respected voices in the award travel world. Greg reflects on the early travel moments that ignited his passion, the accidental beginnings of the Frequent Miler blog, and the turning points that transformed a hobby into a full-time career.The episode dives deep into Greg’s philosophy on trust, transparency, and evaluating deals with both intuition and data. He recounts some of his most memorable redemptions — including an extraordinary week on Richard Branson’s Necker Island, booked for 1.2 million Virgin Atlantic points — and shares what it felt like to be greeted by Branson himself upon arrival.Greg also offers practical advice for newcomers, emphasizing the power of transferable currencies, learning from inevitable mistakes, and staying curious as the loyalty landscape evolves. This episode blends wisdom, storytelling, and strategy — a masterclass from one of the best in the game.Key Highlights:Greg’s beginnings: A spontaneous trip to Australia sparked his lifelong love of travel and his curiosity about maximizing rewards.Discovering elite status: A work trip that included surprising perks changed everything and led Greg deeper into points and miles.Starting Frequent Miler: What began as a simple resource for friends became one of the industry’s most trusted blogs.Authenticity first: Greg prioritizes consumer value over affiliate incentives — the foundation of his community’s trust.Evaluating opportunities: His approach blends intuition with analysis to identify real-world value.Memorable redemption: Greg booked a whole week on Richard Branson’s Necker Island for 1.2 million Virgin Atlantic points.Once-in-a-lifetime arrival: The Necker Island team greeted them with champagne on a speedboat, followed by Richard Branson welcoming them personally.Learning from mistakes: Missteps are part of the journey; each provides insight into better strategies.Advice for beginners: Focus on transferable points, start small, and take action even if you don’t feel entirely ready.Resources:Book a Free 30 minute points & miles consultationStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook GroupInterested in Financial Planning?Truicity Wealth ManagementSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre & Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.TravelsConnect with Greg - The Frequent Miler: Website: https://frequentmiler.com/Kiva Loans: www.frequentmiler.com/kivaPodcast: Frequent Miler on the Air PodcastInstagram: frequent_milerFacebook Group: Frequent Miler InsidersMentioned in this episode:Check out this month's sponsor and support our showJoin the loyalty program for renters at joinbilt.com/journeyhttps://joinbilt.com/journey

In this special bonus episode, DeAndre celebrates the BoldlyGo podcast’s landmark 100-episode milestone by announcing the winners of the grand giveaway and sharing behind-the-scenes statistics about the show’s growth. He highlights the generosity of sponsors Greenwood Vacations and Husqvarna, congratulates all prize winners — including Hyatt award recipients — and reflects on what he has learned from running the giveaway.DeAndre also opens up about the podcast's evolution from its early days in 2023 to becoming a globally ranked travel show with a thriving community, thousands of monthly listeners, and representation across more than a dozen countries. He shares insights into listener demographics, personal reflections on building the BoldlyGo brand, and a vision for the next phase: deeper community involvement, Q&A-driven interviews with major travel brands, and more storytelling from travelers who have reshaped how they explore the world.The episode closes with a call for listener reviews, gratitude for the growing community, and excitement for the upcoming honeymoon.Key takeaways:The giveaway is complete: Grand prizes from Greenwood Vacations and Husqvarna have been awarded, along with Hyatt upgrades and certificates from DeAndre’s personal account.The show continues to grow: Boldly Go now averages ~5,000 unique monthly listeners across more than a dozen countries.Global charting: The podcast has ranked in the Top 100 Places & Travel category in countries including Canada, Thailand, Switzerland, Turkey, Jamaica, Bahrain, and the U.S.A predominantly female audience: Listener demographics skew 55–80% female, mirroring DeAndre’s financial planning practice.Community is the engine: The WhatsApp group remains one of the most active and supportive spaces for travelers and points enthusiasts.More than 180 episodes produced: Including Quick Hits and YouTube bonus drops.Resources:Book a Free 30 minute points & miles consultationStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook GroupInterested in Financial Planning?Truicity Wealth ManagementSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre & Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.TravelsMentioned in this episode:Check out this month's sponsor and support our showJoin the loyalty program for renters at joinbilt.com/journeyhttps://joinbilt.com/journey

This week, the conversation dives into Chase's new pre-approval tool that can help applicants bypass the notorious 5/24 rule. A thrilling hotel promotion from Vancouver offers enticing gift cards for travelers. Capital One also joins the party with remarkable targeted offers, featuring generous bonus miles with Hotels.com and British Airways. Additionally, December brings a 5x earning opportunity at PayPal for Chase Freedom cardholders. Plus, there are updates on Zil Money's stability, and insights into savvy payroll strategies and personal goals for upcoming trips.

In this episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, Taryn and DeAndre sit down with their destination wedding planner, Mario M Lopez, the expert who brought their destination wedding vision to life. Together, they unpack the whole behind-the-scenes process of planning a destination wedding—everything from early vision-setting to navigating room block contracts, coordinating guest travel, and choosing trusted vendors.Mario sheds light on the most common pitfalls couples face and explains how a planner helps simplify complicated logistics at international venues. Taryn and DeAndre share firsthand experiences from their Casa de Campo wedding, highlighting what worked, what surprised them, and the decisions that made the biggest difference.This episode offers a candid roadmap for couples dreaming of a wedding abroad—and a deep look at what it takes to create a seamless celebration that feels effortless for both the couple and their guests.Key Highlights:Start with clarity: Defining your wedding vision early helps guide every decision.Room blocks matter: Understanding room block contracts prevents financial surprises.Planners make magic: A destination wedding planner simplifies complex logistics.Guest travel first: Coordinating travel early improves the guest experience.Trusted vendors win: Working with experienced vendors reduces risks and elevates quality.Budgeting upfront: Mapping out your budget helps keep the planning process smooth.Communication counts: Regular planner communication prevents avoidable mistakes.Visit before booking: Site visits reveal details you can’t see in photos.Think like a guest: Small touches and thoughtful planning enhance guest comfort.Peace of mind: A skilled planner allows you to stay present and enjoy the experience.Resources:Book a Free 30 minute points & miles consultationStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook GroupInterested in Financial Planning?Truicity Wealth ManagementSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre & Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.TravelsConnect with Mario & Destination Weddings Expert: Instagram: Mario LopezInstagram: Destination Weddings ExpertWebsite: destinationweddingsexpert.comMentioned in this episode:Check out this month's sponsor and support our showJoin the loyalty program for renters at joinbilt.com/journeyhttps://joinbilt.com/journey

In this week’s Quick Hits, DeAndre Coke brings a packed update of travel and points news, holiday promotions, and crucial year-end reminders for cardholders and travelers.He kicks off with an update on the growing WhatsApp community, introducing a new Business Points Hub for entrepreneurs to exchange insights on the best credit cards for advertising, expenses, and travel. DeAndre also reminds listeners that entries for the 100th Episode Giveaway close at midnight on December 1st. From there, he dives into key industry news — including Chase’s new pop-up restrictions for Ink Business cards, a massive 175K Chase Sapphire Reserve preapproval offer, and Rove’s Black Friday 4–5x promotion at giftcards.com. DeAndre also covers Hilton, IHG, and Kimpton holiday promos, Built’s 100% Avios transfer bonus, and Preferred Hotels’ 35K-point deal.He wraps up with a look at Thrifty Traveler Premium’s Black Friday discount and CardPointers’ 50% off lifetime offer, both invaluable for travelers looking to save money, earn rewards, and optimize card benefits heading into the new year.Key takeaways: New community chat: Business Points Hub launches for entrepreneurs in the WhatsApp group.Holiday shopping tip: Use portals like Rakuten, Capital One, and American Airlines for bonus points.Year-end credits: Use Amex Platinum, Chase Sapphire Reserve, and other expiring benefits before December 31.Chase updates: New pop-up jail introduced for Ink cards; 175K preapproval offer on Sapphire Reserve.Rove rewards: 4–5x points at giftcards.com during Black Friday weekend.Built Rent Day: 100% Avios transfer bonus on December 1 for elite members.Hotel promos: Preferred Hotels 35K-point bonus, Kimpton’s “Life of a Kimpton Guest” phrase for perks.Black Friday steals: Thrifty Traveler and CardPointers launch major annual discounts.Click here to enter the 100th episode giveaway or visit www.boldlygo.world/giveawayInterested in Financial Planning?Truicity Wealth ManagementResources:Our RoveMiles referral linkMaximizing Your Rewards: How to Use Shopping Portals to Boost Your Points & MilesBook a Free 30-minute points & miles consultationStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre Coke: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGoTravelsMentioned in this episode:Check out this month's sponsor and support our showJoin the loyalty program for renters at joinbilt.com/journeyhttps://joinbilt.com/journey

In this episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, DeAndre Coke sits down with Nick Serati, co-founder of Thrifty Traveler, to unpack how the Amex Platinum Card has evolved — and what that means for travelers today. Once a symbol of luxury travel, the Platinum card has shifted toward a membership and lifestyle experience, packed with perks that go far beyond the airport.DeAndre and Nick explore how this transformation compares to other premium travel cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve and Capital One Venture X, and how card issuers are adapting to changing consumer behavior. The conversation highlights strategies for maximizing benefits, avoiding wasted credits, and understanding your personal travel habits to extract real value.Nick also introduces a new Thrifty Traveler tool that helps users track and manage credit card perks, ensuring that every subscription, statement credit, and lounge access counts. It’s an insightful discussion for anyone looking to navigate the complex world of premium travel cards in 2025.Key Highlights:Amex Platinum’s evolution: From travel card to lifestyle membership.Changing priorities: Card benefits now cater to daily life, not just travel.Consumer insight: Personal travel habits determine a card’s real value.Card comparisons: How Platinum stacks up against Sapphire Reserve and Venture X.Maximization strategy: Practical ways to use every benefit before it expires.Behavior shift: Why lifestyle perks are shaping the next generation of premium cards.Transparency trend: How clearer value tracking improves cardholder decisions.New Thrifty Traveler tool: Streamlines benefit management and redemption reminders.Card fatigue: Why more options aren’t always better without strategy.Future outlook: Premium credit cards as ecosystems, not just rewards programs.Click here to enter the 100th episode giveaway or visit www.boldlygo.world/giveawayResources:Free Card-Tracking Tool by Thrifty TravelerBook a Free 30 minute points & miles consultationStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook GroupInterested in Financial Planning?Truicity Wealth ManagementSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre & Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.TravelsConnect with Nick Serati: Instagram: Nick SeratiThrifty Traveler Podcast

In this YouTube Bonus episode, DeAndre Coke takes listeners inside one of the most remarkable airport lounges in the world — the Punta Cana Priority Pass Lounge featuring an outdoor pool overlooking the runway. Recorded after DeAndre and Taryn’s Dominican Republic wedding, this review blends relaxation, practicality, and travel insight, offering a perfect post-trip sendoff.From food quality and drink options to showers, kids’ areas, and smart timing tips, DeAndre covers everything you need to know before visiting. He explains how to access the lounge for free using cards like the Amex Platinum or Chase Sapphire Reserve, why it recently earned Priority Pass Lounge of the Year, and what to pack if you plan to swim before your flight.This episode is a mix of storytelling and strategy — showing how to maximize premium travel perks and enjoy the Caribbean’s best lounge experience, all without spending a dime.Key Highlights:Unreal lounge feature: Outdoor pool with runway views at Punta Cana Airport.Access made easy: Free with Amex Platinum, Chase Sapphire Reserve, or Venture X Priority Pass.Lounge of the Year: Recently crowned top global Priority Pass destination.Premium amenities: Full buffet, open bar, showers, kids’ area, and modern design.Timing tips: No boarding announcements — use your app to avoid missing flights.Smart prep: Bring flip-flops, sunscreen, and plan 45 minutes before boarding to wrap up.Food & drink review: Quality Dominican staples, fresh dishes, and generous bar service.Family-friendly design: Kids’ zone with slides and a glass sound barrier for a quieter space.Traveler insight: Pool access, towel deposit with passport, and locker usage details.ROI on travel perks: Lounge access value easily exceeds $60 walk-in fee — free with top cards.Click here to enter the 100th episode giveaway or visit www.boldlygo.world/giveawayResources:Punta Cana Airport Pool Lounge Review: Pool Access, Food, Tips, & More (blog post)Is This The Best Airport Lounge in the Caribbean (YouTube video)Book a Free 30 minute points & miles consultationStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook GroupInterested in Financial Planning?Truicity Wealth ManagementSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre & Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.Travels

In this packed Quick Hits edition, DeAndre Coke delivers a high-impact update on the latest news in the points, miles, and travel world — plus a deep dive into the fast-changing landscape of earning credit card points through payroll with Zil Money.DeAndre starts by highlighting the new Capital One Venture X offers, including record-breaking bonuses of up to 400,000 miles on the business version. He then discusses Apple’s new digital passport integration for iPhone Wallet, offering a glimpse at the future of airport security and ID verification. Next, he explores Hilton’s 100% points purchase bonus, the official rollout of the new Diamond Reserve elite tier, and what these changes mean for frequent travelers. Finally, DeAndre breaks down the rollercoaster of updates surrounding Zil Money’s payroll-on-credit-card program — covering industry restrictions, temporary shutdowns, and the latest return of 3X earnings with the Chase Ink Business Preferred card.The episode wraps with key insights on adapting to platform changes, staying informed through the community chat, and using every opportunity to earn responsibly while maximizing rewards.Key takeaways: Capital One updates: Venture X offers hit record highs — up to 400K miles on the business card.Digital passport rollout: iPhone users can now store U.S. passports in Apple Wallet for TSA use.Hilton’s 100% bonus: Ideal time to buy points at 0.5¢ value; great for planned redemptions.New Hilton elite tier: Diamond Reserve officially launches Jan 1, 2026, requiring 80 nights and $18K spend.Zil Money chaos: Frequent system changes, but the platform now supports deeper mid-month usage.Community-driven insights: WhatsApp group collaboration continues to uncover real-time strategies.Click here to enter the 100th episode giveaway or visit www.boldlygo.world/giveawayInterested in Financial Planning?Truicity Wealth ManagementResources:Our RoveMiles referral linkBook a Free 30-minute points & miles consultationStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook GroupSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre Coke: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGoTravels

In this inspiring episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, host DeAndre Coke sits down with Katie Powers — a real estate agent and electric boat saleswoman — to talk about how she turned curiosity into confidence in the world of points and miles. Katie shares what first motivated her to explore travel rewards, how she set clear travel goals, and the steps she took to plan her first major redemption: an unforgettable trip to Europe.From learning the basics of loyalty programs to mastering card strategies and redemption values, Katie’s story showcases how consistency, curiosity, and community support can transform how anyone travels. The episode dives into financial planning, smart redemptions, and mindset shifts that help everyday travelers make the most of every point. Katie’s journey proves that with the right strategy, travel dreams are not only achievable — they’re within reach.Key Highlights:A beginner’s success story: How Katie went from travel curiosity to points and miles confidence.Goal-driven travel: Setting specific destinations and experiences as motivation.Smart planning: The role of budgeting and financial awareness in travel.Redemption wins: How she maximized points for a European trip.Community learning: The importance of podcasts and shared experiences.Taking action: Overcoming hesitation and starting the journey.Strategic spending: How everyday purchases turned into unforgettable travel rewards.Confidence building: Each redemption reinforces learning and motivation.Travel partnerships: How friends and family can multiply earning potential.Future outlook: Using knowledge gained to plan bigger, bolder adventures.Click here to enter the 100th episode giveaway or visit www.boldlygo.world/giveawayResources:Book a Free 30 minute points & miles consultationStart here to learn how to unlock nearly free travelSign up for our newsletter!BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook GroupInterested in Financial Planning?Truicity Wealth ManagementSome of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored linksCard Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)Travel FreelyPoint.meFlightConnections.comThrifty Traveler PremiumLTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course: Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!Connect with DeAndre & Taryn: Instagram: BoldlyGo.worldTikTok: BoldlyGo.world Website: BoldlyGo.worldYouTube: BoldlyGoWorldYouTube: BoldlyGo.TravelsConnect with Katie Powers: Instagram: Katie PowersFacebook: Katie Powers