Tag: Family Travel

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From Budget Traveler to Full-Time Content Creator: Using Points & Miles to Fund a Lifestyle of Travel with @themobilehomie! (Ep. 63)

From Budget Traveler to Full-Time Content Creator: Using Points & Miles to Fund a Lifestyle of Travel with @themobilehomie! (Ep. 63)

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Have you ever wondered how to transition from budget travel to a full-time travel lifestyle? 

In this episode of the Revolutionizing Your Journey podcast, host DeAndre Coke sits down with travel enthusiast Jordyn Verzera, co-founder of The Mobile Homie, to explore her inspiring journey from a frugal traveler to a full-time content creator. Jordyn explains how leveraging points and miles has been key to making travel both affordable and rewarding, while sharing practical strategies for planning trips and navigating the complex world of travel rewards. The conversation also includes memorable travel stories—including a humorous, cautionary tale about her experience with rabies vaccines—and offers crucial advice on maintaining travel insurance and balancing work with wanderlust.

Listen now to discover how to follow your dreams, master travel planning, and turn everyday adventures into a sustainable lifestyle.

 

Key Highlights:

  • Budget to Full-Time Transition: Jordyn’s journey shows that it’s possible to evolve from budget travel to a full-time travel lifestyle through smart use of points and miles.
  • Travel Rewards Strategy: Effective planning and strategy are essential to maximize the benefits of points and miles, significantly reducing travel costs.
  • Balancing Work and Travel: Treating travel like a business can help you sustain a full-time travel lifestyle without compromising your income.
  • Learn from Experience: Memorable travel mishaps, like the rabies vaccine incident, serve as important lessons in travel planning and safety.
  • Financial Safety Net: Having a solid financial plan and safety net is critical before making the leap to full-time travel.
  • Community and Resources: Utilizing travel communities and resources can simplify the complex world of points and miles, making travel more accessible for everyone.
  • Follow Your Dreams: Jordyn’s story underscores that with the right strategies and mindset, you can turn travel into a lifelong passion.

 

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

Connect with Jordyn & JT:

 

 

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Simplifying Points & Miles: A “Lazy” Approach to Travel Rewards with Genni of @travelingfranklins (Ep. 62)

Simplifying Points & Miles: A “Lazy” Approach to Travel Rewards with Genni of @travelingfranklins (Ep. 62)

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Ever wonder how you can simplify your travel rewards strategy and maximize points with minimal effort? 

In this episode, DeAndre sits down with Genni Franklin to demystify the world of points and miles. Genni, who transitioned from the hospitality industry into travel rewards, reveals her “lazy” approach—earning points with minimal effort while still maximizing value. She explains the importance of building confidence through that all-important first redemption, clarifies the differences between flexible and non-flexible points, and shares tailored strategies for families.

Genni also highlights her top credit card recommendations and offers practical tips for streamlining the redemption process, making travel both accessible and affordable. Ultimately, she encourages listeners to focus on their unique travel goals and adopt a flexible mindset to unlock incredible opportunities.

Tune in now to learn how to simplify your rewards strategy and start maximizing your travel potential!

 

Key Highlights:

  • Simplified Approach: Genni emphasizes a “lazy” strategy that minimizes effort while maximizing points and miles.
  • Confidence Through Redemption: Building confidence by making that first successful redemption is essential.
  • Flexible Points Advantage: Understanding the difference between flexible and non-flexible points can expand your travel options.
  • Family Strategies: Tailoring travel rewards strategies for families can significantly enhance travel experiences.
  • Credit Card Recommendations: Genni shares her favorite credit cards that help maximize travel rewards.
  • Smart Budgeting: Effective travel planning and budgeting are crucial for optimizing points and miles.
  • Personal Focus: Focus on your unique travel journey rather than comparing yourself to others.
  • Embrace Flexibility: Flexibility in travel planning can unlock incredible opportunities and better deals.
  • Continuous Learning: Ongoing education about points and miles is vital for long-term success.

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

Connect with Genni Franklin:

 

 

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From Practicing Medicine to Points Pro: Learn How Travel Rewards Fit into a Wealth-Building Strategy with Devon Gimbel (Ep. 61)

From Practicing Medicine to Points Pro: Learn How Travel Rewards Fit into a Wealth-Building Strategy with Devon Gimbel (Ep. 61)

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Have you ever considered how strategic use of points and miles can be a powerful tool for building wealth?

In this episode, host DeAndre interviews Devon Gimbel, a former physician who has successfully transitioned into a points and miles expert. Devon discusses her journey from medicine to mastering travel rewards and details her ambitious family trip to the Maldives, where she leveraged her expertise to secure a luxurious stay at the Park Hyatt Maldives. 

The conversation delves into practical strategies for maximizing travel rewards, balancing spending and saving, and utilizing everyday expenses to generate valuable points. Additionally, Devon emphasizes the importance of financial education and responsible planning—especially for individuals managing consumer debt—and explores scenarios where buying points can further enhance financial growth. 

Tune in to discover how you can transform your travel experiences into opportunities for financial advancement.

 

Key Highlights:

  • Career Transition: Devon successfully shifted from medicine to becoming a points and miles expert.
  • Family Travel Strategy: Planning an ambitious family trip to the Maldives required careful budgeting and mastery of travel rewards.
  • Luxury Experience: The exceptional service at the Park Hyatt Maldives underscores the value of premium travel experiences.
  • Wealth Building Through Travel: Points and miles can be leveraged as tools for financial growth and wealth building.
  • Balanced Spending: Striking a balance between spending and saving is essential for maximizing travel rewards.
  • Financial Education: Continuous learning about personal finance is critical, especially for managing consumer debt.
  • Smart Points Strategy: Buying points in specific scenarios can be beneficial when approached responsibly.
  • Customized Approach: Listeners are encouraged to develop their strategies to optimize travel rewards and achieve financial growth.

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

Connect with Devon Gimbel:

 

 

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Growing Up Alaskan: Alaska Airlines Tips, Points & Miles Strategies, and Epic Travels with @heralaskatravels (Ep. 59)

Growing Up Alaskan: Alaska Airlines Tips, Points & Miles Strategies, and Epic Travels with @heralaskatravels (Ep. 59)

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Ever wondered what it’s like growing up in the rugged landscapes of Alaska—and how that shapes a traveler’s mindset? 

In this episode, host DeAndre Coke talks to Betsey from Her Alaska Travels, a lifelong Alaskan who discovered the power of points and miles. Betsey reveals how Alaska Airlines plays a crucial role for Alaskans, highlighting game-changing updates like earning elite qualifying miles on award travel. She also delves into Hawaiian Airlines’ evolving relationship with Amex, shares tips for exploring Alaska via cruises or road trips, and emphasizes how stopovers can elevate your travel experiences. 

Whether you’re curious about the best time to visit Alaska, how to manage “phantom flights,” or simply want insider advice on maximizing miles and planning epic adventures, Betsey’s first-hand knowledge will inspire you to explore the Last Frontier—and beyond.

Key Highlights:

  • Alaskan Grit: Growing up in Alaska instills resilience and a drive to explore.
  • Early Travel Influence: Traveling young shapes a lifelong passion for discovery.
  • Alaska Airlines Loyalty: Residents rely on the airline for connectivity, and recent updates, like earning elite qualifying miles on award travel, offer new advantages.
  • Hawaiian Airlines Shifts: Upcoming changes with Hawaiian Airlines’ Amex partnership may impact point transfers.
  • Stopover Strategies: Utilizing stopovers in destinations like Fiji or Iceland can enhance international trips.
  • Cruise vs. Road Trip: Adventurous land travel often offers more flexibility than cruising Alaska’s coastlines.
  • Budget-Friendly Alaska: Outdoor activities and extended stays (around ten days) can help travelers fully experience the region without breaking the bank.
  • Points & Miles Tips: Understanding “phantom flights,” stopover rules, and loyalty program nuances can lead to better travel deals.

Resources:

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

Connect with Betsey: 

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Flying High with SkyMiles: Insider Strategies from Delta’s Biggest Fan @Janelleonajet (Ep. 57)

Flying High with SkyMiles: Insider Strategies from Delta’s Biggest Fan @Janelleonajet (Ep. 57)

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How do you blend a lifelong passion for flying with the fast-paced world of points and miles?

 In this episode, host DeAndre Coke sits down with travel influencer and Delta enthusiast Janelle Rupkalvis. Drawing on her upbringing in a family of private pilots, Janelle recounts how she transitioned from early flying experiences to mastering Delta SkyMiles strategies. She also discusses Delta’s newest innovations, which were unveiled for their 100-year anniversary, including partnerships with Uber and enhanced in-flight amenities.

Beyond tips for earning and redeeming miles, Janelle highlights valuable insights into handling travel disruptions—such as delayed baggage compensation in miles—and the importance of social media tagging for potential brand collaborations. From texting airlines for faster resolutions to leveraging regional compensation policies, Janelle demonstrates how travelers can stay calm, polite, and proactive in any situation.

Tune in to discover her aspirations for exploring luxury travel opportunities, group adventures, and more in the near future. 

 

Key Highlights:

  • Family Influence: Janelle’s early love for flying grew from her family of private pilots.
  • Points and Miles Advocacy: Her passion for travel rewards took off once she learned about the power of SkyMiles.
  • Delta’s 100-Year Anniversary: Exciting announcements include new partnerships with Uber and upgraded in-flight experiences.
  • Brand Tagging: Engaging with brands on social media can open doors to influencer partnerships.
  • Delayed Baggage Compensation: Delta offers miles as reimbursement, a lesser-known but helpful policy.
  • SkyMiles Success: Janelle amassed over 204,000 SkyMiles in one year by combining multiple earning strategies.
  • Texting Airlines: A faster way to resolve issues rather than waiting in line or on hold.
  • Regional Policies: Knowledge of local compensation rules can significantly enhance your travel benefits.
  • Luxury Travel Goals: Janelle looks forward to expanding her high-end travel experiences and group trips.

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

Connect with Janelle Rupkalvis: 

 

 

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Jay Yoder: The Teacher Who Teaches Life Through Travel (Ep. 56)

Jay Yoder: The Teacher Who Teaches Life Through Travel (Ep. 56)

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What happens when you combine education, travel, and comedy? 

In this episode of the Revolutionizing Your Journey podcast, host DeAndre Coke sits down with Jay Yoder, a dynamic teacher and comedian who is transforming the classroom experience. You may know Jay as the mastermind behind the viral video on our BoldlyGo Instagram profile, which garnered over 6.6 million views, 400,000 likes, and nearly 2,000 comments.

Jay shares how he empowers his students by assigning them to plan trips to Spanish-speaking countries, a project that blends cultural immersion, budgeting, and real-world problem-solving. This hands-on approach helps students acquire critical skills while fostering creativity and teamwork. Jay also opens up about his journey into comedy during the pandemic, his belief in experiential learning, and the unique travel adventures he has shared with his family.

From teaching financial literacy through trip planning to uncovering budget travel gems, Jay provides valuable insights into the life-changing potential of travel education. Whether it’s about empowering kids, connecting with culture, or creating unforgettable memories, Jay’s approach offers inspiration for anyone passionate about travel and personal growth.

Tune in to hear Jay’s inspiring story and discover how travel can revolutionize education and life alike.

 

Key Highlights:

  • Travel-Infused Education: Jay Yoder integrates travel, education, and humor to inspire students.
  • Hands-On Learning: Experiential projects help students acquire real-world skills.
  • Cultural Immersion: Language learning thrives with real-life cultural experiences.
  • Travel Budgeting: Students learn financial literacy by managing trip budgets.
  • Comedy as Connection: Jay embraced comedy during the pandemic to engage others.
  • Empowering Students: Teaching travel planning helps kids develop independence.
  • Teamwork and Creativity: Travel projects encourage collaboration and innovation.
  • Technology in Planning: Digital tools enhance trip organization and logistics.
  • Family Adventures: Traveling with family creates lasting bonds and lessons.

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

Connect with Jay Yoder: 

 

 

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Travel Freely App Founder Zac Hood on Turning Travel Goals into Reality with Points & Miles (Ep. 51)

Travel Freely App Founder Zac Hood on Turning Travel Goals into Reality with Points & Miles (Ep. 51)

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Are you ready to revolutionize the way you manage your travel rewards? 

In this episode of the Revolutionizing Your Journey podcast, host DeAndre Coke interviews Zac Hood, the visionary behind the Travel Freely app. They explore Zac’s personal journey into the world of points and miles, the inspiration that led to the app’s creation, and its mission to simplify travel rewards for users of all levels. Zac shares his family’s inspiring nine-month adventure across Australia and New Zealand, made possible by savvy use of points and miles. They also discuss the growing Travel Freely community, real-life success stories, and exciting upcoming app features. 

This episode is packed with tips for beginners and seasoned travelers alike, emphasizing the importance of starting simple, staying organized, and maintaining financial responsibility.

 

Key Highlights:

  • Travel Freely App: A user-friendly tool to simplify points and miles tracking.
  • App Built for All: Caters to both beginners and seasoned points enthusiasts.
  • Credit Card Management: Tracks bonuses, annual fees, and deadlines.
  • Free Resource: Funded by affiliate links, the app is completely free to use, Available on both web and mobile.
  • Personalized Insights: App recommends strategies based on user credit profiles.
  • Community Growth: Travel Freely has inspired many with real-life success stories.
  • Family Adventures: Zac’s nine-month journey to Australia, New Zealand and Japan highlights the power of points.
  • Future Updates: The app continues to evolve with new features.
  • And much more!

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

Connect with Zac Hood:

 

 

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Travel Smarter, Not Harder: Amena Bakali’s Points and Miles Guide for Families (Ep.50)

Travel Smarter, Not Harder: Amena Bakali’s Points and Miles Guide for Families (Ep.50)

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Ever wondered how you can turn everyday spending into unforgettable family adventures? 

In this episode of the Revolutionizing Your Journey podcast, host DeAndre Coke welcomes travel educator Amena Bakali to share her expertise in leveraging points and miles for family travel. Amena reveals how strategic spending, financial discipline, and teamwork have allowed her to explore the world with her family. She offers practical tips for traveling with kids, maximizing credit card rewards, and making travel more affordable through loyalty programs. The discussion also explores Amena’s spiritual pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia, her experiences in Muslim countries, and her favorite family-friendly destinations, including Tokyo and Europe.

Packed with insights on budget travel, cultural exploration, and the mindset needed to achieve travel goals, this episode is a must-listen for families eager to travel more while spending less. Tune in to learn how to embark on meaningful journeys without breaking the bank.

 

Key Highlights:

  • Transforming Everyday Spending: Amena uses strategic credit card spending to accumulate points for family trips.
  • Family-Friendly Travel Strategies: Teamwork and starting young make traveling with kids easier.
  • The Power of Loyalty Programs: Amena leverages loyalty to hotel and airline brands for consistent rewards.
  • Financial Discipline is Key: Managing multiple credit cards requires planning and accountability.
  • Exploring Muslim Countries: Safe, enriching experiences await families in destinations with deep cultural significance.
  • Favorite Destinations: Tokyo and Europe stand out for their unique family travel experiences.
  • Mindset Shift for Success: Blocking negativity and focusing on your goals makes travel planning more achievable.
  • Planning Together: Aligning travel goals with your partner helps balance dreams and reality.
  • Budget-Friendly Luxury: Strategic use of points enables families to enjoy luxury without overspending.
  • And much more!

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

Connect with Amena Bakali:

 

 

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How to Maximize Your Points & Miles Using Data with Kevin Zanes of @thepointsanalyst (Ep. 39)

How to Maximize Your Points & Miles Using Data with Kevin Zanes of @thepointsanalyst (Ep. 39)

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Traveling to over 70 countries while keeping costs low may sound impossible, but for Kevin Zanes, it’s a reality—thanks to his mastery of points and miles. As a former data analyst, Kevin has turned his expertise in big data into a winning strategy that allows his family to travel in luxury for a fraction of the usual cost.

Host DeAndre Coke sits down with Kevin to explore his proven methods for maximizing points, from choosing the best credit cards—like why he favors the Amex Gold for families—to earning 2-2.5 million points annually through referrals, shopping portals, and more. He also explores the latest trends in the points and miles world, including devaluations and the rise of “super frequent flyer programs.”

If you’re ready to discover how to book luxury hotels, take advantage of family-friendly perks like child discounts, and save big on long-haul flights, Kevin’s insights are invaluable. This episode is packed with actionable tips to help families elevate their travel experiences while staying within budget.

Key Highlights:

  • Data-Driven Travel: Kevin explains how to leverage data analytics to maximize points and travel in style
  • Best Credit Cards: Why Amex Gold is the ideal card for family-friendly rewards
  • Family Travel Hacks: Tips on using points for discounted flights and luxury hotels
  • Positioning Flights: How flying out of Canadian airports can save you money on international travel
  • Industry Trends: Insights on the future of points, including devaluations and emerging frequent flyer programs
  • And much more!

 

Resources:

Hotel Recommendations:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

Connect with Kevin Zanes:

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Three Kids and Countless Adventures: How to Navigate Family Travel with Ease with Elise of @3kidstravel (Ep. 37)

Three Kids and Countless Adventures: How to Navigate Family Travel with Ease with Elise of @3kidstravel (Ep. 37)

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Picture navigating Tokyo’s bustling streets or Normandy’s serene landscapes, all with three young children in tow. While this might seem overwhelming to many, it’s the everyday reality that Elise of “3 Kids Travel” not only embraces but thrives in. In this episode, host DeAndre Coke sits down with Elise to explore how she and her husband have transformed their passion for travel into a way of life, adventuring across the globe with their kids.

Elise shares the story of how they started traveling with their children from infancy, gradually expanding their journeys from local road trips to international destinations like Japan, China, and Turkey. Through meticulous planning and savvy travel strategies, Elise demonstrates how family travel can be both manageable and incredibly rewarding.

Join us to uncover Elise’s expert tips, from booking flights before accommodations to packing light with just carry-ons. You’ll also hear about their favorite destinations and the exciting trips they have planned for the future.

Key Highlights:

  • Starting Young: Discover how Elise and her husband began their kids’ travel journeys as early as four weeks old, setting the stage for a lifetime of adventure
  • Overcoming Challenges: Learn how they navigated the anxieties and logistical hurdles of traveling with infants and toddlers, turning initial challenges into smooth experiences
  • Cultural Immersion: Get Elise’s insights on choosing accommodations that immerse your family in local culture, from Parisian neighborhoods to an Irish farmhouse
  • Travel Planning Tips: Explore why booking flights first can offer better deals and flexibility, and how to select family-friendly accommodations
  • Packing Light: Find out which essentials make family travel easier, from durable carry-ons to portable chargers
  • And much more!

 

Plus, discover Elise’s favorite destinations and the upcoming adventures her family is most excited about.

 

Resources:

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

Connect with Elise Caffee:

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