Tag: Financial Discipline
Quick Hits: Chase Sapphire Refresh Rumors, a New Caribbean Resort to Book With Points, and More!

Quick Hits: Chase Sapphire Refresh Rumors, a New Caribbean Resort to Book With Points, and More!

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In this Quick Hits episode, DeAndre Coke dives into the latest updates from the world of travel rewards and points strategies. He covers listener feedback, highlights a new all-inclusive Hyatt resort in Saint Lucia, unpacks the devaluation of Iberia Avios, shares tips for upgrading to Emirates First Class without elite status, and revisits the ZilMoney payroll-on-card saga. He also breaks down rumors about significant changes to the Chase Sapphire Reserve and answers a listener’s question about building credit as a college student.

This episode provides timely guidance for maximizing redemption value amid changing reward structures and transfer ratios. DeAndre also shares personal insights on why booking all-inclusive stays with points can lead to outsized value—and how small booking details like guest count can make a big difference. If you’re managing your family’s rewards strategy or just starting to build credit, you’ll find plenty of smart, actionable insights packed into this week’s updates.

 

Key takeaways: 

  • Chase IHG Certs Clarified: 60K certs cannot be topped off—unlike the 40K ones.
  • New Hyatt All-Inclusive: Secrets Saint Lucia Resort is now bookable with points.
  • Iberia Avios Devaluation: East Coast to Madrid redemptions increase by 19%.
  • Emirates Upgrade Workaround: Non-elites can still upgrade at check-in using miles.
  • ZilMoney Update: Payroll on credit card may return by end of June.
  • Sapphire Reserve Rumors: $795 fee and new travel and dining benefits may be on the way.
  • Building Student Credit: Capital One SavorOne Student is a solid early credit card option.
  • Authorized Users & Credit History: Adding children to fee-free cards can help build long-term credit.

 

Resources:

 

Interested in Financial Planning?

 

Some of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:

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Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

 

 

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Unpacking The One App that Will Make Earning Points & Saving Money Substantially Easier: CardPointers Explained (Ep. 78)

Unpacking The One App that Will Make Earning Points & Saving Money Substantially Easier: CardPointers Explained (Ep. 78)

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In this episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, DeAndre Coke sits down with Emmanuel, the founder of CardPointers—a game-changing app designed to help travelers optimize their credit card usage and maximize points and miles. Emmanuel shares how a personal challenge managing multiple cards led him to build CardPointers, and how the app has evolved into a powerful tool for both beginners and seasoned travel hackers.

The conversation highlights standout features, including automated offer tracking, an Autopilot mode that recommends the best card to use based on your location, and an Augmented Reality interface that displays savings opportunities at nearby stores. Emmanuel also breaks down the differences between the free and pro versions, upcoming features, and how CardPointers protects user privacy without requiring sensitive logins.

This episode delivers practical insights, pro tips, and plenty of inspiration for smarter travel.

 

Want to sign up for CardPointers? Use our link here

 

Key Highlights:

  • CardPointers origin: Born from Emmanuel’s personal need to simplify credit card tracking.
  • Smart card recommendations: The App shows which card to use for every purchase.
  • Built-in offers: Automatically integrates bank deals to boost savings.
  • Autopilot & AR mode: Recommend cards based on real-time location and store data.
  • No sensitive data required: Maintains complete user privacy and security.
  • Free vs Pro: Free version is great for beginners; Pro unlocks advanced tools.
  • Future features: Includes shopping portal integration and on-device analytics.
  • Maximized redemptions: Helps unlock luxury travel with points and miles.
  • Flexible strategy: Users are encouraged to take it slow and build over time.
  • Track Chase 5/24: Keeps tabs on account limits to help with time applications.

 

Resources:

 

Interested in Financial Planning?

 

Some of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

Connect with CardPointers:

 

 

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The Psychology of Points: Mastering Behavior, Not Bonuses (Ep. 77)

The Psychology of Points: Mastering Behavior, Not Bonuses (Ep. 77)

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This episode isn’t about earning your next big bonus or finding the hottest travel deal—it’s about the mindset that makes all of it sustainable. 

DeAndre Coke shares a powerful solo session unpacking how mastering points and miles is less about tactics and more about behavior. Drawing insights from the book “The Psychology of Money” and over a decade of advising experience, he explains why understanding your habits, defining your version of “enough,” embracing optionality, and building identity-driven financial discipline can unlock not just better travel, but a better life. 

If you’re ready to stop chasing and start strategizing, this one’s for you.

 

Key Highlights:

  • Behavior > Bonuses: Winning with points is about patience and discipline, not just card hacks.
  • Define “Enough”: Set intentional goals to avoid endlessly chasing bigger redemptions.
  • Optionality = Power: Having points gives you choices—and that’s where absolute travel freedom begins.
  • Hedonic Adaptation: The more you redeem, the more you adapt—learn to appreciate and recalibrate.
  • Delayed Gratification: Waiting for the proper redemption often leads to the most significant wins.
  • Diversification Matters: Don’t hoard points in one program; spread risk and gain flexibility.
  • Self-Sabotage is Real: Overspending for bonuses or never redeeming points are behavioral pitfalls.
  • Identity Drives Action: Seeing yourself as a savvy strategist helps you naturally make better decisions.
  • Quiet Accumulation Pays: Consistent, smart habits lead to long-term travel wealth.
  • Points as Practice: This is more than travel—it’s training for financial self-mastery.

 

Resources:

 

Interested in Financial Planning?

 

Some of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

 

 

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Earn Big on Payroll: Transform Employee Salaries into Points & Miles (Ep. 53)

Earn Big on Payroll: Transform Employee Salaries into Points & Miles (Ep. 53)

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Can running your business payroll through credit cards unlock a treasure trove of travel rewards? 

In this special episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, DeAndre Coke breaks down the innovative strategy of using payroll to earn credit card points and miles. Learn how to leverage services like ZilBank, understand the fees involved, and discover how cards like Chase Business Preferred and Amex Platinum can be game-changers for your business. DeAndre also shares practical tips for maximizing point redemption and offers cautionary advice to avoid common mistakes.

Tune in to explore how this strategy could transform your approach to travel rewards!

 

Key Highlights:

  • Payroll Strategy: Earn points and miles by running payroll through credit cards.
  • Zill Bank Option: A service enabling payroll by credit card.
  • Fee Value: Learn how paying fees can still result in a net gain in rewards.
  • Redemption Insight: Maximize points by understanding redemption value.
  • Tax Considerations: Always consult a tax advisor regarding payroll fees.
  • Avoid Pitfalls: Never create fake employees or try to game the system to inflate rewards.
  • Business Focus: A strategy best suited for serious business owners.
  • And much more!

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

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Points & Miles Authorized User Deep Dive and How to Maximize Your PTO with Jackie Swayze (Ep. 52)

Points & Miles Authorized User Deep Dive and How to Maximize Your PTO with Jackie Swayze (Ep. 52)

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What if you could turn limited vacation days into unforgettable travel experiences? 

In this episode of the Revolutionizing Your Journey podcast, host DeAndre Coke sits down with Jackie Swayze, the creator of the blog Maximizing My PTO. Jackie shares how she and her husband have mastered the art of traveling extensively while maintaining full-time jobs.

They explore strategies like the “player one, player two” approach for couples, the value of flexibility in travel planning, and the secrets to navigating fixed dates and peak travel seasons. Jackie also discusses creative techniques such as using positioning flights and award alerts to secure the best travel deals, all while recounting her adventures to bucket-list destinations like Antarctica and Easter Island.

Tune in to hear Jackie’s expert insights, actionable tips, and inspiring travel stories that will empower you to make the most of your own travel opportunities.

 

 

Key Highlights:

  • Points and Miles Expertise: Jackie shares how to optimize rewards for travel success.
  • Player One, Player Two: An effective strategy for couples maximizing travel benefits.
  • Flexibility in Travel: Unlock better deals by keeping travel dates open.
  • Authorized Users: Build credit and earn more rewards with strategic card use.
  • Creative Travel Strategies: Positioning flights and award alerts for better planning.
  • Peak Travel Planning: How to manage holidays and busy travel times effectively.
  • Memorable Adventures: Stories from Jackie’s travels to Antarctica and Easter Island.
  • Maximizing PTO: Strategic planning for making the most of vacation days.
  • And much more!

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

Connect with Jackie Swayze:

 

 

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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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Buying Points for Luxury on a Budget: Tips and Tricks with @German.Samvel (Ep. 47)

Buying Points for Luxury on a Budget: Tips and Tricks with @German.Samvel (Ep. 47)

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Ever wondered how to unlock luxury travel experiences without the luxury price tag?

Imagine staying at top-tier hotels or exploring dream destinations, all while staying within your budget. In this episode of the Revolutionizing Your Journey podcast, host DeAndre Coke sits down with points and miles expert German Samvel, who shares his story of transforming everyday spending into unforgettable getaways. 

German reveals how he leverages Hilton’s rewards system, including the invaluable Fifth Night Free benefit, and explains why strategically buying points during promotions can often beat earning them through traditional spending. He also shares highlights from his recent trip to Hawaii, offering practical advice on using points for high-end stays, along with must-know tips for exploring scenic Kauai.

Tune in to uncover how you, too, can turn points into your ticket to the world of luxury travel.

 

Key Highlights:

  • E-commerce Origins: German’s entry into points and miles began through his e-commerce business, providing early insights into points-earning strategies.
  • Power of Sign-up Bonuses: Sign-up bonuses play a significant role in German’s points strategy, allowing rapid accumulation of points for luxury travel.
  • Hilton’s Points System: Hilton’s rewards program offers valuable deals on luxury properties, particularly with benefits like the Fifth Night Free.
  • Maximizing Reward Nights: German emphasizes the importance of booking standard reward nights to get the best value out of points.
  • Strategic Points Buying: German highlights that buying points, especially during Hilton’s promotions, can sometimes yield better value than earning them through regular spending.
  • Financial Responsibility: Using credit cards wisely is essential in the points and miles hobby to avoid debt and maintain financial health.
  • Realistic Luxury: While luxury hotels are rewarding, German notes that they don’t always meet expectations, and having realistic expectations can enhance travel enjoyment.
  • Hawaii Recommendations: German’s recent trip to Kauai offered beautiful landscapes, although it requires different travel planning compared to more explored areas like Maui.
  • And much more!

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

Connect with German Samvel:

 

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