Tag: Podcast

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Unlocking the Secrets of American Airlines Loyalty Rewards with @allieandlandon (Ep. 68)

Unlocking the Secrets of American Airlines Loyalty Rewards with @allieandlandon (Ep. 68)

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How can you earn airline status without even setting foot on a plane? 

In this episode of the Revolutionizing Your Journey podcast, host DeAndre Coke sits down with Allie Ruhde, aka @allieandlandon—an expert in travel rewards and American Airlines’ loyalty system—to unpack precisely that. Allie shares her journey into the world of points and miles, starting with earning Gold status at just three years old. Together, they dive deep into the mechanics of American Airlines’ Loyalty Points system, including strategies for earning status through shopping portals, dining programs, hotel bookings, and credit cards.

The conversation also explores the perks of status levels like Platinum, Platinum Pro, and Executive Platinum, lounge access options, and how to maximize your everyday spending to unlock travel rewards. Plus, Allie explains why Alaska Airlines stands out in the OneWorld alliance and shares her favorite redemption tips—like flying to Japan in business class for just 60,000 miles. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting your loyalty journey, this episode is packed with practical insights you can apply right away.

 Tune in to learn how to stack miles and Loyalty Points smarter—not harder.

 

Key Highlights:

  • Loyalty Points 101: Track status progress without needing to fly.
  • Shopping Portals: A powerful way to rack up Loyalty Points and miles.
  • Dining Rewards: Earn miles for everyday meals with linked credit cards.
  • Hotel Bookings: Book through AA Hotels to earn high Loyalty Points.
  • Status Tiers: Platinum and Executive Platinum bring valuable perks like upgrades and lounge access.
  • Alaska Airlines: Offers complimentary upgrades—unlike other OneWorld airlines.
  • Credit Cards: AA co-branded cards earn both Loyalty Points and miles.
  • Upgrade Strategy: Maximize same-day change policies and early boarding.
  • Pro Tips: Combine Simply Miles offers, use status challenges wisely, and don’t overlook dining and shopping portals.

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

Connect with Allie Ruhde:

 

 

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[YouTube Bonus] Bali Highlights: Best Things to Do, & Where to Stay | Full Guide to Villas, Food & Culture

[YouTube Bonus] Bali Highlights: Best Things to Do, & Where to Stay | Full Guide to Villas, Food & Culture

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Ready to experience Bali like never before? In this full travel guide, we take you through the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and how to enjoy luxury travel in Bali without breaking the bank. From stunning bamboo villas to secret swing spots and unforgettable local food — we cover it all.

We spent two weeks in Bali exploring Seminyak, Selat, Amed, and everything in between. 

Bonus: We flew to Bali in business class for under $400 per person (retail: $10,000+). Want to know how? Check out our podcast where we explain how we use points and miles to travel in luxury for less!

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

 

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Choice Hotels, Citi Points, and Irish Charm: A Unique Points and Miles Strategy by @thepointsflygirl (Ep. 67)

Choice Hotels, Citi Points, and Irish Charm: A Unique Points and Miles Strategy by @thepointsflygirl (Ep. 67)

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What happens when a criminal defense attorney turns her free time during the pandemic into learning about travel rewards strategies?

 In this episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, host DeAndre Coke sits down with Deanna Keane aka @pointsflygirl, an attorney by day and a points and miles expert by passion. Deanna shares her journey into the world of points and miles, including how she leverages Citi ThankYou points, Amex Business Platinum benefits, and underappreciated programs like Choice Hotels to craft unforgettable experiences. 

From her favorite redemptions in Ireland to unique travel moments in Iceland, this conversation is packed with actionable tips for travelers looking to maximize value without sacrificing quality.

Whether you’re curious about driving in Ireland, booking with kitchenettes in Iceland, or how to score the best deals from Vegas to Dublin, Deanna breaks it down in a relatable, strategic way. Tune in and discover how smart planning, flexible redemptions, and a little creativity can unlock global adventures.

 

Key Highlights:

  • Pandemic Pivot: Deanna began exploring points and miles during COVID and found a new passion.
  • Strategic Redemptions: Citi ThankYou Points offer substantial value for everyday spending and travel.
  • Hidden Gems: Choice Hotels often provide surprisingly good redemption opportunities.
  • Ireland Tips: The Dingle Peninsula and Blarney Castle are must-visit destinations.
  • Flight Deals: KLM and British Airways offer interesting routes and redemption options.
  • Best Time to Visit Ireland: May through September offers ideal weather for exploration.
  • Drive to Discover: Renting a car in Ireland enhances the experience beyond tourist hotspots.
  • Iceland Insights: Booking hotels with kitchenettes helps save money in a pricey destination.
  • Wine Hack: You can purchase wine at the airport in Iceland—perfect for budget travelers.

 

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

Connect with Deanna Keane:

 

 

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Revolutionizing Your Thailand Experience: Where to Go, What to Eat, and How to Save with Ben of @bensbigdeal (Ep. 66)

Revolutionizing Your Thailand Experience: Where to Go, What to Eat, and How to Save with Ben of @bensbigdeal (Ep. 66)

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Have you ever dreamed of visiting Thailand but don’t know where to start? In this episode of the Revolutionizing Your Journey podcast, host DeAndre Coke sits down with travel expert and points enthusiast Ben Komenkul to dive into everything you need to know about exploring Thailand. From must-visit destinations like Bangkok and Phuket to the hidden gems that travelers often miss, Ben shares insider tips on maximizing your experience.

The conversation delves into the role of points and miles in reducing travel costs, the best hotels to book for luxury at a fraction of the price, and why Thailand’s rich cultural heritage makes it one of the most fascinating travel destinations. Ben also highlights the deep influence of Buddhism and Hinduism on Thai culture, the country’s inclusive attitude toward gender identities, and how ethical tourism plays a crucial role in responsible travel.

Additionally, they explore Thailand’s world-renowned food scene, why Thai cuisine is all about balancing flavors, and the affordability of dining—even for families. Whether you’re planning a first-time visit, looking for the best time to travel, or simply curious about Thai traditions, this episode is packed with valuable insights and expert recommendations.

Tune in now to learn how to revolutionize your Thailand experience with smart travel strategies and points redemptions!

 

Key Highlights:

  • Cultural Diversity: Thailand is a country rich in history, shaped by immigration and cultural influences.
  • Must-Visit Destinations: Bangkok and Phuket are key stops for first-time travelers.
  • Affordable Luxury: Thailand offers incredible hotel stays, where five-star luxury can be surprisingly affordable.
  • Points and Miles Advantage: Using rewards can make traveling to Thailand more budget-friendly.
  • Easy Transportation: Local options like Grab provide an affordable way to explore cities.
  • Culinary Scene: Thai cuisine focuses on balancing flavors, making it one of the best food destinations in the world.
  • Ethical Travel: Responsible tourism is key when engaging with animal experiences.
  • Budget-Friendly Travel: Dining, massages, and shopping in Thailand are all accessible at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries.
  • Best Time to Visit: April’s Songkran Festival is a cultural highlight worth experiencing.
  • Island Hopping: Thailand’s coastal regions offer breathtaking experiences beyond Bangkok and Phuket.

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

Connect with Ben Komenkul:

 

 

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Rum Punch, Beach Vibes & Wedding Bells: Our Jamaica Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall Experience (Ep. 65)

Rum Punch, Beach Vibes & Wedding Bells: Our Jamaica Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall Experience (Ep. 65)

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What’s it like to experience a destination wedding in Jamaica while staying at a top-tier all-inclusive resort?

In this episode of the Revolutionizing Your Journey podcast, hosts Taryn and DeAndre take listeners through their trip to Jamaica, where they attended a beautiful wedding at Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall. They break down the booking process, how they used points to maximize their stay, and how Globalist status enhanced their resort experience.

From luxurious room upgrades to mouthwatering jerk chicken and vibrant entertainment, the episode highlights the resort’s atmosphere, amenities, and dining experiences. It also covers travel tips for visiting Jamaica, including why they recommend Club Mobay VIP entry for a stress-free airport experience. 

Whether you’re planning a trip to Jamaica, considering Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall, or just looking for destination wedding inspiration, this episode is packed with insider insights and firsthand experiences.

 

Key Highlights:

  • Destination Wedding in Jamaica: Attended a wedding at Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall.
  • Booking with Points: Used Hyatt points to book the stay.
  • DeAndre’s Connection to Jamaica: He is half-Jamaican, making this trip even more special.
  • Resort Experience: The adults-only Hyatt Zillara sits next to the family-friendly Hyatt Ziva.
  • Globalist Perks: Enjoyed suite upgrades and exclusive benefits.
  • Best Jerk Chicken Ever: The jerk chicken at the resort was a culinary highlight.
  • VIP Arrival at the Airport: Club Mobay VIP entry made the arrival process seamless.
  • Wedding Experience: The event was well-organized and stunning.
  • Resort Atmosphere: Energetic, great entertainment, and a lively vibe.

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

 

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Travel Smarter: How to Maximize Every Mile and Point with Julia Menez of @geobreezetravel (Ep. 64)

Travel Smarter: How to Maximize Every Mile and Point with Julia Menez of @geobreezetravel (Ep. 64)

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Have you ever wondered how to get the most value out of your points and miles?

In this episode of the Revolutionizing Your Journey podcast, host DeAndre Coke sits down with Julia Menez, founder of Geobreeze Travel, to break down the best strategies for maximizing travel redemptions. Julia shares her journey into the points and miles space and explains the importance of tracking travel metrics, including cents per point (CPP) and out-of-pocket cost ratios, to ensure you’re getting the best possible value.

They also discuss how to prioritize travel goals, when to opt for luxury versus budget-friendly options, and why transfer bonuses and airline partnerships can significantly enhance your travel experience. Julia highlights Hyatt’s strong redemption value, the best lounges to visit, and the benefits of tracking routes for premium travel. 

Whether you’re new to points and miles or looking to refine your strategy, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you optimize your redemptions, minimize expenses, and elevate your travel experiences.

 

Key Highlights:

  • Tracking Metrics: Decide if tracking cents per point (CPP) or other metrics aligns with your travel goals.
  • Fun Over Stress: Points and miles should enhance travel, not add pressure.
  • Value Over Cost: Travel isn’t just about spending less; it’s about maximizing experiences.
  • Minimizing Out-of-Pocket Costs: Keeping expenses low is crucial for budget travelers.
  • Hyatt’s No-Tax Redemptions: Standard room redemptions with Hyatt don’t include additional taxes.
  • Transfer Bonuses: Using strategic transfer bonuses can significantly boost redemption value.
  • Tracking Flight Routes: Helps with planning premium cabin redemptions and maximizing luxury.
  • Best Lounges: The Pier Lounge in Hong Kong is a must-visit for Oneworld Emerald members.
  • Underrated Travel Programs: Choice Hotels and other lesser-known programs can offer great redemptions.
  • Luxury on Short Flights: High-end experiences can still be affordable on shorter routes.

 

 

Resources:

 

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

 

Connect with Julia Menez:

 

 

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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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From Tulum’s Unique Vibes to Mexico City’s Food Tours: Our Mexican Holiday Journey (Ep. 60)

From Tulum’s Unique Vibes to Mexico City’s Food Tours: Our Mexican Holiday Journey (Ep. 60)

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Ever wondered what a two-week holiday adventure in Mexico looks like?

In this episode, DeAndre and Taryn share their journey from a week-long escape in Tulum—complete with stunning beaches, a vibrant local community, and unique Airbnb experiences—to exploring the rich culinary scene of Mexico City. They delve into travel tips on maximizing points for flights and accommodations, navigating the new Tulum airport, and embracing the local culture and dining customs of Mexico City. 

The conversation also covers their New Year’s Eve experience, which featured a mix of highs and lows—from a disappointing countdown to an unforgettable food tour, Michelin-star dining, and a luxurious stop at the Centurion Lounge. Whether you’re curious about securing affordable rides, making advanced reservations, or just looking for inspiration, DeAndre and Taryn’s insights will help you plan and enjoy your next adventure.

Listen now to dive into their travel stories and get inspired for your Mexican getaway!

Key Highlights:

  • Tulum Vibe: Tulum offers a vibrant community with great food and stunning beaches.
  • Airbnb Advantage: Booking a unique Airbnb in Tulum can earn you airline miles and enhance your travel experience.
  • New Airport Perks: The newly opened Tulum airport provides added convenience for travelers.
  • Culinary Capital: Mexico City boasts a rich culinary scene featuring family-owned eateries and Michelin-star dining.
  • Late Meal Culture: Mealtimes in Mexico City are notably later, a key cultural insight for planning your dining schedule.
  • Affordable Rides: Ubers in Mexico City are affordable, making navigating the bustling city streets easy.
  • Plan Ahead: To secure the best experiences, make reservations for popular restaurants and food tours in advance.
  • Unique Experiences: Tulum’s beach clubs offer a unique party atmosphere, while the Centurion Lounge delivers unexpected luxury.

Resources:

Connect with DeAndre Coke: 

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