Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast

Justin Vacula welcomes back Carissa Rawson from Rove Miles to break down Rove’s newest transfer partner, Miles & More, and the sweet spots you should know. We cover smart redemptions, credit credit card strategy, stacking tips, and what’s new in points and miles. Save money on travel and travel better with Rove and credit card miles and points! Chapters 00:00 Intro to Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast 00:44 Guest intro: Carissa Rawson, Rove Miles 02:31 New transfer partner: Miles & More 05:14 Why Miles & More matters and standout uses 11:26 Upcoming events and conferences to watch 14:55 Support, sponsors 16:13 Booking nights at Rio in Las Vegas 16:40 Rove + Rio benefits and on-property plays 17:52 Maximizing points and elite night credits 18:43 Rove updates and roadmap 21:01 Personal travel wins 22:01 Timely promos and limited offers 23:21 Fresh ideas and future prospects 25:34 Closing thoughts and next trips 28:38 Where to find more and support the show — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-p1275539/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 Podbean → https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/vvdph-a3425/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast 👉 Pocket Casts → https://pocketcasts.com/podcasts/1a722d50-2d0a-0138-96d6-0acc26574db2?_prerender=true 👉 Podchaser → https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-1153719 👉 Podcast Addict → https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/3497422 👉 Castbox → https://castbox.fm/channel/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-id4351553?country=us 👉 …and many other podcast platforms worldwide! 🌍🎧 📡 Prefer using your favorite app? Simply copy & paste my podcast RSS feed: http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss — 💜 Support My Work & Unlock Special Perks: 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events. https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ Thank You for Listening & Supporting the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast! Stay tuned for more tips, strategies, and stories to help you optimize your travel, rewards, and lifestyle. 🚀🌍💳

Earning MGM Gold and Platinum Status in 2026 - Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast Ready to earn comped cruises, waived resort fees, dining credits, and more? Justin Vacula and returning co-host Darren break down practical paths to MGM Gold and Platinum for 2026, how the MGM credit cards fits in, and smart stacking with myVEGAS and other casino loyalty programs. Chapters 00:00 Intro to low-cost travel with points and miles 00:32 Meet the hosts and upcoming events 01:50 Chicago Seminars Heritage Edition recap 03:30 How to earn MGM status in 2026 04:34 MGM Gold benefits 08:25 MGM Platinum benefits 12:10 Tier credit earning strategies 12:31 MGM Iconic card overview 20:29 MGM Rewards MasterCard overview 23:02 Maximizing MGM credit card benefits 25:28 ZorkFest 2025 preview 25:37 Current promos and limited-time offers 26:04 Chicago Points Travel Festival 2026 27:14 CardPointers and monthly meetups 29:01 Atlantic City updates and MGM Gold 30:13 Stacking rewards and benefits 32:37 Cruise benefits and status matching 34:05 Chase Sapphire Reserve Edit Credit with Park MGM 43:26 MGM National Harbor and future plans 47:42 Wrap-up and key takeaways — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-p1275539/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 Podbean → https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/vvdph-a3425/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast 👉 Pocket Casts → https://pocketcasts.com/podcasts/1a722d50-2d0a-0138-96d6-0acc26574db2?_prerender=true 👉 Podchaser → https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-1153719 👉 Podcast Addict → https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/3497422 👉 Castbox → https://castbox.fm/channel/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-id4351553?country=us 👉 …and many other podcast platforms worldwide! 🌍🎧 📡 Prefer using your favorite app? Simply copy & paste my podcast RSS feed: http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss — 💜 Support My Work & Unlock Special Perks: 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events. https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ Thank You for Listening & Supporting the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast! Stay tuned for more tips, strategies, and stories to help you optimize your travel, rewards, and lifestyle. 🚀

Maximize Travel Rewards with JetBlue’s 25 for 25 Promotion with James He How do you turn one wild promo into 25 years of Mosaic status and 350,000 TrueBlue points? In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, Justin Vacula chats with James He to unpack JetBlue’s 25 for 25 promo from planning to execution. We chat: Real Mosaic benefits that matter in practice Smart routing, rebooking, and other tips that save time and points Stacking with Amex, Hyatt, and other programs Cost breakdowns, pitfalls to avoid Great for travel hackers, frequent flyers, JetBlue fans, and anyone chasing elite status. Chapters 00:00 Intro 01:36 Meet James He 01:57 James’s travel background 06:01 JetBlue 25 for 25 overview 12:10 Mosaic status benefits 21:12 Planning and executing the challenge 22:57 Events and meetups 25:45 Amex and Hyatt benefits that pair well 27:04 Hotel stays and smart rebookings 28:38 Maximizing points and statement credits 31:37 Airport shuttle stories and lessons 34:17 Memorable stops along the way 38:27 Cost breakdown and practical advice 42:38 Future trips and elite status plans 43:49 Final thoughts and how to connect — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-p1275539/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 Podbean → https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/vvdph-a3425/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast 👉 Pocket Casts → https://pocketcasts.com/podcasts/1a722d50-2d0a-0138-96d6-0acc26574db2?_prerender=true 👉 Podchaser → https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-1153719 👉 Podcast Addict → https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/3497422 👉 Castbox → https://castbox.fm/channel/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-id4351553?country=us 👉 …and many other podcast platforms worldwide! 🌍🎧 📡 Prefer using your favorite app? Simply copy & paste my podcast RSS feed: http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss — 💜 Support My Work & Unlock Special Perks: 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events. https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ Thank You for Listening & Supporting the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast! Stay tuned for more tips, strategies, and stories to help you optimize your travel, rewards, and lifestyle. 🚀🌍💳

The New York Times says people like us open lots of credit cards, pocket big bonuses, and somehow still have high credit scores. They call it ‘taking advantage of loopholes’ and ‘exploiting,’ but I call it using credit intelligently and responsibly within the system the banks established. Play your cards right, and you win the miles and points game. My co-host Darren and I respond to the article and the comments. Timestamps 00:00 Intro and goals for the episode 00:32 Meet the hosts and overview 01:05 Responding to the New York Times article 03:04 What churning is and isn’t 06:20 Stacking rewards and benefits the right way 15:01 Responsible use and risk management 23:23 Announcements and upcoming events 27:04 Listener feedback highlights 27:24 Unilateral contracts explained simply 27:57 Credit score myths debunked 29:13 Maximizing rewards without lifestyle creep 33:10 Common critiques and misconceptions 35:35 Why the hobby still delivers value 45:07 Final thoughts and next steps — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-p1275539/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 Podbean → https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/vvdph-a3425/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast 👉 Pocket Casts → https://pocketcasts.com/podcasts/1a722d50-2d0a-0138-96d6-0acc26574db2?_prerender=true 👉 Podchaser → https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-1153719 👉 Podcast Addict → https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/3497422 👉 Castbox → https://castbox.fm/channel/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-id4351553?country=us 👉 …and many other podcast platforms worldwide! 🌍🎧 📡 Prefer using your favorite app? Simply copy & paste my podcast RSS feed: http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss — 💜 Support My Work & Unlock Special Perks: 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events. https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ Thank You for Listening & Supporting the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast! Stay tuned for more tips, strategies, and stories to help you optimize your travel, rewards, and lifestyle. 🚀🌍💳

Unlock Double Rewards + Hotel Points with Rove’s New Loyalty Eligible feature Host Justin Vacula dives into Rove’s biggest update yet with guest Carissa Rawson from Rove. Learn how Loyalty Eligible hotel bookings let you earn hotel points, elite night credits, status perks, and Rove Miles on the same stay. What you’ll learn How Loyalty Eligible bookings earn hotel points and elite credits while also earning Rove Miles Stacking plays: loyalty earnings + credit card bonuses + launch promos Best credit cards to pair with Rove hotel bookings Community news, meetups, and where to learn more Launch promo Rove is offering double Rove Miles on Loyalty Eligible hotel bookings through October 31, 2025. Terms apply. Check Rove for details. Chapters 00:00 Intro 00:45 Big news in travel rewards 01:46 What is Loyalty Eligible 02:02 How it works step by step 04:23 Maximizing rewards with Rove 05:36 International bookings and comparisons 07:34 Participating programs and promos 08:52 Booking flow and support 10:18 Credit card strategies for Rove 20:46 Events and final thoughts 21:30 Chicago Seminars and promo codes 22:14 CardPointers and FTU Dallas 23:41 Interview with Carissa Rawson 24:04 Roadmap and future features 27:22 Transfer partners and meetups 28:49 Travel hacking community and critiques 36:31 Upcoming travels and meetups 37:49 Wrap and podcast info Guest Carissa Rawson — Rove https://www.rovemiles.com/home — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-p1275539/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 …and many other podcast platforms worldwide! 🌍🎧 📡 Prefer using your favorite app? Simply copy & paste my podcast RSS feed: http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss — 💜 Support My Work & Unlock Special Perks: 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site: https://hurdygurdytravel.com/donate-referral-links/ 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events. https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ Thank You for Listening & Supporting the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast! Stay tuned for more tips, strategies, and stories to help you optimize your travel, rewards, and lifestyle. 🚀🌍💳

Professor of Points: Unlocking Low-Cost Travel with Credit Card Rewards Host Justin Vacula sits down with Hunter Threadgill (aka the Professor of Points) to unpack practical strategies for turning credit card points and miles into real trips. We cover earning frameworks, smart redemptions, recent travel wins, and how to answer the arguments against credit card use. Hunter also previews Frequent Traveler University events and shares negotiation tips for retention offers. What you’ll learn How Hunter built his points toolkit since 2015 Simple systems to earn more rewards without overspending Smart ways to redeem for premium cabins and top hotels How to respond to Dave Ramsey-style critiques with facts Retention bonus scripts and optimizing your wallet mix Upcoming meetups and FTU announcements Chapters 00:00 Intro: Low-cost travel with points and miles 01:47 Meet Hunter Threadgill, Professor of Points 04:03 Frequent Traveler Education Foundation and Awards 07:15 Credit card perks, earning strategies, and stacking 19:53 Events and announcements 22:41 Promotions and meetups 25:06 Athens trip: Grand Hyatt and first class flights 27:32 Honeymoon highlights: Aruba and Maldives 29:39 Debunking common credit card myths 40:26 Upcoming trips and plans 42:34 Wrap-up and takeaways — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-p1275539/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 Podbean → https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/vvdph-a3425/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast 👉 Pocket Casts → https://pocketcasts.com/podcasts/1a722d50-2d0a-0138-96d6-0acc26574db2?_prerender=true 👉 Podchaser → https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-1153719 👉 Podcast Addict → https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/3497422 👉 Castbox → https://castbox.fm/channel/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-id4351553?country=us 👉 …and many other podcast platforms worldwide! 🌍🎧 📡 Prefer using your favorite app? Simply copy & paste my podcast RSS feed: http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss — 💜 Support My Work & Unlock Special Perks: 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site. 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ Thank You for Listening & Supporting the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast! Stay tuned for more tips, strategies, and stories to help you optimize your travel, rewards, and lifestyle. 🚀🌍💳

Maximizing Credit Card Rewards with CardPointers: An Interview with Brooke In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula discusses maximizing credit card rewards with guest Brooke, a representative from CardPointers. They delve into the benefits of the CardPointers app and browser extension, which help users automatically activate offers and identify the best cards for specific purchases to maximize points and cashback. They also discuss the features of the app, including the new Version 7 updates, autopilot features for Apple users, and integration with car play. Brooke shares personal stories of how CardPointers has helped users save money and increase their rewards. They also touch on upcoming travel events where both will be speaking, and emphasize the importance of using credit cards responsibly for travel benefits. 00:00 Introduction to Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast 00:44 Meet Brooke and the CardPointers App 01:46 Purple Adventures and Podcast Guests 03:12 Points and Miles Stories 05:29 CardPointers Features and Benefits 16:56 Browser Extension and Shopping Tips 24:48 Upcoming Events and Announcements 27:36 Special Offers and Discounts 29:22 Monthly Meetups and Events 30:23 Card Pointers App Features 33:30 Using Card Pointers While Traveling 37:00 Future Updates and Integrations 37:52 The Case for the Plum Card 40:55 Customer Support and User Stories 51:17 Final Thoughts and Closing Announcements — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-p1275539/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 Podbean → https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/vvdph-a3425/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast 👉 Pocket Casts → https://pocketcasts.com/podcasts/1a722d50-2d0a-0138-96d6-0acc26574db2?_prerender=true 👉 Podchaser → https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-1153719 👉 Podcast Addict → https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/3497422 👉 Castbox → https://castbox.fm/channel/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-id4351553?country=us 👉 …and many other podcast platforms worldwide! 🌍🎧 📡 Prefer using your favorite app? Simply copy & paste my podcast RSS feed: http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss — 💜 Support My Work & Unlock Special Perks: 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site. 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ Thank You for Listening & Supporting the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast! Stay tuned for more tips, strategies, and stories to help you optimize your travel, rewards, and lifestyle. 🚀🌍💳

Justin Vacula explores smart travel hacks and credit-card reward strategies that keep trips affordable—then dives into ZorkFest 2025 (Dec 5–7, Las Vegas). Guest Michael Trager shares the conference’s origin story, what’s new for 2025, and how casino loyalty stacks with airline/hotel programs. We also tackle Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts in Vegas, cashback vs. travel cards, and why gamblers should be interested in miles & points. 🎟 Tickets & details: ZorkFest.TravelZork.com Chapters 00:00 Intro 00:44 What is ZorkFest 2025? 01:43 Casino loyalty + miles/points synergy 05:23 Highlights & what’s new this year 07:33 Schedule + sessions overview 18:56 Venue & accommodations 23:29 Announcements & promos 24:54 Why gamblers should care about miles/points 27:58 Cashback vs. travel cards 28:43 Maximizing card benefits 31:08 Casino loyalty and travel perks 35:34 Masterclasses & learning tracks 44:51 Listener Q&A 50:38 Where to learn more — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-p1275539/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 Podbean → https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/vvdph-a3425/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast 👉 Pocket Casts → https://pocketcasts.com/podcasts/1a722d50-2d0a-0138-96d6-0acc26574db2?_prerender=true 👉 Podchaser → https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-1153719 👉 Podcast Addict → https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/3497422 👉 Castbox → https://castbox.fm/channel/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-id4351553?country=us 👉 …and many other podcast platforms worldwide! 🌍🎧 📡 Prefer using your favorite app? Simply copy & paste my podcast RSS feed: http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss — 💜 Support My Work & Unlock Special Perks: 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site. 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ Thank You for Listening & Supporting the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast! Stay tuned for more tips, strategies, and stories to help you optimize your travel, rewards, and lifestyle. 🚀🌍💳

Welcome to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast! 🎻 Justin and co-host Darren explain the sudden Comenity/Bread Financial shutdowns—what likely triggered them, how to de-risk, and smart pivots to keep earning points & miles. Breaking news: a War on Happiness report: sudden account shutdowns, why they maybe happened, and why it was absolutely worth it. Accounts closed, no email, no warning, just mass confusion and zeroed credit limits. Miles and points drama for sure! 00:00 👋 Intro: low-cost travel with points & miles 00:45 🧱 Comenity/Bread shutdowns—what happened 01:51 🎙️ Darren’s experience & takeaways 03:16 🧩 Card benefits & stacking (what still works) 05:50 🤯 Surprise closures & service headaches 13:18 🧪 Likely triggers & risk factors (patterns we saw) 22:46 🛡️ De-risking playbook & future considerations 26:41 😮 Most surprising elements 28:44 📣 Announcements & speaking engagements 30:29 🧰 Rewards tools & CardPointers shout-out 31:15 ✈️ Meetups: travel & points community 32:40 🧠 Maximizing ongoing card benefits—safely 39:30 🧭 Navigating shutdowns without losing momentum 48:18 📚 Lessons learned from past deals 52:55 ✅ Closing notes & what’s next — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-p1275539/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 Podbean → https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/vvdph-a3425/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast 👉 Pocket Casts → https://pocketcasts.com/podcasts/1a722d50-2d0a-0138-96d6-0acc26574db2?_prerender=true 👉 Podchaser → https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-1153719 👉 Podcast Addict → https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/3497422 👉 Castbox → https://castbox.fm/channel/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-id4351553?country=us 👉 …and many other podcast platforms worldwide! 🌍🎧 📡 Prefer using your favorite app? Simply copy & paste my podcast RSS feed: http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss — 💜 Support My Work & Unlock Special Perks: 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site. 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ Thank You for Listening & Supporting the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast! Stay tuned for more tips, strategies, and stories to help you optimize your travel, rewards, and lifestyle. 🚀🌍💳

Common Mistakes in Points and Miles by Justin Vacula

Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: Rove Miles Dream Job Promotion - One Million Miles! with Carissa Rawson Join host Justin Vacula on the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast as he speaks with Carissa Rawson, Director of Travel and Marketing at Rove Miles. They discuss the exciting 'Global Adventure Officer' dream job promotion, offering a million miles as salary and a travel stipend to a lucky traveler. Find the link here: https://dreamjob.rovemiles.com/ Learn about the flexibility of Rove Miles, its benefits, and how you can apply. Also, listen for updates from the travel and points community including upcoming meetups and events. Don't miss out on this exciting episode. 00:00 Introduction to Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast 00:44 Today's Episode: Rove Miles Dream Job Promotion 01:38 Meet Carissa Rawson from Rove Miles 01:51 Overview of Rove Miles 02:40 Global Adventure Officer Promotion Details 07:15 Application Process and Requirements 12:45 Additional Updates from Rove Miles 14:34 Upcoming Events and Meetups 18:53 Closing Remarks and Announcements — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-p1275539/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 Podbean → https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/vvdph-a3425/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast 👉 Pocket Casts → https://pocketcasts.com/podcasts/1a722d50-2d0a-0138-96d6-0acc26574db2?_prerender=true 👉 Podchaser → https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-1153719 👉 Podcast Addict → https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/3497422 👉 Castbox → https://castbox.fm/channel/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-id4351553?country=us 👉 …and many other podcast platforms worldwide! 🌍🎧 📡 Prefer using your favorite app? Simply copy & paste my podcast RSS feed: http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss — 💜 Support My Work & Unlock Special Perks: 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site. 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ Thank You for Listening & Supporting the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast! Stay tuned for more tips, strategies, and stories to help you optimize your travel, rewards, and lifestyle. 🚀🌍💳

Matthew Yglesias Misses the Point: Maximizing Credit Card Rewards with Minimal 'Mental Load' In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula discusses how to make money, save money, and travel with minimal cost using credit card points, miles, benefits, and loyalty programs. The discussion centers on writer Matthew Yglesias's recent tweet criticizing the 'mental load' of optimizing credit card reward categories. Justin and guest Darren explain why optimizing credit card rewards is simpler than it seems and emphasize that signup bonuses offer higher returns than everyday spending categories. They share practical tips for managing rewards efficiently, including using organizational tools, creative spending methods, and focusing on higher-yield signup bonuses. They also announce upcoming travel and points meetups and events where listeners can learn more about maximizing rewards. 00:00 Introduction to Low-Cost Travel with Points and Miles 00:46 Responding to Matthew Yglesias' Tweet 03:37 Understanding the 'Mental Load' of Optimizing Credit Card Rewards 06:17 Strategies for Managing Credit Card Bonus Categories 14:13 The Importance of Signup Bonuses 20:41 Choosing the Right Cards for Everyday Spending 22:39 Maximizing Credit Card Rewards for Everyday Spending 24:20 Upcoming Events and Announcements 26:13 The Power of Signup Bonuses 27:22 Creative Spending Strategies 39:14 Recent and Upcoming Travels 44:59 Community Engagement and Final Thoughts 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-p1275539/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 Podbean → https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/vvdph-a3425/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast 👉 Pocket Casts → https://pocketcasts.com/podcasts/1a722d50-2d0a-0138-96d6-0acc26574db2?_prerender=true 👉 Podchaser → https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-1153719 👉 Podcast Addict → https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/3497422 👉 Castbox → https://castbox.fm/channel/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-id4351553?country=us 👉 …and many other podcast platforms worldwide! 🌍🎧 📡 Prefer using your favorite app? Simply copy & paste my podcast RSS feed: http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss — 💜 Support My Work & Unlock Special Perks: 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site. 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 — 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ Thank You for Listening & Supporting the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast! Stay tuned for more tips, strategies, and stories to help you optimize your travel, rewards, and lifestyle. 🚀🌍💳

Rove Miles with Carissa Rawson by Justin Vacula

Unlocking Travel Rewards: Beginner's Guide to Points & Miles with ChatGPT Voice! Join Justin Vacula, host of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, as he introduces you to the exciting world of travel with points and miles. This episode, featuring AI co-host ChatGPT Voice, is perfect for beginners looking to save money on travel through credit card rewards, miles, and loyalty programs. Discover how to turn everyday spending into amazing travel opportunities, debunk common myths, and learn valuable strategies to maximize your rewards. Subscribe, follow, and join our community meetups in the Greater Philadelphia area. Let's make traveling the world more affordable and enjoyable together! 00:00 Introduction 00:35 Meet Your Host and Co-Host 00:45 Getting Started with Miles and Points 05:49 The Power of Signup Bonuses 07:07 Maximizing Points Value 14:25 Flexible vs Fixed Points 20:04 Advanced Strategies and Creative Spending 21:47 Upcoming Events and Announcements 23:28 Upcoming Meetups and Listener Support 24:15 Debunking Myths About Credit Cards and Credit Scores 28:13 Maximizing Value from Miles and Points 30:50 Getting Started with Travel Rewards 33:59 Managing Time and Effort in the Points Game 39:07 Keeping Track of Your Rewards 40:41 Final Takeaways and Listener Engagement 42:03 Using Chat GPT Voice Feature 43:28 Closing Announcements and Future Content — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast On: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-p1275539/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 Podbean → https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/vvdph-a3425/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast 👉 Pocket Casts → https://pocketcasts.com/podcasts/1a722d50-2d0a-0138-96d6-0acc26574db2?_prerender=true 👉 Podchaser → https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-1153719 👉 Podcast Addict → https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/3497422 👉 Castbox → https://castbox.fm/channel/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-id4351553?country=us 👉 …and many other podcast platforms worldwide! 🌍🎧 📡 Prefer using your favorite app? Simply copy & paste my podcast RSS feed: http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss — 💜 Support My Work & Unlock Special Perks: 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site. 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. — 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ Thank You for Listening & Supporting the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast! Stay tuned for more tips, strategies, and stories to help you optimize your travel, rewards, and lifestyle. 🚀🌍💳

Discover the Upcoming Alaska Airlines Premium Credit Card! | Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula and co-host Darren dive deep into the highly anticipated Alaska Airlines Premium Credit Card. This card is expected to launch with a strong welcome bonus, valuable ongoing benefits, and powerful travel perks. Whether you’re a frequent flyer with Alaska Airlines or a travel hacker looking to maximize credit card rewards, airline miles, and loyalty programs, this discussion is packed with insights to help you get the most from your points and miles. Episode Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast 00:45 – Alaska Airlines Premium Credit Card overview 01:40 – Co-host Darren joins the discussion 02:11 – Travel hacking & credit card strategies explained 02:39 – Alaska Airlines card benefits breakdown 06:39 – How to value Alaska miles & points 14:49 – Comparing credit card offers & welcome bonuses 19:31 – Elite status earning & spending categories 28:31 – Lounge access, day passes & perks 32:47 – Exploring travel perks, bonuses & hidden benefits 34:56 – Companion fare awards & spending strategies 37:51 – Approval tips & insights on Bank of America 39:28 – Evaluating the Alaska Premium Credit Card overall 46:24 – Travel stories, booking hacks & practical advice 52:06 – Upcoming events, meetups & final thoughts — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast On: 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-p1275539/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 Podbean → https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/vvdph-a3425/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast 👉 Pocket Casts → https://pocketcasts.com/podcasts/1a722d50-2d0a-0138-96d6-0acc26574db2?_prerender=true 👉 Podchaser → https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-1153719 👉 Podcast Addict → https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/3497422 👉 Castbox → https://castbox.fm/channel/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-id4351553?country=us 👉 …and many other podcast platforms! 🌍🎧 — 💜 Support My Work & Unlock Special Perks: 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site. 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. — 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ Thank You for Listening & Supporting the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast! Stay tuned for more tips, strategies, and stories to help you optimize your travel, rewards, and lifestyle.

Breaking News: New Caesars Rewards Prestige Visa Signature Credit Card! Join host Justin Vacula on the latest episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast where he shares breaking news about the newly released Caesars Rewards Prestige Visa Signature Credit Card. With guest Darren, Justin dives deep into the benefits, drawbacks, and considerations of this exciting new offering. Learn about its benefits, Tier Credit earning potential, ability to load on Caesars gaming sites, signup bonus, and much more. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Low-Cost Travel with Points and Miles 00:32 Welcome to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast 01:36 Breaking News: New Caesars Rewards Credit Card 02:48 Details of the New Caesars Rewards Prestige Visa 04:12 Earning and Using Reward Credits 05:53 Loading to Caesars Gaming Sites 07:36 Spending Strategies for Tier Credits 13:06 Benefits of Diamond Status and Beyond 18:11 Who Should Consider This Card? 25:16 Creative Spending and Online Gaming 25:56 Proceed with Caution: Potential Issues 26:26 Customer Service Frustrations 27:02 Issues with Upgrading to the New Card 27:46 Marketing and Exclusion Concerns 30:03 Comparisons with MGM Credit Cards 30:45 Potential Solutions and Future Hopes 33:12 Timing Your Application for Maximum Benefits 38:22 Upcoming Travel Plans and Events 42:08 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast On: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-p1275539/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 Podbean → https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/vvdph-a3425/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast 👉 Pocket Casts → https://pocketcasts.com/podcasts/1a722d50-2d0a-0138-96d6-0acc26574db2?_prerender=true 👉 Podchaser → https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-1153719 👉 Podcast Addict → https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/3497422 👉 Castbox → https://castbox.fm/channel/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-id4351553?country=us 👉 …and many other podcast platforms worldwide! 🌍🎧 📡 Prefer using your favorite app? Simply copy & paste my podcast RSS feed: http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss — 💜 Support My Work & Unlock Special Perks: 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site. 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. — 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ Thank You for Listening & Supporting the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast!

Love on the Spectrum Stars Tina Caruso and Pari Kim | Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast Join Justin Vacula of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast as he chats with Tina and Pari, stars of Netflix's 'Love on the Spectrum' Season 3. Recorded at the Hyatt Place Medford near Boston, this episode dives into a candid and heartfelt conversation about Tina's and Pari's journey, the joys of public transit, and the impact of finding love. Pari, a public transit advocate, and Tina, an advocate for people with visual impairments, share their unique experiences and the positive changes in their lives since meeting each other and appearing on Netflix. The couple also discuss their rising social media fame, upcoming travels, and new ventures including Pari's upcoming internship with the MBTA. This heartwarming episode is filled with stories of personal growth, travel tips, and the importance of community and accessibility. 00:00 Introduction 00:37 Meet Pari and Tina 02:23 Love on the Spectrum Experience 04:06 First Date and Visual Impairment Challenges 05:31 Social Media Fame and Fan Interactions 07:54 Travel Adventures and Opportunities 09:53 Public Transit and Accessibility 16:16 Podcast and Internship 21:13 Wonderful Pistachios Partnership 22:02 Navigating Social Media 23:32 Shows and Femme Bands 24:02 Science Museum Memories 25:40 Travel Plans and Amtrak Adventures 26:22 Cameo and Charity Work 32:45 Disability Advocacy and Transportation 35:24 Love on the Spectrum and Reality TV 37:45 Social Media Plugs — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast On: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/id1489093490 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/0PRUx83Z4XKHengsgOoLWg 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/podcasts/Podcasts/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-p1275539/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-51807405/ 👉 Podbean → https://www.podbean.com/podcast-detail/vvdph-a3425/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast 👉 Pocket Casts → https://pocketcasts.com/podcasts/1a722d50-2d0a-0138-96d6-0acc26574db2?_prerender=true 👉 Podchaser → https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast-1153719 👉 Podcast Addict → https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/hurdy-gurdy-travel-podcast/3497422 👉 Castbox → https://castbox.fm/channel/Hurdy-Gurdy-Travel-Podcast-id4351553?country=us 👉 …and many other podcast platforms worldwide! 🌍🎧 📡 Prefer using your favorite app? Simply copy & paste my podcast RSS feed: http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss — 💜 Support My Work & Unlock Special Perks: 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/hurdygurdytravel 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site. 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. — 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Bonus content 🎁 — 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/@HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/HurdyGurdyTravelPodcast 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://x.com/HurdyGurdyTravl 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/justinvacula/ — ✨ Thank You for Listening & Supporting the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast! Stay tuned for more tips, strategies, and stories to help you optimize your travel, rewards, and lifestyle. 🚀🌍💳

Chase Sapphire Reserve Changes and New Credit Card Strategies In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula and co-host Darren Remsberg discuss major upcoming changes to the Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card. They cover the new signup bonuses, travel credits, dining credits, and other benefits such as lounge access and IHG Platinum status. The hosts delve into strategies for maximizing these benefits, including considerations for the $795 annual fee. They also explore potential pitfalls, such as Chase's new popup jail feature. Additionally, Darren shares insights on how these changes impact his credit card strategy and future travel plans. The episode concludes with listener questions and future appearances at ZorkFest and Chicago Seminars. 00:00 Introduction to Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast 00:57 Upcoming Meetups and Social Media Plugs 01:38 Chase Sapphire Reserve Changes Overview 02:14 New Signup Bonus and Travel Credit Details 03:03 Changes to Existing Cardholder Benefits 04:11 Chase Travel Portal and Credit Utilization 06:10 Application Rules and Strategies 07:35 Dining and Travel Credits 24:24 StubHub Credit and Event Opportunities 26:41 Additional Benefits and Lounge Access 28:30 Chase Sapphire Reserve Benefits Overview 29:08 Apple TV and Ted Lasso 30:01 High Spend Bonuses and Additional Benefits 34:08 Listener Question: Chase Pop-Up Jail 34:45 Chase's New Flexibility with Card Applications 38:47 Strategies for Upgrading and Downgrading Cards 43:57 Considering the Chase Sapphire Reserve Business Card 51:28 Upcoming Travel Plans and Final Thoughts 54:15 Closing Announcements and Events — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast On: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/ 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/ 👉 Stitcher → https://www.stitcher.com/ 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/ 👉 Google Podcasts → https://podcasts.google.com/ 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/ 👉 Overcast → https://overcast.fm/ 👉 Podbean → https://www.podbean.com/ 👉 Pocket Casts → https://www.pocketcasts.com/ 👉 Podchaser → https://www.podchaser.com/ 👉 Podcast Addict → https://podcastaddict.com/ 👉 Castbox → https://castbox.fm/ 👉 Player FM → https://player.fm/ 👉 …and many other podcast platforms worldwide! 🌍🎧 📡 Prefer using your favorite app? Simply copy & paste my podcast RSS feed: http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss --- 💜 Support My Work & Unlock Special Perks: 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/ 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site. 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/hurdygurdytravel CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. --- 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (you can submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Early access to select episodes & bonus content 🎁 --- 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/ 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/ 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://twitter.com/ 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/ --- ✨ Thank You for Listening & Supporting the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast! Stay tuned for more tips, strategies, and stories to help you optimize your travel, rewards, and lifestyle. 🚀🌍💳

Maximize Rewards with Caesars Online Blackjack In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula shares strategies for traveling at low cost using credit card points, miles, and loyalty programs. He discusses the benefits of playing Caesars Online Blackjack to earn rewards and profit with low risk. Justin explains the mechanics of depositing funds, leveraging bonuses, and accruing tier credits to enhance your travel experiences. Additionally, he provides information on upcoming events, meetups, and ways to stay connected with the podcast. The episode offers practical advice for maximizing savings and making the most of casino promotions responsibly. 00:00 Introduction to Low-Cost Travel with Points and Miles 00:32 Welcome to Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast 01:53 Today's Topic: Profiting from Caesars Online Blackjack 02:20 Maximizing Rewards and Bonuses 04:18 Earning Caesars Rewards Tier Credits 05:38 Conclusion and Upcoming Events — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast On: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/ 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/ 👉 Stitcher → https://www.stitcher.com/ 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/ 👉 Google Podcasts → https://podcasts.google.com/ 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/ 👉 Overcast → https://overcast.fm/ 👉 Podbean → https://www.podbean.com/ 👉 Pocket Casts → https://www.pocketcasts.com/ 👉 Podchaser → https://www.podchaser.com/ 👉 Podcast Addict → https://podcastaddict.com/ 👉 Castbox → https://castbox.fm/ 👉 Player FM → https://player.fm/ 👉 …and many other podcast platforms worldwide! 🌍🎧 📡 Prefer using your favorite app? Simply copy & paste my podcast RSS feed: http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss --- 💜 Support My Work & Unlock Special Perks: 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/ 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site. 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/ CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. --- 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (you can submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Early access to select episodes & bonus content 🎁 --- 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/ 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/ 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://twitter.com/ 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/ --- ✨ Thank You for Listening & Supporting the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast! Stay tuned for more tips, strategies, and stories to help you optimize your travel, rewards, and lifestyle. 🚀🌍💳

Maximizing Chase DoorDash and Instacart Credits with Justin Vacula and Beth In this episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, host Justin Vacula and guest Beth delve into optimizing Chase DoorDash and Instacart credits to save money on groceries. They discuss the benefits of credit card rewards and loyalty programs, specifically focusing on Chase's offerings. Beth shares her strategy of using multiple family members' accounts to maximize savings. They provide insights on the specific Chase cards that offer these credits and the advantages of using pickup options. Additionally, they talk about their travel plans and how they use miles and points to make luxury trips affordable. The episode also touches on organizing and tracking credit card rewards and leveraging multiple offers to maximize benefits. 00:00 Introduction to Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast 00:44 Optimizing Chase DoorDash and Instacart Credits 02:23 Maximizing Chase DoorDash Credits 06:45 Exploring Instacart Credits 20:50 Using Instacart Credits for Groceries 21:48 Instacart Delivery and Pickup Options 22:28 Maximizing Chase and Instacart Plus Benefits 23:50 Strategies for Efficient Grocery Shopping 32:55 Traveling with Miles and Points 35:25 Upcoming Trips and Credit Card Strategies 39:36 Closing Announcements and Events -- 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast On: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/ 👉 Apple Podcasts / iTunes → https://podcasts.apple.com/ 👉 Stitcher → https://www.stitcher.com/ 👉 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/ 👉 Google Podcasts → https://podcasts.google.com/ 👉 TuneIn → https://tunein.com/ 👉 iHeartRadio → https://www.iheart.com/podcast/ 👉 Overcast → https://overcast.fm/ 👉 Podbean → https://www.podbean.com/ 👉 Pocket Casts → https://www.pocketcasts.com/ 👉 Podchaser → https://www.podchaser.com/ 👉 Podcast Addict → https://podcastaddict.com/ 👉 Castbox → https://castbox.fm/ 👉 Player FM → https://player.fm/ 👉 …and many other podcast platforms worldwide! 🌍🎧 📡 Prefer using your favorite app? Simply copy & paste my podcast RSS feed: http://feeds.soundcloud.com/users/soundcloud:users:706382626/sounds.rss --- 💜 Support My Work & Unlock Special Perks: 👉 Visit the Support Tab on my website to contribute via SubscribeStar → https://www.subscribestar.com/ 👉 Support me through helpful referral links on my site. 👉 Use my CardPointers affiliate link to save on annual and lifetime memberships → https://www.cardpointers.com/ CardPointers helps you activate card-linked offers and take advantage of other powerful credit card features. Learn how I use CardPointers effectively in this podcast episode. --- 🎁 Subscriber & Supporter Perks Include: ✨ One-on-one calls with me ✨ Advance notice of upcoming podcast guests (you can submit your questions!) ✨ A custom podcast episode recorded just for you 🎙️💬 ✨ Early access to select episodes & bonus content 🎁 --- 🌐 Stay Connected With Me: 🔔 Subscribe on YouTube → https://www.youtube.com/ 👍 Like on Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/ 🐦 Follow on Twitter / X → https://twitter.com/ 📸 Follow on Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/ --- ✨ Thank You for Listening & Supporting the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast! Stay tuned for more tips, strategies, and stories to help you optimize your travel, rewards, and lifestyle. 🚀🌍💳