Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast

Chase Sapphire Reserve in 2026: Keep or Downgrade? | Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast with Justin Vacula & Hunter Threadgill Join host Justin Vacula and special guest Hunter Threadgill of Professor of Points as they take a deep dive into whether the Chase Sapphire Reserve is still worth keeping in 2026. They walk through the new and existing benefits, including the $300 travel credit, dining and hotel perks, StubHub credits, and other lifestyle benefits, and weigh them against the rising annual fee. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Travel Rewards 00:44 Guest Introduction: Hunter Threadgill 01:56 Chase Sapphire Reserve Benefits Overview 02:57 Travel Credits and Real World Value 04:58 Hotel and Dining Credits Discussion 14:53 StubHub and Other Lifestyle Benefits 20:38 Meditation, Peloton, and Wellness Perks 21:21 Lounge Access and Travel Protections 24:03 Advanced Tactics: Upgrading and Downgrading 24:18 Announcements and Upcoming Events 25:50 CardPointers and Monthly Meetups 28:58 Is Chase Sapphire Reserve a Keeper? 36:40 Upcoming Travels and Status Goals 43:10 Frequent Traveler Education Foundation 45:04 Closing Remarks and Social Handles — 🎙️ 📢 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. 🚀🌍💳

Chase Sapphire Reserve 2026: Keep or Downgrade? | Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast Is the Chase Sapphire Reserve worth keeping in 2026 – or is it time to downgrade? Join host Justin Vacula and guest Beth on the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast as they break down the Chase Sapphire Reserve’s changing value proposition in a world of rising annual fees and constantly shifting perks. They walk through the major benefits one by one – including hotel credits, food delivery perks, entertainment and rideshare credits, and newer partner credits like StubHub – and talk about what they’re really worth in everyday use. Justin and Beth also explore downgrade paths, retention-offer strategy, cash-out options, and how the card fits into a broader points-and-miles setup in 2026. You’ll hear practical takes, listener questions, and real-world scenarios to help you decide whether to keep the CSR, downgrade, or shift your spend elsewhere. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 00:45 Meet Beth 02:09 Chase Sapphire Reserve: keep, cancel, or downgrade? 02:54 Walking through the new and updated benefits 07:40 Travel credits, status perks, and how to value them 12:15 Dining, convenience store, and everyday credits 17:53 Entertainment, rideshare, and lifestyle perks 22:06 Fitness perks and lounge access in context 24:54 Are the lounge benefits really worth it? 25:16 Retention offers, fee hikes, and negotiation strategy 25:31 Cashing out points vs keeping them for travel 25:58 Upcoming events, appearances & announcements 27:39 Using CardPointers to organize and maximize rewards 28:33 Monthly meetups, listener community & social events 29:19 Frequent Traveler University and other live events 30:20 High-spend strategies with the Chase Sapphire Reserve 32:39 Smart downgrade and upgrade paths within the Chase lineup 35:42 Listener comments, questions & real-world scenarios 45:14 Future travel plans and how CSR fits (or doesn’t) 46:41 Final takeaways & farewell — 🎙️ 📢 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 👉 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 ✨ 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. 🚀🌍💳

Earn the Southwest Companion Pass in 2026 In this Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast episode, Justin sits down with Max Craig from Points to the Max to break down exactly how to earn and maximize the Southwest Companion Pass for 2026. We cover the best timing for points, which cards to open (and when), stacking strategies, and what recent program tweaks mean for your plan. Whether you’re brand-new to points or already flying regularly, you’ll get a practical, step-by-step gameplan to secure the companion pass and squeeze maximum value from it, plus intel on routes, hubs, and event meetups to level up your travel. What you’ll learn The cleanest timeline to lock the 2026 Southwest Companion Pass Which credit cards to consider and how to sequence them Points vs. flights: the math to qualify efficiently Recent Southwest program changes (and what still works) Hubs, routes, and positioning strategies Opportunity cost: when not to chase it Chapters 00:00 Intro 00:45 Meet Max Craig (Points to the Max) 02:50 Companion Pass, explained (eligibility & value) 04:49 Credit-card strategy & timing for 2026 06:10 What changed at Southwest (and what didn’t) 07:49 Qualifying: points vs. flight segments 11:22 App strategy: rules, pacing, and denials 23:35 Events, meetups, and community resources 28:47 Music City Miles & Points shoutouts 29:37 Frequent Traveler University notes 30:33 Fine print of the Companion Pass 32:55 Hubs, routes, positioning flights 34:53 Opportunity cost & alternative plays 43:10 Program benefits recap & pitfalls to avoid 43:36 Where to find Max (site & socials) 45:31 Trip planning tips & closing thoughts 51:31 Outro — 🎙️ 📢 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 👉 …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 ✨ 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. 🚀🌍💳

Miles, Points, Casino Loyalty, Travel, and ZorkFest 2025 - Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast Join host Justin Vacula on the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast as he discusses how to travel at low cost using points & miles and credit cards. Special guest Joseph Petrovic shares his experience with miles & points and the upcoming event ZorkFest 2025. Justin and Joe also delve into topics like credit card rewards, casino loyalty programs, travel, autism, and unique experiences such as high-end trips to Japan, family vacations, and cruises. Learn the benefits of credit cards, tips on maximizing rewards, and how events like ZorkFest offer a deep dive into miles, points, and gambling content. 00:00 Introduction to Low-Cost Travel with Points and Miles 00:46 Guest Introduction: Joseph Petrovic 02:02 Chicago Seminars Hyatt Regency Experience 02:24 The Evolution of Travel Conferences 04:39 Maximizing Credit Card Benefits 08:41 Family Travel Adventures 12:34 The Impact of Credit Cards on Travel 16:25 Navigating the Changing Travel Landscape 18:16 Exploring Train Travel and Future Plans 21:07 Combining Miles, Points, and Gambling at ZorkFest 25:15 Upcoming Events and CardPointers 28:35 Maximizing Casino Rewards 29:38 Monthly Travel Meetups 30:10 Changes in Reward Programs 31:32 Upcoming Events and Speaking Engagements 32:10 Introduction to ZorkFest 32:23 Gambling and Credit Card Strategies 34:59 ZorkFest Schedule and Sessions 40:44 Personal Experiences 50:54 Final Thoughts and Contact Information — 🎙️ 📢 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 👉 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. 🚀🌍💳

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!