In this Quick Hits episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, DeAndre returns after a 33-day honeymoon across Hong Kong, Fiji, and New Zealand to break down one of the most chaotic news cycles in recent points and miles history. The episode focuses on real-world implications of Bilt’s rapidly evolving 2.x updates, including the new Palladium card, surprise promos tied to The Points Guy, expanded Bilt Cash use cases, and newly added earning exclusions that caught many by surprise.

DeAndre shares his personal decision-making process around applying for the Palladium card, navigating the limited-time 5x promo, and evaluating whether Bilt can realistically replace other “catch-all” cards. He also covers important reminders about Capital One Venture X lounge access changes, a new free tool to maximize Chase’s Edit hotel credits, and why tax payments and resale marketplaces are now off the table for Bilt rewards.

The episode closes with a deeper look at buying hotel points during 100% bonus sales, how the community is using tools like Zil Money and Hilton transfer bonuses, and why staying plugged into an active points-and-miles community can be the difference between missing out and maximizing value.

Key takeaways:

1. Bilt 2.x changes: Rapid updates make it essential to focus on real usage decisions instead of chasing every announcement.
2. Palladium card strategy: Applying early may unlock valuable promos, including limited 5x earning windows.
3. TPG promo workaround: Some listeners successfully had the 5x Palladium offer added via Bilt chat support.
4. Major exclusions added: Tax payments and online resale marketplaces no longer earn Bilt rewards.
5. Venture X lounge changes: Authorized users lose free access starting February 1 unless they add paid access.
6. Edit Maxer tool: A new free resource simplifies finding Chase Edit hotel credit opportunities.
7. Buying points still works: 100% bonuses on Hilton and IHG points can unlock outsized value when used correctly.
8. Transferable points win: Flexibility often beats fixed hotel multipliers when bonuses are in play.

Interested in Financial Planning?

1. Truicity Wealth Management

Resources:

1. Buying Hotel Points & Airline Miles: When, Why, and How It Makes Sense for Smarter Travel
2. Buying IHG Points: Unlock Luxury Stays at a Fraction of the Cost
3. Book a Free 30-minute points &...

In this special guest appearance, DeAndre Coke joins Ross Alcorn on the World Travel Made Easy podcast to break down the real-world systems behind luxury travel using points and miles. Recorded during DeAndre and Taryn’s month-long honeymoon, the conversation pulls back the curtain on how they manage credit cards across multiple businesses, align spending with travel goals, and consistently unlock outsized value from points.

DeAndre shares how his background as a financial advisor shaped a more analytical approach to travel rewards, emphasizing strategy over hype. The discussion dives deep into paying transaction fees intentionally, opening business cards on a structured cadence, and understanding redemption math instead of avoiding fees by default. Ross and DeAndre also explore airline status strategy, shopping portals, and how transferable points ecosystems work together.

The episode wraps with a detailed breakdown of one of DeAndre and Taryn’s most aspirational trips to the Maldives, including Emirates First Class and Qatar Qsuites, showing how advanced redemptions are built over time through patience, flexibility, and strong fundamentals. This conversation highlights what’s possible when points and miles are treated as part of a broader financial and lifestyle system.

Key Highlights:

1. Points require strategy: Long-term systems matter more than chasing one-off redemptions.
2. Transaction fees can make sense: Paying a 3% fee is often worth it when redemption value exceeds the cost.
3. Business cards are powerful: Staggered business card openings help unlock large welcome offers without heavy credit impact.
4. Redemption value matters: Transferring points to airline and hotel partners consistently beats cash-back redemptions.
5. Player two multiplies value: Coordinated card strategies with a partner dramatically increase earning power.
6. Status can stack: Airline status, hotel status, and alliances can work together when planned intentionally.
7. Flexibility unlocks luxury: Positioning flights and longer itineraries create access to better award space.
8. Not one-size-fits-all: The best strategy depends on family size, time flexibility, and travel goals.
9. Credibility builds confidence: Responsible card use and transparency help remove fear around points.
10. Start small, then scale: Advanced redemptions come after mastering the basics.

Resources:

1. Book a Free 30 minute points & miles consultation
2. Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel

In this YouTube bonus episode, DeAndre shares a full, real-world review of the Hyatt Regency JFK, breaking down whether it’s actually worth using points or paying cash. After spending two nights at the property, he walks through what makes this airport hotel stand out—large rooms, quiet sleep, solid service, and direct access to Resorts World Casino—along with the trade-offs travelers should know before booking.

The episode covers transportation logistics from JFK, the true value of Regency Club lounge access, and how elite status plays into the experience. DeAndre also recounts an unusual check-in mistake that tested the hotel’s service recovery, ultimately highlighting how quickly the staff handled the situation. The review wraps with a clear verdict on when points deliver strong value, when cash can make sense, and which travelers will benefit most from choosing this hotel over closer airport options.

Key Highlights:

1. Airport hotel value: Hyatt Regency JFK delivers more space, comfort, and quiet than most airport hotels, making it a solid option after long flights.
2. Points sweet spot: Award nights around 15,000 World of Hyatt points can significantly outperform cash rates on busy dates.
3. Lounge access matters: Regency Club access can cover breakfast and light meals, reducing overall out-of-pocket costs.
4. Transportation trade-off: There’s no direct airport shuttle, so rideshare or taxi is the most practical way to get there.
5. Service recovery test: A rare check-in mistake showed strong, fast service recovery from the hotel team.
6. Casino proximity: Direct access to Resorts World adds dining and entertainment value without impacting room quiet.
7. Cash vs points math: Cash rates often feel high at airport hotels, making points or free-night certificates more attractive.
8. Not for ultra-short layovers: Travelers landing late and leaving early may be overpaying for amenities they won’t use.
9. Family-friendly space: Larger rooms and suites are ideal for families or travelers who need extra space.

Resources:

1. Hyatt Regency JFK Review: Is This the Best Hotel Near JFK Airport? (blog post)
2. Hyatt Regency JFK: Is It Worth Your Points or Cash? Full Review (YT video)
3. Book a Free 30 minute points & miles consultation
4. Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel