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.

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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

In this Quick Hits episode, DeAndre Coke checks in mid-flight on the journey home from a 33-day honeymoon spanning Hong Kong, Fiji, and New Zealand. Recorded aboard an American Airlines Dreamliner en route from Auckland to Dallas, DeAndre shares reflections from the trip, including standout flights, destinations, and booking strategies used along the way.

He highlights flying long-haul business class booked via Qantas using transferred American Express points, offers first impressions of the American Airlines 787 Dreamliner experience, and previews deeper trip breakdowns coming soon. The episode also touches on the official launch of the new Bilt credit cards, noting active discussion and real-time data already surfacing within the community.

As regular programming resumes, DeAndre emphasizes the value of the WhatsApp community, now expanded with a new award-gifting channel designed to help members support one another ethically and in accordance with program rules. The episode closes with gratitude for the community’s support during the honeymoon stretch and excitement for what’s ahead in the new year.

Key takeaways:

1. Honeymoon wrap-up: The 33-day journey across Hong Kong, Fiji, and New Zealand is coming to a close.
2. Smart redemption: Long-haul business class was booked through Qantas using transferred American Express points.
3. Flight experience: American Airlines’ 787 Dreamliner business class delivered a strong premium product overall.
4. Milford Sound moment: Flying into Milford Sound via small aircraft was one of the most memorable highlights of the trip.
5. Bilt cards go live: New Bilt cards are officially launching, with early data and strategies already circulating.
6. Community-first insights: The WhatsApp group remains the fastest source of real-time updates and discussion.
7. Award gifting channel: A new, rules-compliant space was created for members to give or request awards responsibly.
8. 
   

Interested in Financial Planning?

1. Truicity Wealth Management

Resources:

1. Book a Free 30-minute points & miles consultation
2. Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
3. Sign up for our newsletter!
4. BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

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In this special guest appearance, DeAndre Coke joins the Your Peak Life Podcast for an in-depth conversation on how an intentional credit card strategy can unlock life-changing travel experiences. Recorded in person with the full panel, the discussion blends real-world financial discipline with advanced points-and-miles tactics that turn everyday spending into luxury travel.

DeAndre breaks down how transferable points outperform booking through card portals, why annual fees are often misunderstood, and how responsible credit card usage can dramatically expand travel possibilities without carrying debt. The conversation goes beyond travel mechanics, touching on business expenses, tax efficiency, protection benefits, and why mindset and intentionality matter just as much as strategy.

The episode also explores DeAndre’s personal journey: from early career struggles to building a lifestyle centered on travel, alongside unforgettable redemptions, such as business-class long-haul flights, Park Hyatt stays, and a proposal planned in the Maldives. From favorite destinations to long-term lifestyle design, this conversation reinforces the core idea behind Revolutionizing Your Journey: travel isn’t about spending more, it’s about thinking differently.

Key Highlights:

1. Transferable points unlock outsized value: Booking directly with airline and hotel partners beats using credit card travel portals.
2. Annual fees aren’t the enemy: Fees make sense when perks and redemptions exceed the cost.
3. Debt-free discipline matters: Points only work when balances are paid in full every month.
4. Business expenses are powerful: Strategic card use can turn routine business spending into premium travel.
5. Tax efficiency counts: Earning points instead of cash back preserves deductions in many business cases.
6. Intentionality is the edge: Planning spend around known expenses accelerates rewards.
7. Player two multiplies value: Partners, spouses, or business collaborators expand earning potential.
8. Portals are the trap: Transfer partners consistently deliver better redemption math.

Resources:

1. Book a Free 30 minute points & miles consultation
2. Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
3. Sign up for our newsletter!
4. BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

Interested in Financial Planning?

In this week’s Quick Hits, DeAndre shares a honeymoon-focused update as he and Taryn move into week three of their month-long journey through Hong Kong, Fiji, and New Zealand. With regular points-and-miles news temporarily on pause, this episode centers on real-time travel experiences, lessons learned on the road, and what listeners can expect in upcoming deep-dive episodes.

DeAndre briefly touches on early rumors around new Bilt card tiers, noting that details are still unconfirmed and will be covered more thoroughly once officially released. He also highlights ongoing discussions inside the community WhatsApp group, where members are already breaking down potential implications.

The bulk of the episode focuses on New Zealand, including a challenging baggage situation during a small regional flight out of Fiji, followed by an excellent reset stay at the Park Hyatt Auckland. From there, DeAndre shares first impressions of Queenstown, recording this episode from The Spire boutique hotel, and describes unforgettable experiences, such as flying directly into Milford Sound and exploring iconic Lord of the Rings filming locations near Glenorchy.

The episode wraps with a look ahead to the final leg of the honeymoon: a luxury RV road trip from Christchurch back to Auckland, a visit to Hobbiton, and a long-haul business class return flight booked with Qantas points. More detailed breakdowns of bookings, point strategies, and trip missteps will be available soon once regular programming resumes.

Key takeaways:

1. Bilt card rumors: New Bilt card tiers are circulating, but details remain unconfirmed and will be covered once officially announced.
2. Community insights: The WhatsApp community continues to surface early discussion and analysis on emerging travel and credit card news.
3. Real travel challenges: A short regional flight in Fiji caused baggage delays, underscoring the unpredictability of long international trips.
4. Service makes a difference: The Park Hyatt Auckland delivered excellent service and acted as a key reset stop after a stressful travel day.
5. Queenstown standout: Queenstown quickly proved why it’s considered one of New Zealand’s most vibrant and scenic destinations.
6. Milford Sound highlight: A scenic flight into Milford Sound revealed one of the most visually striking places on the trip so far.
7. Flexibility matters: Month-long travel requires built-in buffer time to handle delays and unexpected changes.
8. More to come: A dedicated multi-part honeymoon series will break down bookings, redemptions, and lessons learned.
9. Points payoff: The return journey includes a long-haul business-class flight booked with transferred Qantas points.

Interested in Financial Planning?

1. Truicity Wealth Management

Resources:

In this episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, Taryn and DeAndre look back on an unforgettable 2025, filled with major life milestones, ambitious travel, and an intentional points-and-miles strategy. From wedding planning to luxury hotel stays and standout food experiences around the world, they break down how thoughtful planning turned everyday spending into millions of points redeemed.

They share favorite destinations from the year, memorable redemptions, and practical lessons learned along the way, including when buying points made sense, how community insights shaped decisions, and why traveling as a strong “player two” team amplified results. The episode also highlights unique strategies, such as earning miles instead of interest through alternative banking options, and the role that credit card bonuses played in unlocking premium experiences.

The conversation wraps with a forward-looking mindset as Taryn and DeAndre encourage listeners to set clear, intentional travel goals for 2026, lean into community, and design travel plans that align with real life, not just aspirational redemptions.

Key Highlights:

1. 2025 in review: A year defined by weddings, big trips, and strategic redemptions.
2. Points at scale: How millions of points were earned and redeemed through planning and timing.
3. Player two advantage: Why traveling as a couple multiplies earning and redemption opportunities.
4. Buying points strategically: When point sales made sense and delivered outsized value.
5. Standout destinations: Mexico City and other favorites for hotels, culture, and food.
6. Alternative earning strategies: Using banking tools to earn miles instead of traditional interest.
7. Credit card leverage: Maximizing welcome offers and category bonuses throughout the year.
8. Life balance: Managing travel alongside business and personal commitments.
9. Looking ahead: Setting focused, intentional travel goals for 2026.

Resources:

1. Book a Free 30 minute points & miles consultation
2. Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
3. Sign up for our newsletter!
4. BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

Interested in Financial Planning?

In this YouTube bonus episode, DeAndre breaks down a real-world side-by-side comparison that completely changed how he’ll book Las Vegas hotels going forward. During a bachelor party weekend at the Venetian and Palazzo, DeAndre booked directly with Hyatt as a Globalist, while his friend booked the same stay through Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts. Exact dates, same property, but very different outcomes.

The episode walks through where Hyatt Globalist benefits fall short at this unique Hyatt-affiliated property, including no complimentary breakfast, no lounge access, unreliable late checkout, and no waived resort fees. In contrast, the Amex Fine Hotels & Resorts booking delivered guaranteed daily breakfast for two, a $100 property credit, and a confirmed 4 PM late checkout, all in writing.

DeAndre breaks down the actual dollar value of each perk, explains why Vegas pricing makes breakfast and checkout timing especially important, and shows how Amex’s guaranteed benefits can outweigh elite status on multi-night stays. He also explains that booking direct with Hyatt still makes sense, especially for solo travelers chasing elite nights or milestone rewards. The episode ends with clear booking rules of thumb so viewers can choose the right strategy based on how they actually travel.

Key Highlights:

1. Hyatt Globalist limitations: At Venetian and Palazzo, Globalist perks are significantly reduced due to partial brand integration.
2. Breakfast matters in Vegas: Amex’s $65 daily breakfast credit for two quickly offsets higher room rates.
3. Guaranteed late checkout wins: A confirmed 4 PM checkout saves time, stress, and additional spend on busy Vegas weekends.
4. Property credits require planning: The $100 Amex credit is easy to use if you confirm eligible outlets at check-in.
5. Elite nights still have value: Booking direct with Hyatt can make sense for solo travelers or those seeking to earn milestones.
6. Weekends vs weekdays: Amex perks shine most on crowded weekends when “if available” benefits disappear.

Resources:

1. The Palazzo & The Venetian Las Vegas: Hyatt Globalist vs Amex Fine Hotels and Resorts – Which Booking Method Wins? (blog post)
2. This Is Why Hyatt Globalist Fails At The Venetian/Palazzo in Vegas (YT video)
3. Book a Free 30 minute points & miles consultation
4. Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
5. Sign up for our newsletter!