Churn and Burn

Paul from Empty Nester Miles joins me to break down the big news of Hyatt ending its partnership with American Airlines and seemingly jumping into bed with Delta — we share our realistic (and skeptical) expectations as Atlanta-based flyers. Paul then counts down his top nine first class and top ten business class seats. We also dive into his Japan trip report, covering a fantastic stay at the Conrad Osaka on Hilton points and the Hyatt Centric Ginza in Tokyo.

I sit down with Andrew, a manufactured spending and award travel veteran, to trace his journey from a simple $100 college credit card bonus to eventually earning millions of points. We swap stories on our biggest wins and losses, dead plays and the ethics of mentoring new churners and why getting shut down by a bank might be the best thing that ever happens to you.

First-time couples guests Judd and Jill join the show for an epic 10-day+ Kenya and Tanzania safari trip report. They cover Qsuites and Etihad Apartment flights, Park Hyatt stays in Doha and Zanzibar, safaris across Nairobi National Park, Amboseli, Ngorongoro Crater, and a splurge stay at the ultra-luxe Marriott Bonvoy Mapito Safari Lodge in the Serengeti — plus honest takes on Qatar, American, and Etihad service, points math, and lessons learned for planning your own bucket-list safari.

John and I discuss the MS life of a teacher, as well as the past, present, and future of manufactured spending and some of the psychology behind probing and finding new plays. Check out John's channel: https://www.youtube.com/BankAccountBonusCentral

Danielle returns to the pod and details her experience attending the Fêtes Galantes at Versailles and gives a surprisingly "okay" review of the Waldorf Versailles. She also reviews several Paris luxury points properties and gives her opinion on Condor Business class. Follow Danielle online: https://www.instagram.com/thepointpilot/