All the Hacks: Money, Points & Life

Επεισόδια

• The Hidden Rules of Credit Card Approvals 27.05.2026 50λ

  #280: Learn how to dramatically improve your odds of getting approved for the credit cards you actually want. Chris breaks down the hidden system every bank uses to evaluate applications, why your credit score matters far less than what's on your report, and the real factors driving denials, from credit-to-income ratios to recent inquiries to each issuer's internal model. He also walks through what to do before you apply, how to sequence applications across issuers, and the right moves to make after a denial.Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/credit-card-approval-strategyPartner DealsQuince: ⁠Affordable luxury essentials with free shipping + 365 day returns⁠Mercury: ⁠Help your business grow with simplified finances⁠Wispr Flow: ⁠⁠Try effortless voice dictation for free⁠Fabric: ⁠⁠Affordable term life insurance for you and your family⁠LMNT: ⁠⁠Free sample pack of my favorite electrolyte drink mix⁠For all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: ⁠⁠chrishutchins.com/deals⁠Resources MentionedCredit Cards⁠The Atmos™ Rewards Visa Summit Card⁠⁠The Business Platinum Card® from American Express⁠⁠Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card⁠⁠Capital One Venture X Business⁠⁠Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card⁠⁠Capital One Spark Cash Plus⁠Tools & Resources⁠Doctor of Credit⁠⁠MyFICO Forums⁠⁠LexisNexis⁠Articles⁠Complete Guide to Credit Card Application Rules by Bank⁠ATH Podcast#221: ⁠Deep Dive on Credit Reports, Scores, and Their Real-World Impact⁠#228: ⁠Deep Dive on Citi Credit Cards and ThankYou Points (Best 2-Card Combo)⁠#236: ⁠Deep Dive on Amex Credit Cards and Membership Rewards Points⁠#242: ⁠Deep Dive on Capital One Credit Cards and Miles (+ Why I Love Them)⁠#247:⁠Deep Dive on Bank of America Credit Cards (Up to 5.25% Cash Back)⁠⁠Best Cards Page⁠AMA: ⁠Submit A Question⁠⁠Newsletter⁠Leave a review: ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ | ⁠Spotify⁠Email for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: ⁠podcast@chrishutchins.com⁠Full Show Notes(00:00) Introduction(03:50) Why Chris Lets His Cards Report High Balances(05:06) When Your Credit Score Actually Matters(05:53) Why Business Cards Stay Off Your Credit Report(06:39) What Actually Counts as a Business(10:55) How Your Credit-to-Income Ratio Drives Approvals(14:48) What Your Payment History Reveals(15:08) Why Recent Inquiries Can Sink Your Application(17:44) The Chase 5/24 Rule Explained(18:44) The Hidden Internal Models Banks Use(19:18) Diagnosing a Listener's Surprise 820-Score Denial(24:56) What to Check Before You Hit Submit(25:55) Sequencing Business Card Applications for Approval(28:05) The Best Personal Card Offers Right Now(28:50) Why a Checking Account Can Boost Your Odds(30:10) Using Frozen Credit Bureaus to Your Advantage(32:37) Tag-Teaming Applications With a Partner(33:32) Why Last-Minute Fixes Don't Work(34:32) Using Pre-Qualification Tools to Avoid Hard Pulls(34:49) Cutting Unnecessary Credit to Get Approved(35:27) What Actually Happens After a Denial(40:54) When It Makes Sense to Close a Card(44:26) The Hidden Value of Card-Linked Offers(46:15) Every Major Bank's Application Rules(48:45) The Mindset Shift That Changes EverythingConnect with Chris⁠⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Membership⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠X⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠Editor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
• How Long-Term Investors Actually Think About Risk with Ben Carlson 20.05.2026 1ώ

  #279: Learn to handle market volatility and build long-term wealth in a world dominated by AI disruption, market fear, inflation concerns, and nonstop financial noise. Chris and Ben discuss why investing remains psychologically difficult, how to think about global diversification, when to reevaluate your portfolio, and the risks most investors still overlook.Ben Carlson is the Director of Institutional Asset Management at Ritholtz Wealth Management and the author of five books on investing, including his newest, Risk and Reward. He's the creator of the blog A Wealth of Common Sense and co-host of the Animal Spirits podcast.Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/risk-market-volatility-ben-carlsonPartner DealsThrive Market: ⁠30% off your first order of organic groceries + a free $60 giftUpwork: ⁠Free job posting to find, hire, and pay top freelance talentDeleteMe: ⁠20% off removing your personal info from the webSuperhuman: ⁠Free month of the fastest and best email with code ALLTHEHACKSGelt: ⁠Skip the waitlist on personalized tax guidance to maximize your wealthFor all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: ⁠chrishutchins.com/dealsResources MentionedBen Carlson: Website | XBook: Risk and RewardPodcast: Animal SpiritsA Longer Life Can Lead to Financial Concerns, and More QuestionsThe Millionaire Next Door by Thomas Stanley and William DankoRoger Federer's 2024 Dartmouth Commencement AddressATH Podcast#128: The Psychology of Money with Morgan Housel#174: Secrets of Success in Life and Work with Legendary Silicon Valley Investor Andy RachleffNewsletterLeave a review: Apple Podcasts | SpotifyEmail for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.comFull Show Notes(00:00) Introduction(00:49) Why Investing Is Still So Hard for Most People(01:37) How Today's Media Makes Markets Feel Scarier Than Ever(02:51) The Core Idea Behind Ben’s New Book(05:10) What Japan's Lost Three Decades Teach Long-Term Investors(08:50) Why You Need Exposure Beyond Your Home Market(10:18) Will AI Reshape Global Markets or Just U.S. Stocks?(14:01) Could a Dot-Com-Style Crash Happen Today?(15:57) Why AI Could Still Trigger the Next Bubble(17:57) Focus on What You Can Control, Not What You Can't(19:16) The Worst-Case Inflation Scenario of the 1970s(21:47) How to Think About Inflation in Today's Economy(23:36) The Inflation Hedges Most People Already Have(26:58) How to Filter the Noise and Stay Long-Term(33:31) The Penalty Kick Study and Why We Hate Doing Nothing(35:08) When It's Actually Time to Reevaluate Your Plan(36:49) Planning Your Career and Money for an AI Future(43:33) Why Optimism Is a Long-Term Investing Edge(47:25) The Tax Alpha Most Investors Are Missing(50:05) Applying These Lessons Closer to Retirement(51:53) The Risks Most Investors Forget to Plan For(56:50) The First Move to Rethink Your Risk Profile Tonight(59:42) Where to Find Ben and His New BookConnect with Chris⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠ | ⁠Membership⁠⁠ | ⁠X⁠⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Editor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
• The AI Tools I'm Building to Replace My Spreadsheets with Anish Acharya 13.05.2026 1ώ 10λ

  #278: Is AI making it possible for the average person to live a fully optimized life? Chris and Anish swap notes on how custom AI tools are replacing years of spreadsheets, and reshaping the way we work, learn, create, and relate to each other. They dig into why Chris has abandoned OpenClaw, the architecture mistakes almost everyone is making, and what happens when the subsidies on all these tools eventually go away.Anish Acharya is a general partner at Andreessen Horowitz, where he leads consumer and AI-native investing.Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/ai-tools-spreadsheets-anish-acharya/Partner DealsBilt Rewards: ⁠Earn the most valuable points when you pay rentGreen Chef: ⁠50% off your first month + 20% off for two months with code 50ALLTHEHACKSNetSuite: ⁠Free KPI checklist to upgrade your business performanceMercury: ⁠Manage, move, and grow your moneyFora: Become a Fora Advisor todayFor all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: ⁠chrishutchins.com/dealsResources MentionedAI tools and platformsClaudeOpenAI CodexChatGPTGeminiPerplexity ComputerCursorOpenClawTools Chris is using in his stackCardPointers1PasswordZapierApple HealthNotionDropboxTravel and points toolsGoogle FlightsSeats.aeroRoameATH Podcast#265: I Built an AI Assistant That Works While I Sleep#275: The Custom Everything Era with Kevin RoseNewsletterLeave a review: Apple Podcasts | SpotifyEmail for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.comFull Show Notes(00:00) Introduction(02:08) How Chris Replaced His Award-Flight Spreadsheets With an Agent(04:20) Why Your AI Setup Should Be Platform-Agnostic(07:13) Why Sub-Agents Don't Actually Make Sense(13:29) Skills, Connectors, Projects, and Channels Explained(17:29) Anish on the Two Big Breakthroughs: Coding Agents and Personal Agents(18:29) Zero Marginal Cost of Doing Work(21:01) Will Knowledge Get Less Democratized in the AI Era?(22:17) The Four Layers of Personal AI: Knowledge, Data, Trust, and Connection(24:35) The Black Pill: Do Most People Have Enough Agency for This?(26:29) How Chris Connected His Own CardTool App to Claude(32:07) The Family Video Montage Built From iMessages and Photos(33:51) Reverse-Prompting and Breaking Tasks Into Discrete Steps(36:35) Is AI Making Us More Connected, or Less?(41:45) The Coming Flood of Bill Disputes, Appeals, and Speeding Tickets(44:52) Gemini, OpenAI Apps, and Claude Connectors Compared(47:03) The Hidden Power of Zapier's MCP Server(50:20) Managing Logins and Sensitive Data Without Losing Sleep(53:20) What's Still Not Possible With AI Today(56:56) The Gell-Mann Amnesia Effect Applied to AI(01:00:11) The Subsidies Behind Your $20 ChatGPT Plan(01:04:59) Evaluating the Actual Cost of AIConnect with Chris⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠ | ⁠Membership⁠⁠ | ⁠X⁠⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Editor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
• The Japan ER Visit That Changed How We Travel (& Tokyo Disney) with Amy Fox 06.05.2026 51λ

  #277: The last morning of our Japan trip turned into a sprint to a Tokyo emergency room, and challenged what we thought we knew about traveling abroad. We break down what a Japanese ER really cost, credit card benefits most travelers don't know they have, the best places to shop in Japan right now, and how to navigate Disney Tokyo without losing your day to four-hour lines.Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/japan-with-kids-er-visit-tokyo-disney/Partner DealsCopilot Money: ⁠Free 2 months access to my favorite personal finance app with code HACKS2Gelt: ⁠Skip the waitlist on personalized tax guidance to maximize your wealthFabric: ⁠Affordable term life insurance for you and your familyDeleteMe: ⁠20% off removing your personal info from the webStoryworth: Share your mother's stories in a custom book (+ up to $20 off)For all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: ⁠chrishutchins.com/dealsResources MentionedFlights & Award BookingJapan AirlinesFinnairAviosAmerican AirlinesAward ToolSeats.aeroHotelsPark Hyatt TokyoHilton Tokyo BayDisney Ambassador HotelAirbnbActivitiesteamLabKidZaniaTokyo DisneylandTokyo DisneySeaLuggage & TransportationYamato TransportRideSafer Travel VestSuica CardTakuhaibin Delivery ServicesTechnology & PlanningClaudeClaude CodeCodexGoogle Maps offlineGoogle TranslateT-MobileShoppingMujiDon Quijote (Donki)LoftTakashimayaARC5 PALM-Sized 5-Blade Electric Luxury RazorKeana Rice Pack face maskFood & Dining7-Eleven JapanFamilyMartKoffee MameyaAfuri RamenRokurinshaMos BurgerCredit CardsBank of America® Atmos™ Rewards Summit Visa Infinite® Credit CardChase Sapphire Reserve®The Platinum Card® from American ExpressATH PodcastAMA: Submit A QuestionLeave a review: Apple Podcasts | SpotifyEmail for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.comFull Show Notes(00:00) Introduction(01:20) The Chaotic Last Day — and Why a Great Hotel Concierge Changes Everything(06:01) What Happened When We Had a Medical Emergency in Japan(14:05) Rethinking Which Credit Card to Use for Booking International Travel(17:48) Why Japan Is One of the Best Places to Shop Right Now (and What to Buy)(27:32) DisneySea vs. Disneyland Tokyo(28:34) The Disney Lines Strategy: Premier Access, Vacation Packages, and Happy Entry(35:25) The Popcorn Hack and Other Only-in-Japan Disney Tips(41:54) Trip Highlights, Honest Regrets, and How We Handle Jet Lag(45:01) How Letting Go of "Once-in-a-Lifetime" Made the Trip Better(48:26) Don't Be Afraid to Ask for What You Need(49:48) The One-Day Buffer That Makes Every Trip BetterConnect with Chris⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠ | ⁠Membership⁠⁠ | ⁠X⁠⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Editor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
• Saving $30K+ on the Perfect Spring Break Japan Trip with Amy Fox 29.04.2026 1ώ 9λ

  #276: Learn how Chris and Amy booked four nonstop business class seats and a week at the Park Hyatt Tokyo almost entirely on points. They break down the strategy, key takeaways for traveling with kids, Chris' AI-powered trip planner, and more. Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/50k-points-japan-tripPartner DealsUpwork: ⁠Free job posting to find, hire, and pay top freelance talentWispr Flow: ⁠Try effortless voice dictation for freeFora: Become a Fora Advisor todayMasterClass: ⁠Learn from the world's best with 15% offAura Frames: $25 off the Carver Mat with code ALLTHEHACKSFor all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: ⁠chrishutchins.com/dealsResources MentionedFlights & Award BookingJapan AirlinesFinnairAviosAmerican AirlinesAward ToolSeats.aeroHotelsPark Hyatt TokyoHilton Tokyo BayDisney Ambassador HotelAirbnbActivitiesteamLabKidZaniaTokyo DisneylandTokyo DisneySeaLuggage & TransportationYamato TransportRideSafer Travel VestSuica CardTakuhaibin Delivery ServicesTechnology & PlanningClaudeClaude CodeCodexGoogle Maps offlineGoogle TranslateT-MobileCredit CardsBank of America® Atmos™ Rewards Summit Visa Infinite® Credit CardChase Sapphire Reserve®The Platinum Card® from American ExpressShoppingMujiDon Quijote (Donki)LoftTakashimayaARC5 PALM-Sized 5-Blade Electric Luxury RazorKeana Rice Pack face maskFood & Dining7-Eleven JapanFamilyMartKoffee MameyaAfuri RamenRokurinshaMos BurgerATH PodcastAMA: Submit A QuestionLeave a review: Apple Podcasts | SpotifyEmail for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.comFull Show Notes(00:00) Introduction(01:59) Why Booking Business Class to Japan a Year Out Actually Works(16:46) What Our Hyatt Points Are Worth Now — and After the Upcoming Devaluation(20:37) Why We Stayed in Tokyo the Entire Trip (and Why We're Glad We Did)(25:43) Why TeamLab Should Be on Every Asia Itinerary(26:46) How to Save on Phone Data Abroad and the Rookie Mistake to Avoid(27:31) How We Used AI to Build a Real-Time Trip Guide Before We Even Landed(35:58) Japan Airlines Business Class Review(38:56) Inside the Freshly Renovated Park Hyatt Tokyo(45:37) Is the Park Hyatt Tokyo's Location Actually a Problem?(51:03) Did the Cherry Blossoms Live Up to the Hype?(53:57) Why Japan's Bathrooms, Vending Machines, and Convenience Stores Are a Revelation(56:09) Cash, Cards, and Transit: How to Pay Your Way Through Japan(57:45) What We Learned About Traveling Tokyo with Kids(59:19) Why Food in Japan Is Just Better (Even at 7-Eleven)(01:00:51) KidZania Tokyo: The Best Kid Experience You've Never Heard Of(01:05:26) Why Japan's Bag-Forwarding Service Is a Game Changer for FamiliesConnect with ChrisNewsletter | Membership | X | Instagram | LinkedIn Editor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
• The Custom Everything Era with Kevin Rose 22.04.2026 1ώ 6λ

  #275: Chris and Kevin dig into how they're actually using AI tools in their daily lives right now. They explore real-world AI use cases, the tradeoffs of sharing personal data, the collapse of trust online, and what all of this means for jobs, creativity, and human connection.Kevin Rose is the host of Diggnation and a partner at True Ventures, an early-stage venture capital firm that has invested over $4 billion in a portfolio of over 400+ founders. Kevin previously founded Zero and Oak, and was a partner at Google Ventures.Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/using-ai-tools-today-kevin-rosePartner DealsAura Frames: $25 off the Carver Mat with code ALLTHEHACKSNetSuite: ⁠Free KPI checklist to upgrade your business performanceQuince: Affordable luxury essentials with free shipping + 365 day returnsBilt Rewards: ⁠Earn the most valuable points when you pay rentMercury: Help your business grow with simplified financesFor all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: ⁠chrishutchins.com/dealsResources MentionedKevin Rose: Diggnation | NewsletterAI Tools & PlatformsClaudeOpenClawChatGPTGoogle GeminiElevenLabsVercelJapan TravelCraig Mod's BlogPark Hyatt TokyoKidZania TokyoArticles & Pop CultureLeica and Content Authenticity InitiativeAll-In Podcast episode with Travis KalanickThe PittJoker GreetingATH PodcastNewsletterGift Card SiteLeave a review: Apple Podcasts | SpotifyEmail for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.comFull Show Notes(00:00) - Introduction (01:07) - Are We Actually Saving Time with AI—or Just Wasting It Faster? (10:03) - The Real Risks of Sharing Your Data with AI Tools (21:18) - Why It’s Never Been Easier to Build and Create (28:12) - Has AI Content Already Gone Too Far? (37:37) - How AI Is Reshaping Human Interaction (40:43) - The Growing Need to Verify What’s Real (46:33) - Investing in a World Being Disrupted by AI (51:44) - Where Jobs Are Headed in the AI Era (55:02) - What Happens to Art When Anyone Can Create? (56:47) - Tips for Planning a Trip to Japan Connect with Chris⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠ | ⁠Membership⁠⁠ | ⁠X⁠⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Editor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• The Surprising History of Points and Miles 15.04.2026 45λ

  #274: Chris walks through the complete history of points and miles and breaks down the $140 billion machine behind them, so you can get more out of every point you earn. He covers the legal accidents that made credit cards wildly profitable, why loyalty programs are worth more than the airlines, the psychology behind why you keep hoarding points, and more. Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/history-of-points-and-milesPartner DealsStoryworth: Share your mother's stories in a custom book (+ up to $20 off)Fabric: ⁠Affordable term life insurance for you and your familyGelt: ⁠Skip the waitlist on personalized tax guidance to maximize your wealthThrive Market: ⁠30% off your first order of organic groceries + a free $60 giftDeleteMe: ⁠20% off removing your personal info from the webFor all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: ⁠chrishutchins.com/dealsResources MentionedMovie:  The Man From The Diners ClubBook: Mileage Maniac by Steve BelkinVideo: How Airlines Quietly Became BanksArticlesCredit-card cash reshapes US airline loyalty — and profit by ReutersInterview with Matty Simmons by The Saturday Evening PostWho Pays For Your Rewards? Redistribution in the Credit Card Market by Agarwal, Presbitero, Silva, and WixATH PodcastBest Cards PageAMA: Submit A QuestionLeave a review: Apple Podcasts | SpotifyEmail for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.comFull Show Notes(00:00) Introduction(00:53) The Very Beginning of Points & Miles(04:07) How Credit Cards Came to Exist(08:24) The Legal Accident that Made Credit Cards Profitable(15:50) The History of Rewards(19:06) The Story of Air Pass(23:20) The First Airline Co-branded Credit Cards(25:21) How the Credit Card System Works Between Different Banks(29:38) How the Airline Rewards System Works(35:32) Airline Rewards Grade Devaluations(37:31) Examples of Rare Airline Reward Point Opportunities(39:33) The Endowed Progress Effect(40:38) The Goal Gradient Effect and Chasing Airline Rewards(41:09) The Sunk Cost Fallacy(41:47) The Separate Mental Accounts Effect(42:46) Quick Summary of the History of Miles & PointsConnect with Chris⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠ | ⁠Membership⁠⁠ | ⁠X⁠⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Editor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• Stop Overthinking and Start Deciding with Derek Sivers 08.04.2026 1ώ 55λ

  #273: Learn to stop overthinking and make better decisions. Chris and Derek discuss how optimizing can go wrong, a coin flip trick for making decisions, journaling as a superpower, how your actions might reveal what you actually want, and more.Derek Sivers is an entrepreneur, writer, and self-proclaimed "slow thinker" best known for founding CD Baby, which he sold for $22M and gave the proceeds to charity. He’s since dedicated his life to creating, learning, and writing books like Hell Yeah or No.Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/derek-sivers-stop-overthinking-make-better-decisionsPartner DealsMercury: Help your business grow with simplified financesSuperhuman: ⁠Free month of the fastest and best email with code ALLTHEHACKSUpwork: ⁠Free job posting to find, hire, and pay top freelance talentGusto: ⁠Free 3-month trial of the #1 payroll softwareCopilot Money: ⁠Free 2 months access to my favorite personal finance app with code HACKS2For all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: ⁠chrishutchins.com/dealsResources MentionedDerek Sivers: Website | XBook: Hell Yeah or No: what's worth doingArticles: My Heroes | Actions, Not Words, Reveal Our Real Values | Parenting: Who Is It Really For? | Travel Is Best With Young Children | Relax for the Same Result | How To Ask Your Mentors For HelpBooks Mentioned: The Paradox of Choice | Brain Rules for BabyNew Zealand Recommendation: Staglands Wildlife ReserveATH PodcastAMA: Submit A QuestionLeave a review: Apple Podcasts | SpotifyEmail for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.comFull Show Notes(00:00) Introduction(02:39) Turning Intentions Into Reality(07:34) Reflecting On What You Want And Why(13:39) Methods For Decision-Making(16:23) Learning To Pause, Reflect, And Push Back Through Journaling(31:01) Making Decisions When There Are Too Many Options(37:15) Coin Toss: Noticing Your Feelings While The Coin Is In The Air(39:52) Paradox Of Choice: Satisfice Not Maximize(50:30) Theory Vs. Practice(58:53) Decision-Making Based On Personal Goals And Aspirations(01:03:14) Actions Reveal Values(01:08:30) The Power of Saying No(01:18:18) Parenting Perspective(01:22:31) Traveling With Children(01:31:53) Adjusting Expectations (01:41:07) Relax for The Same Result(01:49:42) Derek Sivers’ New Zealand RecommendationsConnect with Chris⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠ | ⁠Membership⁠⁠ | ⁠X⁠⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Editor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
• My Process for Booking Travel with Points & Miles 01.04.2026 57λ

  #272: Learn how to turn your points into significantly better travel experiences by following a simple, repeatable system. We cover how to plan, find award availability, choose the right tools, and decide between portals vs. transfers, plus the mindset shifts that make the whole process work.Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/booking-travel-with-points-and-miles-2026Partner DealsGelt: ⁠Skip the waitlist on personalized tax guidance to maximize your wealthBilt Rewards: ⁠Earn the most valuable points when you pay rentDeleteMe: ⁠20% off removing your personal info from the webWispr Flow: ⁠Try effortless voice dictation for freeGreen Chef: ⁠50% off your first month + 20% off for two months with code 50ALLTHEHACKSFor all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: ⁠chrishutchins.com/dealsResources MentionedAward Search ToolsAwardTool ($20 off annual plans with code ALLTHEHACKS)point.me (20% off annual plans with code ALLTHEHACKS20)PointsYeahSeats.AeroPoints Path Browser ExtensionFlightConnectionsCredit CardsBest Cards PageCardTool AppMarriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® CardATH PodcastEp 166: Best Award Search Tools for Booking Flights with Points & Miles with Greg the Frequent MilerEp 227: The Path to Becoming an Expert in Points & Miles with Devon GimbelEp 238: 18 Tactics for Booking Travel with Points & MilesEp 244: How I Saved $10,000+ on Luxury HotelsEp 258: My Top 5 Mistakes with Points & MilesMembershipAMA: Submit A QuestionLeave a review: Apple Podcasts | SpotifyEmail for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.comFull Show Notes(00:00) Introduction(01:10) Two Ways to Use Points for Travel(06:30) Define Your Flexibility Before You Search(11:42) Clarify What You Actually Want From A Trip(15:00) When to Start Planning (and Why Earlier Is Almost Always Better)(18:48) How To Find Award Availability(19:55) The Best Award Search Tools & How to Use Them(21:17) How Award Tools Work(23:30) Using Alerts To Find Better Flights(26:15) What To Do When You Can’t Find Availability(28:31) How to Book for a Group When Availability Is Tight(31:32) Why You Should Book One-Way Flights(32:27) How To Use Points For Domestic Flights(34:38) The Best Tool For Domestic Award Searches(35:05) Why Diversifying Your Points Unlocks More Domestic Options(36:36) Should You Ever Use Points to Upgrade Seats?(39:00) Are Travel Portals Worth It?(39:36) The Case Against Using Travel Portals(42:09) The Case For Using Travel Portals(45:17) How To Think About Chase Points Boost(48:26) When Using Points For Hotels Makes Sense(50:50) The Best Ways to Earn Hotel Points(53:54) The Award Booking Index CardConnect with Chris⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠ | ⁠Membership⁠⁠ | ⁠X⁠⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Editor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
• How to Actually Live the Life You're Optimizing For with Sahil Bloom 25.03.2026 59λ

  #271: Learn why over-optimizing your life can quietly destroy the things you actually care about. Chris and Sahil explore the doorman fallacy, why big life decisions should happen fast, how to use AI as a thinking partner, and why systems beat motivation every time.Sahil Bloom is a writer, entrepreneur, and investor. He wrote The 5 Types of Wealth, publishes the newsletter The Curiosity Chronicle to nearly a million readers, and is the Founder of the men's skincare line Wild Roman.Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/sahil-bloom-stop-over-optimizing-lifePartner DealsQuince: Affordable luxury essentials with free shipping + 365 day returnsMercury: ⁠Manage, move, and grow your moneyLMNT: ⁠Free sample pack of my favorite electrolyte drink mixFabric: ⁠Affordable term life insurance for you and your familyMasterClass: ⁠Learn from the world's best with 15% offFor all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: ⁠chrishutchins.com/dealsResources MentionedSahil: Website | Newsletter | XWild Roman: 10% off with code CHUTCHINS10Books & ArticlesThe 5 Types of Wealth by Sahil BloomA Reflection On The Little ThingsThe Doorman FallacyThe Real AI Risk Nobody Told You AboutThe 2028 Global Intelligence CrisisRule for Life: Don't ComplainAI ToolsDeep PersonalityLemonWispr FlowPhone Lock Box: Mindsight Timed Lock BoxFull Show Notes(00:00) Introduction(00:58) Why Sahil Moved His Entire Family from New York to Boston(03:09) Why Big Life Changes Should Happen Fast(04:47) The Real ROI of Small Moments(06:27) The Doorman Fallacy: What You Lose When You Optimize the Surface(10:32) Designing Your Life vs Letting It Happen(15:15) The Tradeoffs of Living Near Opportunity(22:17) Why Now Is the Best Time in History to Be Curious(30:05) How Sahil Actually Uses AI Day-to-Day(36:23) Solomon's Paradox: Why We Can't Take Our Own Advice(38:45) Using Voice Agents to Think Better(40:03) Balancing Work, Family, and Time(45:47) Why Motivation Is Overrated and Choice Architecture Wins(49:11) Making Workouts Non-Negotiable Without Sacrificing Work(52:54) How Often to Audit Your Routines (Before They Start Owning You)(53:42) Why Sahil Invested $1M of His Own Money in a Skincare CompanyConnect with Chris⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠ | ⁠Membership⁠⁠ | ⁠X⁠⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Editor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
• Ski Trip Mishaps, AI Interior Design, Reflecting on Life and More 18.03.2026 1ώ 10λ

  #270: Chris and Amy discuss lessons from three ski trips with kids, using AI to redesign rooms on a budget, their favorite new gadgets, navigating high-deductible health plans, and more. Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/ski-trips-ai-home-design-health-finances-amyPartner DealsNetSuite: Free KPI checklist to upgrade your business performanceGelt: Skip the waitlist on personalized tax guidance to maximize your wealthTrust & Will: Get 20% off personalized, legally binding estate plansDeleteMe: 20% off removing your personal info from the webUpwork: Free job posting to find, hire, and pay top freelance talentFor all deals, discounts, and promo codes from our partners, visit:chrishutchins.com/dealsResources MentionedDelta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express CardSki & TravelEpic PassWoodwardVrboKirkwoodEtekcity Luggage ScaleAI ToolsGeminiClaudeChatGPTNano BananaGoogle SitesBeeLimitless PendantWispr FlowDeep PersonalityHome GadgetsSkylightAura FramesPaprikaRatio Eight Series 2Baratza Forté™ BGHealth & WearablesOura RingWHOOP (← 1 month free)One MedicalBlueberry Pediatrics (← $100)Money & FinanceMercuryCopilot Money (free 2 months access with code HACKS2)ATH PodcastAsk Chris Anything!Newsletter#237: ⁠How to Design a Rich Life at Any Income with Ramit Sethi#268: Stop Planning, Start Experimenting: A Science-Backed Approach to a Better Life with Anne-Laure Le CunffLeave a review: Apple Podcasts | SpotifyEmail for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@allthehacks.comFull Show Notes(00:00) Introduction(00:55) The Lost Clothes Disaster and A Surprisingly Good Outcome(14:30) What Ski Trips Are Really Like With Kids(15:06) This Ski Season vs. Last Ski Season(18:14) Smarter Ways To Book Houses for Ski Travel(19:03) How To Save Money on Checked Bags for Ski Trips(19:37) A Shoutout to the New Delta Sky Club in Terminal 2(20:07) When It’s Better To Drive Instead of Fly(21:42) How Amy Has Been Redesigning Rooms in the House(23:22) Why AI Is Such a Powerful Tool for Home Design(23:54) Amy’s Step-by-Step Process for Redesigning a Room With AI(25:02) The AI Tools Amy Used and What Each One Did Best(29:51) Using AI To Find Better Furniture Ideas(32:38) How Much Money AI Saved vs. Hiring a Designer(34:18) New House Gadget: The Skylight Calendar(36:25) Why We Love the Ratio Coffee Machine Gen 2 and the Baratza Grinder(39:50) Oura Ring vs. WHOOP Band(42:53) Bee, Wearable AI, and the Future of Personal Memory(50:30) What It Looks Like To Integrate AI Deeply Into Daily Life(54:22) What We Learned Switching to a High-Deductible Health Plan(01:03:11) Best Practices for Combining Finances as a CoupleConnect with Chris⁠Newsletter⁠ | ⁠Membership⁠ | ⁠X⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠Editor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
• Navigating Transfer Bonuses, Hyatt Devaluation, New Card Offers and More 11.03.2026 58λ

  #269: Chris breaks down why he transferred >200k points for a transfer bonus and how to know when they're actually worth it. He also covers Hyatt's new award chart changes, the latest elevated welcome offers, and how he's using multiple AI agents to optimize his work and life.Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/transfer-bonuses-hyatt-devaluation-aiPartner DealsCopilot Money: Free 2 months access to my favorite personal finance app with code HACKS2Fabric: Affordable term life insurance for you and your familyGusto: Free 3-month trial of the #1 payroll softwareMercury: Manage, move, and grow your moneyBilt Rewards: Earn the most valuable points when you pay rentFor all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: chrishutchins.com/dealsResources MentionedAI Models & AssistantsChatGPTOpenClawGeminiClaude | Claude CoworkOura RingOpenSnowGridfinityJAL USA CARDRove MilesTransfer Bonuses in March 2026Citi → Wyndham: 25% bonus (ends 3/21)Amex → Avianca LifeMiles: 15% bonus (ends 3/28)Rove Miles → Japan Airlines: 50% bonus (ends 3/31)Capital One → Preferred Hotels: 30% bonus (ends 3/31)Massive Hyatt Points DevaluationCredit CardsBest Cards PageRobinhood Gold CardU.S. Bank Smartly™ VisaBilt Palladium Card (Rates and fees here)Delta SkyMiles® Gold Business American Express CardDelta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express CardDelta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express CardHilton Honors American Express CardHilton Honors American Express Surpass® CardThe Hilton Honors American Express Business CardHilton Honors American Express Aspire CardThe Platinum Card® from American ExpressAmerican Express® Business Gold CardThe Business Platinum Card® from American ExpressWHOOP (1 month free here)Function HealthATH PodcastAsk Chris Anything!NewsletterEp #265: I Built an AI Assistant That Works While I SleepEp #264: Deep Dive on Bilt Rewards and New Bilt 2.0 CardsLeave a review: Apple Podcasts | SpotifyEmail for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.comFull Show Notes(00:00) Introduction(00:55) Chris's New AI Agent(04:00) How To Leverage Claude Cowork (06:14) How Chris Used AI to Build a New CardTool(08:52) The Future of The Internet (17:21) 3D Printing(18:39) Taking Advantage of Transfer Bonuses(21:56) Bilt Rent Day Transfer Bonuses(27:09) Rove Transfer Bonus to JAL & Other Bonuses(33:22) Hyatt's Massive Devaluation(38:54) How to Get More Points with Potential Devaluations(41:15) Welcome Offers on Delta Cards(45:12) Welcome Offers on United Cards(48:28) Welcome Offers on Hilton Cards(51:13) Welcome Offers on Southwest Cards(53:30) Cards with Big-Point Offers (54:13) Find the Latest Deals on the ATH Newsletter (54:45) Card-Linked Deals for Whoop and Function Health Connect with ChrisNewsletter | Membership | X | Instagram | LinkedInEditor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
• Stop Planning, Start Experimenting: A Science-Backed Approach to a Better Life with Anne-Laure Le Cunff 04.03.2026 59λ

  #268: Learn why setting big goals might actually be holding you back and what to do instead. Chris and Anne-Laure explore how to replace goal-setting with tiny, low-risk experiments that lead to more growth, more joy, and less burnout.Anne-Laure Le Cunff is a neuroscientist, writer, and founder of Ness Labs, a learning community at the intersection of science and self-development. She is the author of Tiny Experiments and publishes a weekly newsletter on mindful productivity, creativity, and growth.Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/tiny-experiments-anne-laure-le-cunff/Partner DealsShopify: $1/month trial for the easiest e-commerce platformDeleteMe: 20% off removing your personal info from the webGelt: Skip the waitlist on personalized tax guidance to maximize your wealthGreen Chef: 50% off on your first box + 20% off for two months with code 50ALLTHEHACKSSuperhuman: Free month of the fastest and best email with code ALLTHEHACKSFor all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: ⁠chrishutchins.com/deals⁠Resources MentionedAnne-Laure: Website | Newsletter | InstagramTiny ExperimentsNess LabsATH PodcastEp #256: The Easy Way to Build and Maintain Meaningful Relationships with Nick GrayLeave a review: Apple Podcasts | SpotifyEmail for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.comFull Show Notes(00:00) Introduction(01:01) The Problem with Setting Big Goals(02:42) When Goal Setting Becomes Counterproductive(03:41) Why Tiny Experiments Beat Goals(06:07) The Missing Ingredients That Make Experiments Actually Work(08:29) How an Experimental Mindset Rewires Your Brain(10:11) How Anne-Laure Adopted an Experimental Mindset(13:38) What Happened When Anne-Laure Redefined Success(16:29) How to Run a Tiny Experiment(18:22) Real-World Examples You Can Try Immediately(20:10) Why Smaller Is Always Better When Starting Out(22:28) How to Experiment Without Burning Out(25:05) Tracking Both External Results and Internal Signals(30:10) The Simple Weekly Review That Keeps Experiments on Track(32:18) Balancing Experimentation With Actually Living Your Life(35:45) Applying Experimentation to Financial Security(39:33) The Real Reason We Over-Optimize(42:15) When Optimizing Is Actually the Right Move(46:09) Balancing Excitement With Long-Term Priorities(50:12) Measuring Time Differently(52:20) Simple Rituals for Getting Present(53:25) Why Experimenting Publicly Accelerates Growth(57:26) How to Run Your Very First Experiment(59:26) Where to Find Anne-Laure and Her WorkConnect with Chris⁠Newsletter⁠ | ⁠Membership⁠ | ⁠X⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠Editor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
• Credit Cards: What's in My Wallet for 2026 25.02.2026 1ώ 15λ

  #267: Chris reviews his credit card lineup for 2026, sharing which cards he's keeping and canceling and why. He also covers how to evaluate annual fees, the best cards across major spending categories, and the apps he uses to stay on top of it all.Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/whats-in-my-wallet-2026/Link to Cards Mentioned: https://chrishutchins.com/blog/whats-in-my-wallet-for-2026/Partner DealsMasterClass: Learn from the world's best with 15% offWispr Flow: Try effortless voice dictation for freeMercury: Manage, move, and grow your moneyGelt: Skip the waitlist on personalized tax guidance to maximize your wealthLMNT: Free sample pack of my favorite electrolyte drink mixFor all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: chrishutchins.com/dealsResources MentionedCardTool App (Free access here)⁠Credit Card Holder Wallet⁠1PasswordBlog PostsPremium Card WorksheetHow to maximize your Hilton cards6 reasons to avoid booking through an online travel agencyExisting Bank of America relationship customers to keep status longerCredit Card TrackersCardPointers Pro (30% off here and 50% off here)CardRightTravel FreelyATH PodcastBest Cards PageCardTool AppMembershipChris’s Card Optimization SpreadsheetAMA: Submit A QuestionLeave a review: Apple Podcasts | SpotifyEmail for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.comFull Show Notes(00:00) - Introduction (02:42) - 3 Key Reasons to Get A Credit Card (05:23) - Chris' Credit Card Goals for 2026 (08:31) - Evaluating The Net Annual Fee of A Card (12:56) - The Amex Card Stack (23:19) - Co-Branded Marriott Cards (25:32) - Co-Branded Hilton Cards (27:00) - Co-Branded Delta Cards (28:12) - The Amex Blue Card (30:34) - A Popular Bank's Cards (33:10) - World of Hyatt Business Card (33:30) - Co-Branded Southwest & United Cards (40:41) - More Cards From The Popular Bank (42:11) - Capital One Venture Cards (45:17) - Bank of America Card Stack (51:09) - Alaska Atmos Cards (53:24) - US Bank Cards (55:22) - Citi Bank Cards (56:56) - Wells Fargo Autograph Card (57:43) - The Bilt Palladium Card (59:25) - Assessing The Major Spending Categories (01:06:32) - Cards for Amazon & Costco (01:07:13) - The Best "Everything Else" Card (01:08:47) - Chris's Takeaway on Credit Card Spending Categories (01:09:26) - The Best Card Combos (01:13:00) - Credit Card Trackers Connect with ChrisNewsletter | Membership | X | Instagram | LinkedInEditor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
• Why Change Is Hard and How to Make It Your Advantage with Maya Shankar 18.02.2026 48λ

  #266: Chris and Maya break down the science-backed tools that make change easier and more intentional. They explore why most people misunderstand change, how to anchor your identity to your deeper “why,” and practical tools to break out of rumination and navigate uncertainty.Maya Shankar is the bestselling author of The Other Side of Change, and hosts the podcast A Slight Change of Plans. She previously served as a Senior Advisor in the Obama White House, where she founded and led the White House Behavioral Science Team.Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/navigating-change-maya-shankarPartner DealsThrive Market: 30% off your first order of organic groceries + a free $60 giftGusto: Free 3-month trial of the #1 payroll softwareBilt Rewards: Earn the most valuable points when you pay rentDeleteMe: 20% off removing your personal info from the webFabric: Affordable term life insurance for you and your familyFor all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: chrishutchins.com/dealsResources MentionedMaya: Website | InstagramBook: The Other Side of ChangePodcast: A Slight Change of PlansQuit: The Power of Knowing When to Walk Away by Annie DukeDeep Personality AssessmentATH PodcastEp #81: Making Smarter Decisions and Knowing When to Walk Away with Annie DukeEp #265: I Built an AI Assistant That Works While I SleepLeave a review: Apple Podcasts | SpotifyEmail for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.comFull Show Notes(00:00) Introduction(00:38) What People Get Wrong About Change(05:14) The Antidote That Makes Change Easier(12:11) Past Change vs. Intentional Change(16:02) Maximisers vs. Satisficers(19:10) Anchor Your Identity to Your Why(23:15) How to Discover Your Why(25:03) Navigating Change With a Very Different Partner(29:17) Breaking the Rumination Cycle(29:58) Mental Time Travel(31:55) Affect Labeling(32:39) Tools for Better Self-Understanding(36:01) AI as a Conversational Partner(39:43) Tactics For Thinking Through Big Changes(42:01) Moral Elevation(43:36) Why Reading Fiction Matters(44:29) Repurposing Your Experience(45:34) The First Step When Everything Changes(47:31) Where to Find More From MayaConnect with ChrisNewsletter | Membership | X | Instagram | LinkedInEditor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
• I Built an AI Assistant That Works While I Sleep 11.02.2026 53λ

  #265: Chris explores how modern AI tools have eliminated the barriers to building software, why planning matters more than coding skill, how anyone can turn a simple problem into a working app faster and cheaper than ever before, and how he built a personal AI assistant that's already started to run his life behind the scenes.Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/how-to-build-with-ai-toolsPartner DealsGreen Chef: 50% off on your first box + 20% off for two months with code 50ALLTHEHACKSMercury: Help your business grow with simplified financesNetSuite: Free KPI checklist to upgrade your business performanceGelt: Skip the waitlist on personalized tax guidance to maximize your wealthTrust & Will: Get 20% off personalized, legally binding estate plansFor all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: chrishutchins.com/dealsResources MentionedAI Models & AssistantsChatGPTOpenClawGeminiClaudeAI Coding & Building ToolsReplitLovableCursorCodexProductivity & Automation ToolsWispr FlowZapierNimble LinksTampermonkeyDeveloper InfrastructureClerkSupabaseGitHubFinTech: PlaidHow to Run OpenClaw as your Virtual EABlogsDoctor of CreditFrequent MilerThe Points GuyDeep PersonalityCredit CardsAmerican Express® Gold CardCiti Strata Elite℠ CardCiti Strata Premier℠ CardBilt 2.0ATH PodcastEp #263: How to Earn Millions of Points and More Listener Q&AChris’ Card Optimizer ToolAsk Chris Anything!Leave a review: Apple Podcasts | SpotifyEmail for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.comFull Show Notes(00:00) Introduction(01:41) Why This Is the Best Time Ever to Build Software(04:14) How to Build Almost Anything with AI(13:53) Why Context Is the Real Superpower(15:58) Using Planning Mode Instead of Guessing(16:41) Which AI Tool Should You Start With?(17:53) Building a Real Credit Card Optimizer from Scratch(28:48) What It Actually Costs to Build with AI(32:38) The Real AI Learning Curve(33:38) Moving from Cursor to Claude Code(36:17) Why You Should Try Building Something (Even If You're Not a Coder)(37:00) How OpenClaw Changes the Game(38:57) Why Security Still Matters(42:25) A Conversation with Ted, Chris' AI Assistant(44:07) Letting AI Work While You Sleep(49:41) Learning to Be Clear, Specific, and Intentional(50:03) Start with a Real Problem(50:39) Breaking Projects into Small, Winnable Pieces(50:58) What Would You Build If Building Were Easy?(51:59) Keeping Track of Cost and BudgetConnect with ChrisNewsletter | Membership | X | Instagram | LinkedInEditor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
• Deep Dive on Bilt Rewards and New Bilt 2.0 Cards 04.02.2026 1ώ 17λ

  #264: Learn how the Bilt ecosystem works, from earning Bilt Rewards to the new cards, transfer partners, perks, and where the real value is. Whether you’re new or already earning, this is a practical guide to using Bilt strategically and avoiding common mistakes.Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/bilt-ecosystem-explainedPartner DealsDeleteMe: 20% off removing your personal info from the webCopilot Money: Free 2 months access to my favorite personal finance app with code HACKS2Shopify: $1/month trial for the easiest e-commerce platformSuperhuman: Free month of the fastest and best email with code ALLTHEHACKSWispr Flow: Try effortless voice dictation for freeFor all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: chrishutchins.com/dealsResources MentionedBilt 2.0Bilt Blue Card (Rates and fees here)Bilt Obsidian Card (Rates and fees here)Bilt Palladium Card (Rates and fees here)Bilt CashBilt Travel PortalBilt DiningBilt Home Design CollectionComplimentary BLADE airport flightMastercard World Elite Benefits GuideAward Search ToolsAward Walletpoint.me (20% off annual plans with code ALLTHEHACKS20)GopuffBevMo!Rakuten ($50 bonus here)Robinhood Gold CardFrequent Miler Article: Bilt Housing PaymentsATH PodcastLuxury Hotel Upgrade ProgramAsk Chris Anything!Leave a review: Apple Podcasts | SpotifyEmail for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.comFull Show Notes(00:00) Introduction(02:28) What Makes Bilt Rewards Different(07:03) How to Earn Bilt Points Without a Credit Card(13:52) Referral Bonuses and Earning Limits(14:17) How Rent and Mortgage Payments Work(16:06) Earning Through the Bilt Neighborhood Network(17:16) Earning Without a Card: The Real Tradeoffs(17:46) How Bilt Point Redemptions Actually Work(21:39) Transfer Partners and When Bonuses Matter(24:18) How Bilt Status and Elite Tiers Work(25:32) What Each Bilt Status Level Unlocks(31:49) A Major Caveat With the New Bilt Cards(34:36) Breaking Down the Current Bilt Card Lineup(35:33) Bilt Blue Card(37:34) Bilt Obsidian Card(41:19) Bilt Palladium Card(48:59) Housing Payments and What Changed(50:16) Earning Based on Billing-Cycle Spend(55:18) The Original Fee-Free Model(59:26) Cash-Out and Statement Credit Options(01:08:44) Simplifying the New Bilt Choices(01:14:21) The Bilt Silver LiningConnect with ChrisNewsletter | Membership | X | Instagram | LinkedInEditor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
• How to Earn Millions of Points and More Listener Q&A 28.01.2026 1ώ 7λ

  #263: Chris breaks down exactly how he’s earned millions of points and miles, and why simplicity matters more than optimization. He covers signup bonuses, spending strategies, credit score impacts, business cards, cash-back alternatives, and how to decide when a card (or perk) is actually worth it.Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/points-and-miles-simplified-credit-cardsPartner DealsFabric: Affordable term life insurance for you and your familyBilt Rewards: Earn the most valuable points when you pay rentGusto: Free 3-month trial of the #1 payroll softwareNotion: Try Notion Agent free to automate tedious tasks and streamline your workGelt: Skip the waitlist on personalized tax guidance to maximize your wealthFor all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: chrishutchins.com/dealsResources MentionedCredit Cards: Best Cards PageAlaska Airlines Visa®American Express® Green CardAmerican Express Platinum Card for SchwabAtmos™ Rewards Summit Visa Infinite® CardBank of America® Premium Rewards® EliteBank of America® Unlimited Cash RewardsBilt Palladium Card (Rates and fees here)Capital One Venture X BusinessCapital One Venture X Rewards Credit CardCiti® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®Coinbase One CardCostco Anywhere Visa® Card by CitiHilton Honors American Express Aspire CardRobinhood Gold CardThe Business Platinum Card® from American ExpressU.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® CardVenmo Credit CardWells Fargo Autograph℠ CardRakuten: Free $50 hereBusiness Payment Platforms: Plastiq | MelioIRS Authorized Payment ProvidersPay1040ACI PaymentsReddit: Credit Card Spend Needed to Achieve Each Airline Status TierATH PodcastChris' Credit Card Optimizer ToolAsk Chris Anything!MembershipGift Card SiteEp #164: Earn Points Paying Taxes with a Credit Card (+ Latest Deals/News)Ep #200: Debunking Tax Myths, Avoiding Audits and Maximizing Savings with Jasmine DiLucciEp #221: Deep Dive on Credit Reports, Scores, and Their Real-World ImpactEp #247: Deep Dive on Bank of America Credit Cards (Up to 5.25% Cash Back)Ep #248: How to Stop Over-Optimizing and Focus on What Matters with Tim FerrissEp #258: My Top 5 Mistakes with Points & MilesEp #261: Goals, Tools, and Mindset Shifts for a Better 2026 with Kevin RoseLeave a review: Apple Podcasts | SpotifyEmail for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@allthehacks.comFull Show Notes(00:00) Introduction(01:26) How Chris Has Earned 15+ Million Points(03:46) Why Signup Bonuses Still Matter More than Everything Else(05:04) The Role Everyday Spending Actually Plays(08:42) When Transfer Bonuses Are Worth It(12:24) How Chris Leverages Referral Bonuses(13:24) What Having "Too Many" Credit Cards Really Does to Your Credit Score(16:13) How Many Signup Bonuses per Year Is Reasonable?(16:44) Why Spend Requirements Are the Real Bottleneck(18:23) Approval Odds and Timing Applications(22:04) Getting Approved for Business Cards (Without A Business)(27:23) Maximizing Rewards without Overcomplicating It(30:18) When Cash Back Is the Better Option(32:48) Best Cards for Big, One-Time Expenses like Weddings(37:24) Making Sense of Card Rules and Restrictions (38:13) Annual Fees: How to Decide if They're Worth Paying(41:12) Paying Taxes with a Credit Card(46:28) How to Think about Points if You Mostly Care about Hotels(49:10) Is CLEAR Worth It?(51:48) How DoorDash Credits Work(53:25) Is There a Shortcut to Airline Loyalty Status?(57:04) The Best Credit Card for Costco Spending(59:19) Are the New Bilt Cards Actually Bad?Connect with ChrisNewsletter | Membership | X | Instagram | LinkedInEditor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
• Points & Miles in 2026: What's New, What's Dying & What's Next with Brian M 21.01.2026 1ώ 20λ

  #262: Learn how to navigate major changes in points and miles while maximizing travel rewards in 2026. Chris and Brian M cover Bilt 2.0, the Mesa card shutdown, how to evaluate annual fees, find award availability, and what’s likely (and unlikely) to change this year.Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/latest-on-points-miles-january-2026Partner DealsTrust & Will: Get 20% off personalized, legally binding estate plansMasterClass: Learn from the world's best with 15% offThrive Market: 30% off your first order of organic groceries + a free $60 giftNetSuite: Free KPI checklist to upgrade your business performanceDeleteMe: 20% off removing your personal info from the webFor all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: chrishutchins.com/dealsResources MentionedBilt World Elite Mastercard® (Rates and fees here)Bilt 2.0Bilt Blue Card (Rates and fees here)Bilt Obsidian Card (Rates and fees here)Bilt Palladium Card (Rates and fees here)Rove MilesSilo MarketsRakuten ($50 bonus here)Kalshi Prediction MarketAlila Ventana Big SurThe Big A## CalendarAward Search ToolsAward WalletPoints Path Chrome ExtensionGoogle FlightsAwardTool ($20 off annual plans with code ALLTHEHACKS)Expert FlyerATH PodcastLeave a review: Apple Podcasts | SpotifyEmail for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.comFull Show Notes(00:00) Introduction(01:27) Reactions to Bilt’s New Card Lineup(04:08) Breakdown of the 3 New Bilt Cards(05:14) Should You Convert, Apply Fresh, Or Keep the Wells Fargo Card?(08:16) Questions Around Bilt Cash(09:50) The Bilt Card Chris Is Leaning Towards(15:03) Why Bilt's New Earnings Might Be Better Than It Looks(20:03) Mesa's Overnight Shutdown(24:25) Silo Markets Brokerage Bonus(29:54) What’s Coming Up in 2026 For Points, Loyalty, And Cards(32:25) Thoughts on the Southwest Companion Pass(35:26) Implications of the Proposed 10% Interest Rate Cap on Credit Cards(38:19) Will Points Tools Get Better in 2026?(40:02) Why 2026 Might Be Quiet on Major Credit Card Changes(43:18) How Brian Decides Whether an Annual Fee Card is Worth Keeping(46:50) Chris’ Order of Operations For Analyzing Cards(51:42) Ways to Plan A Trip Using Points(57:49) How Brian Leverages Flexibility for Travel(01:00:04) Strategies for Booking Flights(01:03:23) The Best Award Flight Search Tools(01:04:58) Booking Hotels With Points(01:09:38) Timeshares: When They Make Sense (and When They Don’t)(01:11:51) Using Alerts to Monitor Award Availability(01:13:12) Changing the Connecting City After Booking a Flight(01:15:14) Business Cards for Personal Spend (and Vice Versa)(01:17:09) What to Do When You Stop Getting Approved for CardsConnect with ChrisNewsletter | Membership | X | Instagram | LinkedInEditor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
• Goals, Tools, and Mindset Shifts for a Better 2026 with Kevin Rose 14.01.2026 1ώ 12λ

  #261: Chris and Kevin reflect on 2025’s biggest wins and lessons, then dive into how they're planning 2026. They share their goals, the tools they're using, and why they're designing a year that’s easier, not just more optimized.Kevin Rose is the host of Diggnation and a partner at True Ventures, an early-stage venture capital firm that has invested over $4 billion in a portfolio of over 400+ founders. Kevin previously founded Zero and Oak, and was a partner at Google Ventures.Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/reflecting-and-planning-2026Partner DealsWispr Flow: Try effortless voice dictation for freeLMNT: Free sample pack of my favorite electrolyte drink mixCopilot Money: Free 2 months access to my favorite personal finance app with code HACKS2Fabric: Affordable term life insurance for you and your familyGelt: Skip the waitlist on personalized tax guidance to maximize your wealthFor all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: chrishutchins.com/dealsResources MentionedKevin Rose: Diggnation | NewsletterBooksThe Wealth Ladder by Nick MaggiulliRework by Jason FriedFizzyJesse Itzler: Plan An Incredible 2026 In 12 MinutesPodcastsThe Daily ChurnNew Modern Mom: Do you need a house manager?DuolingoGames Magazine SubscriptionBram Cohen PuzzlesThe Big A## CalendarATH PodcastNewsletterChris’ Card Optimizer ToolEp #99: 7 Questions to Make 2025 Your Best Year YetEp #213: The 5 Types of Wealth with Sahil BloomEp #259: Choosing the Problems Worth Struggling For with Mark MansonLeave a review: Apple Podcasts | SpotifyEmail for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.comFull Show Notes(00:00) Introduction(00:45) Kevin's 2025 Goals & How They Came to Fruition(04:34) Chris's Challenging End to 2025(06:53) How Chris is Approaching Optimization in 2026(09:33) Stepping Up Your Ability to Spend Money(15:55) What Chris and Kevin Changed Their Minds About in 2025(20:11) The Many Different Uses of AI(29:16) Chris's Energy Generators and Drainers(33:40) Kevin's Energy Generators and Drainers(36:56) Decluttering for A Peace of Mind(41:09) How To Identify The Boat Anchors in Your Life(49:18) Chris's Hits and Misses in 2025(52:10) Kevin's Hits and Misses for 2025(54:19) How Kevin Plans His Year Ahead(57:53) Outsourcing to Make Things Easier(01:05:12) Focus on Making Lasting Memories(01:06:34) Ways to Pick Up New Skills(01:09:36) The Life Blender ConceptConnect with ChrisNewsletter | Membership | X | Instagram | LinkedInEditor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.