Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast

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  Rove Report: Copa Airlines Transfer Bonus and What's New 18.09.2026 20dk

  Rove Adds Copa Airlines: 40% Transfer Bonus, App Updates, Dining & Gift Cards with Carissa Rawson Justin Vacula of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast welcomes Carissa Rawson from Rove to discuss the latest Rove updates, including Copa Airlines ConnectMiles as a new transfer partner, a limited-time 40% transfer bonus, Rove app improvements, Rove Dining, expanded hotel inventory, gift cards, referral bonuses, and upcoming events. Rove is a transferable travel rewards program that lets users earn Rove Miles through hotels, shopping, dining, gift cards, and other purchases without requiring a Rove-branded credit card. The biggest update is the addition of Copa Airlines ConnectMiles as a new Rove transfer partner. Rove Miles transfer to Copa at a 1:1 ratio, and through September 30, 2026, users can receive a limited-time 40% transfer bonus. Timestamps 00:00 Show Intro And Rove Overview 00:48 Rove Party And Program Basics 01:43 New Partner: Copa ConnectMiles 03:42 Copa Sweet Spots And Tips 06:27 Rove App Launch Reactions 07:08 Hotels Revamp And Loyalty Rates 08:30 New Users, Gen Z, And Dining 09:21 Announcements And Sponsor Links 11:30 Events And Chicago Seminars Plans 12:31 Explore Tab And App Use Cases 13:39 October Teasers And Referral Promo 14:56 Gift Card Marketplace And Limits 16:57 Wrap Up And Where To Follow 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 SoundCloud → https://soundcloud.com/hurdygurdytravelpodcast 👉 YouTube → https://www.youtube.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 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events, including virtual seminars: https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 👉 Use my AutoPilot affiliate link to save points, miles, and money with this flight rebooking tool https://www.withautopilot.com/?partner=HurdyGurdy 👉 Sign up for NextCard Pro features to maximize your credit card benefits: https://www.nextcard.com/affiliates/hurdygurdytravel 👉 Use my Descript referral link to edit your podcast episodes, videos, and more. https://descript.cello.so/yiM83psckcY — 👉 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 🎁 — RSVP for monthly in-person meetups in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ 🌐 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/
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  Save Money in Las Vegas: Birthday Deals, Freebies, and More 11.09.2026 42dk

  Las Vegas Birthday Deals & myVEGAS Rewards | Free Food, Casino Offers, MGM Perks & Credit Card Stacking Justin Vacula of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast is joined by co-host Darren to discuss how to save money in Las Vegas by stacking birthday freebies, restaurant loyalty rewards, myVEGAS rewards, casino offers, and credit card benefits. Recorded during Justin’s September 2026 birthday month, this episode breaks down real Las Vegas birthday deals and rewards that can help travelers get free food, discounted meals, casino comps, dining credits, and extra value on the Strip. Timestamps 00:00 Podcast Intro 00:32 Birthday Deals Preview 02:26 Vegas Offers Great Value 03:52 Planning And Stacking 05:43 Timing The Trip 06:47 Rosa Mexicano Credit 08:21 Rainforest Cafe Perks 10:28 PF Chang’s Free Starters 12:41 More Strip Freebies 15:33 Panera And Denny’s 17:42 Support And Sponsors 19:49 myVEGAS Rewards Basics 21:09 myVEGAS Food Deals 22:35 Starter Rewards Strategy 25:02 MGM Iconic Card And Status 28:15 Room Charges And Tips 30:08 Backup Credits And Comps 34:12 Favorite Picks And Drinks 37:40 Shows and More 38:49 Cruise Perks And 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 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events, including virtual seminars: https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 👉 Use my AutoPilot affiliate link to save points, miles, and money with this flight rebooking tool https://www.withautopilot.com/?partner=HurdyGurdy 👉 Sign up for NextCard Pro features to maximize your credit card benefits: https://www.nextcard.com/affiliates/hurdygurdytravel 👉 Use my Descript referral link to edit your podcast episodes, videos, and more. Descript offers tools, including studio sound, removal of filler words, and the ability to edit from a generated transcript. https://descript.cello.so/yiM83psckcY — 👉 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 🎁 — RSVP for monthly in-person meetups in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ 🔔 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/
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  Rove Launches New App, Rove Dining, and More 31.08.2026 24dk

  Rove App Launch, Rove Dining, Instant-Earn Gift Cards & Major Rove Hotels Update | August 2026 Justin Vacula of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast welcomes Carissa Rawson from Rove to discuss major August 2026 updates, including the launch of the new Rove mobile app, Rove Dining, instant-earn gift cards, in-store shopping, updated browser extensions, and a major Rove Hotels refresh. Carissa explains Rove as a flexible travel rewards program that lets users earn Rove Miles without needing a credit card. Rove Miles can be earned through hotels, flights, shopping, dining, gift cards, and other everyday spending opportunities. The new Rove app for Android and iOS includes map-based exploration for flights and hotels, prices, earning rates, and multipliers. Justin and Carissa discuss how the app can help travelers compare earning opportunities and find better value when booking travel. Timestamps 00:00 Points And Miles Intro 00:32 Rove Updates Preview 01:33 What Is Rove? 02:18 New Rove App Tour 03:22 Card Linking And In-Store Earnings 06:03 Rove Dining Explained 07:22 Instant-Earn Gift Cards 08:54 GiftCards.com Status 09:49 Support the Show 11:55 Rove Hotels Major Update 14:22 Loyalty-Eligible Rates 15:18 New Shopping Extensions 17:12 App Tips, Deals, And Referrals 20:30 Dynamic Dining Multipliers 21:54 Rove Meetups And Wrap Up 22:30 Outro Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 YouTube → https://www.youtube.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 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 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events, including virtual seminars: https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 👉 Use my AutoPilot affiliate link to save points, miles, and money with this flight rebooking tool https://www.withautopilot.com/?partner=HurdyGurdy 👉 Sign up for NextCard Pro features to maximize your credit card benefits: https://www.nextcard.com/affiliates/hurdygurdytravel 👉 Use my Descript referral link to edit your podcast episodes, videos, and more. https://descript.cello.so/yiM83psckcY — 👉 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 🎁 — RSVP for monthly in-person meetups in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ 🌐 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/
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  Bilt Adds Blade, Blacklane, and Equinox & More Bilt News 29.08.2026 41dk

  Bilt Builds Better: Blade Helicopters, Blacklane Rides, Equinox Credits + August 2026 Updates Justin Vacula of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast is joined by returning co-host Darren to discuss the latest August 2026 Bilt Rewards updates. In this episode, Justin and Darren focus on new Bilt Cash redemption options, including Blade helicopter rides, Blacklane car service credits, and Equinox credits for spa treatments, personal training, and pilates. Justin and Darren discuss how they are using Bilt Cash for Lyft, Walgreens, Grubhub, dining, hotel credits, and other real-world redemptions, as well as their plans to continue spending toward Bilt Platinum status. The episode also covers a major Bilt card-servicing issue in which some cardholders were mistakenly sent to collections. Justin and Darren also discuss a new option to pay rent with Cardless Avios cards for a 3% fee while earning 3X points. Timestamps 00:00 Intro 01:38 Bilt Explained 04:35 Blade Helicopter Redemptions 08:51 Blacklane Chauffeur Credits 12:51 Equinox Wellness Credits 18:03 Support the Show 20:18 Collections Reporting Mistake 25:30 Pay Rent With Avios Cards 29:52 Bilt Spend And Plans 33:53 Recent Trips And Wrap Up 39:30 Closing And Outro Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 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. 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events, including virtual seminars: https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 👉 Use my AutoPilot affiliate link to save points, miles, and money with this flight rebooking tool https://www.withautopilot.com/?partner=HurdyGurdy 👉 Sign up for NextCard Pro features to maximize your credit card benefits: https://www.nextcard.com/affiliates/hurdygurdytravel 👉 Use my Descript referral link to edit your podcast episodes, videos, and more. Descript offers tools, including studio sound, removal of filler words, and the ability to edit from a generated transcript. https://descript.cello.so/yiM83psckcY — 👉 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 🎁 RSVP for monthly in-person meetups in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ — 🌐 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/
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  Hermitage Bay Trip Report 23.08.2026 42dk

  Hermitage Bay Antigua Trip Report: $2,000/Night All-Inclusive for $0 Using Hilton Free Night Certificates Justin Vacula of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast is joined by James from the Churn and Burn Podcast to recap Justin’s all-inclusive stay at Hermitage Bay in Antigua, a luxury resort. Justin and James discuss the full Hermitage Bay experience, including flights on American Airlines, complimentary resort transfers, the arrival process, and a beachfront villa upgrade. Justin shares details about the beachfront villa, including the minibar, outdoor shower, mosquito nets, pop-up TV, strong Wi-Fi, beach access, and room layout. They also discuss the quiet, relaxed resort atmosphere, friendly staff, low-crowd levels, resort cats, and how Hermitage Bay compares to other luxury all-inclusive resorts. The episode also covers the all-inclusive food and drink experience, including vegetarian accommodations, sushi happy hour, breakfast, lunch, dinner, cocktails, and the overall quality of the meals. Timestamps 00:00 Points And Miles Intro 00:32 Hermitage Bay Overview 02:24 Flights And Arrival 03:47 Check-In And Upgrade 06:58 Villa Tour And Comfort 10:11 Resort Vibe And Crowd 11:20 All-Inclusive Dining 15:16 Activities And Amenities 20:54 Wi-Fi And Tech 21:52 Support The Show 24:09 Bugs, Wind, And Rain 26:55 Spa And Gift Card Fail 28:41 Airport Exit Issues 31:55 Calala Versus Hermitage 33:44 Listener Question: Redemption Value 38:28 Wrap Up 41:31 Final Outro 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 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 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events, including virtual seminars: https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 👉 Use my AutoPilot affiliate link to save points, miles, and money with this flight rebooking tool https://www.withautopilot.com/?partner=HurdyGurdy 👉 Sign up for NextCard Pro features to maximize your credit card benefits: https://www.nextcard.com/affiliates/hurdygurdytravel 👉 Use my Descript referral link to edit your podcast episodes, videos, and more. Descript offers tools, including studio sound, removal of filler words, and the ability to edit from a generated transcript. https://descript.cello.so/yiM83psckcY — 👉 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 🎁 — RSVP for monthly in-person meetups in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ 🌐 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/
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  Points and Miles with Andrew Kunesh 18.08.2026 36dk

  Points & Miles in 2026: Bigger Bonuses, Smarter Cards, and Underrated Loyalty Programs with Andrew Kunesh Justin Vacula of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast welcomes Andrew Kunesh, a freelance points-and-miles writer and former CNN staffer, to discuss credit card rewards, airline and hotel loyalty programs, travel strategy, and Andrew’s new short-form newsletter, PNM Now: Fast News for Frequent Flyers. Andrew shares how he got started in points and miles in 2014 through r/churning, using a United Explorer Card bonus and the United Excursionist Perk to visit family in Prague. He also explains how his credit card strategy has changed over time, moving from a premium-card maximalist approach to a slimmer, more cost-effective setup, including closing his Amex Platinum Card. Timestamps 00:00 Podcast Intro Theme 00:32 Meet Andrew Kunesh 01:42 How He Started Churning 03:40 From Maximalist To Minimalist 05:23 Big Bonuses And Annual Fees 08:07 Is It Worth The Effort? 11:46 Writing For Different Audiences 12:42 Award Search And Program Wins 16:26 Ad Break And Support Links 18:42 2026 Predictions: Hyatt Premium Card 22:48 Underrated Programs: Choice, GHA, And Rove 26:42 Listener Questions: Alaska, Bilt, And Rove 29:23 Elite Status For Casual Flyers 32:12 Trips, Favorites, And Wrap Up 34:37 Outro And Closing Theme 🎙️ 📢 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 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events, including virtual seminars: https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 👉 Use my AutoPilot affiliate link to save points, miles, and money with this flight rebooking tool https://www.withautopilot.com/?partner=HurdyGurdy 👉 Sign up for NextCard Pro features to maximize your credit card benefits: https://www.nextcard.com/affiliates/hurdygurdytravel 👉 Use my Descript referral link to edit your podcast episodes, videos, and more. https://descript.cello.so/yiM83psckcY — 👉 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 — RSVP for monthly in-person meetups in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ 🔔 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/
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  Save Money on Dining (Better Than a $20 Burrito!) 11.08.2026 39dk

  Save Money Eating Out: Paze $10 Off, Amex Resy Credits, Chase DoorDash/Instacart & More Justin Vacula of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast welcomes returning guest Beth to share practical ways to save money eating out by using credit card benefits, restaurant loyalty programs, digital wallet promos, dining credits, and travel rewards strategies. Recorded August 10, 2026, this episode focuses on ways to reduce restaurant costs without completely avoiding dining out. Justin and Beth discuss the time-sensitive Paze digital wallet promo offering $10 off purchases of $10 or more, up to 10 times per card, through early September 2026. They explain how they have used the promo at places like Dunkin’ and Wendy’s for low-cost or nearly free food. They also cover Amex Resy statement credits across multiple American Express cards and ways to make the credits easier to use. The conversation also includes Amex Gold monthly dining credits, Hilton quarterly credits that can be used for hotel dining, and Chase Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables credits. Justin and Beth also discuss Vegas dining deals, including birthday offers, MyVegas redemptions, MGM and Caesars dining options using credit card rewards. Timestamps 00:00 Podcast Intro Theme 01:18 Meet Beth 03:04 Pickup Orders to Save Money 03:33 Paze Promo Savings 06:10 Amex Resy Credits 09:18 Amex Gold Monthly Dining 11:05 Hilton Credits For Dining 12:56 Chase Exclusive Tables 14:41 Support The Show 16:52 Cheap Dining in Las Vegas 20:08 Listener Question: DoorDash And Instacart 24:55 Annual Fees And Card Math 30:15 Aeroplan Grocery Payback 33:03 Cruises And All-Inclusive Food 33:58 Panera Sip Club 34:34 Upcoming Travel 37:30 Outro And Where To Follow 38:00 Closing Theme 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 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! 🌍🎧 — 👉 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 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events, including virtual seminars: https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 👉 Use my AutoPilot affiliate link to save points, miles, and money with this flight rebooking tool https://www.withautopilot.com/?partner=HurdyGurdy 👉 Sign up for NextCard Pro features to maximize your credit card benefits: https://www.nextcard.com/affiliates/hurdygurdytravel 👉 Use my Descript referral link to edit your podcast episodes, videos, and more. https://descript.cello.so/yiM83psckcY — 👉 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 🎁 — RSVP for monthly in-person meetups in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ 🌐 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/
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  Miles and Points with Matthew Dong 05.08.2026 41dk

  Hilton and Hyatt Credit Card Strategy, Citi AAdvantage Executive Changes & Amex Green Strategy with Matthew Dong Justin Vacula of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast welcomes Matthew Dong to discuss building a smarter travel rewards strategy with credit cards, hotel programs, airline lounges, and upgrade opportunities. Justin and Matthew compare Hilton and Hyatt strategy, including why Matthew is expanding beyond Hyatt and focusing more on Hilton for better resort options in places like Hawaii. Matthew also explains his current Hilton Surpass Card strategy, including using referrals, buying groups, and planned spending to reach the $15,000 and $30,000 spending thresholds for Hilton free night certificates. He also discusses a possible future Hilton Surpass to Hilton Aspire upgrade to maximize resort credits, airline credits, and premium Hilton benefits. Timestamps 00:00 Points And Miles Intro 00:32 Meet Matthew Dong 01:28 Where To Find Matthew 02:13 Getting Started In Rewards 05:02 Luxury Redemptions Highlights 06:55 Hyatt and Hilton Strategy 08:50 Hilton Surpass Spend Plan 09:29 Buying Groups 14:20 Hilton and Hyatt Certificates 16:55 Show Support And Announcements 19:03 Citi AAdvantage Executive Changes 26:39 Amex Green Card Case 33:57 Transfer Partners And Bilt 36:24 Advice For Leveling Up 39:04 Wrap Up And Outro — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 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 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events, including virtual seminars: https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 👉 Use my AutoPilot affiliate link to save points, miles, and money with this flight rebooking tool https://www.withautopilot.com/?partner=HurdyGurdy 👉 Sign up for NextCard Pro features to maximize your credit card benefits: https://www.nextcard.com/affiliates/hurdygurdytravel 👉 Use my Descript referral link to edit your podcast episodes, videos, and more. Descript offers tools, including studio sound, removal of filler words, and the ability to edit from a generated transcript. https://descript.cello.so/yiM83psckcY — 👉 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 🎁 — RSVP for monthly in-person meetups in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ 🌐 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/
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  Maximize Credit Card Benefits with NextCard.com | Special Guest: John Ta 30.07.2026 37dk

  NextCard.com Tools to Maximize Points, Miles & Credit Card Credits | Bilt, Dining Stacks, Paze & Hotel Maps Justin Vacula of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast welcomes John from NextCard.com to discuss tools for maximizing credit card benefits, tracking statement credits, finding dining stacks, comparing hotel booking programs, and getting more value from points and miles. John explains how NextCard.com helps users manage credit card benefits and uncover stacking opportunities across programs like Bilt Rewards, Chase, Paze, dining portals, luxury hotel programs, and more. The episode covers NextCard’s maps, calculators, and tracking tools, including MealMaxxer, Bilt calculators, Bilt Mobile Dining maps, Paze credit maps, and HotelMaxxer. Liked what you heard about in the show? Use Justin's NextCard.com affiliate links: https://www.nextcard.com/affiliates/hurdygurdytravel Timestamps 00:00 Podcast Intro Theme 01:04 Meet John From NextCard 01:49 What Is NextCard? 02:43 Who NextCard Is For 03:35 MealMaxer Dining Maps 04:00 Bilt Calculator Explained 05:18 Bilt Redemption Planning 06:20 How John Uses Bilt 07:26 Bilt Mobile Dining Map 08:38 Stacking Rewards Strategies 11:52 Paze And Clover Credits 13:41 Keeping Maps Updated 15:25 Chase Sapphire Reserve Dining 16:44 Hotel Maxer Overview 17:57 Using Hotel Credits 19:22 Free Vs. Pro Features 20:06 Automation And Security 20:47 Support the Show 22:49 Upcoming Features Roadmap 26:14 App Plans For iOS And Android 26:33 DoorDash Credit Map 28:25 Listener Question: P2 Accounts 30:00 More Tools, Maps, And Bonuses 33:33 Japan Trip Bonus Math 35:12 Wrap Up And Credits — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 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 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events, including virtual seminars: https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 👉 Use my AutoPilot affiliate link to save points, miles, and money with this flight rebooking tool https://www.withautopilot.com/?partner=HurdyGurdy 👉 Sign up for NextCard Pro features to maximize your credit card benefits: https://www.nextcard.com/affiliates/hurdygurdytravel 👉 Use my Descript referral link to edit your podcast episodes, videos, and more. https://descript.cello.so/yiM83psckcY — 👉 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 🎁 — RSVP for monthly in-person meetups in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ 🔔 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/
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  Bilt Bulletin | July 2026 24.07.2026 36dk

  Bilt Bulletin July 2026 | Palladium Card Value, Alaska Transfers, Bilt Cash Expiration & More Justin Vacula of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast is joined by returning co-host Darren covering the latest Bilt Rewards updates, Bilt Palladium Card strategy, Bilt Cash expiration concerns, and tools from NextCard that help Bilt users. Justin and Darren explain how Bilt Rewards works as a loyalty program with credit cards, transfer partners, and ways to earn rewards on rent and mortgage payments. They focus on the Bilt Palladium Card, including its 2X earning structure, value from Bilt Cash redemptions, hotel credits, and the ability to earn points paying rent or mortgage. Justin shares his first transfer from Bilt to Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards, using points to book Philadelphia to Savannah flights for 7,500 points each way. Darren also discusses heavy Alaska mileage usage for family travel and a business-class redemption. They also review progress toward Bilt Platinum status, spending stats, and whether Bilt Cash expiration at year-end may reduce late-year card spend. Justin and Darren discuss why cardholders may want to redeem Bilt Cash aggressively before expiration rather than letting value go unused. Timestamps 00:00 Podcast Intro 01:25 Bilt Program Basics 02:37 Palladium Card Highlights 05:27 Earn Points on Rent And Mortgage Payments 06:37 Real Redemptions: Alaska Flights 09:28 Spend Stats And Status Progress 13:49 Bilt Cash Expiration Concerns 19:33 Support The Show 22:13 NextCard.com Tools For Bilt 25:43 Upgrade And Downgrade Questions 30:00 Rakuten Card Earns Bilt Points 33:01 Wrap Up And Listener Feedback 34:00 Outro And Credits — 🎙️ 📢 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 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events, including virtual seminars: https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 👉 Use my AutoPilot affiliate link to save points, miles, and money with this flight rebooking tool https://www.withautopilot.com/?partner=HurdyGurdy 👉 Use my Descript referral link to edit your podcast episodes, videos, and more. https://descript.cello.so/yiM83psckcY — 👉 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 ✨ Bonus content — RSVP for monthly in-person meetups in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ 🌐 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/
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  Rove Report with Carissa (July 2026) 19.07.2026 26dk

  Rove Adds Qantas Transfer Partner | 50% Transfer Bonus, Qantas Sweet Spots & July 2026 Rove Update Justin Vacula of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast welcomes Carissa Rawson from Rove to discuss Rove’s July 2026 update, including the addition of Qantas Frequent Flyer as Rove’s new transfer partner. Rove now offers 1:1 transfers to Qantas, along with a limited-time 50% transfer bonus through August 14, 2026. Carissa explains how Rove Miles work as a flexible travel rewards currency that does not require a credit card. She highlights Rove’s hotel booking platform, high hotel earning multipliers, shopping portal, Chrome extension, 13,000+ online merchants, instant miles on prepaid and non-refundable hotel bookings, and ways to earn through Rove events and meetups. Justin and Carissa also discuss potential Qantas sweet spots, including distance-based award pricing, low-cost domestic U.S. awards, Caribbean and Central America options, Tahiti flights, and the possibility of booking Emirates First Class through Qantas, including important status-related restrictions and booking considerations. Timestamps 00:00 Podcast Intro Theme 00:32 Welcome And Guest Setup 01:08 Qantas Partner Bonus 01:36 What Is Rove? 02:33 Earning Miles And Meetups 03:26 Qantas Sweet Spots 04:39 Emirates First Class Access 06:53 Frontier And Other Partners 08:40 How Partnerships Happen 10:17 Uzbekistan Team Retreat 11:35 Sponsor Announcements Break 13:38 App And Status Roadmap 15:07 Popular Partners And Europe 16:53 Underused Award Search Tool 18:45 Beyond Points And Miles Crowd 20:24 Dave Ramsey Credit Debate 23:30 Where To Find Rove 24:38 Closing And Outro Theme — 🎙️ 📢 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 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events, including virtual seminars: https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 👉 Use my AutoPilot affiliate link to save points, miles, and money with this flight rebooking tool https://www.withautopilot.com/?partner=HurdyGurdy 👉 Use my Descript referral link to edit your podcast episodes, videos, and more. https://descript.cello.so/yiM83psckcY — 👉 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 🎁 — RSVP for monthly in-person meetups in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ 🌐 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/
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  Bryce Harper, Fanduel, and Responsible Gambling 18.07.2026 39dk

  Bryce Harper FanDuel Controversy: VIP Video, Gambling Rewards & Responsible Play Justin Vacula of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast is joined by returning co-host Darren to discuss the controversy surrounding a Bryce Harper video that was later used by FanDuel for a VIP bettor who allegedly lost $1.5 million. Justin and Darren react to the early media coverage, criticize misleading headlines, and discuss Harper’s statement that the video came from a Cameo request, that he had no FanDuel affiliation, and that he would have declined the request if he knew about the bettor’s alleged gambling problem. The conversation then expands into online gambling, sportsbook marketing, VIP programs, responsible gambling, and the tension between gambling rewards and consumer protection. Justin and Darren discuss responsible gaming tools such as deposit limits, wager limits, time limits, reality-check popups, self-exclusion, income verification, and account restrictions. They also discuss the broader debate around VIP gambling rewards, including whether perks, hosts, gifts, and promotions encourage more play while sportsbooks publicly promote responsible gambling. Timestamps 00:00 Podcast Intro Theme 00:35 Bryce Harper FanDuel Controversy 04:16 VIP Video 06:13 Responsible Gambling Tools 10:31 VIP Rewards Versus Safety 13:26 Personal Responsibility 16:51 Lawsuit And Regulation Talk 20:01 Show Announcements Break 22:24 Steve Fezzik Critique And Winners Being Banned 27:55 Listener Questions And Best Practices 37:13 Wrap Up And 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 👉 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 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events, including virtual seminars: https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 👉 Use my AutoPilot affiliate link to save points, miles, and money with this flight rebooking tool https://www.withautopilot.com/?partner=HurdyGurdy 👉 Use my Descript referral link to edit your podcast episodes, videos, and more. https://descript.cello.so/yiM83psckcY — 👉 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 🎁 — RSVP for monthly in-person meetups in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania: https://www.meetup.com/phillymilesandpoints/ 🌐 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/
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  Best Credit Cards for Cashback and Cashing Out Points (July 2026) 11.07.2026 40dk

  Cash Back and Points: How to Blend Credit Card Rewards with Amex, Chase, Capital One, Citi, U.S. Bank & More Justin Vacula of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast is joined by co-host Darren to discuss how to combine cashback credit cards with a points and miles strategy. Justin and Darren explain that points and miles can be great for flights, hotels, lounges, and premium travel, and cashback can help cover expenses that points do not easily offset, including airline fees/taxes, food, transportation, and other out-of-pocket travel costs. They compare traditional cashback cards with points that can be cashed out, starting with American Express Membership Rewards options such as the Schwab Platinum, Morgan Stanley Platinum, and Amex Business Platinum with Business Checking. They also discuss strong Amex earning cards, including the Amex Gold Card, Amex Business Gold, and Blue Business Plus. The episode also covers Chase Sapphire Reserve Pay Yourself Back, shifting Chase redemption categories, Capital One Venture and Venture X purchase eraser redemptions, and Citi cash-out options through cards such as the Citi Strata Premier and Citi Strata Elite. Justin and Darren also discuss US Bank business cashback cards, including redemption considerations and how a US Bank checking account is needed to get better value. They review the Discover IT rotating 5% categories, gift card redemption bonuses, and more. Timestamps 00:00 Podcast Intro 00:35 Cashback Strategy Setup 01:49 Why Cashback Matters 04:31 Amex Points Cashout 07:19 Chase Points Cashout 11:41 Capital One Points Cashout 14:23 Citi Cashout Options 16:06 Support And Sponsors 18:27 US Bank Cashback Cards 20:39 Discover Cashback 24:22 MGM Iconic 27:58 Venmo And Langley 33:25 Trips, Credits, And Wrap Up 38:07 Closing 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 👉 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 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 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events, including virtual seminars: https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 👉 Use my AutoPilot affiliate link to save points, miles, and money with this flight rebooking tool https://www.withautopilot.com/?partner=HurdyGurdy 👉 Use my Descript referral link to edit your podcast episodes, videos, and more. https://descript.cello.so/yiM83psckcY — 👉 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/
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  Dave Ramsey is Wrong About FICO Scores (You Don't Need to Pay "Hundreds of Thousands of Dollars in Interest") 10.07.2026 30dk

  Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: Justin Vacula Responds to Dave Ramsey on FICO Scores and Credit Cards Justin Vacula records an impromptu episode of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast responding point by point to Dave Ramsey’s video, “This Is What Your FICO Score Really Means.” Justin argues that Ramsey misrepresents how credit works by repeatedly equating responsible credit card use with carrying debt. He explains how paying balances in full, avoiding interest, and maintaining low credit utilization can help consumers build strong FICO scores without falling into financial trouble. The episode also examines why credit scores can matter for renting an apartment, opening a phone plan, obtaining insurance, or financing a major purchase. Justin challenges Ramsey’s claims that FICO is an “I love debt” score, that achieving an 800 credit score requires hundreds of thousands of dollars, and that people are better off having no credit score at all. He also notes that income is not included in FICO scoring. Timestamps 00:00 Points and Miles Intro 00:27 Why Ramsey Misleads 01:58 Debt vs. Responsible Credit 03:14 What FICO Measures 05:48 Why Credit Scores Matter 08:23 The Debt Load Myth 09:52 Leverage and Frugal Wins 12:09 The “I Love Debt” Claim 14:23 The Costly FICO Myth 19:15 The Zero Credit Score Argument 23:07 Terminal Humor Detour 27:14 Ramsey’s Mortgage Double Standard 29:23 Final Takeaways and Outro — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 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. 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events, including virtual seminars: https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 👉 Use my AutoPilot affiliate link to save points, miles, and money with this flight rebooking tool https://www.withautopilot.com/?partner=HurdyGurdy 👉 Use my Descript referral link to edit your podcast episodes, videos, and more. Descript offers tools, including studio sound, removal of filler words, and the ability to edit from a generated transcript. https://descript.cello.so/yiM83psckcY — 👉 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/
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  Dave Ramsey’s “Debt-Free” Cruise Costs Over $4,000...and you can pay with a Credit Card! 09.07.2026 16dk

  Dave Ramsey Cruise Pricing: $4,115 Interior Room, Massive Upsells & Credit Cards Accepted at Checkout Justin Vacula of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast records an impromptu reaction to Dave Ramsey promoting a seven-day Western Caribbean “debt-free celebration” cruise for 2,500 fans. Justin discusses the contrast between Ramsey’s usual frugality, anti-debt, and anti-credit-card messaging and the high price of the Dave Ramsey cruise. He compares the Ramsey cruise pricing with his own low-cost cruise strategies, including comp cruise offers through casino status, credit card rewards, and MyVegas comp rewards. While attempting a booking, Justin finds that the cheapest interior stateroom totals about $4,115 after applying a $100 promo code. He also reviews the cruise’s optional add-ons and upsells, including “signature service,” photo opportunities, lunch and dinner with Dave Ramsey, and a $2,000 EntreLeadership session. Justin also highlights what he sees as one of the funniest contradictions: the partner booking site recommends credit cards and accepts credit cards at checkout through Stripe, despite Dave Ramsey’s long-running criticism of credit cards. — 🎙️ 📢 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. 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events, including virtual seminars: https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 👉 Use my AutoPilot affiliate link to save points, miles, and money with this flight rebooking tool https://www.withautopilot.com/?partner=HurdyGurdy 👉 Use my Descript referral link to edit your podcast episodes, videos, and more. Descript offers tools, including studio sound, removal of filler words, and the ability to edit from a generated transcript. https://descript.cello.so/yiM83psckcY — 👉 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/
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  Maximize Rakuten with TrakRak.com (Special Guest: Carrie) 08.07.2026 27dk

  TrackRak.com Review | Real-Time Rakuten Rate Alerts to Maximize Points, Miles & Cash Back Justin Vacula of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast welcomes Carrie from TrackRak.com to discuss how TrackRak helps points and miles users monitor Rakuten shopping portal rates and get real-time alerts when earning rates increase. Recorded June 30, 2026, this episode covers how TrackRak works, why Carrie built the tool, and how customizable text and email alerts can help users avoid missing elevated Rakuten offers. Carrie explains her frugal background, how she got into points and miles, and why she wanted to create a simple Rakuten-only solution for tracking shopping portal rates. Carrie explains that TrackRak scans Rakuten rates throughout the day and uses smart alerts to avoid sending repeated notifications for the same elevated rate. The site also includes a suggestion box, top-20 deals, and historical rate charts with about 600 days of data, with the goal of eventually showing around three years of historical Rakuten rate history. These charts can help users set realistic alert thresholds and understand when a rate is actually worth chasing. Timestamps 00:00 Intro Theme 00:32 Meet Carrie 01:17 Carrie Origin Story 03:45 What TrackRak Does 05:17 Smart Alerts Explained 07:04 Charts And Predictions 07:46 Plans And Pricing 10:27 Stacking Tips 12:41 Show Announcements 14:53 Big Rebate Deals 17:33 Trips And Wins 20:26 Upcoming Features 25:15 Final Plug And 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 👉 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 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events, including virtual seminars: https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 👉 Use my AutoPilot affiliate link to save points, miles, and money with this flight rebooking tool https://www.withautopilot.com/?partner=HurdyGurdy 👉 Use my Descript referral link to edit your podcast episodes, videos, and more. https://descript.cello.so/yiM83psckcY — 👉 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/
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  Airport Lounge Access in 2026 01.07.2026 37dk

  Best Credit Cards for Airport Lounge Access | Priority Pass, Chase Sapphire, Amex Centurion, Capital One & Airline Clubs Justin Vacula of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast is joined by returning co-host Darren to discuss the best credit cards for airport lounge access, including Priority Pass, Chase Sapphire Lounges, Capital One Lounges, Amex Centurion Lounges, United Clubs, Delta Sky Clubs, Admirals Clubs, and other airline lounge options. In this episode, Justin and Darren explain how airport lounge access can save travelers money on food and drinks, make layovers and delays more comfortable, and sometimes even help with rebooking when airline agents inside lounges are available. They start with Priority Pass credit cards, including beginner-friendly options like the U.S. Bank Altitude Connect, which offers four Priority Pass visits with no annual fee, and premium options like the Bilt Palladium Card, Chase Ritz-Carlton Card, and Chase Sapphire Reserve. They discuss lounge visit limits, guest access, authorized users, annual fees, and how Chase Sapphire Lounge access fits into the Priority Pass ecosystem. Timestamps 00:00 Points And Miles Intro 00:45 Why Airport Lounges Matter 04:15 Priority Pass Basics 04:47 Beginner Lounge Cards 06:27 Premium Priority Pass Picks 09:59 United Lounge Cards 14:41 Venture X And Lounge Networks 17:11 Amex Platinum And Delta Access 18:57 American Airlines Lounge Cards 20:21 Support The Show Break 22:22 Qatar Card Flagship Hack 25:47 Listener Questions And Tips 33:57 Wrap Up And Upcoming Trips 36:19 Outro And Credits — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 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 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events, including virtual seminars: https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 👉 Use my AutoPilot affiliate link to save points, miles, and money with this flight rebooking tool https://www.withautopilot.com/?partner=HurdyGurdy 👉 Use my Descript referral link to edit your podcast episodes, videos, and more. https://descript.cello.so/yiM83psckcY — 👉 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/
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  Bilt Bulletin | June 2026 24.06.2026 39dk

  Bilt Bulletin June 2026 | Palladium Card Updates, Credit Limit Increases, CFPB Complaints & Bilt Cash Redemptions In this episode, Justin and Darren review key features of the Bilt Palladium Card, including Bilt Cash vs. Rent Multiplier, the welcome bonus, Gold status, hotel credits, and the Point Accelerator feature. They also discuss how they are using the card, what benefits have been useful so far, and where the program may be headed. A major topic is the surprise automatic credit limit increases some cardholders received, including limits jumping as high as $50,000. Justin and Darren discuss why these large credit limit increases may be useful, but also raise questions about credit pulls, frozen credit reports, utilization, and how higher limits could affect future credit card approvals. They also discuss a possible value boost for Bilt’s 1:1 Hyatt transfer partnership, especially as some Chase-to-Hyatt transfers shift to a less favorable 4:3 ratio. The episode also covers a Fortune profile of Bilt’s growth claims, Senator Elizabeth Warren’s letter citing CFPB complaints related to payment disruptions during the transition away from Wells Fargo, and broader concerns about customer service, card servicing, and program reliability. Timestamps 00:00 Podcast Intro Theme 00:32 Welcome And Episode Setup 01:47 Bilt Program Basics 03:27 Bilt Cash Vs. Rent Multiplier 04:47 Surprise Credit Limit Jumps 07:46 Hard Pull Rumors And Credit Freezes 10:40 Hyatt Transfer Shakeup 12:58 Bilt Building Big Picture 18:02 Support The Show Announcements 20:46 CFPB Complaints And Warren Letter 27:17 Dining Credit Redemption Stories 31:56 Points Balances And Earn-Burn Strategy 34:15 Year-End Planning And Travel Wrap Up 37:34 Closing: Thanks And Outro Theme — 🎙️ 📢 Listen to the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast: 👉 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! 🌍🎧 — 💜 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 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events, including virtual seminars: https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 👉 Use my AutoPilot affiliate link to save points, miles, and money with this flight rebooking tool https://www.withautopilot.com/?partner=HurdyGurdy 👉 Use my Descript referral link to edit your podcast episodes, videos, and more. https://descript.cello.so/yiM83psckcY — 👉 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/
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  New! Wyndham Rewards Earner Premier Credit Card 19.06.2026 36dk

  Wyndham Rewards Earner Premier Card Review | 120K Bonus, 25% Award Discount, $400 Credits & $395 Fee Justin Vacula of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast is joined by James from the Churn and Burn Podcast to discuss the newly released Wyndham Rewards Earner Premier Card. This new premium Wyndham credit card has a $395 annual fee and offers up to a 120,000-point welcome bonus, with 90,000 Wyndham Rewards points after $6,000 in spend and another 30,000 points after $750 in Wyndham purchases. Justin and James explain how the bonus works, who may be eligible, and whether the card makes sense for travelers who like Wyndham Rewards, casino status matches, and high-value hotel redemptions. They also discuss the card’s biggest ongoing benefits, including a 25% discount or rebate on Wyndham award bookings, 30,000 anniversary points, a possible 30,000-point free night certificate after five Wyndham nights, and the potential for Wyndham points to avoid expiration while holding the card. The episode also covers the card’s earning rates, including 8X points at Wyndham, 4X on grocery stores, 4X on dining, and 4X on travel, with special attention to the uncapped grocery category. Timestamps 00:00 Podcast Intro Theme 00:32 Wyndham Premier Card Overview 01:26 First Impressions And Barclays 02:54 Welcome Bonus Breakdown 04:32 Core Perks And Rebates 06:51 Earning Rates And Value 07:54 Statement Credits Deep Dive 13:07 Apply Or Pass Decision 16:46 Sponsor Break And Links 19:09 Best Wyndham Redemptions 23:08 Comparisons And Who It Fits 25:43 Listener Question And Business Card 27:27 Status And Caesars Angle 30:03 Wrap Up And Guest Plugs 34:40 Outro 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 👉 …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. 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events, including virtual seminars: https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 👉 Use my AutoPilot affiliate link to save points, miles, and money with this flight rebooking tool https://www.withautopilot.com/?partner=HurdyGurdy 👉 Use my Descript referral link to edit your podcast episodes, videos, and more. https://descript.cello.so/yiM83psckcY — 👉 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/
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  NBC Turns Credit Card Rewards Into an Income Inequality Story - Here's What They Missed 14.06.2026 28dk

  Justin Vacula of the Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast responds to an NBC News article titled “How High-End Credit Card Perks Are Hurting Shoppers Who Pay in Cash.” Original article: https://www.nbcnews.com/business/consumer/credit-card-perks-hurt-shoppers-pay-cash-debit-rcna346905 The article frames credit card rewards as a wealth transfer tied to economic inequality, but Justin argues the story misses several major points about credit cards, cash, small businesses, and responsible rewards strategy. In this solo episode, Justin challenges two central claims from the article: that merchant swipe fees disproportionately hurt low-income and middle-income Americans, and that credit card processing fees unfairly damage small businesses. He argues that the article ignores the real costs and risks of cash, including labor, theft, slower checkout lines, accounting errors, trips to the bank for deposits, and security concerns. Justin also explains why many businesses accept credit cards despite processing fees, including increased sales, easier recordkeeping, faster transactions, and greater customer convenience. Timestamps 00:00 Intro Theme Song 00:32 Episode Setup And NBC Critique 02:20 Host Story And Why Rewards Help 03:58 Swipe Fees Explained 04:56 Hidden Costs Of Cash 06:44 Why Businesses Take Cards 07:56 No Guilt Using Rewards 10:24 Saving On Groceries And Gas 12:08 Rewards Beyond Luxury Travel 13:31 Protections And Lifestyle Credits 17:47 Break And Announcements 19:49 Get Started With Points 23:46 Level Up With More Cards 26:02 Wrap Up And Where To Follow 27:00 Outro Theme Song — 🎙️ 📢 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! 🌍🎧 — 💜 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 👉 Use my Savewise affiliate link to activate grocery coupons, maximize shopping portals, and more: https://getsavewise.com/pro?ref=hurdygurdy 👉 Become a Frequent Traveler University member and sign up for events, including virtual seminars: https://ftuniversity.com/?aff=24 👉 Earn 500 miles when signing up for Rove Miles using my referral link: www.rovemiles.com/?signup&referralCode=8AS1JSG9 👉 Use my AutoPilot affiliate link to save points, miles, and money with this flight rebooking tool https://www.withautopilot.com/?partner=HurdyGurdy 👉 Use my Descript referral link to edit your podcast episodes, videos, and more. Descript offers tools, including studio sound, removal of filler words, and the ability to edit from a generated transcript. https://descript.cello.so/yiM83psckcY — 👉 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/