It's no surprise this week there have been some changes announced for Southwest to come, which include red eye flights and more importantly, assigned seating! Joe will discuss why this is a good thing and would encourage him to go back with Southwest moving forward.

In addition, Joe talks about some big changes coming for the AmEx Gold Card, and despite the increased annual fee, more value seems to be created to it.

To schedule a consultation with Joe, or if you have any questions regarding some of the strategies used on this episode, email joetothepoints@gmail.com.

Show Notes:

Southwest Changes

Jetblue Route Changes

Avelo Grows

AmEx Gold Revamp

World of Hyatt Glamping News

Delta Refund Link

This week, Joe discusses the IT woes affecting major airlines, with Delta especially being hit the hardest.

Speaking of things also hitting hard, he speaks about a topic that is often controversial and yet, can still find some good in, and that's about budget airline carriers. He speaks about why it may be a good idea to consider them, but a horrible one to use them.

In good news, Joe also talks about a new transfer bonus with Citi's ThankYou Points and how it can save you some $$$ for your Fall Europe getaway.

To schedule a consultation with Joe, or if you have any questions regarding some of the strategies used on this episode, email joetothepoints@gmail.com.

While out and about, people sometimes ask Joe, "Why do I need to use points when I can have Cash Back instead?"

That's a good question that comes up more often than not, and there's nothing wrong with that, if done correctly. This week, Joe discusses how if you do decide to go down the route of Cash Back, there's plenty of cards that deliver higher value than what one may realize, and why some cards are worth hanging on to the points for.

To schedule a consultation with Joe, or if you have any questions regarding some of the strategies used on this episode, email joetothepoints@gmail.com.

This week, Joe talks about a program he loves and loathes in United's MileagePlus program. Despite its many devaluations over the last couple of years, there is some value to be had when spending and flying with the friendly skies. In addition, how its loyalty program somehow finds sneaky ways to keep you involved.

To schedule a consultation with Joe, or if you have any questions regarding some of the strategies used on this episode, email joetothepoints@gmail.com

One of the most common questions is quite simply, how to get started if you don't have a clue on how to get started on your points and miles journey. Fear not - this episode is for you!

Joe discusses the first steps to take on which cards to apply for first, should you want to go down the route of Credit Cards Points and miles. (If you want to know about the programs in-depth, there are episodes dedicated strictly to doing just that! )

To schedule a consultation with Joe, or if you have any questions regarding some of the strategies used on this episode, email joetothepoints@gmail.com.

Episodes Referenced:

Episode #3 - Chase Your Ultimate Rewards!

Episode #6 - All About Amex Membership Rewards

Episode #8 - Capitalizing on Capital One Miles

Episode #11 - The lesser-known, but very useful points to have - Citi ThankYou Points!

Yes, It's been (nearly) a year since a new episode has been uploaded, but life finds a way back!

In this episode, Joe talks about what changes he's noticed (and what has stayed the same) in the travel world. In addition, he discusses his strategy moving forward that doesn't necessarily involve Sign-Up bonuses, but rather utilizing the perks and programs around instead!

To connect and schedule a consultation with Joe, or if you have any questions regarding some of the strategies used on this episode, email joetothepoints@gmail.com.

As students head back to school in the very near future, Joe takes a different turn on the podcast this week as he talks about how to build up credit as a college student, along with best cards to consider getting for students, and how they can help get on the way to points ecosystems discussed on the program.

Joe also provides some updates on the Maui situation and travel waivers you need to know, and new Southwest updates that Joe doesn't think are a benefit... yet.

To connect with Joe, or if you have any questions regarding some of the strategies used on this episode, email joetothepoints@gmail.com.

1:30 - Maui & Hawaii Travel Updates, Everything you need to know.

6:42 - Southwest New Changes - So Long Early Bird?

This week, Joe dives into the Delta Skymiles program and the quirks, perks, and pains on a program that once saw some significant devaluations, but has rebounded on the value of redemptions and how getting elite status can be done without spending a dollar!

To connect with Joe, or if you have any questions regarding some of the strategies used on this episode, email joetothepoints@gmail.com.