Episode 128
How to Maximize American Express Points Like a Pro with Jason Steele (Ep. 128)
In this episode of the BoldlyGo Podcast: Revolutionizing Your Journey, DeAndre Coke sits down with points and miles expert Jason Steele for a deep dive into the world of American Express Membership Rewards. Jason shares how he turned a passion for affordable international travel into a decades-long career writing for major travel publications, becoming the first contributor at The Points Guy, and helping travelers save thousands through award travel consulting. Together, they break down the fundamentals of transferable points, airline alliances, and why Membership Rewards remain one of the most powerful currencies in travel.
The conversation explores everything from beginner card strategies to advanced redemption opportunities. Jason explains why Amex is often a strong starting point for travelers focused on international trips, highlights the value of business cards, and shares his favorite ways to maximize earning rates through cards like the Amex Gold and Business Platinum. DeAndre and Jason also discuss airline partnerships, transfer sweet spots, Hyatt’s recent devaluation impact on the broader points ecosystem, and how even newcomers can unlock premium travel experiences without spending a fortune. The episode blends foundational education with advanced insights, making it a valuable resource for travelers at every level of the points and miles journey.
Timestamps:
(00:00) Intro to the Amex Membership Rewards masterclass
(03:38) Jason Steele introduction and his travel background
(07:34) Why Amex Membership Rewards are so valuable
(09:11) Understanding airline alliances and transfer partners
(12:43) Hyatt devaluation and the Chase vs Amex debate
(16:14) Best Amex cards for beginners and everyday spending
(20:38) Best Amex cards strategies for business spend
(34:50) Explaining shopping portals
(38:17) Best transfer partner sweet spots for business class travel
(48:34) Lounge access, premium perks, and luxury travel strategies
(55:15) Advanced award booking tactics and maximizing redemptions
(01:03:33) Final thoughts and Jason Steele’s best advice for travelers
Key Highlights:
- Jason Steel’s origin story: Jason shares how international family travel pushed him into the world of points and miles more than 20 years ago.
- Understanding transferable points: Amex Membership Rewards can unlock access to dozens of airline partners and hundreds of global routes.
- Why Amex stands out: Jason explains why Amex remains especially valuable for international business class travel.
- Beginner card strategy: The Amex Gold and Business Platinum are highlighted as strong starting points depending on spending habits.
- Airline alliance knowledge matters: Understanding partnerships like SkyTeam, Star Alliance, and Oneworld can dramatically expand redemption options.
- Business cards create flexibility: Jason discusses why business cards are often overlooked and how they can help avoid restrictions like Chase 5/24.
- Hyatt devaluation impact: The episode explores how Hyatt’s changes may affect the overall value proposition between Chase and Amex points.
- Award travel consulting insights: Jason explains how personalized strategies can save travelers thousands of dollars every year.
Resources:
- BoldlyGo LIVE! Miami 5-7 Registration
- Check out our Podcast Library
- Become a BoldlyGo Blog contributor
- Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
- Sign up for our newsletter!
- BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group
Need Global Travel Insurance? We recommend World Nomads
Some of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:
Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links
- Get Autopilot: Never Overpay for a Flight or Hotel Again
- Card Pointers (Saves the average user $750 per year)
- Zil Money (For Payroll on Credit Card)
- Travel Freely
- Point.me
- FlightConnections.com
- Thrifty Traveler Premium
- LTH Online Points & Miles In Depth Course:
- Use coupon code "BOLDYGO" for a 50% discount!
Connect with DeAndre & Taryn:
- Instagram: BoldlyGo.world
- TikTok: BoldlyGo.world
- Website: BoldlyGo.world
- YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld
- YouTube: BoldlyGo.Travels
Connect with Jason Steele:
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