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Quick Hits: The Launch of a New Loyalty Program & More!

In this Quick Hits episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, DeAndre Coke shares the latest updates in the world of travel, credit cards, and points and miles. He opens with a personal milestone—his financial planning firm being named one of the top in Virginia by Forbes for the third consecutive year—and connects it to his credibility in this space. DeAndre covers a wide range of topics, from Zil Money pausing payroll point transactions to Bilt's upcoming credit card revamp and expansion into mortgage/HOA payments. He introduces a brand new boutique hotel travel app called Journey and highlights Hyatt’s new 777 bonus points promotion for casino hotels. He also answers a listener’s question about how to qualify for business credit cards, emphasizing that self-employment and even side gigs can be considered legitimate business activities. This episode blends financial strategy, travel rewards, and entrepreneurship in DeAndre's signature informative and relatable style.



Key takeaways: 


  • Forbes Recognition: DeAndre’s firm was named a top financial planning firm in Virginia for the third year running.
  • Zil Money Paused: Credit card payroll transactions are paused until August 1 for updates.
  • Bilt Expands: Bilt raised $250M and is adding rewards for mortgages, HOA fees, and student housing.
  • Turkish Contest Ends: Turkish Airlines pulled its 1M-mile challenge due to high demand.
  • New App – Journey: A boutique hotel app that lets you earn and instantly redeem points, even retroactively.
  • Hyatt 777 Bonus: Earn 777 bonus points per night at select casino hotels through Sept 30.
  • Listener question around business cards: You don’t need a formal business; 1099 income often qualifies.


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Check out the new Smart Travel Podcast!

This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:

Smart Travel Podcast

About the Podcast

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Revolutionizing Your Journey: Travel With Points & Miles
Revolutionizing Your Journey: Travel With Points & Miles

About your host

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DeAndre Coke

DeAndre Coke is a financial advisor and avid traveler with a passion for helping others explore the world affordably and luxuriously. Ranked by Forbes as one of Virginia’s top financial security professionals for two consecutive years, DeAndre brings his strategic mindset to his travel pursuits. Together with his fiancée, Taryn, he navigates the world of points and miles, uncovering the secrets of award travel to share with his audience.