Travel hacking isn’t just about earning points — it’s about learning how to use your money intentionally. In this episode, Genni Franklin is joined by Betsy, creator of Become Travel Rich, to explore why financial literacy and travel rewards go hand in hand — and how mastering one naturally improves the other.

We break down how learning points and miles forces you to understand your spending, credit score, and money habits in a way most people never do. 

We also dive deep into Atmos Rewards, the new loyalty program combining Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines, including:

• What changed with the new Atmos program
• How points vs. status points work
• Major sweet spots for international travel
• Why Atmos points can unlock incredible business-class redemptions

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why points & miles are financial literacy in action
• How tracking spending naturally improves money habits
• The truth about credit cards and credit scores
• How to speak the “bank language” to get approvals
• Why loyalty programs can outperform flexible points (for the right traveler)
• What Atmos Rewards is and why it’s a big deal
• How to earn elite status on award flights
• Alaska Airlines’ best partner redemptions (Japan, Thailand, Europe & more)
• How to travel internationally in business class for fewer points
• Why organization and account security matter more than ever

Resources & Mentions

• Atmos Rewards (Alaska + Hawaiian Loyalty Program)
• Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan partners
• Starlux, Condor, Japan Airlines
• Hyatt Hotels
• Bilt Rewards
• Rakuten
• 1Password (for account security & organization)

Connect With Betsy 

Instagram: @becometravelrich
Betsy shares real-life redemptions, loyalty program insights, and behind-the-scenes strategies for building a travel-rich life.

Support the show

Full episodes, including video, are available on Youtube.

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