In this inspiring episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, DeAndre Coke sits down with Julian Rivera—DJ, real estate investor, and business mogul—to unpack his unique journey from the radio booth to building a thriving real estate and entrepreneurial empire. Julian shares how he’s strategically used credit cards and points to fuel his travel lifestyle and scale his business ventures. The conversation explores the power of networking, practical strategies for managing multiple credit cards, and lessons learned from navigating the pandemic. Packed with financial tips and entrepreneurial wisdom, this episode highlights how intentional planning, resilience, and the right credit card tools can completely reshape your personal and professional path.

Key Highlights:

• From Airwaves to Assets: Julian transitioned from radio to real estate, showing the power of reinvention.
• Network to Grow: Strategic networking and “getting in the room” helped propel his business growth.
• Credit Card Mastery: Managing multiple cards allowed Julian to earn massive rewards while funding business needs.
• Travel on Points: Julian has taken personal and business trips using points earned through everyday spending.
• The “Entreploy” Mindset: Julian blends hustle and strategy to create sustainable income across ventures.
• Real Estate Investment: He shares actionable insights for getting started and scaling in the real estate industry.
• Pandemic Pivot: COVID-19 forced a reevaluation of goals and highlighted the importance of financial flexibility.
• Practical Tips: Advice for entrepreneurs using credit cards wisely without falling into debt traps.
• Rewards Beyond Travel: Points have also been reinvested into business development and lifestyle upgrades.
• Long-Term Thinking: Julian’s success is rooted in patience, planning, and utilizing every available financial tool.

Resources:

• Book a Free 30-minute points & miles consultation
• Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
• Sign up for our newsletter!
• BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

Interested in Financial Planning?

• Truicity Wealth Management

Some of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

• 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 Julian Rivera: 

• Instagram: djjulianrivera
• TikTok: @djjulianrivera
• Website: DJ Julian Rivera
• Facebook: DJ Julian Rivera

The hotel that some call "The Luxury In The Sky" 🌇—Was it worth it?

In this YouTube bonus episode of the Revolutionizing Your Journey podcast, we take you inside one of the most iconic hotels in the world: Marina Bay Sands in Singapore. From the world-famous rooftop infinity pool to Michelin-level dining and a suite with a view of Gardens by the Bay, we break down what it’s really like to stay here.

If you're planning a special occasion or just curious about whether it lives up to the hype, we'll take you through the whole experience, including insider tips, food highlights, and what I’d do differently next time.

Resources:

• Book a Free 30 minute points & miles consultation
• Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
• Sign up for our newsletter!
• BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

Interested in Financial Planning?

• Truicity Wealth Management

Some of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

• 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

In this Quick Hits episode, DeAndre Coke shares recent developments in the world of travel, points, and miles. He dives into Chase’s new “Points Boost” feature, which significantly enhances the redemption value of Ultimate Rewards points for select hotel bookings, making luxury stays more affordable. He also discusses the TSA’s plan to end its long-standing shoe removal policy at security checkpoints, improving the airport experience for all travelers. The episode wraps with a rundown of valuable transfer bonuses currently available across Amex, Chase, and Citi cards. DeAndre emphasizes the importance of staying updated on program changes and using points strategically to unlock meaningful travel rewards.

Key takeaways: 

• Chase Points Boost Update: Chase Sapphire and Business Reserve cardholders can now get up to 2¢ per point in value for hotel stays through the Chase Travel portal.
• Luxury Hotel Perks: The Points Boost applies mostly to Chase’s Edit Collection properties, offering perks like room upgrades and $100 property credits.
• Booking Made Easier: Travelers can filter searches for Points Boost-eligible properties directly in the Chase portal.
• TSA Shoe Policy Change: TSA is phasing out mandatory shoe removal at select airports, a shift expected to roll out nationwide.
• New Policy Benefits All Travelers: Unlike TSA PreCheck, this shoe policy update applies to all passengers.
• Amex to Marriott: A 20% transfer bonus is available until July 14.
• Amex to Avios Programs: 30% bonus to British Airways, Aer Lingus, and Iberia Avios through July 15.
• Chase to Aeroplan: 20% bonus available through July 17, or 30% if you hold the Aeroplan card.
• Citi Transfer Bonuses: 50% to Accor Live Limitless and 20% to Flying Blue until July 19.

Resources:

• Act now - Protect your points!
• Book a Free 30-minute points & miles consultation
• Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
• Sign up for our newsletter!
• BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

Interested in Financial Planning?

• Truicity Wealth Management

Some of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

• 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 Coke: 

• Instagram: BoldlyGo.world
• TikTok: BoldlyGo.world 
• Website: BoldlyGo.world
• YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld
• YouTube: BoldlyGoTravels

In this reflective mid-year episode, DeAndre Coke shares a transparent recap of his wins, mistakes, and evolving strategies in the world of travel, points, and miles. From achieving American Airlines Platinum Pro and Hyatt Globalist status to acquiring new credit cards for long-term value, DeAndre walks through the intentional moves he’s made to maximize rewards. He candidly discusses lessons learned from redemption missteps—such as transferring Amex points for less-than-ideal value—and the importance of preserving transferable points whenever possible. The episode also explores how buying hotel points can serve a strategic role, the benefits of tracking hotel rates for rebooking opportunities and using card perks creatively to offset costs. With a wedding and honeymoon on the horizon, DeAndre closes with thoughts on financial responsibility and long-term planning, reminding listeners that optimizing travel shouldn't come at the expense of financial health.

Key Highlights:

• Elite Status Earned: Achieved American Airlines Platinum Pro and Hyatt Globalist status using strategic flights and mattress runs.
• Card Strategy: Focused on acquiring new cards, including Citi cards, to build up transferable points.
• Redemption Lessons: Made point transfer choices that were not optimal, reinforcing the importance of evaluating redemption value.
• Hotel Points Strategy: Purchased hotel points to preserve transferable points for flights.
• Rate Tracking: Saved money by rebooking hotel stays when rates dropped.
• Creative Benefits Use: Used various card perks—like Walmart+ or dining credits—to offset spending.
• Financial Responsibility: Encourages listeners to make credit decisions based on financial health and not just points goals.
• Consult a Pro: Consider speaking with a financial advisor, especially before making large purchases or going through significant life changes.
• Looking Ahead: Plans include wedding-related expenses and optimizing honeymoon travel.

Resources:

• Book a Free 30 minute points & miles consultation
• Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
• Sign up for our newsletter!
• BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

Interested in Financial Planning?

• Truicity Wealth Management

Some of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

• 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

In this episode of Quick Hits, DeAndre Coke breaks down a wave of updates shaking up the travel rewards space. From JetBlue’s game-changing “25 for 25” promotion, which could land travelers 25 years of elite Mosaic status and up to 350,000 points, to Turkish Airlines’ 6-Continents Challenge with a million-mile prize, there’s no shortage of bold airline promos this week. He also shares a major win for Points Path users, as the award-pricing browser extension is now available on Safari, making it easier than ever to spot significant point redemptions. However, not all the news is good—Virgin Atlantic has increased its surcharges on business class redemptions, and Zil’s payroll-on-credit-card feature has been reintroduced with new nuances in how transactions are coded, which could affect the number of points users earn.

With that in mind, DeAndre emphasizes the importance of community testing and feedback, especially as reward categories and codes continue to shift.

Learn more about how processing a credit card for payroll works here

Key takeaways: 

• JetBlue’s 25 for 25 Promo: Fly to 25 JetBlue destinations by year-end to earn Mosaic status for 25 years and up to 350,000 bonus points.
• Award Flights Qualify: JetBlue’s promo includes award flights, JetBlue Vacations, and cash bookings—but excludes Blue Basic fares and partner-operated flights.
• Turkish Airlines Challenge: Fly to six continents with Turkish Airlines by October 27 to earn 1 million Miles&Smiles miles—cash bookings only.
• Points Path on Safari: The Points Path extension now supports Safari, letting users see award pricing directly in Google Flights.
• Virgin Atlantic Surcharge Hike: Surcharges for business class flights to the U.K. have more than doubled, now $586 one-way.
• Dynamic Pricing Remains: Virgin Atlantic still employs dynamic award pricing, making it more challenging to find consistent sweet spots.
• Zil Money Payroll Feature Returns: You can once again run payroll on credit cards with Zil Money, but coding changes affect point bonuses.
• Coding Affects Rewards: Zill transactions now code as “computer software stores,” which may reduce category bonuses on some cards.

Resources:

• Act now - Protect your points!
• Book a Free 30-minute points & miles consultation
• Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
• Sign up for our newsletter!
• BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

Interested in Financial Planning?

• Truicity Wealth Management

Some of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

• 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 Coke: 

• Instagram: BoldlyGo.world
• TikTok: BoldlyGo.world 
• Website: BoldlyGo.world
• YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld
• YouTube: BoldlyGoTravels

In this episode of Revolutionizing Your Journey, DeAndre Coke sits down with Kelley Halpin, founder of Mesa, to explore how this innovative financial platform is changing the landscape of homeownership. Mesa allows homeowners to earn points on their mortgage payments, turning one of life’s biggest expenses into an opportunity to earn rewards. Kelley shares how the Mesa Homeowner's Card works, its unique perks such as brand partnerships with Lowe's, and how the company is particularly focused on supporting modern homeowners, especially women.

The conversation also delves into the card’s no-fee structure, credit opportunities, and Mesa’s expanding travel rewards ecosystem, including recent transfer partners such as Aeroplan and SAS EuroBonus. With a focus on security, smart spending categories like daycare and home improvement, and a long-term strategy for expanding reward redemptions, Mesa positions itself as a game-changer for financially savvy homeowners and travelers alike.

Key Highlights:

• Kelley's mission: Mesa was founded to make homeownership more rewarding and accessible.
• Earning points on your mortgage: The Mesa Homeowner's Card allows cardholders to earn rewards on monthly mortgage payments.
• Zero fees: The card carries no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees.
• Key categories: Users can earn 3x points on categories like daycare and home improvement.
• Partnerships: Mesa collaborates with brands like Lowe’s and Thumbtack for added value.
• Monthly spend requirement: A $1,000 monthly spend unlocks mortgage reward eligibility.
• Redemption options: Mesa points can be transferred to travel partners, including Aeroplan and SAS EuroBonus.
• Security-first approach: Mesa prioritizes data protection and consumer privacy.
• Future roadmap: Mesa is preparing for expanded offerings, more point partners, and travel-focused enhancements.

Make sure to check out the Mesa Homeowners Card – no annual fee, earns points on your mortgage, and comes with $800+ in home benefits!

Use the BoldlyGo referral link to get 5,000 bonus points if approved.

Or use the code to apply: pexaeh

All Mesa Homeowners Visa Cards are powered by Highnote and issued by Celtic Bank. Visa is a registered trademark of Visa Inc. All cards are subject to credit approval.

1. Cardholder Agreement here
2. Reward Terms and Conditions apply
3. Benefit Terms and Conditions apply

Resources:

• Book a Free 30 minute points & miles consultation
• Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
• Sign up for our newsletter!
• BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

Interested in Financial Planning?

• Truicity Wealth Management

Some of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

• 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

Find out more about Mesa: 

• Instagram: Mesa Member
• Website: mesamember.com
• LinkedIn: Mesa

In this episode of Quick Hits, DeAndre Coke unpacks the latest developments in the points and miles space—from sweepstakes to shocking benefit changes. He highlights a massive 1 million-mile Capital One sweepstakes in partnership with The Points Guy, as well as a record-high 175,000-point welcome offer from American Express. DeAndre also explains how it looks like ZilMoney is back with the ability to process credit cards for payroll, after a long awaited hiatus.

But it’s not all good news: DeAndre breaks down the loss of the 35% rebate on the Amex Business Platinum and previews a major overhaul coming to Amex cards this fall. He also outlines current transfer bonuses between programs, such as Amex-Hilton, Chase-Marriott, and Avios, and provides practical advice on when these transfers make sense. It’s a fast, insightful roundup of what’s happening now in the rewards world—and what savvy travelers should watch out for next.

Learn more about how processing a credit card for payroll works here

Key takeaways: 

• Capital One Sweepstakes: The Points Guy is giving away 1 million Capital One miles to one lucky winner.
• Historic Amex Offer: Amex Personal Platinum is offering a record-high 175,000-point welcome bonus.
• Business Platinum Downgrade: Starting September 18, the 35% Pay with Points rebate will be limited to your selected U.S. airline.
• Amex Card Refresh Coming: A major overhaul for Platinum and Business Platinum cards is expected this fall, likely including higher annual fees.
• Transfer Bonus – Amex to Hilton: Up to 25% bonus on transfers, boosting the typical 1:2 ratio to 1:2.5.
• No Hard Pull on Amex Apps: You can view approval status and bonus offers without triggering a hard credit pull.
• More Amex Changes Coming: Expect more statement credits, added complexity, and potential card design updates.

🎉 Enter the 1 Million Miles Giveaway from The Points Guy and Capital One

Resources:

• Hyatt Bonus Points Promotion
• Act now - Protect your points!
• Book a Free 30-minute points & miles consultation
• Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
• Sign up for our newsletter!
• BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

Interested in Financial Planning?

• Truicity Wealth Management

Some of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

• 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 Coke: 

• Instagram: BoldlyGo.world
• TikTok: BoldlyGo.world 
• Website: BoldlyGo.world
• YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld
• YouTube: BoldlyGoTravels

In this episode, Taryn and DeAndre dive into their spontaneous trip to Roatan, Honduras, uncovering why this Caribbean island deserves a top spot on your travel list. From snorkeling and diving in crystal-clear waters to relaxing at the Kimpton Grand Roatan, they highlight how to travel luxuriously while still being budget-conscious. The conversation also explores local dining, vibrant nightlife in the West End, and their visit to the Mayan Eden animal sanctuary, emphasizing the importance of responsible tourism.

They share practical tips for using points to offset travel costs, relying on eSIMs for hassle-free connectivity, and selecting the right activities to strike a balance between adventure and rest. From reef explorations to spa treatments, the episode offers inspiration for travelers seeking to make the most of a Caribbean getaway. Roatan left a deep impression—and by the end of this episode, it might just end up on your travel bucket list too.

Key Highlights:

• Roatan’s appeal: The island combines natural beauty, affordability, and unique experiences.
• Reward travel: Leveraging points can make luxury travel to Roatan more accessible.
• Stay experience: The Kimpton Grand Roatan stood out with its excellent service and amenities.
• Connectivity tip: Saily eSIM provided seamless mobile access during the trip.
• Diving adventures: Roatan is ideal for both beginner and experienced divers.
• Local culture: Dining and nightlife in the West End offer an authentic island vibe.
• Meaningful excursions: Visiting Mayan Eden highlighted the importance of responsible tourism.

Stay connected abroad with Saily eSIM. Use Code BOLDLYGO for a 15% discount.

Resources:

• Book a Free 30 minute points & miles consultation
• Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
• Sign up for our newsletter!
• BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

Interested in Financial Planning?

• Truicity Wealth Management

Some of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

• 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

Napa Valley is famous for its wine, but this trip brought something louder than Cabernet—an orange Lamborghini Huracán Performante. 🍷🔥

Join me as I explore Napa in luxury with vineyard views, wine tastings, poolside relaxation, and a jaw-dropping supercar experience that took things to the next level. From scenic sips on Spring Mountain to winding roads near Lake Berryessa, this trip was anything but typical.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to combine high-end wine country vibes with the thrill of 600+ horsepower, this bonus episode is for you.

📍 Where We Stayed: The Estate Yountville

🚗 Supercar Rental: Napa Valley Supercars

🍇 Wineries Visited:

• Barnett Vineyards
• Barron's Family Winery
• VGS Chateau Potelle

Resources:

• Book a Free 30 minute points & miles consultation
• Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
• Sign up for our newsletter!
• This month's best current card offers
• BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

Interested in Financial Planning?

• Truicity Wealth Management

Some of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

• 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 Coke: 

• Instagram: BoldlyGo.world
• TikTok: BoldlyGo.world 
• Website: BoldlyGo.world
• YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld
• YouTube: BoldlyGo.Travels

In what is the longest “Quick Hits” episode ever, DeAndre Coke shares key updates from the travel rewards world and a major shift for the podcast: joining the Voyascape network, a dedicated hub for top-tier travel podcasts. He dives into urgent news, including a once-in-a-lifetime Amex points transfer loophole that’s about to end, and a long-awaited Chase feature that now lets you transfer credit lines online. DeAndre also explores tech innovations, such as the TSA’s expanding support for digital IDs, changes in Hilton’s loyalty program (farewell to late checkout), and new Hyatt promotions that could be worth a booking—listener questions about flight booking strategies round out this information-packed episode.

If you're looking to maximize your cards, eyeing your next redemption, or just keeping up with the latest changes, this week’s episode is packed with updates that savvy travelers won’t want to miss.

Key takeaways: 

• Big news: The podcast is now part of the Voyascape network, bringing travel-focused sponsorships and broader reach.
• Sapphire Refresh: All of the new updates to the Sapphire Reserve and Business Sapphire Reserve credit cards
• Amex points loophole: A rare transfer window is closing soon — take action before it vanishes.
• Chase update: You can now transfer credit lines between Chase cards online — no phone call required.
• TSA innovation: More airports are supporting digital IDs for faster, app-based security checks.
• Hilton changes: Late checkout has been removed as a benefit — a significant downgrade for loyalists.
• Hyatt Promotion: Earn Bonus Points for Eligible Stays Through September.
• New Aruba resort: Hyatt’s Secrets Baby Beach has officially opened — adult-only and all-inclusive.
• Flight booking tips: Early and last-minute bookings tend to yield the best award space.
• Community engagement: Listener questions and feedback are always welcome and shape future episodes.

Resources:

• Hyatt Bonus Points Promotion
• Act now - Protect your points!
• Book a Free 30-minute points & miles consultation
• Start here to learn how to unlock nearly free travel
• Sign up for our newsletter!
• BoldlyGo Travel With Points & Miles Facebook Group

Interested in Financial Planning?

• Truicity Wealth Management

Some of Our Favorite Tools For Elevating Your Points & Miles Game:

Note: Contains affiliate/sponsored links

• 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 Coke: 

• Instagram: BoldlyGo.world
• TikTok: BoldlyGo.world 
• Website: BoldlyGo.world
• YouTube: BoldlyGoWorld
• YouTube: BoldlyGoTravels