Christopher Hassan Host

Christopher Hassan

Appears in 31 Episodes

#30

Battle of the Premium Cards: Amex vs. Chase vs. Citi vs. Capital One

In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie dive into the ultimate showdown of premium travel credit cards — Amex, Chase, Citi, and Capital One. With four major cards and four hefty annual fees on the table, the hosts break down which one truly delivers the most value. From point-earning potential to exclusive perks, they compare every detail to help you decide which premium card deserves a spot in your wallet.Stay tuned as they share personal travel updates, unpack card benefits like lounge access and trip protection, and answer a listener’s burning question about maximizing rewards. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting to explore the world of points, this episode will help you make the most of your card strategy.00:00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 3001:05 Autocamp Cape Cod04:05 Dreams Bahia Mita10:54 Promo Codes: Seats.aero and Savewise11:37 Battle of the Premium Cards17:20 Earning points, Which Card is Best?24:44 Travel Benefits and Protections40:22 Listener QuestionsWant more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.com.Follow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints Amex vs. Chase vs. Capital One vs. Citi: Premium Card Comparison: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/premium-travel-credit-card-comparison-2025/Save 20% on Savewise with promo code UPGRADEDPOINTS: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/savewise-promo-code/
#29

Money-Saving Travel Hacks You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner

Traveling doesn’t have to drain your wallet… if you know the right hacks! In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie break down the money-saving travel strategies that actually work. From booking hotels with breakfast included to getting a free eSIM and never paying for water at the airport again, these are the tips seasoned travelers swear by.They’ll also cover underrated tools that save hundreds on flights and hotels, how to get real value from credit card perks, and more. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or a quick weekend getaway, these insider hacks will help you travel smarter, spend less, and make every trip feel like a win.00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 2900:48 Chase Sapphire Reserve changes02:32 Seats.aero promo code03:34 MaxMyPoint promo code05:08 Money Saving Travel Hacks33:26 Listener Q&AChase Unveils Major Overhaul of the Sapphire Reserve Card: New Perks, Higher Annual Fee: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/chase-overhauls-sapphire-reserve-card/Use this Seats.aero promo code to save 20% on an annual Pro subscription: UPGRADE3435 https://www.dpbolvw.net/click-8196909-17075279Use This MaxMyPoint Promo Code To Save 20% on an Annual Subscription: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/maxmypoint-promo-code/Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.com.Follow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints 
#28

Amex Platinum’s Hidden Gem? Leaders Club Elite Status Explained

On this week’s episode, Chris and Katie dive into one of the best-kept secrets in luxury travel: Leaders Club from Leading Hotels of the World. With the Platinum Card® from American Express now offering complimentary Leaders Club Sterling elite status, cardholders can unlock perks at more than 400 independent luxury hotels in 80 countries — from historic palaces to private island retreats.They break down how this partnership works, what benefits you actually get (think upgrades, breakfast, and exclusive offers), and how to get the most value from Leaders Club stays — even when booking with points. You’ll also hear how Citi ThankYou Points can open the door to some surprisingly valuable redemptions.Plus, Katie shares her experience at La Casa de la Playa, one of Mexico’s most stunning Leading Hotels of the World properties, and the duo wraps up with practical advice for beginners building a strong points and miles foundation.Correction: In this episode, we mention that transferring Citi ThankYou Points to Leading Hotels of the World gives you a rate of 1,000 points = 140 Leaders Club points. However, if you have an eligible Citi card such as the Citi Strata Elite, Citi Strata Premier, Citi Prestige, or AT&T Access More, you actually get a better rate of 1,000 points = 200 Leaders Club points.00:00: The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 2801:15 Bilt adds Etihad02:10 Amex Equinox benefit03:55 Disney price increase06:03 Leading Hotels of the World overview07:40 Leaders Club Program10:45 Sterling Elite Status13:05 Earning and booking with points20:32 La Casa de la Playa 28:21 Listener Q&AWant more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.com.Follow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints 
#21

Southwest Changes (Assigned Seats & New Credit Card Benefits)

Is Southwest turning into every other airline? In this week’s episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, we’re diving into major Southwest changes that some travelers are celebrating, while others aren’t too thrilled. From elite status perks to new credit card updates, Katie and Chris break down exactly what these shifts mean for your future flights and bookings.But that’s not all, we are also sharing the details of our brand new “Magic in the Air” Walt Disney World Resort vacation giveaway! Plus, we cover the latest American Airlines and Hyatt status matches, answer listener questions, and more. If you fly Southwest (or want to maximize your rewards), this is one you need to tune in for.For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below: [0:00] The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 21[0:50] Walt Disney World Giveaway*[2:50] American Airlines/Hyatt status match[6:00] Southwest changes[8:40] Southwest elite status[12:17] Southwest credit cards[19:25] Listener Q&AWant more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.com*NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open to legal residents of the 50 U.S./D.C., age 18+. Void outside the 50 U.S./D.C. and where prohibited. Sweepstakes starts at 12:00:01 AM ET on 09/01/25; ends at 11:59:59 PM ET on 09/30/25. Total ARV of all prizes: $9,283.56. Odds of winning will depend upon the total number of eligible entries received. Limit: One (1) Entry per person. For full Official Rules, visit https://upgradedpoints.com/news/win-trip-disney-world-september-2025/ Sponsor: Upgraded Points, LLC, 1155 Barton Springs Rd., Austin, TX 78704.Follow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints 
#17

SLH vs Mr & Mrs Smith: What’s the Difference Between These Luxury Hotel Brands?

Big hotel brands are getting a boutique glow-up, and now your points can unlock some seriously stylish stays. In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, we break down the key differences between Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) and Mr & Mrs Smith hotels, plus how to book them with points through Hyatt and Hilton.We also cover the latest travel news: a new promo code for Roame, fresh lounge designs that ease crowding, and a brand-new credit card worth a look. And as always, we answer your listener questions.For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below: [0:00] The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 17[1:30] Airport lounges just might become less crowded[7:40] SLH vs Mr & Mrs Smith Hotels[13:49] Katie shares about her experience staying in a Mr & Mrs Smith Hotel[17:52] Malliouhana in Anguilla hotel was a SLH and has changed to Mr & Mrs Smith[21:20] Hotel Manapany in St. Barts[24:23] Q&ARoame.Travel promo code: save 15% off a Friends of Roame subscription using code UPGRADEDPOINTSWant more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website.Follow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints Sailrock South Caicos Review: https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/what-to-know-sailrock-resort-south-caicos/Maliouhana Review: https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/malliouhana-anguilla-review/Hotel Manapany Review: https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/hotel-manapany-st-barts/
#14

Big Amex Platinum Changes Coming in 2025? Here’s What You Need to Know

In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Katie and Chris are diving deep into the latest buzz in the world of travel and points—and there’s big news for American Express cardholders.Chris kicks things off with updates on his upcoming trip to Japan, sharing more details on his exciting itinerary. Meanwhile, Katie takes us back in time with stories from her stay at a historic hotel in Panama City, offering insights for travelers who love unique accommodations.They also take us behind the scenes at Copa Airlines, where Katie visited flight training facilities and learned firsthand what it takes to become a flight attendant.But the real headline is the shifting landscape of American Express. Katie and Chris discuss Amex’s new “As High As” welcome offers, changes to the Amex Business Platinum card’s 35% points rebate, and predictions about anticipated changes to the Amex Platinum card. , For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below: [0:00] Chris booked more of his trip to Japan. [2:45] Katie’s stay at Hotel La Compania in Panama City. [6:18] Copa Airlines flight training and flight attendant training visit.[8:40] American Express has new “As High As” welcome offers.[10:32] Changes to the Amex Business Platinum’s 35% points rebate.[13:42] Upcoming changes to the Amex Platinum card.[19:14] Q&A: What happens to my points if I cancel my credit card?[20:51] Q&A: What is the biggest mistake people make with points and miles?[22:54] Q&A: Am I eligible for a Sapphire Reserve card if I already have a Sapphire Preferred card?Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website.Follow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@upgradedpointspod 
#13

Is The Chase Sapphire Reserve Card Still Worth It?

Welcome to The Upgraded Points Podcast, where hosts Katie and Chris break down everything you need to know about traveling smarter, flying better, and making the most of your credit card points. From insider airline updates to the best cards for travel perks, they’ve got your journey covered, no gate changes required.In this episode, we learn about the one promo you could use to help lock in elite airline status for the next 25 years, as well as some new Delta Sky Club lounges that have recently opened. Another big topic for this podcast is whether the Chase Sapphire Reserve card is worth it after all the changes recently made.Whether you're a seasoned points hacker or just getting started, Katie and Chris are your go-to crew for tips, news, and travel hacks that can upgrade your adventures.For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below: [0:00] Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 13[1:07] JetBlue promo to earn 350k points and elite status for 25 years[4:18] New Delta Sky Club lounges[6:22] Chase Sapphire Reserve card changes[16:08] Timeline for the Chase Sapphire Reserve changes[19:54] Is the card still worth it?[24:33] Answering listener  questionsWant more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website.Follow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints 
#12

A Week in Europe Using Points and Miles

In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris kicks things off with how he cleverly redeemed credits and points—plus, he shares a wild story about flying on a plane that looks like a turtle (yes, really!). Katie dives into her recent trip to Europe, breaking down exactly how she booked it using points and sharing savvy tips to help you save big on your own European getaway.After a quick break, Katie continues her travel recap with more helpful advice and real-world takeaways. Finally, Chris and Katie answer listener questions about maximizing points, partner airlines, and how to stretch your miles even further.Whether you’re dreaming of Europe or just curious about the quirks of aviation, this episode is packed with insider info, laughs, and practical advice to help you travel smarter.For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below: [0:00] Teaser and introduction[1:11] Chris talks about how he used his United credits to book an ANA flight from Hawaii to Japan. [6:21] Katie discusses booking her trip to Europe (Frankfurt and Amsterdam, specifically) and how it went, giving tips for others to save more on their trips.Get the details of another trip to Europe that Katie booked with points and miles:https://upgradedpoints.com/news/week-in-europe-points-miles/This week-long trip had a value (for flights and hotels) of just over $14,000, but Katie spent just $1,172 out of pocket.[12:36] Break time[12:51] Katie continues talking about her trip to Europe after the break.Andaz Amsterdam Review: https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/hotels/andaz-amsterdam-prinsengracht-review/[25:10] The hosts answers viewers' questions about points and miles.How to pool airline and hotel points and miles: https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/airlines-hotels-pool-points-miles/Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website.Follow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints 
#11

The Best Credit Cards For Airport Lounge Access

In this episode, Chris and Katie take you through their latest travel experiences and dive deep into the world of airport lounge access. Chris shares what it was like flying with Copa Airlines, while Katie talks about scoring an upgrade with American Airlines in Charlotte.They then explore which credit cards offer the best lounge access, why lounge perks matter for frequent travelers, and which cards are dropping lounge privileges. From the premium American Express Platinum to a no-annual fee card that comes with lounge access, they break down options for every type of traveler.Plus, Katie reveals a savvy trick for getting the most out of “Grab and Go” offerings at Delta Sky Clubs—enough to feed two people! The episode wraps up with a listener Q&A, so don’t miss it.For detailed show notes, navigate using the time stamps below: [0:00] The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 11[0:30] Introduction[1:08] Chris talks about his experience flying with Copa Airlines[4:34] Katie shares about a recent upgrade she had while flying on American Airlines.[8:14] What credit card should you get for the best lounge access, why travelers would want to have good lounge access, including some cards that are lounge access policies.[15:47] Chris discusses the American Express Platinum card.[17:52] Katie brings up another card that offers lounge access without an annual fee. [19:15] Credit cards that allow travelers to get into airline-specific lounges.[24:42] Katie talks about her experience with using Delta Sky Club’s “Grab and Go” option and how travelers can get enough food for two people if they plan smartly.[27:04] Recap: best credit cards for lounge access[27:20] Listener questionWant more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on the Upgraded Points website.Follow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints Best Credit Cards for Airport Lounge Access: https://upgradedpoints.com/credit-cards/lounge-access/
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