Katie Corrigan Seemann

Airport security is changing fast, and the new touchless TSA PreCheck rollout is making the lines faster and smoother—if you know where to find it. On top of that, Mobile Passport Control has quietly become one of the best free tools for speeding through immigration on international trips.In this episode, we break down what the new PreCheck tech actually does, where it’s live, and how it compares to CLEAR and traditional PreCheck lanes. We also walk through why Mobile Passport can sometimes beat Global Entry and how families can use it on arrival to skip some seriously long lines.If you want a smoother airport experience this year, this episode shows you the tools that really work.Chapters:00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 4001:00 What is Mobile Passport Control?02:24 How to use Mobile Passport Control04:38 What is TSA PreCheck Touchless ID05:16 How to use TSA PreCheck Touchless ID8:45 Airport Fast Pass Quiz12:50 Listener QuestionThe Best Guide to Mobile Passport Control: Breeze Through the Airport: https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/mobile-passport-app/TSA PreCheck Touchless ID Will Expand to 50 New Airports This Spring: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/tsa-precheck-touchless-id-expansion-2026/✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/📧 Questions? Email us at podcast@upgradedpoints.com📲 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@upgradedpointspod📲 Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/📲 Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints📲 Follow us  on TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@upgradedpoints✉️ Upgraded Points Newsletter https://upgradedpoints.com/join-newsletter/

Points and miles have their own vocabulary, and if you’re new to the hobby, the slang alone can make everything feel harder than it needs to be. We’re kicking off 2026 by breaking down every term, acronym, and bit of jargon you’ll hear this year.We cover the basics like transferable points and award charts, then dig into the community slang you’ll see online—SUBs, DPs, P2s, sweet spots, HUCA, and more. We also explain the confusing terms that cause the most beginner mistakes and highlight the language you’ll hear more often in 2026 as programs evolve.By the end of this episode, you’ll understand the lingo, follow every conversation, and feel way more confident planning your next trip with points.Chapters:00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 3901:28 P2, Stacking, Churning, and 5/2405:34 SUB, DP, Positioning Flight, and Pop-up Jail09:18 Earn and Burn, Bonvoyed, and Gate Lice12:15 Raw Dogging, YMMV, and CPP16:03 Points and Miles Lingo Quiz18:35 Listener QuestionThe Ultimate Guide to Credit Card, Points & Miles Lingo [Full Glossary]: https://upgradedpoints.com/credit-cards/credit-card-points-miles-lingo/✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/📧 Questions? Email us at podcast@upgradedpoints.com📲 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@upgradedpointspod📲 Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/📲 Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints📲 Follow us  on TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@upgradedpoints✉️ Upgraded Points Newsletter https://upgradedpoints.com/join-newsletter/

A lot is changing in the points and miles world in 2026, and most travelers have no idea what’s coming. Today, we break down the updates that actually matter for anyone using points, miles, or premium credit cards.We’re covering new credit card perk changes, lounge access rules, and the loyalty program updates that could impact your strategy next year. You’ll learn what to use before it disappears, which benefits are still worth keeping, and how to avoid wasting money or missing out on value.Whether you’re trying to plan ahead or just don’t want any surprises, this episode will help you stay a step ahead of the 2026 travel shakeup.Listen now and get ready before the new rules kick in.Chapters:00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 3800:52 Chase Sapphire Reserve Changes for 202603:31 Capital One Venture X Changes for 202604:37 Southwest Airlines Changes for 202606:17 JetBlue Mosaic Changes for 202609:27 Hyatt Credit Card Changes for 202611:12 American Airlines Adding Free Wi-Fi in 202613:16 Wish List and Predictions for 202620:49 Listener Question✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/📧 Questions? Email us at podcast@upgradedpoints.com📲 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@upgradedpointspod📲 Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/📲 Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints📲 Follow us  on TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@upgradedpoints✉️ Upgraded Points Newsletter https://upgradedpoints.com/join-newsletter/

European Christmas markets look magical in photos, and this week Katie proves they’re even better in real life. She just got back from Germany and Switzerland, and she’s breaking down the markets that were worth the trip, the ones that surprised her, and the exact route she followed.We walk through how she booked the whole thing with points, which redemptions delivered serious value, and how you can plan a similar December trip without overspending. We also cover timing tips, city-to-city transportation, what to expect in the crowds, and the food and handmade gifts you don’t want to miss.If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering Europe’s Christmas markets with a mug of glühwein in hand, this episode gives you everything you need to make it happen.Chapters: 00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 3700:50 Hilton x Explore Journeys02:25 European Christmas Markets03:30 Lufthansa 747 Business Class07:47 Kimpton Frankfurt12:44 Christmas Markets in Frankfurt and Cologne14:01 Le Meridien Stuttgart16:15 Markets in Stuttgart, Esslingen, and Heidelberg20:17 Park Hyatt Zurich23:05 Zurich Markets25:35 Chris' Bad Dad Joke26:07 SWISS Business Class30:47 Listener Questions✈️ Learn more at https://upgradedpoints.com/📧 Questions? Email us at podcast@upgradedpoints.com📲 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@upgradedpointspod📲 Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/📲 Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints📲 Follow us  on TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@upgradedpoints✉️ Upgraded Points Newsletter https://upgradedpoints.com/join-newsletter/

Airport lounges have become one of the biggest reasons travelers choose premium credit cards, and in this episode, Chris and Katie compare the three major players: Chase Sapphire Lounges, Capital One Lounges, and Amex Centurion Lounges.They break down access rules, locations, food and amenities, crowding, and which lounges offer the best real-world experience. Whether you want the best option for families, business travel, or occasional trips, you’ll learn which lounge program is worth prioritizing in 2025.Plus, Chris shares how he upgraded his American Airlines flight from Economy to Business class on the long overnight flight from New York (JFK) to Rio de Janeiro (GIG).Chapters:00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 3600:59 Chris’ American Airlines Business Class Upgrade to Rio03:35 Kimpton Social Password06:00 Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club11:25 Capital One Lounge18:33 American Express Centurion Lounge23:46 Our Top Picks28:08 Listener CommentsWant more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.comFollow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints 

Join Katie as she shares her unforgettable trip to Thailand and Bangkok! From visiting an ethical elephant sanctuary to exploring the bustling streets of Bangkok, she walks us through her favorite experiences, hotel stays, local tips, and travel hacks. Whether you’re planning a points-based luxury trip or just looking for adventure inspiration, this episode has it all—from feeding rescued elephants to indulging in mango sticky rice, enjoying ATVs, and flying business class on a long-haul journey.Learn the best ways to maximize your time, budget, and comfort while traveling in Thailand!Chapters:00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 3500:58 Chris’ Chaotic JFK Travel Day06:52 Premium Economy to Thailand 12:52 JW Marriott Phuket18:46 Elephant Sanctuary and ATV Ride21:52 St. Regis Bangkok28:25 Bangkok Travel Trips32:30 Business Class from Bangkok to New York 36:45 Final ThoughtsWant more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.comFollow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints 

Don’t let your credit card perks disappear before the clock strikes midnight on December 31! In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie break down the end-of-year credits, perks, and benefits you need to use before they expire — covering everything from Amex, Chase, and Capital One to Delta, Hilton, and more.Plus, they cover major updates from Hilton Honors, including the brand-new Diamond Reserve elite tier and big changes to Gold and Diamond qualification requirements. Then it’s on to your essential end-of-year checklist: hotel credits, airline incidentals, rideshare perks, restaurant credits, CLEAR memberships, Dell credits, StubHub deals, and the often-forgotten card benefits that can easily save you hundreds of dollars.Whether you’re swimming in premium cards or just trying to squeeze every dollar out of your travel perks, this episode walks you through everything resetting on January 1… and how to make sure none of it goes to waste.If you want to finish the year with maximum value (and minimum regret), this is the episode you need right now.Chapters:00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 3400:53 Hilton Diamond Reserve Elite Status03:08 Hilton Gold and Diamond Changes05:55 End of the Year Credit Card Checklist11:32 Rideshare Credits12:51 Resy Credits14:20 Airline Credits15:37 CLEAR Credits17:14 Unique Premium Card Credits21:57 Apply Before 2026?25:20 Listener Q&A2025 Annual Credit Card Statement Credits To Use Before the Year Ends: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/2025-annual-credit-card-statement-credits-to-use/ Why It Makes Sense To Apply for the Amex Platinum Before 2026: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/apply-amex-platinum-before-2026/Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.comFollow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints 

In this episode of the Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie break down their all-time favorite travel gear—just in time for Black Friday. After years of testing backpacks, carry-ons, tech essentials, and outfit must-haves on real trips, they’re sharing only the items they truly can’t travel without. No random Amazon finds here—these picks are battle-tested.They also highlight some exclusive Black Friday discounts on top award travel tools, including Seats.aero, Roame, and CardPointers, with all the codes and links waiting in the show notes. From choosing the perfect backpack and staying organized with a dedicated travel wallet, to packing smarter with toiletry kits, versatile clothing, and go-to airport outfits, this episode is packed with practical tips you can use on your next trip. Whether you’re a carry-on-only traveler or gearing up for a long-haul flight, Chris and Katie share clever, experience-driven advice that makes traveling smoother, lighter, and a whole lot easier.If you like saving money and traveling smarter, this episode is for you. Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app, and send your questions to podcast@upgradedpoints.com00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 3301:00 Black Friday Sales: Seats.aero, Roame, and CardPointers02:15 Favorite Travel Gear09:27 Carry-on Luggage Tips13:32 Travel Wallets17:10 Toiletry Bag21:54 Travel Wardrobe32:55 Packing Cubes36:00 Travel Tech We Love41:46 Black Friday Shopping Tips44:43 Listener Q&ABlack Friday Deals (Good through December 1, 2025)Save 30% on Seats.aero with code Friday2530:  upgradedpoints.com/go/SeatsAeroSave 40% on Roame with code UPGRADED40: upgradedpoints.com/go/RoameSave 50% on CardPointers:- upgradedpoints.com/go/CardPointersBackpacks and Weekender Bags:The Everywhere Bag - Away: upgradedpoints.com/go/AwayEverywhereTumi Voyageur Atlanta Backpack: upgradedpoints.com/go/SaksTumiVoyageurAtlantaBackpackLululemon City Essentials Duffle Bag 28L: upgradedpoints.com/go/lululemonCityEssentialsDuffleBag28LCarry-On LuggageTumi 19 Degree International Expandable 4 Wheeled Carry-On: upgradedpoints.com/go/TumiInternationalCarryOnMacysROAM Carry-On: upgradedpoints.com/go/RoamLuggageCarryOnAway Carry-On: upgradedpoints.com/go/AwayCarryOnPocketMonos Carry-On: upgradedpoints.com/go/MonosCarryOnProTravel Accessories:TUMI Alpha Electronic Cord Pouch: upgradedpoints.com/go/SaksTUMICordPouchTUMI Small Madeline Cosmetic Case: upgradedpoints.com/go/TumiSmallMadelineCosmeticsCaseMonos Compressible Packing Cubes: upgradedpoints.com/go/MonosCompressiblePackingCubes4PackTUMI travel jewelry case: upgradedpoints.com/go/​​TumiJewelryCaseTUMI electronic cord pouch at Saks: upgradedpoints.com/go/SaksTUMICordPouchCredit card wallet: upgradedpoints.com/go/AmazonCreditCardWalletTravel WardrobeLululemon Be Calm Mid-Rise Wide-Leg Pants: upgradedpoints.com/go/LululemonBeCalmMidRisePantLululemon Dance Studio Mid-Rise Pants: upgradedpoints.com/go/lululemonDanceStudioMidRisePantLululemon Oversized Scuba Hoodie: upgradedpoints.com/go/lululemonScubaOversizedFullZipHoodieOn Cloud 6 shoes: upgradedpoints.com/go/OnCloud6ShoesMensInsider T-shirts: https://insiderstore.com/Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.comFollow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints 

Are Citi ThankYou Points the most underrated currency in travel rewards? In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie break down why this overlooked points program might be the best-kept secret in the game. From transfer partners like American Airlines and Turkish to surprising hotel redemptions through Choice Privileges, they reveal how Citi quietly stacks up against Amex, Chase, and Capital One.Plus, we dive into some travel news as Wyndham and Vacasa are ending their partnerships, and share a promo code for AwardTool... one of our favorite new search tools! Whether you’re a beginner building your first points strategy or a seasoned traveler looking for fresh value, this episode shows where Citi shines... and where it still lags behind.00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 3200:48 Wyndham x Vacasa Partnership Ending01:52 AwardTool Discount03:20 Are Citi ThankYou Points Underrated?06:40 Citi Credit Cards16:40 Pros and Cons 24:40 Listener Q&AUse code UPGRADED20 to save 20% off all AwardTool plans for new subscribersWant 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 

In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie dive into Citi’s newest addition to the American Airlines credit card lineup — the Citi® / AAdvantage® Globe Card. With a $350 annual fee, Admirals Club passes, and a tempting 90,000-mile welcome bonus, this mid-tier card is already making waves. But is it truly worth a spot in your wallet, or just filling the gap between Citi’s entry-level and premium AAdvantage cards?The hosts break down everything you need to know — from earning structures and benefits to elite status boosts and that tricky companion certificate fine print. Plus, they share fresh credit card news and travel promos, including Southwest’s elevated 85K bonus offers, new JetBlue transfer options with Wells Fargo, and valuable Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt promotions you don’t want to miss. Whether you’re chasing AAdvantage miles, eyeing a new signup bonus, or just want smarter ways to maximize your next trip, this episode is packed with insight and strategy.00:00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 3101:02 Wells Fargo New Transfer Partner01:50: Southwest Elevated Offers06:55 Hilton, Hyatt, & Marriott Bonus Points08:54 AAdvantage Globe Card18:04 AA Globe Card vs. The Rest31:41 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 New AAdvantage Globe Card: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/citi-aadvantage-globe-card-launches/American Airlines Credit Card Comparison:https://upgradedpoints.com/credit-cards/best-american-airlines-credit-cards/AAdvantage Globe Card Turo Credit:https://upgradedpoints.com/credit-cards/reviews/aadvantage-globe-card/turo-credit/AAdvantage Globe Card Splurge Credit:https://upgradedpoints.com/credit-cards/reviews/aadvantage-globe-card/splurge-credit/Elevated 85k Welcome Offer on Southwest Cards:https://upgradedpoints.com/news/southwest-personal-cards-85k-sign-up-bonus/Southwest Debit Card:https://upgradedpoints.com/news/southwest-rapid-rewards-debit-card/

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/

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 

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 

Capital One just made a major move in the points and miles world by adding 3 new transfer partners — Japan Airlines, Qatar Airways Privilege Club, and Preferred Hotels & Resorts. Chris and Katie break down what this means for your travel redemptions, why now might be the perfect time to use your Capital One miles, and how these changes could make Capital One one of the most valuable travel programs today.They also share recent travel updates from São Paulo and Thailand, plus an amazing redemption story for an upcoming solar eclipse cruise in the Mediterranean, and answer some listener questions. 00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 2701:01 The Westin São Paulo02:50 The St. Regis Bangkok 06:46 Capital One’s new transfer partners14:15 The best program?18:19 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 Save 20% on Savewise: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/savewise-promo-code/

In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, we dive into the latest updates shaking up the  travel world, including the major refresh to the The Business Platinum Card from American Express. From new benefits to a bigger annual fee, we break down what these changes mean for cardholders and whether the updates make this card worth it for your business.We’ll also cover Chase’s updates to The Edit, how to save 20% on a Savewise Pro account, and answer your burning listener questions during our Q&A segment. Whether you’re a points pro or just getting started, this episode gives you practical insights to help you get more value  out of your rewards.00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 2601:00 Chase The Edit07:37 Savewise 20% off code10:42 Amex Business Platinum Refresh22:08 1 Major Issue25:17 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

Traveling should be smooth, not stressful. In this episode, Chris and Katie break down the differences between TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, and Global Entry to help you decide which program is the right fit for your travel style. From skipping long security lines to breezing through customs, they’ll share the perks, drawbacks, and insider tips for each option.You’ll also hear some of the unique ways Chris and Katie have earned American Airlines miles—and how you can use those same strategies to maximize your travel. 00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 2501:00 Earning AA miles06:40 TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, or Global Entry?13:53 Get them for FREE!Want more out of your points? Explore our guides written by travel and financial professionals on UpgradedPoints.com.Save 30% on CardPointers: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/cardpointers-discount/Follow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints 

The Platinum Card® from American Express just got a massive refresh for 2025 — with new benefits, new perks, and yes, a higher annual fee. Chris and Katie break down everything you need to know, from the new and updated benefits to whether the card is still worth it after the fee increase.00:00 The Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 2401:00 Universal Halloween Horror Nights03:45 Flights to Thailand08:00 Amex Platinum changes11:30 NEW benefits21:35 Amex vs. Chase vs. Citi28:05 Our thoughts30:09 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 

Step inside the magic with us! In this special episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie broadcast live from Walt Disney World in support of our "Magic in the Air" giveaway. They stayed at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort and sat down for exclusive interviews (inside the parks!) you won’t hear anywhere else, including Dr. Zak from Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Tara Anderson, Show Director of Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away.From behind-the-scenes insights to unforgettable Disney storytelling, this episode brings you closer to the parks than ever before. Plus, we share tips from our trip, listener questions, and a few surprises along the way.Whether you’re a lifelong Disney fan or just curious about what goes on behind the curtain, this one’s packed with pixie dust. ✨00:00 Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 2302:00 Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort04:42 Animal Kingdom with Dr. Zak and Allie13:42 Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away with Tara Anderson 17:00 Win a trip to Walt Disney WorldEnter for your chance to win our Magic in the Air Giveaway!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 

Big news in the points and miles world… Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines have merged their loyalty programs into Atmos Rewards. But is this truly an upgrade or just a rebrand? In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie break down everything you need to know: redemption sweet spots, earning structures, and the highly anticipated Atmos Rewards Summit Card with big welcome bonuses.We also dive into the latest travel and credit card updates, including over 400 new Fine Hotels + Resorts and Hotel Collection properties added by Amex,  special discounts, and more. Plus, a listener Q&A covers planning a dream trip to Thailand using points and miles, and we share expert tips on tools like FlightConnections, Seats.aero, and Roame.If premium travel for fewer points is your goal, this episode is packed with insights you don’t want to miss.Save 30% on CardPointers+: https://upgradedpoints.com/news/cardpointers-discount/00:00 Upgraded Points Podcast Episode 2201:00 Amex adds 400 FHR Properties02:00 CardPointers+ discount05:00 Atmos Rewards Overview10:30 Atmos Rewards Credit Cards23:03 Listener Q&AFollow us!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upgradedpoints/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upgradedpoints/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/Upgradedpoints 

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