All the Hacks: Money, Points & Life

Hosted by Chris Hutchins

Business Society Culture EducationInterviews guests

Website RSS feed

Episodes

299

Latest episode

Oct 2026

Language

About the show

Never leave money on the table. This is your shortcut to upgrading your life, money and travel—all while spending less and saving more. Get tactical moves and deep dives into designing a life you’re excited about. Host Chris Hutchins is a life hacker who has saved millions by breaking down every aspect of life and looking to maximize happiness at the lowest cost. Chris and guests like Tim Ferriss, Tony Hawk, Codie Sanchez and Gary Vaynerchuk are here to deliver smart strategies you can plug into your own life—from a money hack that increases your net worth, to a routine change that boosts your productivity.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

October 14, 20261 hr 20 min

How to Earn Points on Your Savings and Investments

#298: Chris breaks down how to earn airline miles and transferable points on money you’re already saving or investing (and whether the rewards are actually worth the tradeoffs). He compares mileage-earning bank accounts from Bask, United and Alaska, the new Bank of America and Alaska transfer partnership, Silo’s brokerage rewards program, and Symphony’s higher-yield approach. Plus, the welcome offers ending this fall that change the first-year math, and a short interview with Symphony's founders. Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/earn-points-on-savings/ Partner Deals NetSuite: ⁠Free KPI checklist to upgrade your business performance LMNT: ⁠Free sample pack of my favorite electrolyte drink mix DeleteMe: ⁠20% off removing your personal info from the web Zocdoc: Find and instantly book a doctor you love today MasterClass: ⁠Learn from the world's best with 15% off For all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: ⁠chrishutchins.com/deals Resources Mentioned Silo Markets⁠ (← 250k Bonus) ⁠Symphony⁠ (← Referral Bonus) ⁠Bask Bank Atmos debit card (← 20% off coupon) Odynn point.me ATH Podcast #131: Maximize Earnings on Cash, CD Ladders, Bank Bonuses, Bulk Buying, and Automating Returns #195: 50+ Ways to Earn More Points and Miles Without Spending More #262: Points & Miles in 2026: What's New, What's Dying & What's Next with Brian M #288: Where to Keep Your Cash for the Highest Return Hotel Upgrade Program Best Cards Page Gift Cards Page Newsletter AMA: Submit Questions Leave a review: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Email for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.com Full Show Notes (00:00) Introduction (00:50) How to Earn Points on Your Savings (05:01) Bank Accounts That Pay Airline Miles (05:41) Earning American Miles with Bask Bank (14:13) Why United's Mileage Debit Card Falls Short (17:09) Alaska’s Upcoming Rewards Banking Account (17:48) Boosting Bank of America Points, Now Transferable to Alaska (20:29) How Silo Pays Points on Your Brokerage Account (26:22) Changes Coming to Silo on November 1st (32:40) Silo's New Welcome Bonus (35:52) Can You Trust Silo With Your Investments? (36:31) Earning 5% or 5X Points with Symphony (38:52) Where Your Money Actually Goes at Symphony (39:22) Bucket 1: Treasury Bills (40:18) Bucket 2: CLOs (41:37) Bucket 3: Private Credit (43:24) Bucket 4: Crypto Lending (46:20) Pooled Accounts and SIPC Protection (46:57) What the Crypto Wallet Does (and Doesn't) Protect (47:33) How Fast You Can Get Your Money Out (49:17) Risk #1: The Rate Gets Cut (49:55) Risk #2: Withdrawals Slow Down (50:17) Risk #3: You Lose Part of Your Investment (51:05) Risk #4: An FTX-Style Collapse (51:49) My Overall Take on Symphony (54:21) Breaking Down Symphony's Welcome Offer (57:04) Recap: Mileage Bank Accounts (58:38) Recap: Silo (59:57) Recap: Symphony (01:02:02) Interview with Symphony's Founders (01:04:01) How Symphony Layers Its Risk Protection (01:08:02) What Happens If Everyone Withdraws at Once (01:09:54) Why the Blockchain Ledger Matters If Symphony Goes Away (01:16:15) What’s Next: Transfer Partners, Experiences and AI Booking Connect with Chris ⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠ | ⁠Membership⁠⁠ | ⁠X⁠⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ Editor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

October 7, 20261 hr 11 min

Have Better Conversations and Build Deeper Connections with Vanessa Van Edwards

#297: Learn how to turn small talk, awkward encounters, and everyday logistics into conversations that actually matter. Chris and Vanessa explore the chemistry behind great conversations, how to find the topics that make people light up, and the three levels of conversation that lead to deeper connection. Vanessa Van Edwards is a behavioral researcher, bestselling author of Captivate and Cues, and founder of Science of People. She teaches at Harvard, and her new book, Conversation: How to Connect with Anyone and Make Every Interaction Count, is available now. Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/vanessa-van-edwards-better-conversations/ Partner Deals Bilt Rewards: ⁠Earn the most valuable points when you pay rent Fora: Become a Fora Advisor today Gusto: ⁠Free 3-month trial of the #1 payroll software Fabric: ⁠Affordable term life insurance for you and your family Gelt: ⁠Skip the waitlist on personalized tax guidance to maximize your wealth For all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: ⁠chrishutchins.com/deals Resources Mentioned Vanessa: Website | X | Instagram | YouTube Captivate: The Science of Succeeding with People Cues: Master the Secret Language of Charismatic Communication Conversation: How to Connect with Anyone and Make Every Interaction Count ProSocial Research and Frameworks Dr. Dan McAdams CANDOR Corpus Malcolm Gladwell's MasterClass Shows and People SmartLess podcast (with Sacha Baron Cohen) The Howard Stern Show ATH Podcast #46: Mastering the Secret Language of Charismatic Communication with Vanessa Van Edwards #256: The Easy Way to Build and Maintain Meaningful Relationships with Nick Gray #123: Traveling to Save Money, Betting on Yourself, and Streamlining Life Decisions with Nuseir Yassin Hotel Upgrade Program Best Cards Page Gift Cards Page Newsletter AMA: Submit Questions Leave a review: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Email for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.com Full Show Notes (00:00) Introduction (00:45) How to Make Every Conversation Matter (02:12) The DOS Cocktail: The Chemistry of a Great Conversation (05:15) Turning Everyday Interactions Into Meaningful Conversations (14:05) Treating Small Talk Like a Treasure Hunt (15:31) How to Start a Meaningful Conversation (20:53) Can Conversational Courage Go Too Far? (23:08) A Framework for Asking Better Questions (27:01) Why You Can't Skip Straight to Deep Conversation (30:20) Level 1: General Traits (32:11) Level 2: Personal Concerns (32:40) Level 3: Your Self-Narrative (34:48) How to Be Conversationally Generous (37:18) What to Do When You're Just Not Clicking (38:54) How to Become a Better Conversational Storyteller (41:18) Turning Any Conversation Into a Chance to Learn (43:04) Mindset Tricks for Warmer, Easier Conversations (47:00) How to Know If You’re Talking Too Much (51:31) Why Some "Great" Questions Are Actually Hard to Answer (53:35) The Ideal Length of a Conversational Turn (55:12) How Talking to AI Is Changing How We Talk to People (58:53) Using AI to Become a Better Conversationalist (01:01:02) Deeper Conversations With Your Partner (Beyond the Logistics) (01:07:51) Did This Feel Like a Real Conversation? (01:08:35) What to Expect from Vanessa's New Book Connect with Chris ⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠ | ⁠Membership⁠⁠ | ⁠X⁠⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ Editor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

September 23, 202650 min

The Best Cell Phone Plans (and How I’m Saving Big)

#296: You're probably overpaying for cell service, and switching could save you hundreds of dollars a year without sacrificing coverage or features. Chris breaks down what's changed with the big carriers and MVNOs, the math behind "free phone" deals, the few features only AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile still offer, and his shortlist of the best unlimited plans. He also shares the cheapest backup line for two-factor texts, a $20 home internet backup, how to think about cell phone insurance, and the smartest way to buy a new iPhone. Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/best-cell-phone-plans-2026 Partner Deals Quince: Affordable luxury essentials with free shipping + 365 day returns Fora: Become a Fora Advisor today Gelt: ⁠Skip the waitlist on personalized tax guidance to maximize your wealth DeleteMe: ⁠20% off removing your personal info from the web Zocdoc: Find and instantly book a doctor you love today For all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: ⁠chrishutchins.com/deals Resources Mentioned Carriers & Plans US Mobile (← Get $30 off) Total Wireless Mint Mobile Visible Backup Lines & Backup Internet RedPocket Tello MobileX Keepgo (← Get 1GB free) Roamless UniFi 5G Max Tools for Comparing Plans & Coverage BestPhonePlans Coverage Map Cell Phone Insurance AKKO Buying a New iPhone DON'T Buy Your iPhone 18 Pro Max From Your Carrier (Buy From Here Instead) Apple Shortcut to Change Active SIM Card Swappa ATH Podcast #138: Optimizing Cell Phone Plans: The Best Carriers, Deals, Plans, Insider Pricing, Insurance and More! #284: 20+ Credit Card Benefits You’re Probably Not Using Hotel Upgrade Program Best Cards Page Gift Cards Page Newsletter AMA: Submit Questions Leave a review: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Email for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.com Full Show Notes (00:00) Introduction (02:53) The Current State of Cell Phone Plans (05:40) Why Major Carriers Are So Expensive (11:55) Features You Can Only Get From Major Carriers (13:46) How to Pick the Right Network for Where You Live (14:48) What Is Premium Data and Does It Matter? (16:22) Understanding Video Streaming Limits (16:46) How Much High-Speed Data Do You Need? (16:59) Comparing Hotspot Data (17:08) International Coverage, Tablets & Smartwatches (17:18) The Best Alternatives to Major Carriers (19:40) The Cheapest Unlimited Plan: Mint Mobile (20:29) US Mobile Starter on AT&T (Dark Star) (22:06) Total Wireless Max 5G on Verizon (22:56) How Much More You Get for $25–$32 a Month (24:42) Why Chris Is Switching to US Mobile Unlimited Premium (25:21) Visible Plus Pro: A Steal if the Promo Pricing Lasts (28:41) The Bottom Line on the Best Affordable Plans (29:43) US Mobile’s Killer Multi-Network Feature (35:19) Choosing Between Verizon, AT&T & T-Mobile on US Mobile (36:58) The Cheapest Backup Line for Two-Factor Texts (38:30) Setting Up Cellular Backup Internet at Home (41:29) Cell Phone Insurance: Credit Cards vs. AppleCare vs. Carrier Plans (44:44) How to Get the Best Deal on a New iPhone Connect with Chris ⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠ | ⁠Membership⁠⁠ | ⁠X⁠⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ Editor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

September 16, 20261 hr 2 min

Turning the Tables: My Approach to Points, Miles and Travel

#295: Chris shares the strategies he actually uses to earn, spend, and maximize millions of points and miles. He breaks down how many credit cards most people really need, his approach to booking award travel for a family, the rise of massive card-member flight discounts, when to pay cash vs. points, and some of his favorite—and most unusual—redemptions. Meghan Coyle and Sally French are the hosts of NerdWallet's Smart Travel podcast, a weekly show on travel news, loyalty programs and travel credit cards that helps listeners travel more and pay less. Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/award-flights-card-strategy-nerdwallet Partner Deals Gusto: ⁠Free 3-month trial of the #1 payroll software Gelt: ⁠Skip the waitlist on personalized tax guidance to maximize your wealth LMNT: ⁠Free sample pack of my favorite electrolyte drink mix Wispr Flow: ⁠Try effortless voice dictation for free Bilt Rewards: ⁠Earn the most valuable points when you pay rent For all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: ⁠chrishutchins.com/deals Resources Mentioned NerdWallet Smart Travel podcast Meghan Coyle Sally French Award Search & Points Tools Seats.aero PointsPath (15% off with ALLTHEHACKS15) PointsYeah Shopping Portals, Gift Cards & Offers Rakuten Capital One Shopping Rove GCX SavenDeals ATH Podcast #290: The New Rules of Points & Miles in 2026 with Brian M Chris' Credit Card Optimizer Hotel Upgrade Program Best Cards Page Gift Cards Page Newsletter AMA: Submit Questions Leave a review: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Email for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.com Full Show Notes (00:00) Introduction (02:06) How Chris Got Into Points & Miles (05:01) When Chris Became a Points & Miles “Expert” (07:25) Paying for a Wedding Video With Delta Miles (13:38) Why Chasing an Extra Point per Dollar Doesn't Move the Needle (15:34) The Optimal Two-Card Strategy (16:50) Maximizing Points Without Overspending (19:52) Should You Buy Gift Cards to Earn More Points? (22:36) Booking Award Travel for a Family (25:06) Chris’ Strategy for Finding Award Flights (27:34) Leveraging Flexibility and Award Search Tools (31:45) What to Do With Points If You Don't Want to Play the Game (34:30) Setting Alerts and Picking One Award Search Tool (37:01) The Huge Discounts Hidden Behind Airline Credit Cards (39:21) The Risks of Speculative Bookings (41:08) When Chris Breaks His Own Transfer Rule (45:15) The Easiest Way to Redeem Points When You Don't Want the Hobby (47:17) Are Hotel Redemptions Easier Than Flights? (51:07) The Real Math Behind Cash vs. Points (55:02) Chris's Rule of Thumb for Comparing Cash and Points (56:12) A Trick for Getting Refunds on Flights You Need to Cancel (59:03) Chris’ Take on the New Southwest Connect with Chris ⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠ | ⁠Membership⁠⁠ | ⁠X⁠⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ Editor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

September 9, 20261 hr 7 min

Deep Dive on World of Hyatt: Points, Perks and Status

#294: Chris breaks down everything he's learned going all in on World of Hyatt. He covers the brands and footprint, earning points with Hyatt credit cards and transfers, what points are really worth, every status tier and milestone reward, and how to get Globalist treatment without having status. Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/world-of-hyatt-deep-dive/ Partner Deals ElevenLabs: Build an experience your customers will love Copilot Money: ⁠Free 2 months access to my favorite personal finance app with code HACKS2 MasterClass: ⁠Learn from the world's best with 15% off DeleteMe: ⁠20% off removing your personal info from the web NetSuite: ⁠Free KPI checklist to upgrade your business performance For all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: ⁠chrishutchins.com/deals Resources Mentioned World of Hyatt Gondola Frequent Miler Reasonable Redemption Values rooms.aero seats.aero Hyatt Concierge on X ATH Podcast #167: Best Tools for Booking Hotels with Points & Miles with Greg the Frequent Miler Hotel Upgrade Program Best Cards Page Gift Cards Page Newsletter AMA: Submit Questions Leave a review: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Email for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.com Full Show Notes (00:00) Introduction (02:48) The World of Hyatt (08:05) Where Hyatt Is (and Isn't) Around the World (12:17) How the World of Hyatt Program Works (15:51) Earning Points with Hyatt Experiences (16:23) Transferring Points from Credit Cards (17:43) Earning Points with Hyatt Personal and Business Credit Cards (26:07) Why Buying Points Is Rarely a Good Deal (26:46) Maximizing Hyatt Promotions (27:21) Earning Points with Peloton (28:06) Converting Aeroplan and American Points (30:41) Understanding Hyatt Status Tiers (35:51) Guest of Honor Awards (36:55) Getting Globalist Perks on Paid Stays with Hyatt Privé (38:41) Using Points to Upgrade Your Room (39:05) Milestone Rewards: 20 and 30 Nights (41:00) 40 Nights: Guest of Honor and the Suite Upgrade Award (43:14) 50 and 60 Nights: Reaching Globalist (44:30) 70 to 150 Nights: Milestones Beyond Globalist (46:18) Transferring Awards and Certificates to Others (47:40) The Hyatt Brand Explorer Program (50:31) Fast Tracking Status with Hyatt Challenges (53:20) How Far Should You Go for Status? (53:53) What Are Hyatt Points Really Worth? (58:53) How Bad Was the May Devaluation? (01:00:51) A Fun Hack for All-Inclusives (01:01:12) How to Find Hyatt Award Availability (01:02:52) Getting Discounts and Perks on Cash Stays (01:04:14) Hyatt's Best Rate Guarantee Connect with Chris ⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠ | ⁠Membership⁠⁠ | ⁠X⁠⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ Editor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

September 2, 20261 hr 8 min

How to Make Your Home Healthier at Any Budget with Dom Francks

#293: Learn to make your home healthier by focusing on the environmental factors that actually matter. Chris and Dom break down how to improve air and water quality, ventilation, mold prevention, lighting, and EMF exposure, plus what to prioritize in your bedroom, which popular healthy-home products to avoid, and the best upgrades at any budget. Dom Francks is the General Manager of Lightwork Home, a Stanford-trained engineer, and former climate-tech product leader. Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/healthy-home-air-water-light-dom-francks/. Partner Deals Gusto: ⁠Free 3-month trial of the #1 payroll software Wispr Flow: ⁠Try effortless voice dictation for free Gelt: ⁠Skip the waitlist on personalized tax guidance to maximize your wealth Fora: Become a Fora Advisor today Thrive Market: ⁠30% off your first order of organic groceries + a free $60 gift For all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: ⁠chrishutchins.com/deals Resources Mentioned Articles & Guides Lightwork Guide: 40 Action Steps for a Healthy Home The best air purifiers for your home What are EMFs? A rational, skeptical, curious person’s guide Tools & Products Airthings AirGradient Atmocube Jaspr Conway BlueAir IQAir Austin Air People & Podcasts Brian Hoyer on Tetragrammaton with Rick Rubin ATH Podcast Hotel Upgrade Program Best Cards Page Gift Cards Page Newsletter AMA: Submit Questions Leave a review: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Email for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.com Full Show Notes (00:00) Introduction (01:06) How Your Home Affects Your Health (03:30) What Improvements Actually Feel Like (04:51) The Precautionary Principle for Chemicals Like PFAS (06:27) How Healthy Is the Average Home? (08:09) What to Expect From a Healthy Home Assessment (09:09) Four Things That Determine Bedroom Air Quality (14:37) Choosing an Air Quality Monitor (16:19) Using Air Purifiers for Filtration (17:37) The Simplest Ways to Improve Ventilation (18:33) Why Some Air Purifiers Cost So Much More (20:45) Ventilation vs. Filtration for VOCs (23:15) How to Get More Fresh Air Through Your House (24:26) What Chris Learned From Monitoring His Bedroom Air (27:14) Managing Humidity and Dust Testing (32:14) What a Full Mold Investigation Really Involves (33:49) Optimizing Your Bedroom Lighting (36:05) How to Spot Hidden Light Flicker (37:19) When Incandescent Bulbs Beat LEDs (38:27) A Practical Approach to EMF Exposure (39:58) Does Limiting EMFs Actually Matter? (41:29) Are Baby Monitors Safe? (43:35) What to Prioritize (and Ignore) in Your Bedroom (46:48) Testing and Improving Water Quality (49:35) DIY Water Testing, and Which Filters to Use (51:42) Carbon Monoxide Monitors & Combustion Gas Leaks (52:51) Optimizing Your Workspace Lighting (56:24) Home Products to Avoid (58:46) Do More Plugs Mean Better Grounding? (59:29) How to Make Your Home Healthier for $500 (01:01:53) The Best Healthy Home Upgrades for $2,000 (01:02:44) Higher-End Healthy Home Improvements (01:04:34) When to DIY vs. Hire a Professional Connect with Chris ⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠ | ⁠Membership⁠⁠ | ⁠X⁠⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ Editor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

August 26, 202654 min

What Happens to Your Points and Miles When You Die?

#292: What happens to your points and miles when you die—and how can you make sure they don’t disappear? Chris breaks down how major banks, airlines, and hotel programs handle rewards after death, strategies to protect or transfer your points, and the steps you can take now to make things easier for your family. Plus, learn what to do if you’re already dealing with a loved one’s rewards, why documenting your accounts and logins matters, and the surprising rules around gift cards, divorce, and timeshares. Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/points-and-miles-after-death/. Partner Deals LMNT: ⁠Free sample pack of my favorite electrolyte drink mix Haven: Skip the waitlist for the best sauna. Bilt Rewards: ⁠Earn the most valuable points when you pay rent Copilot Money: ⁠Free 2 months access to my favorite personal finance app with code HACKS2 DeleteMe: ⁠20% off removing your personal info from the web For all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: ⁠chrishutchins.com/deals Resources Mentioned Tools & Resources Points & Miles Death and Transfer Rules Silo Markets Trustworthy Notion 1Password Books & People The Points Guy Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life by Bill Perkins ATH Podcast #200: Debunking Tax Myths, Avoiding Audits and Maximizing Savings with Jasmine DiLucci #285: Why Net Fulfillment Beats Net Worth with Bill Perkins Hotel Upgrade Program Best Cards Page Gift Cards Page Newsletter AMA: Submit Questions Leave a review: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Email for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.com Full Show Notes (00:00) Introduction (01:16) Your Points & Miles Aren’t Actually Your Property (02:31) Can You Legally Access a Deceased Person's Accounts? (07:49) What Happens to Bank & Credit Card Points After Death (09:52) Why Amex Is One of the Most Generous Programs (14:00) Transferring Points Before Someone Passes Away (17:32) How Annual Fees Are Handled (18:01) What Happens to Business Cards (18:28) Moving Bank Points to Loyalty Programs (19:01) What Happens to Airline Miles (23:18) Why You Should Push Back With Airlines (24:22) Other Ways to Use or Preserve Airline Miles (25:59) How Hotel Points Are Handled (and Why They're Easier) (31:36) Hotel Certificates & Flight Credits (32:50) What Happens to Rental Car Points (34:04) Don't Hoard Your Points (34:21) Document Every Account and Login (37:26) Set Up Points Pooling and Authorized Users in Advance (37:52) Leave Clear Instructions for Your Heirs (38:12) Why You Need a Financial Power of Attorney (38:46) Don't Let Auto-Pays Shut Down an Account (39:17) Proactively Transfer Points Out (39:55) Where to Move Bank Points in a Hurry (45:40) Choosing Someone to Manage Your Points & Miles (47:09) The Checklist for When a Family Member Passes (48:30) Hang Up, Call Again (50:04) Document Everything You Do (50:39) How Points Are Handled in Divorce (51:40) Why Gift Cards Are Different (51:59) The Risks of Inheriting a Timeshare Connect with Chris ⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠ | ⁠Membership⁠⁠ | ⁠X⁠⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ Editor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

August 19, 202658 min

The Science of Lasting Happiness with Arthur Brooks

#291: Behavioral social scientist Arthur Brooks joins Chris to reveal why success and happiness follow different rules as we age. They dig into fluid vs. crystallized intelligence, success addiction and dopamine, the reverse bucket list, and how to actually buy happiness. Arthur C. Brooks is a Harvard Professor, musician, and columnist for the Atlantic, where he writes the weekly "How to Build a Life" column. He is the bestselling author of numerous books on happiness and human flourishing. Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/arthur-brooks-happiness-success-purpose/ Partner Deals Gelt: ⁠Skip the waitlist on personalized tax guidance to maximize your wealth Trust & Will: ⁠Get 20% off personalized, legally binding estate plans Zocdoc: Find and instantly book a doctor you love today NetSuite: ⁠⁠Free KPI checklist to upgrade your business performance Quince: Affordable luxury essentials with free shipping + 365 day returns For all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: ⁠chrishutchins.com/deals Resources Mentioned Arthur: Website | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube Some of Arthur's Books From Strength to Strength: Finding Success, Happiness, and Deep Purpose in the Second Half of Life Love Your Enemies: How Decent People Can Save America from the Culture of Contempt Who Really Cares: The Surprising Truth About Compassionate Conservatism -- America's Charity Divide -- Who Gives, Who Doesn't, and Why It Matters Selected Works from the Atlantic How to Build a Life - Arthur's Column Are you Epicurus or Epictetus Article Books Happy Money: The Science of Happier Spending by Elizabeth Dunn and Dr Michael Norton The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoevsky Man's Search for Meaning by Victor Frankl Meditations by Marcus Aurelius The Miracle of Mindfulness by Thich Nhat Hanh The Confessions by Saint Augustine The Bible Barcelona Recommendations Roman Ruins Sagrada Familia Romanesque Churches and Gothic Cathedrals ATH Podcast #36: Bucket Lists, Audacious Goals and Living the Life You Want with Ben Nemtin Hotel Upgrade Program Best Cards Page Gift Cards Page Newsletter AMA: Submit Questions Leave a review: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Email for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.com Full Show Notes (00:00) Introduction (02:17) How Arthur Defines Happiness (03:50) Quizzes to Diagnose Your Happiness (04:38) Fluid vs. Crystallized Intelligence (05:55) The Two Types of Geniuses (09:01) How to Jump the Curve (13:18) Darwin and Bach's Success Curves (16:56) Success Addiction and Dopamine (19:00) Hustle Culture, Workism and Metacognition (21:19) How Often You Really Need to Journal (22:46) When Love and Money Are Idols (24:40) The Good Four: Faith, Family, Friends and Work (29:13) The Happiness Algorithm: Understand, Apply, Share (30:41) Why Sharing and Teaching Happiness Matters (31:45) Bringing Faith and Meditation Into Your Life (34:15) Lectio Divina: Divine Reading (35:23) The Science of Satisfaction (37:49) Social Comparison, the Thief of Joy (38:39) How to Make a Better Bucket List (43:34) How to Actually Buy Happiness (47:09) Technology, Loneliness and Happiness (48:54) Turning Weakness Into Strength (50:51) Why Negative Emotions Make Us More Effective (51:20) Optimism vs. Hope (52:23) When It's Time to Leave a Job (54:18) Arthur's Recommendations for Barcelona (55:26) The Airplane Story That Inspired From Strength to Strength (57:33) Where to Find More From Arthur Connect with Chris ⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠ | ⁠Membership⁠⁠ | ⁠X⁠⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ Editor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

August 12, 20261 hr 8 min

The New Rules of Points & Miles in 2026 with Brian M

#290: Chris and Brian break down the biggest trends reshaping points and miles. They discuss new ways to earn transferable points without a credit card, the award search tools worth using right now, a six-month check-in on Bilt, and what's coming next for premium cards. Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/new-rules-points-miles-2026/⁠ Partner Deals DeleteMe: ⁠20% off removing your personal info from the web NetSuite: ⁠Free KPI checklist to upgrade your business performance Fora: Become a Fora Advisor today Trust & Will: ⁠Get 20% off personalized, legally binding estate plans MasterClass: ⁠Learn from the world's best with 15% off For all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: ⁠chrishutchins.com/deals Resources Mentioned Award Search & Points Tools Seats.aero Points Path (15% off with ALLTHEHACKS15) PointsYeah Earning Points Beyond Credit Cards Symphony Silo Markets Rove X Money ATH Podcast #89: Booking Flights with Points and All Things Award Travel with Tiffany Funk #262: Points & Miles in 2026: What's New, What's Dying & What's Next with Brian M #288: Where to Keep Your Cash for the Highest Return Hotel Upgrade Program Best Cards Page Gift Cards Page Newsletter AMA: Submit Questions Leave a review: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Email for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.com Full Show Notes (00:00) Introduction (00:49) Why 2026 Feels Different and Reasons to Stay Hopeful (02:26) Credit Card Interest Rate Caps Never Materialized (03:20) Why Debit Rewards Cards Are Becoming More Interesting (05:58) Six Months Into Southwest’s Transformation (13:14) Are Credit Card Retention Offers Drying Up? (14:23) The Unbundling of Airfare Keeps Expanding (15:25) Could Award Flights Lose Their Flexibility? (17:14) Foreign Airline Programs Push Into the US Market (19:58) Hotel Award Inflation (and What Cash Prices Reveal) (27:31) Banks Crack Down on Points Gaming (30:32) Qatar's New Restrictions on Booking for Others (32:54) New Ways to Earn Transferable Points Without Credit Cards (36:16) The Best Tools for Points & Miles (40:35) Why Cardholder Pricing Is Becoming a Bigger Advantage (42:04) United's New Cards and the Truth About "10% Off" (44:01) Transfer Bonuses and the Risk of Speculative Transfers (49:06) American’s Changes to Partner Award Availability (49:56) Pooling Airline Miles With Family (52:12) Brian's Biggest Prediction for the Year Ahead (55:23) Six Months Later: Is Bilt Delivering? (01:00:31) Will We See More Premium Credit Cards? (01:03:19) Is There Still Hope for U.S. Bank Transfer Partners? (01:04:53) What’s Next for the Amex Green Card? (01:05:31) Just Let the Points Coupons Go Connect with Chris ⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠ | ⁠Membership⁠⁠ | ⁠X⁠⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ Editor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

August 5, 20261 hr 27 min

How We Booked a $20,000 Vacation With Points

Chris and Amy booked a last-minute week in Bora Bora that would have cost over $20,000, almost entirely on points. They break down how it came together, why they chose Bora Bora over Fiji, the Marriott award search quirk that hid available rooms, flying business class in both directions by mixing two airlines, and using card travel credits on the inter-island flights. Then, three nights in, they decided to abandon the deal and pay more to switch resorts. They compare and rank the major Bora Bora resorts, weigh points versus cash, and explain what makes French Polynesia one of the easiest long-haul trips from the West Coast. Link to Full Show Notes: https://chrishutchins.com/bora-bora-on-points-2026/ Partner Deals Haven: Skip the waitlist for the best sauna. Gelt: ⁠Skip the waitlist on personalized tax guidance to maximize your wealth Thrive Market: ⁠30% off your first order of organic groceries + a free $60 gift Bilt Rewards: ⁠Earn the most valuable points when you pay rent Superhuman: ⁠Free month of the fastest and best email with code ALLTHEHACKS For all the deals, discounts and promo codes from our partners, go to: ⁠chrishutchins.com/deals Resources Mentioned Hotels & Resorts Hotel Upgrade Program The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort Conrad Bora Bora Nui The Brando Le Taha'a Nanuku Resort Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Products Monopoly Deal Health & Sauna Research Bryan Johnson — Is Sauna ACTUALLY Good For You? (90-Day Experiment) ATH Podcast #285: Why Net Fulfillment Beats Net Worth with Bill Perkins #287: Putting Die With Zero Into Practice with Brad Barrett Hotel Upgrade Program Best Cards Page Gift Cards Page Newsletter AMA: Submit Questions Leave a review: Apple Podcasts | Spotify Email for questions, hacks, deals, and feedback: podcast@chrishutchins.com Full Show Notes (00:00) Introduction (02:09) How a Kid-Free Trip Came Together (03:33) How Chris and Amy Choose Vacation Destinations (13:09) Why French Polynesia Over Fiji (14:59) Booking The Westin (20:43) Flying Business Class Both Ways on Two Different Airlines (26:22) Air Tahiti Nui and the Inter-Island Flights (31:15) A Surprise First Class Upgrade on Air Moana (32:47) Arriving in Bora Bora and Checking Into The Westin (34:29) First Impressions: A Brand-New Property with Great Bones (37:33) A Thousand Little Cuts: The Westin's Service Problems (44:50) The Math Behind Checking Out Early (52:21) The Four Seasons vs. The Westin: What the Extra Money Buys (59:23) Why the Four Seasons Spa Facilities Stood Out (01:00:37) Getting Serious About Sauna Again (01:05:51) Pickleball, Paddleboarding, and Space to Get Lost (01:08:00) Did the Four Seasons Save the Trip? (01:13:18) How to Actually Get Deals at the Four Seasons (01:16:20) Ranking All Four Bora Bora Resorts (01:19:32) Why Fiji Is Still at the Top of the List (01:21:45) Where AI Can Go Wrong (01:23:15) Packing a Travel Med Bag for Remote Destinations (01:24:20) Final Thoughts and Why Bora Bora Keeps Winning Connect with Chris ⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠ | ⁠Membership⁠⁠ | ⁠X⁠⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ Editor’s Note: The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices