American Express has refreshed both the personal and business Platinum Cards in 2025. With higher annual fees, bigger but more complicated credits, and changes to bonus categories, these updates have left many cardholders wondering whether the cards are still worth it. In this episode, I share what’s new, what’s missing, and why the business Platinum refresh may be more valuable than the personal version.

Award travel has changed. Credit card issuers are tightening eligibility, airlines are restricting partner award space, and transfer ratios aren’t always what they used to be. But points are still one of the most powerful ways to unlock incredible travel — if you know how to adapt. Learn the key trends, reshaping points and the four skills you need to succeed in today’s changing award travel landscape.

Learn the seven keys to better award flight bookings with transferable credit card points. From transfer partners and alliances to booking calendars and search tools, these strategies help you finally stop getting stuck and start booking the flights you’ve been saving points for.

Discover how one physician transformed her travel by learning to master credit card points. From struggling to use points at all to booking $150,000 worth of award flights, Dr. Faryal’s story shows the life-changing impact of mastering points and miles.

Learn when booking through your credit card’s travel portal can actually work in your favor. From maximizing bonus points to accessing credits and inventory you can’t get elsewhere, these five reasons might change the way you think about portals.

Discover why booking travel through credit card portals can cost you more than you think. From hidden fees to losing elite perks and devaluing your points, this guide breaks down smarter strategies for maximizing rewards.

Discover how the psychology of learning impacts your points travel journey. In this re-air of a fan favorite episode, we explore the Dunning-Kruger Effect and why understanding this cognitive bias can make all the difference in building confidence and competence with points travel.

Explore the brand-new Citi Strata Elite Card — including its welcome bonus, bonus categories, and travel credits — and see how it compares to other premium rewards cards

Learn what’s new with lounge access in 2025—including which credit cards still deliver real perks, which ones have tightened rules, and how to choose the best lounge card based on your travel needs.

Explore what your points are really worth with insights from Greg Davis-Kean of Frequent Miler. This episode breaks down valuations, redemption strategies, and how to confidently use your points without second-guessing.