#12 I’m sharing exactly what’s in my wallet as we wrap up 2025 and head into 2026. I break down the cards I actually use every day, why they fit my spending habits, and how they support the future trips I’m planning especially Japan.

With the home-buying process finally behind us and the move complete, my wallet looks different this year. I also share why I slowed down on opening cards, how lenders react to new credit activity, and what I learned going through that experience while trying to secure a mortgage.

Why This Setup Works for Me Right Now

A quick look at how this new chapter new home, new office, baby on the way shaped the cards I’m prioritizing.
• How lifestyle changes affected my strategy
• Why your wallet should match your goals, not someone else’s

Capital One Venture X

My main catch-all card and the one I rely on the most.
• Solid 2x earning on everyday purchases
• Why I avoid booking flights through travel portals
• Real example of using its rental car protection
• How I plan to use Venture miles for ANA through Virgin Atlantic

Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus

The newest card in my wallet and the star of my late-year strategy.
• Signup bonus and my plan to meet the minimum spend
• Why I’m targeting the Companion Pass for 2026
• How this fits into future family travel with a baby on the way
• The story of how my original plan earlier this year fell apart
• How Southwest helps with cheap positioning flights for Japan trips

Bilt Mastercard (Revamp Coming February 2026)

A card that paused for now but will become important again.
• Mortgage payments becoming eligible for points
• Three new versions of the card rolling out
• Why transfer partners like Hyatt and Japan Airlines matter
• How Rent Day works
• New Rakuten partnership for easier point earning

Citi AAdvantage Business (Past Card, Future Use)

Not currently in my wallet, but a meaningful piece of my Japan strategy.
• 70K AA miles ready for a Japan Airlines booking
• Why AA miles work so well for JAL redemptions
• How this business card avoided affecting my 5/24 count
• Possibilities for future Citi cards to boost my AA balance

Looking Ahead to 2026

How I’m rebuilding and preparing for next year’s travel goals.
• Replenishing the Chase points I used on Hyatts in Japan and Korea
• Having my wife go for the Sapphire Preferred
• Keeping an eye on the rumored Hyatt card refresh
• Continuing a Player Two system for better long-term earning

Final Thoughts

This episode isn’t about copying my exact wallet it’s about showing the thought process behind building one that supports your own life and travel goals. Everyone’s path looks different, and that’s the beauty of this hobby. These are just the cards that make sense for me right now as we head into a new year.

If you want to share what’s in your wallet or get help building a setup that fits your goals, feel free to reach out anytime. I’d love to hear what you’re working toward for 2026.

Rewarding Routes Stan Store
→ https://stan.store/rewardingroutes

Instagram
→ https://www.instagram.com/rewardingroutes/

Email
→ RewardingRoutesPodcast@gmail.com

#11 Big life changes are happening behind the scenes and this one’s the most rewarding one yet.

In this episode, I’m sharing a major personal update that’s going to shape the future of Rewarding Routes. From moving into our new home to preparing for our first child, it’s been an exciting (and honestly, emotional) season of change. I wanted to take you behind the mic and talk about what’s been going on, how I’ve been managing everything, and what’s next for the podcast and for me personally.

Becoming a dad is something that fills me with both excitement and nerves, but also a deep sense of purpose. It’s given me new motivation to create, stay consistent, and build something meaningful for the future. I’m also reflecting on how this new chapter will impact how we travel — from long-haul adventures to Japan to future family-friendly trips and road trips closer to home.

I’ll also talk about:

• How fatherhood has changed my perspective on time and priorities
• The mindset shift that helped me stay consistent when life got busy
• Behind-the-scenes updates on what’s next for Rewarding Routes
• A few exciting new episodes and projects coming soon

If you’ve ever tried to balance your passions while life is changing fast, this one’s for you. It’s a reminder that showing up doesn’t have to mean being perfect — it just means staying committed to what matters most.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Your support means the world, and I can’t wait to share more — both in travel and in life — in the months ahead.

Stay connected:
🎙️ Rewarding Routes Stan Store → https://www.rewardingroutespodcast.com/2535902

📩 Email: RewardingRoutesPodcast@gmail.com

📸 Instagram: @RewardingRoutes

Rewarding Routes Stan Store
→ https://stan.store/rewardingroutes

Instagram
→ https://www.instagram.com/rewardingroutes/

Email
→ RewardingRoutesPodcast@gmail.com

#10 Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to actually look forward to airport travel days instead of dreading them? From breezing past long security lines to relaxing in airport lounges with free food and Wi-Fi, these credit card perks make flying smoother, calmer, and surprisingly enjoyable.

In this episode, I share the travel perks I use from my favorite credit cards to make every airport day stress-free. From TSA PreCheck and Global Entry to lounge access and no foreign transaction fees, these are the perks that turn chaotic travel days into calm, rewarding experiences.

Listen in to learn which cards cover these benefits, how to apply for programs like Global Entry, and a few insider tips that’ll help you skip the lines, save money on airport food, and start your trip feeling relaxed. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or planning your first international trip, these are perks you’ll want to take advantage of.

You can find the article mentioned in this episode here:
https://thepointsguy.com/travel/tsa-precheck-or-clear/

Ready to make your next trip more rewarding?
Check out my Stan Store for tools, templates, and resources to help you travel smarter: rewardingroutespodcast.com

You can also find me on Instagram at @rewardingroutes
Send me a message or email RewardingRoutesPodcast@gmail.com
and let me know your favorite travel perk or airport hack. I’d love to hear it and maybe share it in a future episode.

Rewarding Routes Stan Store
→ https://stan.store/rewardingroutes

Instagram
→ https://www.instagram.com/rewardingroutes/

Email
→ RewardingRoutesPodcast@gmail.com

#9 Japan isn’t just a destination for me it’s a feeling.

In this episode, I’m sharing the 25 reasons why I keep going back to Japan, and why it continues to feel like the one place in the world that truly clicks for me. From the respectful culture and quiet public spaces to the small details that make everyday life feel intentional Japan just does things differently.

I’ll talk about my biggest personal goal visiting all 47 prefectures and why I want to experience each one slowly, learning what makes them unique instead of rushing through cities. You’ll hear how the country’s attention to detail shows up in everything: the spotless streets, the way cashiers carefully bag your items, even how Shinkansen seats are turned to face the direction of travel.

We’ll go over the little things that make Japan so memorable onsen hot springs, convenience stores that actually serve good food, fun station jingles, vending machines everywhere, and the incredible sense of safety that lets you wander freely at any hour.

There’s also something beautiful about how Japan celebrates every season from cherry blossoms and fireworks festivals to autumn leaves and winter lights. Every visit feels like a new story, and every detail feels like it was designed with care.

Whether you’ve been to Japan before or you’re planning your first trip, this episode is a reminder of why so many people fall in love with it and why, for me, it’ll always be worth going back.

Rewarding Routes Stan Store
→ https://stan.store/rewardingroutes

Instagram
→ https://www.instagram.com/rewardingroutes/

Email
→ RewardingRoutesPodcast@gmail.com

#8 Ever see a big credit card bonus and think, “There’s no way I could spend that much in three months”? You’re not alone. When I first started learning about points and miles, I felt the same way. But the truth is, most of us already spend enough each month we just need to use that spending more strategically.

In this episode, I break down ten simple and realistic ways to hit your credit card’s minimum spend without overspending or going into debt. These are everyday expenses like groceries, subscriptions, and bills that you’re probably already paying for. With a little organization and timing, you can turn them into free travel and valuable points that make trips to Japan and beyond possible.

I also share how I personally approach this process through budgeting, tracking, and planning ahead for major expenses like when my wife and I bought an e-bike, started preparing for our first baby, and began the home-buying process. These moments all became opportunities to earn big signup bonuses without changing how we live or overspending.

You’ll also hear why timing matters. From holiday shopping to upcoming travel, knowing when to apply for a new card can make hitting a minimum spend much easier. Plus, I’ll talk about responsible ways to use business expenses or even group dinners with friends to your advantage, while still staying within your budget.

This episode is about being intentional with your money not chasing every point or overcomplicating things, but simply making the most of what you already spend.

Episode Minute by Minute

0:00 – 1:00 The dream of traveling to Japan every year and how Rewarding Routes began
1:00 – 3:00 Understanding minimum spend and how to break it down by month
3:00 – 7:00 Tracking your spending and starting with easy wins like subscriptions and household expenses
7:00 – 9:00 Prepaying insurance and using medical expenses to hit bonus goals
9:00 – 12:00 Business expenses, estimated taxes, and opening cards strategically
12:00 – 15:00 Real examples: e-bike purchase, home buying, and major life expenses
15:00 – 17:00 Holiday and travel spending—how to make them work for you
17:00 – 19:00 Paying for group dinners and shared experiences to accelerate spending
19:00 – 20:00 Final thoughts on budgeting, staying within your means, and what’s next for Rewarding Routes

If you’ve ever thought a credit card bonus was out of reach, this episode will show you how achievable it really is with a clear plan and the right mindset. By focusing on the expenses you already have and tracking them intentionally, you can earn those valuable bonuses without stress and use them to travel more often and more meaningfully.

Whether you’re brand new to points and miles or already building your own rewarding route, this episode will give you a practical framework to turn everyday spending into travel opportunities.

Let’s keep building your rewarding route, one trip at a time.

Rewarding Routes Stan Store
→ https://stan.store/rewardingroutes

Instagram
→ https://www.instagram.com/rewardingroutes/

Email
→ RewardingRoutesPodcast@gmail.com

#7 Flying to Japan with points and miles can feel like navigating a maze but once you figure it out, it’s like unlocking a secret travel advantage that lets you go back again and again without overspending. In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how I book flights to Japan using points the same approach that’s allowed me to make Japan travel a yearly tradition.

Before diving into all the redemptions and routes, I start with how I personally plan each trip. I always begin with the flights they shape everything else, from where I go to how long I stay. Japan travel is in high demand right now, which makes finding business class award seats tough, but not impossible. I’ll show you how I’ve found both business and economy flights using points, while keeping flexibility and value in mind.

We’ll begin with Tokyo’s two main airports Haneda (HND), my preferred choice thanks to its Edo Marketplace and proximity to central Tokyo, and Narita (NRT), which is farther out but remains a major international hub. From there, I’ll cover other airports like Osaka (KIX), Nagoya (NGO), Fukuoka (FUK), and Sapporo (CTS), plus the best ways to connect domestically using Peach, Jetstar, or even the Shinkansen.

One of the most powerful strategies I share is how to use positioning flights. These short domestic or regional hops can connect you to the best-value long-haul routes. I’ll explain how I use FlightConnections to visualize every nonstop route into Tokyo, find hidden opportunities, and plan efficient routes that save both miles and cash.

Then, I walk through the airlines and programs I’ve used or researched extensively, breaking down what actually works in practice:

• ANA (All Nippon Airways) via Amex Membership Rewards or Virgin Atlantic Flying Club
• Japan Airlines (JAL) via Bilt, Citi, Capital One, or Amex
• Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan, Cathay Pacific Asia Miles, and British Airways Avios for additional OneWorld redemptions
• Budget and alternative routes like ZIPAIR, EVA Air, Starlux, and Korean Air for creative options across Asia

Throughout the episode, I share my own redemptions from flying United Polaris business class when Japan reopened to using Air Canada Aeroplan and Virgin Atlantic for affordable economy flights. You’ll hear what worked best, what I’d do differently, and how these lessons are shaping my future trips.

To wrap up, I share the tools and resources I rely on most to search for award availability and plan smarter:

• FlightConnections
  — visualize nonstop routes and plan positioning flights
• Seats.aero
  — search award availability across airlines
• Point.Me
  — compare redemption options and transfer partners
• Thrifty Traveler Premium
  — get alerts on points deals and flight discounts
• Roame.Travel
  — live award searches with built-in transfer partner details

https://stan.store/rewardingroutes

If keeping track of all the transfer partners sounds overwhelming, I’ve created a simple resource to make it easier. You can download my Transfer Partner Cheat Sheet directly from my Stan Store:
https://stan.store/rewardingroutes

Rewarding Routes Stan Store
→ https://stan.store/rewardingroutes

Instagram
→ https://www.instagram.com/rewardingroutes/

Email
→ RewardingRoutesPodcast@gmail.com

#6 We kick off at the gateway: Tokyo’s airports. Narita (NRT) is farther but often cheaper with easy rides into the city via Skyliner, N’EX, or comfy airport buses you can book on Klook (taxis from NRT = $$$). Haneda (HND) is my fave closer, with the Edo Marketplace (Terminal 3) for last-minute eats and souvenirs before security. Beyond Tokyo, keep Kansai (Osaka), Itami, Chubu (Nagoya), and Fukuoka on your radar domestic hops or the Shinkansen make multi-city routes effortless.

Essentials that level up your trip: carry some cash (small, family run spots are often cash only), use the money tray at checkout, and consider a debit card that reimburses ATM fees. Keep your passport on you it’s the law and it’s needed for tax-free shopping (note: rules are set to change in 2026). For connectivity, I’ve tried both pocket Wi-Fi and eSIMs; eSIMs win for “one less gadget to charge,” and regional plans make KR→JP seamless. No tipping needed service is built in. Public trash cans are scarce; eat near the shop and toss your trash there (or pack a tiny bag). BYO hand towel bathroom dryers are shy. And yes, wear real walking shoes 20–30k step days are a thing. Biggest sanity saver? Luggage shipping (look for the black-cat Yamato desks). Pay a modest fee, travel hands free, arrive happy.

Timing matters: avoid Golden Week (late Apr–early May) and Obon (mid-Aug) unless you love crowds. Spring blossoms (Mar–Apr) and fall foliage (Oct–Dec) are magic; May and October are comfortably great. Summer brings matsuri fireworks…and serious heat/typhoons choose your vibe accordingly.

Load a regional IC card (Suica/PASMO) into your phone; top-ups are easy (have a non-Visa backup just in case), tap without unlocking, and it even works for a few hours after your phone dies. On trains: be quiet, no phone calls, shift your backpack to the front, and avoid eating on locals (the Shinkansen is the exception). Last trains wrap around midnight plan taxis or…embrace the 5 a.m. first train life. Google Maps is your best friend down to which car to board for the quickest exit.

Speaking of the Shinkansen: book reserved seats (and the luggage-space rows if you’re rolling big), arrive early, and hunt down an ekiben box. Tokyo Station is a wonderland Character Street, Ramen Street, endless snacks budget time to get pleasantly lost.

Food rules the trip: make reservations for popular or high-end spots, expect a small table charge (otoshi) at many izakaya, and don’t customize dishes. Learn a couple phrases and watch doors open literally; I’ve had strangers strike up the kindest conversations. Allergies? Bring a printed card in Japanese. When browsing reviews, a 3–3.5 on local apps can still be excellent standards are high.

For deeper culture, splurge on a ryokan with kaiseki dinner, try an onsen (confirm tattoo policy), book a tea or cooking class, and catch a Japanese baseball game the energy is unforgettable. Choose hotels within a short walk of a station, and pre-book big-ticket experiences (Shibuya Sky sunset, teamLab, themed cafés like Pokémon or Kirby) well in advance they sell out fast.

Finally, embrace safe wandering. Build space into your itinerary to meander; some of my favorite finds (like that surprise banana pastry shop near Skytree) came from unplanned detours. Japan rewards curiosity.

Message me or email RewardingRoutesPodcast@gmail.com
so we can share it with the whole community.

ONLY in JAPAN * John Daub (main channel) — YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@onlyinjapan

ONLY in JAPAN * GO (live / mobile st

Rewarding Routes Stan Store
→ https://stan.store/rewardingroutes

Instagram
→ https://www.instagram.com/rewardingroutes/

Email
→ RewardingRoutesPodcast@gmail.com

#5 $15,880 Trip for $221: How Points Made It Happen

Ever dream of visiting Japan (and neighbors) without draining your wallet? In this episode, I break down how we turned $15,880.20 of flights and hotels into a trip that cost just $221.62 out of pocket step by step. You’ll hear the big picture strategy behind our Orlando → San Francisco → Seoul → Busan → Tokyo route: why we used positioning flights, how airline alliances & partners unlocked seats (think Virgin → Korean)(Alaska → JAL) and when I chose Hyatt redemptions over cash.

I keep it simple and practical: what cards fueled our balances, how the “Player 2” system helped and the decision making you can copy for your own trip.

Along the way I’ll point to tools and creators that helped us plan smarter Klook.com for shuttles and tickets.

@tdrexplorer on YouTube for theme park strategy.

If you want photos, reels, and behind the scenes from this exact itinerary follow me on Instagram @rewardingroutes.

If you’re new to points and miles this episode shows the why and the how in one tidy story so you can start building your own rewarding route, one trip at a time. Tune in!

Rewarding Routes Stan Store
→ https://stan.store/rewardingroutes

Instagram
→ https://www.instagram.com/rewardingroutes/

Email
→ RewardingRoutesPodcast@gmail.com