People with status are often very loud about it (we’re looking at you Delta Medallions and Hyatt Globalists), but chasing airline and hotel loyalty isn’t smart for most travelers. It’s something we’re decidedly out on in 2026 and beyond.
In “These Bros Ain’t Loyal”, we’re laying out the case against chasing status by identifying who status is for, and why it’s not the best way (for most) to travel more for less.
Tune in now on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! And be sure to subscribe now to get each new episode every Thursday morning.
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Show Notes
- 00:00 – What should we call this episode?
- 01:55 – John Melson introduces the show
- 03:00 – The best airline & hotel statuses
- 07:15 – The worst airline & hotel statuses
- 11:25 – Thrifty Traveler Premium Flight Deal Quiz!
- 13:44 – Why we’re out on travel loyalty
- 22:30 – Who is loyalty for?
- 26:15 – Who is travel “free agency” for?
- 28:45 – How to get status perks without status
- 37:45 – Listener Question: What about credit card points loyalty?
- 41:30 – On the Spot: Gunnar’s 2027 list
Produced and edited by Sylvia Thomas
Video editing by Kyle Thomas
Show music: “All That” by Benjamin Tissot
