In partnership with

Was this forwarded to you? Sign up here as a charter subscriber.

Thought of the Week

In this Week’s Newsletter:

Up Front: How to Grow to 100,000 Social Media Followers

This Week’s Biz Quiz: Will We Stump You This Time?

Strategic Thinking: Why I’m Flying to Korea Tomorrow

Need Help?: Help is On The Way!

UP FRONT: 

How to Grow to 100,000 Social Media Followers

Because attention is currency.

Ever wonder how “those kids” are growing their social media influencer channels to 100k, 400k and more followers…and getting free trips, free goodies and have all sorts of great options in front of them?

I have!

I just returned from a conference in Japan and met some of these people—most of who are a third of my age—and they’re rocking it online.

So how can YOU do it?

My friend Brody Lee, one of the smartest marketing guys I know, is running a 100k Follower Challenge to help you get there…and the great news is that you can do it for less than a penny a follower.

Get the scoop here and come join in…if you’re trying to fill events, sell your programs and otherwise make an impact, you really DO need a large, enthusiastic social following (It’s something I wish I had created long ago!)

Get the scoop here »

Go ahead, take the leap. Your business deserves it. I’ll see you on the inside too!

The NEXT Trillion Dollar Company?

This company just signed a MASSIVE deal with Apple.

It gets their AI tech in Apple’s iPhones and iMacs until 2040!

But it goes beyond that.

The company is getting its tech into products by Nvidia, Google, and Samsung too.

Its AI tech is so crucial…

Nvidia is actually buying up the stock too.

They’ve invested more in this one company than any other… nearly $150 million.

Is this stock the next Nvidia… which has gone up 81,700% over the last 20 years?

Watch this breakdown of this stock right here.

THIS WEEK’S BIZ QUIZ:

STRATEGIC THINKING:

Why I’m Flying to Korea Tomorrow. And Monday. And Again Next Friday.

Sounds like a crazy headline, right? But read on and you’ll understand.

As the year winds down, you might find yourself just shy of achieving (or requalifying for) that coveted elite frequent flyer status.

That’s my situation. I’m about 9,000 United “PQP’s” (Premier Qualifying Points) short of requalifying for coveted 1K status, their top-tier level (actually “Global Services” is their top, but that’s invite-only and you’ve gotta spend big in order to qualify). Why would I care?

1K gives you eight international business class upgrades per year. Yep. That equates to over $100k of potential upgrade value over multiple flights (it’s also how I brought my Mom to Australia in business class for free)!

So I spent a few hours this weekend organizing my year-end mileage runs. And AirCanada’s Black Friday sale made it easy (and reasonably affordable!).

So what about you?

If you’re in a similar situation, here are our top 10 tips to help you maximize your mileage runs before the year ends. Better hurry though—you’re competing with holiday travelers, so I’ve found the best deals to be during the beginning of the month.

1. Calculate Exactly What You Need

Check your airline account to determine how many qualifying miles or points you need. Remember, redeemable miles differ from qualifying miles, which count toward elite status. Clarify the exact requirements to avoid unnecessary trips or expenses.

2. Avoid Basic Economy Fares

The cheapest fare isn’t always the best deal. Basic economy tickets often earn fewer or no qualifying miles and come with restrictions. Always verify the fare class to ensure it contributes to your status goals.

3. Be Flexible with Destinations and Routes

Flexibility is key. Consider flights that offer the most miles for the lowest cost, even if they include layovers or are to less popular destinations. Sometimes, a multi-segment flight can earn more miles than a direct one. That’s why I’m flying from Miami to Toronto, then to Vancouver and THEN to Seoul (do that and you earn an extra 100 points!). Those segments matter, especially if you have a cap on how many miles you can earn per segment!

The trip to Seoul was less expensive than other alternatives, plus I’ve never been there, so it’s win-win!

4. Utilize Flight Search Tools

Use platforms like ITA Matrix or Google Flights to find flights with the best mileage-to-cost ratio. Setting fare alerts can help you snag deals as they appear. Work with a travel agent who can be creative for you and uncover hidden deals.

5. Leverage Airline Promotions

Keep an eye out for end-of-year promotions offering bonus qualifying miles. Subscribing to airline newsletters or following them on social media can keep you informed about these limited-time offers.

6. Consider Partner Airlines

Flying with partner airlines within an alliance can also earn you qualifying miles. This expands your options and may offer better deals or routes that fit your needs. I’ve found that I do much better NOT flying United in order to qualify for UA premier status.

7. Maximize Credit Card Benefits

Use an airline-affiliated credit card to purchase your tickets, and check if your card offers bonus qualifying miles for reaching certain spending thresholds.

8. Track Your Progress

Stay organized by tracking your flights and miles. Use apps or spreadsheets to monitor your progress toward elite status and adjust your plans as needed. After each flight, verify that the qualifying miles have been credited to your account to catch any discrepancies early. Be sure to save your boarding passes—just in case you need to submit them to get proper credit.

9. Double-Check Fare Classes

Not all fare classes earn the same amount of qualifying miles. Ensure that the tickets you buy will earn you the full amount by verifying the fare class details before purchase. For instance, AirCanada gives their Aeroplan members 100% mileage credit for their Flex fares, but United only counts 75%!

10. Be Mindful of Timing

Traveling during off-peak times can be cheaper and less crowded, making your mileage run more pleasant. Plus, you might find better availability for flights that help maximize your miles.

Bonus Strategy (yes, it’s #11!)

Some airlines (United, for example) actually give you qualifying points when you use your accumulated miles. This may be a super-low cost way of reaching your threshold.

Final Thoughts

Embarking on a mileage run can be both strategic and exciting. By paying attention to the details—like avoiding basic economy fares and understanding the difference between redeemable and qualifying miles—you can reach your elite status efficiently.

So, if you’re close to the next status level, now’s the time to act! Share your own mileage run plans or tips in the comments below or on our social media channels.

Just like I’m gearing up for my trips to Korea, you too can reach your travel goals with a bit of planning. Now, pack your bags and get ready to take to the skies!

Oh, one more thought. I’ve never been to Korea…so this isn’t just a mileage run for me, it’s a new adventure!

RESOURCES:

We’re big believers in diversified income generation. We want to work less and play more…so we enthusiastically advocate that you consider investing (wisely) in a variety of areas.

Two of our favorites are below (with deals just for us!)

The Crypto Mastermind. This program, by long-term friend John Limbocker, is a gift to us. John wants to get you educated about the right, safe way to invest in the crypto markets. He’s making an irresistible offer to the PrideNomad community, which he’s agreed to extend to Business Impact subscribers as well.

Access the Crypto Mastermind here»

The Surprising Real Estate Strategy. We mentioned this one recently (above, in fact), and it’s a unique and timeless strategy to help you create significant income streams.

Watch the presentation here »

Quiz Answer