Always Business Class

The iFLYflat Flights Club
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Flight hacks, points strategies and real-life stories from the points whisperer — helping business owners Always Fly Business Class.

Episodes

  1. 3H AGO

    Accor Plus Explorer CEO: The Travel Membership Hack for Upgrades, Lounges, and 30% Dining

    What if your travel life got easier overnight? In this episode of Always Business Class, we sit down with Emilie Couton, CEO of Accor Plus Explorer, for her first Australian podcast. Emily shares how a one-way ticket to Thailand turned into two decades across Asia and a leadership career in hospitality, plus the real strategy behind Accor Plus Explorer 2.0: simplicity, transparency, instant value, and a membership that blends certainty (lounges, early check-in, recognition) with serendipity (surprise upgrades, experiences, and discovery). We unpack the perks members actually use, why staycations can be as powerful as international holidays, and how the future of travel is moving toward curated memberships, wellness, and hyper-personalised experiences. If you travel for business, lead a team across cities, or want travel to feel smoother, calmer, and more rewarding, this one is for you. Subscribe for more travel strategy, points thinking, and business-class level upgrades to how you move. In this episode The “one-way ticket” mindset and why some people never move back Living in Asia vs visiting: why your travel world expands fast Certainty vs serendipity: comfort, timing, smooth travel, and surprise moments How Accor Plus Explorer 2.0 was rebuilt with 7,000-member research Why dining benefits (up to 10 people) can pay back the membership quickly Why lounges and hotel clubs are an underrated business advantage Staycations as a reset tool, not a luxury “Red Hot Rooms” as a new way to choose destinations Subscriptions in travel, global membership expansion, and what’s next Wellness in hotels: sleep, recovery, gyms, spa, and partnerships Airport and travel efficiency tips from a frequent traveller How curation beats choice overload Guest: Emilie Couton https://www.linkedin.com/in/emiliecouton/ CEO, Accor Plus Explorer Based in Singapore, with 20+ years across Asia and hospitality leadership. Sponsors: Join Flights Club: https://iflyflat.com.au/membership/ Accor Plus Explorer Membership: https://www.accorplus.com/explorer-membership/ Chapters 00:00 The one-way ticket mindset 00:42 Welcome back: first recording of the year + special guest intro 01:24 Emily’s story: Thailand, Singapore, 20+ years in Asia 03:12 Journey vs destination: two travel philosophies 04:13 Why Accor talent stays: the “family” culture 05:35 Living in-region: Phuket, Bali, and discovering Asia properly 07:41 Why Accor Plus Explorer exists and how it fits Flyers Club 09:43 Certainty + surprise: the perfect travel balance 11:31 Staycations: the hidden reset most people miss 13:42 The “club” advantage: lounge access as a business tool 14:56 Status fast-track: 30 nights, Platinum, and instant ROI 18:37 Face-to-face beats Zoom: partnerships and serendipity 20:36 The future: travel subscriptions and global expansion 22:23 Will memberships go global across regions? 24:42 Experiences: chefs, shows, behind-the-scenes access 27:56 Travel hacks: lounges, airports, privacy, fast track 34:36 Points strategy: fixed-value points and keeping accounts active 36:22 Wellness: sleep, gyms, recovery, and where hotels are going 39:40 Choice overload: curation as the real advantage 40:40 Unexpected member behaviour: “Red Hot Rooms” as a travel compass 46:34 The dream state: consistency, scale, and global experiences   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    55 min

  2. FEB 3

    Points vs Status: The Brutal Truth About Frequent Flyer Loyalty

    Why does airline status feel so good and why are so many travellers still chasing it, even when it costs them thousands? In this episode of Always Business Class, the team breaks down the real difference between points and status, why status is deeply emotional, and why points are ultimately strategic. Drawing on decades of travel experience, they unpack the psychology behind loyalty programs, lounge access, upgrades, and the powerful feeling of exclusivity. You will learn why airline status is becoming harder and more expensive to maintain, how airlines are shifting to spend-based models, and why frequent flyer points are one of the last remaining fixed-price currencies in a world of dynamic pricing. If you are a business owner, frequent traveller, or anyone trying to fly smarter, this episode will change how you think about loyalty forever. Sponsors: Join Flights Club: https://iflyflat.com.au/membership/ Accor Plus Explorer Membership: https://www.accorplus.com/explorer-membership/ Key Takeaways Why airline status feels rewarding but often costs more than it delivers The emotional vs strategic difference between status and points How airlines are making status harder to earn through spend-based systems Why points act as a fixed-price currency in an inflationary travel market How to consistently get 2x or more value from your frequent flyer points The biggest mistakes people make when earning and redeeming points Why hoarding points without a plan leads to wasted value How smart planning beats random travel hacks every time Episode Chapters 00:00 Why status feels so good01:10 The emotional pull of airline status02:40 Points vs status explained simply03:55 Why “free upgrades” are never really free05:10 The psychology of exclusivity and loyalty06:40 Airlines moving to spend-based status systems08:35 Why status runs are getting more expensive10:40 Points as a fixed-price travel currency11:25 Real example: points vs cash for business class12:20 Why paying fees for points can still be profitable13:15 The psychology of hoarding points See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    21 min

  3. JAN 20

    ‘Flying High’ Building Networks and communities with Daniel Hakim

    Dan Hakim joins Always Business Class to unpack how CUB grew from a premium members club into one of Australia’s most influential business communities. We talk work ethic, proximity, culture, systems for scaling networking, and the real travel hacks founders use, from points strategy to VIP airport shortcuts. What happens when you “turn left” instead of following the obvious path? We dive into the psychology of premium communities, why culture is the hardest thing to scale, and the two traits Dan believes every highly successful founder shares. We also go deep on travel: the comfort equation, status versus points, how business owners can use travel as a competitive advantage, and the “VIP airport” experiences that change the way you fly forever. If you are building a business, craving better rooms and better people, or simply want smarter ways to travel while staying in founder mode, this one is for you. Sponsors: Join Flights Club: https://iflyflat.com.au/membership/ Accor Plus Explorer Membership: https://www.accorplus.com/explorer-membership/ Guest: Daniel Hakim CUB: https://www.instagram.com/clubofunitedbusiness/  https://cub.club/  Daniel: https://www.instagram.com/the.danielhakim/  Key topics covered How Dan’s upbringing overseas shaped CUB’s “premium club” DNA Why CUB started without a rigid plan, and what it became once Dan listened to members The reality of scaling a community: systems, intentionality, and maintaining culture Why “the product is the members”, and what that means operationally The role of pricing and eligibility in creating a high-trust, high-engagement room Proximity, environments, and why location and relationships shape outcomes The two traits Dan sees in every ultra-successful founder: work ethic + network Travel as a business advantage: more in-person time, better deals, faster learning Status vs points: when loyalty matters and when points win Points strategy using business expenses and high-volume hospitality spend Dan’s travel preferences: privacy, seat width, lounge quality, and comfort routines VIP airport services and the shortcuts founders use to save time and friction Bucket list travel, short trips, and why “waiting for two weeks” stops people travelling Where Dan wants to take CUB next: global clubhouses and tiers for every stage Chapters 00:00 Intro: Turning left and the business class mindset 00:47 Dan’s last 10 years and why CUB exists 03:00 The accidental pivot: from club to networking engine 05:15 “Just start”: how founders get stuck before they begin 07:23 The hardest part: scaling culture when members are the product 09:46 Relationship managers and “uncommon connections” 10:58 Proximity, environment, and why the right room changes everything 14:07 Travel as a competitive advantage for founders 17:31 The North Star: building the world’s largest business networking organisation 18:59 What travel means to Dan: privacy, comfort and airline choices 21:49 Status vs points and loyalty decisions 26:17 Memorable travel moments and VIP airport stories 31:35 Using points to unlock more travel and better business outcomes 36:30 Bucket list travel and why short trips matter 40:00 Hotel routines, tipping systems and getting looked after 43:51 How CUB and travel will fuse as it expands globally 47:23 Wrap and what’s next for CUB CUB community, Dan Hakeem, premium networking Australia, business owners community, founders networking, leadership and culture, proximity and success, business class mindset, status vs points, points strategy for business owners, Virgin status, Singapore Airlines lounge, Emirates business class, VIP airport service, travel hacks for entrepreneurs, building community systems. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    48 min

  4. JAN 6

    Happy New Year from the hosts of Always Business Class.

    We hope you’ve had a great break and are feeling ready for what’s ahead. Thank you for being part of the Always Business Class community. We can’t wait to share what’s coming next. We’re back on January 21st, returning to our usual fortnightly release schedule. Here’s to a big year of great conversations, new ideas, and always turning left. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    4 min

  5. 12/24/2025

    Merry Xmas from Steve Hui and Steve Pirie-Nally

    Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the hosts of Always Business Class. Thank you for listening, sharing, and being part of the journey this year. We’re incredibly grateful for the support and conversations along the way. We’ll be back on January 21st, returning to our usual fortnightly release schedule. Until then, enjoy the break, travel well, and we’ll see you in the new year. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    2 min

  6. 12/09/2025

    Why Business Class Is Still the Smart Play in 2026

    In this episode of Always Business Class, hosts Steve Hui and Steve Pirie-Nally break down the biggest shifts happening in travel right now — from skyrocketing business class fares post-COVID, to the upcoming Amex devaluation, to the new mindset shaping how Australians are planning their trips. Fresh off a masterclass with 2,300 Accor Plus Explorer members, Steve & Steve unpack what travellers are struggling with, what’s changed in the points game, and why travel is no longer a luxury — it’s an ambition. The conversation digs into strategy, numbers, mindset, and practical examples of how to turn points into real business class seats (without spending $12–15k a ticket). Key Takeaways: The New Travel Mindset:Travel isn’t seen as a luxury purchase anymore — it’s become an essential part of life, growth, and experience. Points vs Cash Reality:Business class can cost 5× more in cash, but only ~2× more in points. Understanding the maths is everything.   The Amex 15 December Change:Some airline transfers will now require 50% more Amex points. We explain what this actually means and what to do before it hits. Reward Seats 101:Finding seats is like fishing — you need more rods (more programs) and more ponds (more airlines). Relying only on Qantas or Virgin limits your chances heavily. Why Most Travellers Feel “Confident”… Until They Aren’t:Many Australians only know one program. When they discover how many options exist, confidence drops — which is actually a good thing. Flexible Programs = Freedom:Earning in flexible buckets (Amex, bank rewards, pay rewards) gives you more opportunities to book seats others can’t find. The Million-Point Question:Three business class seats to Europe typically require ~1M airline points. The episode breaks down how to plan backwards from the goal. Seats Come and Go:Award space constantly shifts — it’s not a one-and-done search. Persistence and strategy win every time. Why People Don’t Use Their Points:Billions of points sit untouched because travellers don’t know where to start or believe they can’t find seats. Notable Quotes “Travel is no longer a luxury — it's an ambition.” – Steve Hui “It’s not luxury travel anymore. It’s the luxury to have travel.” – Steve Pirie-Nally “If you’re earning points in one airline, you’ve only got one rod in the water.” – Steve Hui “There’s only one deal in points. A business class reward seat is always a good deal.” – Steve Hui Resources & Mentions Join Flights Club: https://iflyflat.com.au/membership/ Accor Plus Explorer Membership: https://www.accorplus.com/explorer-membership/ Episode Highlights 00:00 – Why travel is no longer a luxury (and why points matter more than ever) 02:00 – Key insights from 2,300 webinar registrants 04:30 – The new travel personas: “journey” vs “destination” 06:20 – Post-COVID shift: experiences > things 08:00 – Why business class cash fares exploded 09:40 – “Somewhat confident” travellers and the big mindset gap 11:10 – How flexible reward programs give you more options 13:00 – Why finding reward seats is like fishing 15:30 – Why you should book one-way flights, not returns 17:10 – The case for earning points across multiple programs 19:00 – The million-point Europe calculation 21:00 – The Amex 15 Dec change — what actually happens 23:00 – How to choose where to transfer your points 25:00 – Why Virgin’s partnership with Qatar changes everything 27:00 – New airlines now accessible to Australians (Japan Airlines, Vietnam, Air Canada, etc.) 29:00 – Real member wins and fast bookings 30:20 – Final takeaway: how to think strategically about points See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    32 min

  7. 11/25/2025

    Why Jack Henderson Will Never Fly Economy Again (And How You Can Think Like Him)

    In this episode of Always Business Class, hosts Steve Hui and Steve Pirie-Nally sit down with Jack Henderson to explore the mindset, journeys, and strategies of a business owner who’s turned property investment and strategic thinking into a lifestyle of freedom and global travel. While the conversation starts with business class flights and travel experiences, it dives deep into entrepreneurship, mindset shifts, wealth creation, and the value of exposure to new ideas and environments. Jack shares his personal journey from leaving school at 15, working in mining and construction, to becoming a property investor and entrepreneur. He explains how his experiences abroad, from Dubai to the south of France, shaped his perspective on life, business, and success. Along the way, he shares insights into building wealth, leveraging points for luxurious travel, and how strategic thinking applies both in business and personal growth. Key Takeaways: Business Mindset: Success requires continuous thinking about improving your business, solving problems, and generating ideas, no matter where you are. Transitioning from Employee to Entrepreneur: Jack discusses how moving from mining and construction into property and business ownership transformed his life. Travel as Exposure and Inspiration: Travel exposes you to global opportunities and perspectives that shape personal and business growth. Luxury Travel Hacks: Jack explains how he leverages points for first-class travel and high-end experiences without paying full price. Goal Setting and Life Design: Using travel time for reflection, journaling, and planning, Jack defines his “perfect life” and outlines actionable steps to achieve it. Real Estate Insights: Jack provides practical advice on property affordability, geographic strategy, and wealth-building in Australia. Community and Networking: The importance of surrounding yourself with other business-minded people and leveraging relationships for opportunities. Health and Performance: Jack emphasizes limiting alcohol, maintaining sleep routines, and personal discipline for peak performance. Notable Quotes: “Most people think we talk about business class, but we actually talk about always business.” – Steve Hui “Ten years is not all that much time… I fully remember turning 18 and now at 29, my life has completely transformed.” – Jack Henderson “Success isn’t just about money; it’s about reaching a level of skill and capability that allows extreme highs and the ability to navigate lows.” – Jack Henderson “Travel exposes you to things we don’t get exposed to here in Australia and inspires me to think bigger.” – Jack Henderson Resources & Mentions: Jack Henderson: https://www.instagram.com/jackchenderson/  Join Flights Club: https://iflyflat.com.au/membership/ Sponsor: https://www.accorplus.com/explorer-membership/ Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Jack’s first business class flight and transition from employee to entrepreneur 03:00 – The role of travel in inspiring business and personal growth 07:00 – Mining to property investment: lessons in opportunity and strategy 11:30 – Leveraging points for luxury travel and experiences 16:30 – Defining life goals, building wealth, and achieving freedom 26:00 – Housing affordability and geographic strategies in Australia 31:00 – Travel routines, rituals, and hacks for high performance   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    47 min

  8. 11/11/2025

    Reimagining Your Dream Life with Business Class Travel featuring Kristina Karlsson of KIKKI. K

    Founder of global stationery icon Kikki K, Kristina Karlsson, joins Steve Hui and Steve Pirie-Nally to share how losing her business became a catalyst for a bold new chapter. Kristina now helps millions imagine and live their dream life through freedom, creativity, and meaningful travel. The conversation unpacks the mindset shift of flying business class, earning points like a pro, stacking rewards, and combining work and world discovery in a way that fuels inspiration.   Join Flights Club: https://iflyflat.com.au/membership/ Sponsor: https://www.accorplus.com/explorer-membership/    What You Will Learn • How Kristina bounced back after Kikki K and created a business she loves even more• The practice of journaling to unlock new ideas and goals• Why business class travel is about peace, control, and productivity• How to earn Qantas Points three times on a single payment• The psychology of upgrading travel from expense into investment• The role travel plays in creativity, family values, and personal growth• Real examples of how to reach Europe in business class using points Chapters 00:10 Kristina explains how writing down her dreams changed her life01:42 Shifting identity after Kikki K and choosing to dream again04:52 Helping others escape the wrong path and start their own business06:55 Her first business class experiences and why she journals in the sky10:34 How 332,000 Qantas Points can get you to Europe return in business11:29 Triple dipping points on business expenses15:12 Travel as a source of creativity and life design17:45 Raising kids who explore the world with curiosity and confidence Kristina Karlsson, Kikki K, Always Business Class, Qantas Points, travel hacking, business class flights, dream life, journaling, entrepreneurship, creative inspiration, points stacking, Scandinavia travel See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    46 min

  9. 10/28/2025

    Unlocking the Secrets of Business Class Travel

    In this episode, hosts Steve Hui and Steve Pirie-Nally dive into the world of business class travel and share insider strategies for transforming your travel experiences. From maximising points to leveraging networking opportunities, this conversation explores how travel can serve as a powerful classroom for personal and professional growth. Discover how adopting a business class mindset and embracing transformational travel can shift perspectives, create lasting connections, and elevate every journey. Key Takeaways: Steve Hui started flying business class 13 years ago without paying. Travel is one of the best classrooms out there. You don't know what you don't know until you realise it. The choice to fly business class can change your travel experience. Networking in business class can lead to unexpected opportunities. Maximising points can lead to free business class flights. Every dollar spent can earn points for travel. Transformational travel experiences can shift perspectives. It's about creating a community around travel and experiences. Join Flights Club: https://iflyflat.com.au/membership/ Sponsor: https://www.accorplus.com/explorer-membership/  Chapters: 00:00 The Journey to Business Class Mastery02:53 Transformational Travel Experiences05:44 The Power of Travel as Education08:59 Creating Lasting Impact Through Travel12:00 The Business Class Mindset14:47 Networking and Relationships in Business Class17:56 The Value of Points and Travel Hacks20:57 Maximising Business Expenses for Travel24:08 The Future of Travel and Experiences See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    31 min

  10. 10/14/2025

    The future of luggage with July Co-founder Athan Didaskalou

    In this episode, the co-founder of July Luggage share their journey transforming the luggage industry. From travel hacks and business class experiences to innovations in luggage technology, they dive into how personal experiences, product quality, and strong brand identity have shaped their success. Discover their story working with the Australian Olympic team, insights on networking while traveling, and exciting plans for global expansion. Key Takeaways The fashion side of travel and journey experience have grown in importance post-COVID. Collaborating with the Australian Olympic team was a highlight for the brand. Travel experiences are central to July Luggage’s philosophy and identity. Networking opportunities often arise naturally while traveling, especially in airports. Travel hacks can significantly enhance your travel experience. Innovations in luggage technology, such as integrated tracking, are shaping the future of travel. July Luggage aims to become a leading Australian export. Building personal connections with customers enhances brand loyalty. Business class travel offers unique experiences and networking advantages. Plans for international expansion include markets like Korea and the US. Join Flights Club: https://iflyflat.com.au/membership/ Sponsor: https://www.accorplus.com/explorer-membership/  Chapters:00:00 – The Journey of July Luggage02:46 – Moments of Pride and Recognition05:57 – Travel Philosophy and Brand Identity08:55 – Travel Experiences and Business Class Insights11:52 – Networking Through Travel14:53 – Travel Hacks and Tips17:58 – Innovations in Luggage Technology20:56 – Future of July and Global Expansion   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    45 min

  11. 10/13/2025

    Up, Up and Away | Time to take-off for the Always Business Class podcast

    Welcome to Always Business Class where your hosts Steve Hui and Steve Pirie-Nally explore the transformative power of travel and the often misunderstood value of frequent flyer points. They unpack how points can be viewed as money, the mindset shift that comes from experiencing business class travel, and the common misconceptions that lead to what they call “points trauma.” The discussion highlights how understanding the true value of points can unlock life-changing travel opportunities and create unforgettable experiences — all through smarter, more strategic travel planning. Key Takeaways Points can be seen as money, making travel more accessible. Experiencing business class travel shifts your mindset. Travel opens minds to new perspectives. Many people regret not starting to use points earlier. Points trauma arises from misconceptions and misuse. Understanding points value unlocks significant opportunities. Transformational travel can change lives. There are numerous ways to earn and use points effectively. The business class mindset enhances personal and professional growth. Travel hacking can lead to memorable experiences without financial burden. Join Flights Club: https://iflyflat.com.au/membership/ Sponsor: https://www.accorplus.com/explorer-membership/  Chapters 00:00 – The Magic of Points and Travel Mindset03:06 – Transformational Travel Experiences06:09 – ‘Aha’ Moments in Travel08:52 – The Business Class Mindset12:05 – Understanding Points Value14:56 – Points Trauma and Misconceptions17:53 – Unlocking Points Potential20:56 – The Evolution of Travel Strategies24:00 – Creating Memorable Experiences26:53 – The Future of Travel and Points See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    31 min
  • 11 Episodes

About

Flight hacks, points strategies and real-life stories from the points whisperer — helping business owners Always Fly Business Class.

Information

  • Creator
    The iFLYflat Flights Club
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    11
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Show Website
    Always Business Class