Published by The iFLYflat Flights Club
Flight hacks, points strategies and real-life stories from the points whisperer — helping business owners Always Fly Business Class.
Listen on Apple Podcasts49 min
What does it take to turn a simple everyday frustration into a globally recognised brand? In this episode of Always Business Class , Steve Hui and Steve Pirie-Nally sit down with Rex Kuo , co-founder of Orbitkey, to unpack the journey from a side project built after work to one of Australia's most successful product design companies. Rex shares how a simple idea to eliminate noisy, bulky keys became a record-breaking Kickstarter campaign that raised over $210,000 in just 30 days, launching a business that now sells millions of products worldwide. Along the way, he opens up about balancing entrepreneurship with a full-time career as a pharmacist, building a global team, expanding through retail, and creating products that genuinely improve everyday life. The conversation also explores product innovation, crowdfunding, travel, family, business partnerships, and why building a purpose-driven company has been just as important as building a profitable one. Whether you're launching your first business, creating a physical product, or simply love hearing the stories behind iconic Australian brands, this episode is packed with practical lessons and founder insights. In This Episode How Orbitkey started from a simple frustration with noisy keys Raising over $210,000 through Kickstarter in just 30 days Why you don't need to quit your job to start a business Building a global product brand from Australia The role of crowdfunding in validating new ideas Lessons from launching 13 successful Kickstarter campaigns Growing through retail, trade shows, and international expansion Collaborating with Disney and Marie Kondo Building a strong company culture across global teams Using travel to inspire creativity, productivity, and better business Why purpose, sustainability, and B Corp certification matter Supporting neurodiversity in the workplace Chapters 00:00 Meet Rex Kuo, Co-founder of Orbitkey 01:59 The Idea That Started Orbitkey 03:43 Launching Australia's First Kickstarter Success 06:02 Turning a Side Hustle into a Business 09:05 Growing Beyond One Product 10:45 Taking Orbitkey Global Through Trade Shows 15:10 Building a Loyal Community Through Kickstarter 18:39 The Power of Great Co-founders 20:42 Family, Travel and Frequent Flyer Points 25:36 Building a Global Team and Company Culture 30:33 Purpose, Sustainability and Becoming a B Corp 33:18 Product Philosophy and Long-Term Thinking 36:37 The Secrets Behind Successful Kickstarter Launches 40:18 Collaborating with Disney and Marie Kondo 42:24 Supporting Neurodiversity at Work 45:31 Rapid Fire Travel Questions
33 min
What if travel wasn't just a reward for working hard, but one of the most powerful tools for improving how you think, make decisions, and perform? In this episode of Always Business Class, Steve Hui and Steve Pirie-Nally explore the neuroscience behind travel and why stepping away from your routine can sharpen creativity, improve judgment, and help you return with greater clarity. Together, they unpack why new environments force your brain out of autopilot, how short, frequent trips can be more powerful than one long holiday, and why business owners should think of travel as a performance reset rather than simply time off. From staycations and business class to Crystal Cruises and spontaneous walks through unfamiliar cities, this conversation challenges the way we think about travel and productivity. In This Episode Why travel activates different parts of your brain The science behind breaking out of autopilot How travel improves creativity and decision-making The four stages of a performance reset Why shorter, more frequent trips can outperform long holidays Staycations as an accessible performance tool Removing friction through smarter travel How travel experiences inspire better businesses Why exploration helps you feel like you've lived longer The philosophy behind "Redeeming Your Travel Dreams" Whether you're planning an overseas adventure or simply checking into a hotel across town, this episode offers a fresh perspective on using travel as an investment in your performance, wellbeing, and business. Chapters 00:00 Travel as a Performance Reset 01:22 Why Your Brain Needs New Environments 07:31 The Four Stages of the Travel Reset 09:30 Why Short Trips Can Be More Powerful 14:06 Lessons from Crystal Cruises 20:17 Removing Friction Through Better Travel 22:16 Can Travel Be Better Than Therapy? 24:26 Escaping Autopilot Through Exploration 27:28 Redeeming Your Travel Dreams 30:39 The Blueprint for Better Travel
40 min
What if the biggest competitive advantage in business isn't AI, but curiosity? In this episode of Always Business Class, Steve Hui and Steve Pirie-Nally sit down with innovation strategist, author, speaker, and Wonder & Wonder founder Sarah Pirie-Nally to explore the intersection of technology, human behaviour, travel, and the power of wonder. Sarah shares lessons from her years leading innovation initiatives at Commonwealth Bank, her work helping organisations embrace emerging technologies, and why curiosity remains one of the most valuable skills in a rapidly changing world. The conversation explores how AI can become a genuine business advantage, why human-centred design matters more than ever, and how travel creates the pattern interrupts that lead to better ideas, stronger relationships, and happier lives. This is a conversation about innovation. About designing experiences people genuinely want. And about using technology to create more freedom, more creativity, and more meaningful travel experiences. Sarah Pirie-Nally Founder, Wonder & WonderAuthor, Speaker & AI Strategist Flights Club Membership https://iflyflat.com.au/membership/ Accor Plus Explorer Membership https://www.accorplus.com/explorer-membership/ 00:00 Why Travel Activates Wonder 01:45 Meeting Sarah & The Origins of Wonder 04:10 Innovation, Curiosity & Better Questions06:45 From Corporate Innovation to AI Strategy 10:00 Why Businesses Need Wonder More Than Ever 12:05 AI Is Not Your Strategy 14:00 Understanding Human-Centred Design 17:05 Building Products People Actually Want 18:30 How Travel Changes The Way We Think 20:00 Pattern Interrupts & Everyday Wonder 23:00 AI, Customer Experience & Business Growth 26:10 Building Your Business Operating System 29:00 Creating A Second Brain For Teams 32:00 Using AI To Simplify Family Life 35:00 Buying Back Time With Technology 36:20 Why Travel Creates Better Humans 38:40 AI, Wonder & The Future Of Business
51 min
What if your groceries, fuel, Uber rides, takeaway coffees, and family expenses could fund your next holiday? In this episode of Always Business Class, the team sits down with travel and points expert Deena, founder of Committed to Collect, to unpack how everyday Australians can turn normal spending into free or heavily discounted travel experiences. After more than 30 years in the travel industry, including 25 years at Flight Centre, Deena shares the moment that completely changed how she viewed points, loyalty programs, and travel freedom. From redeeming more than $100,000 worth of flights in a single year to helping teenagers fly to Bali on points alone, this episode breaks down the psychology, systems, and practical strategies behind modern points collecting. If you've ever thought points were too complicated, only for big spenders, or just a “credit card game”, this conversation will completely shift your perspective. SponsorsFlights Club MembershipAccor Plus Explorer Membership In this episode: How Deena redeemed over $102,000 worth of flights using everyday family spending Why most Australians massively underuse their loyalty programs The “Get Appy” method for simplifying point collection Why points are not just for business travellers or high earners How households can “triple stack” rewards across multiple systems The emotional power of travel and family holidays Why travel points can improve workplace wellbeing and reduce burnout The difference between earning points and strategically using them How teenagers are now flying internationally on points from normal spending habits Why Dina believes holidays become “more affordable and more frequent” with points
53 min
What does it take to go from doing customs forms by hand at Australia Post to running a $100M+ global fashion brand? In this episode of Always Business Class, Steve Hui and Steve Pirie-Nally sit down with Jane Lu, founder of Showpo, to unpack the real story behind building a global brand from her parents' garage, why naivety is a founder's greatest asset, and how backing yourself is the only strategy that matters. They also get into delegation, content creation as a CEO, the aisle vs window seat debate, and why business class is the best investment a founder can make. We cover: Why entrepreneurs need naivety to take the leap How a trademark crisis nearly wiped out everything she built Building Like Minded Bitches Drinking Wine to 180,000+ women Why delegation changes everything The aisle vs window seat debate, settled What is still on the bucket list This is not just about travel. It is about building something you love and choosing to do it in style. Guest: Jane Lu Founder and CEO, Showpo Sponsors: Flights Club: https://iflyflat.com.au/membership/ Accor Plus Explorer Membership: https://www.accorplus.com/explorer-members ...
49 min
What really makes a loyalty program work? It’s not just discounts.It’s not just points.And it’s definitely not just perks. In this episode of Always Business Class, we go behind the scenes of one of the most successful travel membership programs in the world. From rebuilding after COVID to scaling to 500,000 members, this conversation breaks down how loyalty, psychology, and experience design come together. We cover: Why subscription is the future of travel The psychology behind loyalty programs How small group dining became a breakthrough feature Why emotional connection beats transactional rewards Lessons from relaunching a global program How partnerships drive growth and retention Why travel creates better ideas and better business outcomes Practical travel hacks like choosing the best seat every time This is not just about travel. It’s about how great businesses build loyalty that lasts. Guest: Henrik Berglind - Accor Plus Chapters 00:00 Business Class in the Sky & On the Ground 01:33 Behind the Loyalty Program Growth 02:56 30 Years in Hospitality 04:09 COVID & Industry Reset 05:33 Loyalty Program Relaunch 06:16 Winning Best Loyalty Relaunch 07:49 Real Value of Membership Benefits 08:46 Why Travel Sparks Better Ideas 09:40 The Power of Face-to-Face 11:14 Designing Dining Experiences 12:43 The “Small Group Dining” Breakthrough 12:58 Lessons from the Relaunch 14:22 Global Expansion of Benefits 15:02 Why Change Doesn’t Kill Businesses 17:03 Behavioural Science in Business 19:15 Boutique vs Large Hotel Experiences 20:27 From Discounts to Loyalty Culture 22:44 Building a Global Loyalty Ecosystem 26:17 Innovation & Scaling Challenges 27:22 48 Brands, One Ecosystem 28:35 Travel Habits & Seat Hacks 31:18 Subscription Model Explained 34:43 Reducing Decision Fatigue in Travel 36:23 The Future of Travel Curation 38:33 Partnerships & Experiences Strategy 41:58 Sales Channels & Growth 44:10 Key Benefits of Explorer Membership 46:27 Flights Club Explore Launch
1 hr 4 min
What if the most powerful thing you could do for the planet… …was simply go there and witness it yourself? What if exploration was never really about the summit? In this episode of Always Business Class, Peter Hillary, explorer, mountaineer, and son of Sir Edmund Hillary, joins Steve Hui and Steve Pirie-Nally for a live fireside chat with over 400 Accor Plus Explorer members — and shares what 43 trips to Antarctica, a crossing to the South Pole, and a lifetime on the world's highest peaks have taught him about the only thing that actually matters. Peter unpacks why the hardest part of any expedition is never the cold, the food, or the terrain. It is the psychological and emotional battle between your ears. And why that lesson applies just as much in business and in life. He makes the case for why going to Antarctica is not a luxury. It is an act of stewardship. Because when people witness a place — really witness it — they want to protect it. And places that go unseen get exploited. This is a conversation about what exploration really means. Not whether it has been done before. But whether you have done it. Because once you stand on that ice, something shifts. And you come back asking a different question. Not what can I get. But what can I do. Guest Peter Hillary: Explorer, Mountaineer, Son of Sir Edmund Hillary Sponsors Flights Club Accor Plus Explorer Membership
1 hr 0 min
What if the real advantage in life isn’t just what you earn… …but how you experience the world? In this episode of Always Business Class , Steve Grace, Founder of Nudge Group, shares how travel, lifestyle design, and smart flying have shaped the way he lives, parents, and builds businesses. We talk about flying long-haul as a family, why economy is not always the “cheapest” option, and how using smarter travel strategies can unlock premium experiences that most people think are out of reach. Steve shares how he has used services like iFly Flat over the years to make business class travel more accessible, especially when travelling with a family of five. But this conversation goes beyond seats and status. We get into what travel actually does to you. From five-star destinations to islands with no electricity, Steve explains why contrast is the most valuable part of travel, and how those experiences have shaped his kids’ worldview and his own decision making as a founder. We also explore how travel creates perspective, why founders should spend more time outside their environment, and how exposure to different cultures can completely change how you think about business and life. Along the way, we touch on building multiple businesses, the evolution of recruitment through content, and why community and in-person connection are becoming more valuable in a digital world. This is a conversation about travel as leverage. Because once you see more of the world, you start playing a different game. Steve Grace Founder, Nudge Group Nudge Group: https://nudgegroup.com.au/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephengrace/ Join Flights Club: https://iflyflat.com.au/membership/ Accor Plus Explorer Membership: https://www.accorplus.com/explorer-membership/ 00:00 Why Travel Changes Perspective 02:22 Flying Better and Accessing Business Class 05:18 From Customer to Podcast Guest 10:07 Building a Lifestyle Around Travel 18:00 Why Founders Need Global Exposure 25:49 Raising Kids Through Travel 27:01 Caribbean Travel and Unique Experiences 30:48 Seeing Different Ways of Living 34:58 Travel as a Life Advantage 40:08 Business, Media and Lifestyle Design 45:30 Community and Lifestyle Leverage 50:03 AI, Travel and the Future of Work 53:34 Rapid Fire Travel Questions 55:16 Where He Is Heading Next
52 min
What happens when you wire $25,000 of your life savings into a 20-foot container of coconut water… without a business plan? In this episode of Always Business Class, Scott Mendelson, Founder of Raw C, shares the real story behind building one of Australia’s recognised coconut water brands from scratch and why he is now taking on the 350 million person US market. We talk about selling one box on day one. Driving nine hours around Sydney trying to convince stores to stock a product nobody understood. Competing in a Coles and Woolworths dominated market. And the compounding power of showing up in person. Scott unpacks why naivety can be a competitive edge, how coconut water penetration jumped from 11 percent to over 26 percent, and why flying 15 hours for a two-hour meeting secured a US national retailer. This is a conversation about long games. About protecting factory relationships in Vietnam. About category growth versus ego. About not dying wondering. If you are building a consumer brand, negotiating with major retailers, or thinking about expanding beyond Australia, this episode will sharpen your thinking. Guest Scott Mendelson Founder, Raw C Raw C: https://rawc.com.au/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raw_c/ Sponsors Join Flights Club: https://iflyflat.com.au/membership/ Accor Plus Explorer Membership: https://www.accorplus.com/explorer-membership/ Chapters 00:00 The $25,000 Container 02:52 Why Start FMCG With No Experience 05:22 Selling One Box 10:24 Coconut Water’s Category Growth 16:30 The US Retail Breakthrough 34:19 Factories, Loyalty and Long-Term Thinking 49:59 Taking on America See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
43 min
Is it a scam? Are points even worth it anymore? Do you need millions of points to fly business class? After 150 discovery calls with Australian founders across construction, agriculture, professional services, FMCG and tech, this episode of Always Business Class breaks down the most common myths about points, business class travel, and the Flights Club model. We unpack the psychology of dynamic pricing, why business class fares to the US are now $10,000+, and how points create a fixed-price alternative in a volatile travel market. This is not about hacks or shortcuts. It is about cost versus benefit, systems versus guessing, and using business expenses strategically. If you are a founder spending money anyway and want more comfort, more flexibility and more meaningful travel experiences, this episode is for you. Sponsors Join Flights Club: https://iflyflat.com.au/membership/ Accor Plus Explorer Membership: https://www.accorplus.com/explorer-membership/ Chapters 00:00 Points Equals Flights: The Core Philosophy 02:33 Is Flights Club a Scam? 05:31 Cash vs Points: Two Separate Systems 09:43 Why Fixed Pricing Changes the Game 11:26 Cancellation Freedom and COVID Lessons 13:50 Why People “Can’t Find Seats” 17:35 Using Points Poorly vs Strategically 20:25 The Biggest Earning Myths 27:02 Are Points Worth It Anymore? 37:45 Platinum vs Black Membership Breakdown 42:23 Travel, Joy and Founder Perspective See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
50 min
What if the most valuable “capital” you have isn’t travel points or business revenue, but your health capital ? In this episode of Always Business Class , Steve Hui and Steve Pirie-Nally sit down with Dr Steven Lum Melbourne-trained medical doctor and Founder of Everlab , to unpack the shift from reactive “sick care” to data-driven preventative health . Dr Lu explains why so many high performers make careful decisions in business, then “shoot from the hip” with health, and how Everlab approaches health like a management consultancy , using data to uncover blind spots and prioritise the highest ROI actions. They explore the difference between lifespan vs healthspan , why travel can quietly tax your body (sleep, dehydration, alcohol, time zones), and simple strategies that help you land sharper and recover faster, even on long-haul flights. If you travel for business, lead a team, or want to perform at your best for longer, this one will change how you think. Guest: Dr. Steven Lu https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-steven-lu-82943825a/ Cofounder, Chief Medical Officer - Everlab Sponsors: Join Flights Club: https://iflyflat.com.au/membership/ Accor Plus Explorer Membership: https://www.accorplus.com/explorer-membership/ Key topics: healthspan, preventative health, personalised medicine, longevity, jet lag strategy, sleep optimisation, alcohol and sleep score, VO2 max, DEXA, visceral fat, travel performance. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
54 min
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 , 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 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 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 Based in Singapore, with 20+ years across Asia and hospitality leadership. Sponsors: Join Flights Club: https://iflyflat.com.au/membership/ Accor Plus 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 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.
21 min
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 good 01:10 The emotional pull of airline status 02:40 Points vs status explained simply 03:55 Why “free upgrades” are never really free 05:10 The psychology of exclusivity and loyalty 06:40 Airlines moving to spend-based status systems 08:35 Why status runs are getting more expensive 10:40 Points as a fixed-price travel currency 11:25 Real example: points vs cash for business class 12:20 Why paying fees for points can still be profitable 13:15 The psychology of hoarding points See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
48 min
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.
3 min
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.
2 min
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.
31 min
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.
46 min
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.
46 min
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 life 01:42 Shifting identity after Kikki K and choosing to dream again 04:52 Helping others escape the wrong path and start their own business 06:55 Her first business class experiences and why she journals in the sky 10:34 How 332,000 Qantas Points can get you to Europe return in business 11:29 Triple dipping points on business expenses 15:12 Travel as a source of creativity and life design 17:45 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.
31 min
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 Mastery 02:53 Transformational Travel Experiences 05:44 The Power of Travel as Education 08:59 Creating Lasting Impact Through Travel 12:00 The Business Class Mindset 14:47 Networking and Relationships in Business Class 17:56 The Value of Points and Travel Hacks 20:57 Maximising Business Expenses for Travel 24:08 The Future of Travel and Experiences See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.