The Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast, hosted by Justin Vacula, teaches listeners how to travel the world at low cost utilizing loyalty programs, credit card points, miles, benefits, and rewards.
Justin regularly welcomes guests who share their experiences with rewards, travel, credit cards, and even advantage gambling.
A companion YouTube channel expands on podcast content with video walkthroughs of hotel rooms, cruise ships, and interesting destinations.
Justin frequently visits Las Vegas and Atlantic City and plays Video Poker and Blackjack combining miles and points with casino loyalty. Justin formerly played Texas Hold ‘Em on a regular basis.
🎯 Focuses
Travel Hacking: How to book flights and hotels at low cost using points and miles
Money Making and Saving Tips: How to earn with apps, bank bonuses, and loyalty programs
Intelligent Gambling: Strategies for winning at Blackjack, Video Poker, and other games
Real-World Examples: Trips, stays, and deals you can replicate
Guest Interviews: Learn from other miles and points enthusiasts
📍Community & Engagement
Local Events: Justin hosts monthly in-person meetups in Willow Grove, Pennsylvania with the Greater Philadelphia Travel: Credit, Miles, and Points group.
Speaking Engagements: He was a guest speaker with Frequent Traveler University, ZorkFest, Chicago Seminars, Point Me To NY, and Award Travel 101 events.
Social Media Presence: Follow updates, behind-the-scenes content, and new episode alerts on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram.
Justin is also a regular contributor to the TravelZork Loyalty & Points Corner, offering readers timely insights and strategies.
Justin serves as a board member for the Frequent Traveler Education Foundation with Frequent Traveler University.
👤 About the Host
Justin Vacula brings a background in Philosophy and Psychology, plus prior experience in Mental Health Counseling and Poker, into his approach to practical and strategic content. Influenced by Stoic Philosophy (featured in his previous project, the Stoic Solutions Podcast), he emphasizes calm, calculated decision-making and long-term thinking in travel, finance, and life to experience joy and find meaning.
🎵 Why “Hurdy Gurdy”?
The podcast’s name reflects its quirky and creative spirit—named after the hurdy gurdy, a medieval instrument featured in one of Justin’s favorite bands Cellar Darling. Justin once interviewed the band, also influenced by Stoic Philosophy, and was invited to a meet-and-greet at their NYC concert.
The Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast is more than just a show—it’s an educational hub and community for travel enthusiasts looking to maximize rewards, spend smarter, and see the world affordably.