Episode 10: Unlocking the Secrets of Travel Hacking with Melanie Brown
For our milestone 10th episode, Justin and Bearz are joined by Midwest-based travel hacker Melanie Brown, who’s redefining the way we see the world—without breaking the bank.
In this lively and insightful conversation, the trio dives into the highs and lows of travel, from favorite destinations to quirky cultural experiences, including some surprising (and stomach-turning!) culinary practices in Asia. Melanie shares her expertise on how to earn and maximize airline miles, turning them into virtually free flights and luxurious hotel stays.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or someone dreaming of their first big adventure, Melanie’s tips and tricks will show you how to work the system to make your travel dreams a reality. Tune in to discover how you can unlock a world of possibilities through savvy travel hacking!
Meet Mel: The Ultimate Travel Hacker and Luxury Jet-Setter
Mel is a passionate globetrotter who has mastered the art of traveling in style without breaking the bank. By skillfully earning and maximizing points and miles, she’s unlocked the secrets to experiencing the world’s most extraordinary destinations—often for little to no cost.
In 2024 alone, Mel traveled an astonishing 80,392 miles—enough to circle the globe 3.2 times. And she didn’t just travel; she traveled in style. From indulging in bucket-list flight experiences like ANA’s “The Suite” and Etihad’s “The Residence” to unwinding at opulent destinations like the Al Maha Desert Resort in Dubai, the Park Hyatt in Kyoto, and Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort in Abu Dhabi, Mel has redefined luxury travel on a budget.
But she’s not stopping there. 2025 promises even more incredible adventures, with plans to explore Oman, Turkey, Thailand, China, Hong Kong, Korea, Taiwan, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and beyond!
Through her popular YouTube channel, Mel’s Miles, she demystifies the world of points, miles, and luxury travel. With practical how-to guides, insider tips, and reviews, Mel empowers aspiring travelers to turn their wanderlust dreams into reality.
Ready to elevate your travel game? Follow Mel and start living life—one mile at a time! Check out Mel's Miles on YouTube!