Best Rapid Rewards Podcasts (2025)

1
Change Of Social Rule | Lara Varlamova 3:29

5d ago3:29

3:29

Attention is no longer a byproduct of impact — it is the impact. This episode explores a quiet but profound shift: the replacement of talent with visibility, purpose with performance. Once, craft and vision were enough. Now, we live in a system where the algorithm decides who is seen, not based on depth, but on engagement. What does it mean to crea…

1
The Best Ways To Earn Points Without a New Card 41:22

6d ago41:22

41:22

Want to earn more points and miles—without opening a new credit card? It’s possible, and even easy, if you know where to look. From online shopping portals to strategic spending, there are plenty of surprising ways to boost your rewards with everyday purchases. In this episode of the Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie share their favorite way…

1
78th World Health Assembly Recap with Yvette Raphael 46:13

6d ago46:13

46:13

Cohosts Yvette Raphael and Ben Plumley unpick the major news coming out of the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva. – from the new pandemic treaty, to WHO budget and staffing cuts, to increases in membership fees and voluntary contributions. They ruminate on how the current seemingly-unstoppable geopolitical chaos is affecting the ability of globa…

1
Glamping with Points: Best Hilton, Hyatt, & Marriott Stays This Summer 33:56

13d ago33:56

33:56

Looking for the best travel deals this summer? In this episode of The Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie share how to save big on summer travel—including the best glamping destinations, smart credit card strategies, and expert tips on using points and miles more effectively. Chris kicks things off with a wild story about his family’s recent t…

1
A New Dawn in Global Health: Technology & AI, Security & Solidarity, One Health and Governance, with Dr Mike Reid IGHS, UCSF 44:13

13d ago44:13

44:13

While the global health community wrenches its clothes and gnashes its teeth in Switzerland at the 78th World Health Assembly, Dr Mike Reid, Associate Director of the Center for Global Health Diplomacy, UCSF joins Ben in an entertaining and wide ranging exploration of a positive, forward-looking agenda for global health. Topics include global healt…

1
Traditional TV Meets YouTube: the Future of Media with Reim El Houni | STEP 2025 37:19

13d ago37:19

37:19

In this inspiring conversation at #STEP2025, Lara was joined by Reim El Houni, one of Dubai’s most influential media voices, for a discussion on visibility, confidence, and the evolution of content in the digital age. Reim is a Media Strategy Consultant, Executive Producer of DXB Today on Dubai One, and founder of TI22 Films and Dubai On Demand. Wi…

1
Communities Deploy AI to Expand Affordable Healthcare with Solange Baptiste ITPC Executive Director 51:14

16d ago51:14

51:14

Host Ben Plumley is joined by Solange Baptiste of ITPC, an influential non-profit expert in strengthening healthcare access in developing countries, employing the strengths and minimizing the risks of new technology, particularly AI. Its an even more urgent challenge in the wake of massive funding cuts from the US. Solange shares her insights on th…

1
Rewarding Undetectability to End HIV with SHINE's Co-Founder & CEO Mackenzie Copley 41:23

19d ago41:23

41:23

Ben revisits the application of innovation to deliver healthcare transformation – this time the merging technology with social science to reward undetectability in the fight against HIV. We meet Mackenzie Copley, Co-Founder & CEO of SHINE, who shares his journey from a young volunteer to creating a groundbreaking app that incentivizes HIV patients …

1
Plan Your Dream Disney Vacation with Expert Tips 25:54

20d ago25:54

25:54

Not sure where to start when planning a Disney vacation? We have tips to help you save on hotels, food, tickets, and more. Plus, we sat down with experts at planDisney to help you plan your next trip to see Mickey Mouse. Chris and Katie also discuss customer service at Virgin Atlantic, the little-known Air Canada Rogue airline, and the massive 100,…

1
How to Make Your Startup Attractive to Investors & Acquirers with Jacopo Pichelli | STEP 2025 23:00

20d ago23:00

23:00

Are you building a startup in the Middle East? Thinking about fundraising or dreaming of an exit? In this exclusive STEP 2025 conversation, Jacopo Pichelli from FTI Capital Advisors breaks down the real story behind startup acquisitions — and what makes a company truly attractive to buyers. 💡 Learn: - What M&A (mergers & acquisitions) actually mean…

1
Breaking! Yvette Raphael receives the AAAS Mani L Bhaumik Breakthrough Award 38:16

24d ago38:16

38:16

In this special episode of A Shot in the Arm podcast, hosts Ben Plumley and Yvette Raphael share the exciting news of Yvette receiving the Mani L. Bhaumik Breakthrough Award from the American Association for the Advancement of Science. They discuss the significance of African women's involvement in clinical trials, particularly the Global Advisory …

1
Be a Man about it: Redefining Healthy Masculinity with Kenyan Celebrity Anto NeoSoul 50:28

26d ago50:28

50:28

Ben Plumley is joined by musician, DJ, and influencer Anto NeoSoul to explore the evolving concept of masculinity in the 21st century. Reflecting on their personal experiences and societal observations from Kenya to the UK, Ben and Anton discuss the impacts of traditional gender roles, the rise of toxic masculinity, and the importance of gender equ…

1
First Look at the New Universal Epic Universe Theme Park in Orlando 38:47

27d ago38:47

38:47

Should you believe the hype behind the new Epic Universe theme park? And should you be buying points as a casual traveler? In today’s episode of the Upgraded Points Podcast, Chris and Katie discuss the new Universal Epic Universe theme park, the Universal Terra Luna and Helios Grand resorts, sign-up bonuses, and more. Plus, find out about the lesse…

1
Resilience and Realignment:  Preventing Global Infectious Disease with AVAC’s Mitchell Warren  49:24

1M ago49:24

49:24

Mitchell Warren, AVAC's Executive Director, joins Ben to scope out a forward-looking infectious disease prevention strategy. It is urgently needed, amidst political and economic turmoil caused by the dismantling of US aid and declines in funding from European donors. With HIV as the poster child of what once was global health solidarity, it is an o…

1
Premium Economy: Steal or Scam? 28:59

1M ago28:59

28:59

Is premium economy worth it, or is it just another way for airlines to charge you more for economy? In today’s episode of Upgraded Points, Chris and Katie discuss premium economy, the new Delta Sky Club lounge in Atlanta, and answer listener questions to help you get the most out of your points and miles. Chris and Katie begin by discussing their e…

1
Why Dubai’s Young Startup Ecosystem Has a Huge Global Advantage with Polly Dhaliwal | STEP 2025 30:24

1M ago30:24

30:24

In the new #STEP2025 episode, Lara Varlamova spoke with Polly Dhaliwal, COO of Enterprise Nation - the UK’s largest small business community. They talked about corporate-startup symbiosis and Dubai’s rapidly evolving startup ecosystem. They explore: - How Dubai’s young startup scene compares to the UK’s mature market - The importance of embracing f…

1
The Best Puerto Vallarta Travel Deals 31:42

1M ago31:42

31:42

Puerto Vallarta is an increasingly popular travel destination, with natural beauty, great food, and lots of great resorts to choose from. In this episode of Upgraded Points, Chris and Katie go through their top Puerto Vallarta hotels to stay at with points, including options for Marriott, Hyatt, Hilton, and more, including options for families and …

1
Why Dubai's Startup Scene Is the Future with Michael Lints | STEP 2025 27:40

1M ago27:40

27:40

Join Lara Varlamova at STEP 2025 as she hosts Michael Lints, Partner at Golden Gate Ventures, for a conversation about the rise of the MENA startup ecosystem, the future of venture capital in the GCC, and what it really takes for startups to scale in 2025 and beyond. From his early days at STEP in 2014 to mentoring and investing across Southeast As…

1
Kennedy vs. Braidwood: ACA Free Prevention Services Go Back to the Supreme Court 31:48

1M ago31:48

31:48

In this episode of A Shot in the Arm podcast, Ben Plumley discusses an ongoing potentially highly significant legal challenge to the Affordable Care Act with Eric Waskowicz, Senior Policy Manager at the United States of Care. The case involves a small group of employers in Texas seeking to eliminate mandates for free preventative services, positing…

1
Is Southwest Going South? 21:52

2M ago21:52

21:52

How do you get free bags on Southwest now? How about Southwest alternatives? And is the Southwest Companion Pass still the best deal out there? On the this debut episode of Upgraded Points, expert travelers Katie Corrigan Seemann and Christopher Hassan answer these questions and more to help you get the most bang for your buck when you travel. Kati…

1
Discover How PR Can Rapidly Boost Startup Potential with Clara Armand-Delille | STEP 2025 24:57

2M ago24:57

24:57

In this STEP 2025 episode, Lara is joined by Clara Armand-Delille, Founder of ThirdEyeMedia — a boutique PR agency working with top startups and VCs across Europe and beyond. Clara shares insights on startup communications, building brand authority, and how founders can use PR as a strategic tool — not just a press engine. If you're a founder, mark…

1
The Upgraded Points Podcast Trailer 1:01

2M ago1:01

1:01

Want to travel more and spend less? Every week, Upgraded Points provides expert insights, travel hacks, and the latest industry news to help you maximize your points and miles like a pro. Hosted by Chris Hassan and Katie Seemann, travel experts at Upgraded Points, this podcast breaks down the best strategies for booking luxury flights, scoring hote…

1
What Is Agentic AI? AI Trends in 2025 with Kushaal Devanahalli | STEP 2025 25:09

2M ago25:09

25:09

🎙️ In this STEP 2025 exclusive, Lara Varlamova talks with Kushaal Devanahalli, Co-founder of Proximity Works, to break down the evolution from Generative AI to Agentic AI and what that means for the future of business and technology. Kushaal shares insights into how Generative AI laid the foundation for the next wave of autonomous systems — Agentic…

1
AI and the Future of Healthcare: Innovation and Transformation with Prof. Eyal Zimlichman 39:02

2M ago39:02

39:02

In this episode of A Shot in the Arm Podcast, Ben Plumley talks with Professor Eyal Zimlichman, Chief Transformation Officer and Chief Innovation Officer for the Sheba Medical Center in Israel. They discuss the transformative role of artificial intelligence in global healthcare, from innovations that reduce mortality rates to AI-driven diagnostic t…

1
Global Health Diplomats - Is Trump's Global Health Strategy Emerging? 49:09

2M ago49:09

49:09

Join Eric Goosby and Ben Plumley as they delve into the latest global health news coming out of Washington DC, including funding cuts from the US government to key international health programs, whether the administration will abide by the continuing resolution passed by Congress to fund all global health programs approved by Congress for 2025, and…

1
Impact of US Aid Cuts on South Africa's Healthcare 34:52

2M ago34:52

34:52

In this episode of A Shot in the Arm Podcast, hosts Yvette Raphael and Ben Plumley discuss the resilience of South Africa's healthcare system amidst U.S. aid cuts, particularly through USAID and PEPFAR. They highlight the devastating impacts on HIV treatment, TB care, and broader healthcare services due to the sudden cessation of funding. But the c…

1
The Future of Journalism & Media in the Age of AI with Ted Kemp | STEP 2025 20:58

2M ago20:58

20:58

In this insightful interview, Lara Varlamova sits down with Ted Kemp, former Managing Editor at CNBC International, award-winning journalist, and media strategist, at #STEPConference2025 in Dubai. 📺 With decades of experience across the U.S., Europe, South Asia, and the Middle East, Ted shares his perspective on: 🔹 How AI is disrupting global newsr…

1
Global Health Diplomats - The Fight to Keep Global Health Alive 49:11

3M ago49:11

49:11

Hosted by Ben Plumley & Professor Ambassador Eric Goosby Episode Summary In this episode of Global Health Diplomats, Ben Plumley and Eric Goosby take a hard look at the state of global health in the wake of major funding shifts and policy changes. With U.S. global health programs facing an uncertain future, can they be salvaged, or are we witnessin…

1
AI, Innovation & Human Connection | Jessica White | Lara Varlamova 45:41

3M ago45:41

45:41

In this insightful conversation, Jessica White, Global Growth Leader at Honeywell, joins Lara to discuss the evolving role of human connection in a digital-first world. 🌍 🔹 How do face-to-face interactions impact global business growth? 🔹 The role of AI & technology in shaping corporate culture 🔹 How businesses can balance digital transformation wi…

1
Starting a Podcast in Arabic: The Challenges & Rewards | Mo Khaldi | Lara Varlamova 6:55

4M ago6:55

6:55

In this episode of Podfest 2024, host Lara talks with Mo Khaldi, Podcast Host and creator of a new Arabic podcast exploring the history of the economy in the MENA region. What we discover in this conversation: ✅ Why there’s a gap in Arabic content on history & economy ✅ The challenges of independent podcasting & finding an audience 🌍 With a fast-gr…

1
Are We Living in a Coup Yet? 49:19

4M ago49:19

49:19

Hosts: Ben Plumley, Yvette Raphael Guest: Gregg Gonsalves Recorded in: Tembisa Mall, Greater Johannesburg, South Africa & New Haven, Connecticut, USA Welcome to the first A Shot in the Arm podcast of 2025! In this powerful episode, Ben Plumley is joined by co-host Yvette Raphael and Yale professor & activist Gregg Gonsalves to unpack critical globa…

1
AI is Revolutionizing Podcasting Advertising | Tamara Nelson and Lara Varlamova | Dubai PodFest 2024 21:05

4M ago21:05

21:05

In this episode, Tamara (Zubatiy) Nelson, CEO & Co-Founder of Barometer, joins host Lara to dive deep into how AI is reshaping the podcasting industry. From content creation to brand safety, advertiser trust, and monetization strategies, we explore how artificial intelligence is making podcasting more scalable, accessible, and profitable for creato…

1
Global Health Diplomats | Two weeks of Trump: Our Reaction 46:29

4M ago46:29

46:29

Global Health Diplomats | Two weeks of Trump: Our Reaction Welcome to Global Health Diplomats, a special project of A Shot in the Arm Podcast, brought to you with the support of the John Martin Foundation. Host Ben Plumley joins Ambassador Eric Goosby to discuss the shocking recent announcements from the U.S. administration regarding foreign aid, g…

1
The Rise of Arabic Video Podcasts | James Cridland | Dubai PodFest 2024 18:33

4M ago18:33

18:33

Join the new Dubai #podfest2024 episode where Lara interviews James Cridland, Editor at Podnews, to explore the rapid growth of podcasting in the Arab world. Discover how Saudi Arabia’s video podcast became the most-watched globally and the trends shaping Arabic podcast content. James shares insights on the importance of high-quality, consistent co…

1
Building a 3M+ audience through comedy with Mohamed Helmy | Dubai PodFest 2024 9:28

4M ago9:28

9:28

Join Lara as she chats with Mohamed Helmy, a stand-up comedian and social media sensation with over 1 million followers on Instagram and 2.4 million on TikTok. In this episode, Mohamed shares his journey from live stand-up comedy to building a massive online family, all while staying authentic and consistent. He talks about: ✅ How he grew his audie…

1
Global Health Diplomats: HIV Isn’t Over - Pressing Needs in Biomedical Innovation Post 2030 52:24

4M ago52:24

52:24

Co-hosts Ben Plumley and Ambassador Eric Goosby press the case for continued major investments in biomedical innovation to treat, diagnose, prevent and ultimately cure HIV disease. While excited by the potential of new medicines, there’s still no short term end to one of the most deadly epidemics of the modern era. A renewed strategic focus on bala…

1
Why podcasting beats traditional media in 2025 with Mais Mohammad | Dubai PodFest 2024 18:55

5M ago18:55

18:55

In this episode, Lara Varlamova sits down with Mais Mohammad, a TV host and podcaster, to talk about her journey from television to creating a podcast that’s uniquely her own. Mais shares how she keeps her episodes short and impactful, what it takes to connect with an audience, and why breaking the “rules” of podcasting can sometimes lead to the be…

1
From 0 to 210K followers: podcast growth secrets with Mahreen Munir | Dubai PodFest 2024 20:53

5M ago20:53

20:53

In this episode, Lara Varlamova sits down with the talented Mehreen Munir, host of the popular podcast Karak with Mehreen. Discover how Mehreen turned her passion for cultural conversations into a thriving podcast with over 210,000 followers and 110 million views in just over a year. 📌 Topics covered: - How Mehreen started her podcast from scratch …

1
Looking Ahead: Global Health in 2025 20:28

5M ago20:28

20:28

In this first episode of 2025, A Shot in the Arm Podcast host Ben Plumley explores the major global health challenges and opportunities for the year ahead. He covers topics like politics in global health, innovations in HIV treatment, pandemic preparedness, and strategies for building trust in healthcare systems. Discussion Highlights: [00:00:00] I…

1
Overcoming loneliness during holidays | Special Christmas edition with Mimi Nicklin 54:27

6M ago54:27

54:27

In this special Christmas edition episode, Lara welcomes Mimi Nicklin, empathy advocate, keynote speaker, and author, to address a topic especially relevant during the holiday season – loneliness. While the holidays are often a time of joy, family gatherings, and celebration, for many, it can also be a season of isolation and unmet expectations. La…

1
The Future of the Global HIV Response: A Post-World AIDS Day Reflection 56:31

6M ago56:31

56:31

A Shot in the Arm Podcast is proud to bring you another installment of Global Health Diplomats! In this compelling episode, co-hosts Ben Plumley and Eric Goosby dive deep into the future trajectory of the global HIV response. Following World AIDS Day, the discussion spans a 38,000-foot view of where the HIV epidemic stands, its critical challenges,…

1
World AIDS Day 2024: Human Rights In Action Against HIV 32:24

6M ago32:24

32:24

Episode Title: World AIDS Day 2024: Human Rights In Action Against HIV Guests: Hon. Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, Deputy Minister Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities, South Africa Dr. Mandeep Dhaliwal, Director of the HIV and Health Group, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Description: In this powerful episode of A Shot in the Arm Podc…

1
2024 UNAIDS World AIDS Day Report: The Rights Way to End the Epidemic? 47:24

6M ago47:24

47:24

Episode Title: 2024 UNAIDS World AIDS Day Report: The Rights Way to End the Epidemic? Host: Ben Plumley, Global Health Strategist Guest: Christine Stegling, Deputy Executive Director, UNAIDS Episode Summary: Welcome to A Shot in the Arm Podcast! In this first of a set of special World AIDS Day 2024 episodes, host Ben Plumley chats with Christine St…

1
AI and creativity: collaboration or competition? 58:03

6M ago58:03

58:03

In this episode of the Veela Podcast, Lara chats with Frédéric Raillard, Founder and CEO of [Ai]magination and a creative visionary who is exploring new ways to connect art and innovation. They discuss how AI is changing the way we think about creativity and raise important questions about how human imagination and technology interact. Frederic sha…

1
Дубай и дизайн интерьера- ожидания и реальность | Вау эффект | Флиппинг как развивающийся тренд 53:27

6M ago53:27

53:27

Не секрет, что дизайн-интерьера в Дубае- это история, в которой много составляющих… Это и про меняющийся стиль и предпочтения, это и про то, как непросто сделать ремонт в таком активном и живом, казалось бы, хабе как Дубай. Это и про стремительно развивающуюся потребность собственников сделать апгрейд свих об’ектов для разных целей. Суть в том, что…

1
Ebola, Bombs, and Migrants: A Conversation with Dr. Joanne Liu 53:03

6M ago53:03

53:03

Title: Ebola, Bombs, and Migrants: A conversation with Dr. Joanne Liu Host: Ben Plumley Guest: Dr. Joanne Liu, Pediatric Emergency Physician and Former International President of Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) Episode Summary: In this episode, Ben Plumley interviews Dr. Joanne Liu, a pediatric emergency physician from Montreal, …

1
Integrating Diagnostics for Global Health Equity with Dr. Ben LaBrot 47:44

7M ago47:44

47:44

Ben Plumley sits down with Dr. Benjamin LaBrot to discuss innovation and equity in global health diagnostics, focusing on diagnostics' pivotal role in addressing HIV Disease. The conversation covers key themes in diagnostic integration, barriers in middle-income countries, and the critical role of diagnostics in disease prevention and management fo…

1
Post Election Blues & Reds 4:59

7M ago4:59

4:59

In this episode, Ben reflects on the recent US Presidential Election and its implications for democracy and global health. Key points discussed include: Democracy in Action: The election showcased the importance of daily democratic engagement in a divided country. Transition Team Priorities: The new administration must focus on health, including re…

1
Global Health Diplomats: The 2024 US Election 50:09

7M ago50:09

50:09

In this special episode of the Global Health Diplomats, hosted by Ben Plumley and Professor Eric Goosby, the focus is on the upcoming US presidential election and its implications for global health diplomacy. The discussion covers the lack of attention to global health in the current election campaigns, the potential future of global health diploma…

1
Sharing the Mic with Frontline AIDS: Africa’s Forgotten Mpox Outbreaks 50:11

8M ago50:11

50:11

We are Sharing The Mic again with Frontline AIDS to highlight the latest mpox outbreaks that have started in the Democratic Republic of Congo, spread to Burundi and beyond. From lack of access to accurate, updated information, diagnostics - and of course - vaccines, communities - particularly partners of Frontline AIDS - are calling out for urgent,…

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