I don't think he said he spend $150k on airfare, I think it was $150k total across all categories.

I think SPG may be your best bet. Flying out of SFO/SJC that are a lot of option on AS especially with the new Virgin America acquisting.

SPG miles xfer to AS at 1:1.25 (20k SPG for 25k AS). They also transfer to a bunch of different airlines that could be beneficial to you.

I agree that one of the more premium cards (read $450 annual fee) might be good like the Amex plat or Chase Sapphire Reserve for increased point earnings.