no offense guys, but it sounds like sour grapes.

you both still fly enough to get platinum. that means you are spending a buck or two. it is far from difficult to get 3,4 even 5 cents a mile out of award tickets. so you are passing up 10 miles a dollar for bank miles. for what? no chance you are getting 30% - 50% cash back with those bank miles.

sure there may be better flights or airports served on other airlines occasionally, but not remaining loyal has its own disadvantages.

yes, the airlines only care about big spenders - and they dont always care for them even! that doesnt mean going elsewhere is maximizing your travel (or credit card) spend!