Regarding personal history. None of my business, really. I shouldn't have mentioned it. Sorry.
I don't know what you're talking about. I learned most of what I know from CB, particularly BobWang. I found CB when I started rebuilding my credit and have started focusing on rewards. This place was recommended by other CB members, so I joined.
If you don't want to believe what I post about FICO scores, that's up to you. I guarantee that you can not find one piece of information that I have posted here on FICO scoring that is incorrect.
Edit: yes, Amex backdating was a huge help rebuilding. Too bad that shortcut is gone.