Point Me To First Class
Point Me to First Class is a show for employed professionals, solopreneurs, entrepreneurs, and business owners with higher-than-average personal and/or business expenses who want to learn to leverage them into credit card points to spend on travel. Your expenses are your greatest untapped asset - but learning how to use them to travel the world doesn’t have to be confusing or complicated. Each week, Devon Gimbel shares valuable tips, tools, and strategies to help you uplevel your skills earning and redeeming credit card points and shows you how to spend them on incredible travel experiences. Interested in learning more about working with Devon? Visit www.pointmetofirstclass.com to learn more. This podcast is for you if you find yourself asking questions like: How do I earn credit card points and use them for travel? How can I make my expenses benefit me? How can I earn as many credit card points for as little spending as possible? How to maximize value from credit card points. How to earn credit card points for travel. Turn credit card points into travel.
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148. Your Year in Points Review: How to Audit, Learn, and Plan Smarter
12/29/2025
148. Your Year in Points Review: How to Audit, Learn, and Plan Smarter
Have you ever taken a step back and actually evaluated what your points did for you over an entire year? In this episode, I’m inviting you to do your own Year in Points Review—a way to look at how you earned points, how you used them, and whether your approach to earning and redeeming rewards helped you reach your travel goals. I walk through why a year-end points review is worth doing, including how it helps you evaluate what you did well, what you could do better, and how having clear data makes it easier to decide what to keep doing, what to stop doing, and what to focus on moving forward. I also share my personal process for reviewing both sides of the equation: points earning and points redeeming. From looking at different points ecosystems to understanding how points were earned and used, this episode walks through how to pull the details of the year into a clearer big picture. If you want to better understand how your points worked for you this year, this episode will show you how to get started. Get full show notes and transcript: Want to shape the show? Take the and share what you love and want more of! Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course waitlist here:
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147. 2025 in Points and Miles In Review (Part 2): Key Changes, New Realities, and What Comes Next
12/22/2025
147. 2025 in Points and Miles In Review (Part 2): Key Changes, New Realities, and What Comes Next
What really changed in the points and miles world this year—and how should that shape your strategy going forward? In part two of our 2025 Year in Review, Kelly and I continue breaking down one of the most transformative years we’ve seen in award travel. Beyond rising annual fees and tightening loyalty programs, this year revealed deeper structural shifts in how airlines price awards, who gets access to the best redemptions, and what flexibility actually looks like going forward. We dig into the continued expansion of dynamic pricing—and why it isn’t always the disaster it’s made out to be. You’ll hear real examples of when dynamic pricing has increased access and value, along with why moments of program change can sometimes be the best time to book. We also explore how airlines are reshaping award access around status and cardholder loyalty in ways that go far beyond free bags or early boarding. For the first time, elite status and co-branded cards are directly impacting award availability, pricing, and even whether certain premium cabins can be booked at all. We wrap it all up by zooming out to talk about what all of this means for 2026 and beyond—how transferable points are evolving, why diversification matters more than ever, and how to think strategically about status in a landscape that’s clearly shifting. If you enjoyed part one of our year in review, this conversation brings the full picture into focus. Get full show notes and transcript: Want to shape the show? Take the and share what you love and want more of! Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course waitlist here:
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146. 2025 in Points and Miles In Review: The Biggest Wins, Disappointments & Shifts - Part 1
12/15/2025
146. 2025 in Points and Miles In Review: The Biggest Wins, Disappointments & Shifts - Part 1
In this episode, we bid farewell to 2025 with a year-in-review analysis of the biggest news, changes, and trends in rewards, credit cards, and award travel over the last 12 months. This episode is part one of a two-part year-in-review series, and I’m joined by Kelly, the Points and Miles Doc, to break down the biggest changes, surprises, and shakeups in the points and award travel world over the last year. In this first half of the conversation, we focus on the biggest wins and disappointments of the year—from credit card issuers that made significant changes to new programs that expanded what’s possible with points. We talk through how the landscape has shifted, why earning and redeeming points feels more complex than it used to, and how those changes showed up across credit cards, transferable points currencies, and airline loyalty programs. This episode isn’t about declaring whether 2025 was “good” or “bad.” It’s about understanding how the points and miles world is becoming more specific, more nuanced, and more complex—and what that means for how you participate in it moving forward. Be sure to tune in next week for Part Two, where we’ll dive deeper into the trends we expect to shape 2026, along with our predictions and award travel wish lists for the year ahead. Get full show notes and transcript: Want to shape the show? Take the and share what you love and want more of! Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course waitlist here:
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145. Behind the Scenes at World of Hyatt: Loyalty, Care & the Future of Travel with Laurie Blair
12/08/2025
145. Behind the Scenes at World of Hyatt: Loyalty, Care & the Future of Travel with Laurie Blair
Have you ever wondered what exactly goes on behind the scenes in loyalty programs—and what drives executive decisions about what to offer, add, or take away from their members’ experience? In this episode, I get to do exactly that. I’m joined by Laurie Blair, Hyatt’s Senior Vice President of Global Marketing and Loyalty, for a rare behind-the-scenes look at how Hyatt designs a program that travelers actually feel loyal to. We talk about what truly sets the World of Hyatt program apart, how they make decisions about elite benefits and redemptions, and what status holders can expect in the future. We get into everything from the rarity of fixed award charts and hotel loyalty programs, stealth devaluations, and Hyatt’s approach to balancing business goals with prioritizing their members—to the underrated redemptions you should absolutely be taking advantage of. Laurie also shares what it’s like to build a loyalty program that discerning travelers trust and love, how Hyatt listens to its members, and why care—not just points—is the foundation of everything they do. If you’ve ever wondered how loyalty is built inside one of the most respected travel brands in the world, this is your backstage pass. Get full show notes and transcript: Want to shape the show? Take the Point Me To First Class listener survey and share what you love and want more of! Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course waitlist here:
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144. Inside Rove: The Loyalty Program Reshaping Points & Miles
12/01/2025
144. Inside Rove: The Loyalty Program Reshaping Points & Miles
There’s a new player in the rewards space, and it’s changing what’s possible for earning points even if you never open another credit card. In this episode, I’m joined by Carissa Rawson, Director of Travel and Marketing for Rove, a fast-growing loyalty platform that combines a travel booking portal with an online shopping portal so you can earn transferable miles on hotel stays, flights, and everyday purchases. Whether you’re new to points or you’ve been in the hobby for years, Rove offers earning opportunities that can work for everyone. Carissa and I talk about how the platform works, how you can use the miles you earn, and why Rove can stack with the cards and programs you already use. We also get into some of the most eye-catching multipliers currently available—like hotel bookings offering 25x, 40x, or even 55x miles. You’ll hear how loyalty-eligible hotel rates work, how Rove handles posting timelines for both travel and shopping, and what to expect from their customer support. We also cover Rove’s transfer partners, including newly added and exclusive options, and how members can redeem miles for flights or hotels. Tune in to hear the most common mistakes new users make, upcoming features on the horizon, and special bonuses available for listeners. ***** Special bonus for PMTFC podcast listeners! New to Rove? Sign up now and receive 1,500 Rove miles automatically at ***** Turn your expenses into points and save tens of thousands of dollars a year on your wishlist travel. Don’t miss out! to know more about my comprehensive online program, Points Made Easy. Get full show notes and transcript: Want to shape the show? Take the Point Me To First Class listener survey and share what you love and want more of! Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course waitlist here:
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143. Your Holiday Points Prep Checklist: 5 Steps to Maximize Seasonal Spending
11/24/2025
143. Your Holiday Points Prep Checklist: 5 Steps to Maximize Seasonal Spending
This week marks the biggest points-earning opportunity of the entire year—especially if you’re planning to shop online. While everyone else is focused on Thanksgiving prep, points and miles travelers know this is the week to turn everyday purchases into tens of thousands (or more) of bonus points. In this short and focused episode, I’m sharing my 5-step points-earning prep checklist for holiday spend—the exact steps I complete before, during, and after the holiday shopping surge to stay organized, stay strategic, and maximize every earning opportunity. We’ll cover how to identify what to purchase ahead of time, how to choose which rewards cards to use based on your earning goals or spend-related bonuses, how to set up the shopping portals and tools that streamline your holiday purchases, and the simple steps that help ensure your bonus points track correctly. This checklist walks you through what to do before, during, and after your holiday shopping so you can maximize the points you earn while keeping the process as stress-free as possible. Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/holiday-points-earning-checklist/ Want to shape the show? Take the and share what you love and want more of! Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course waitlist here:
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142. How Points Become a Tool for Freedom, Joy & the Life You Want to Live with Dielle Charon
11/17/2025
142. How Points Become a Tool for Freedom, Joy & the Life You Want to Live with Dielle Charon
Travel is never just about the destination — it’s about what the journey makes possible. In today’s episode, we explore how learning to earn and use credit card points isn’t just a smart financial decision. It’s a pathway to freedom, abundance, and experiences that reflect the life you actually want to live. From upgraded flights to dream hotels, points can turn everyday expenses into extraordinary opportunities. No one embodies that transformation quite like Dielle Charon. A former social worker turned seven-figure business coach for women of color entrepreneurs, Dielle has used points not only to change the way she travels, but to expand what she believes she deserves. In this conversation, we explore Dielle’s shift from a scarcity mindset around money and travel to one grounded in abundance. We talk about the emotional impact of flying business class for the first time, how points became a tool for self-care, celebration, and access, and why choosing ease and luxury can be deeply supportive — not frivolous. Whether you run a business or simply want to travel with more intention and possibility, this episode offers a powerful look at what becomes available when you allow points to elevate more than just your travel plans. This conversation is rich with honesty, strategy, and inspiration — and it’s about so much more than travel. It’s about possibility, mindset, and unapologetically claiming ease, luxury, and joy. Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/points-abundance-mindset/ Want to shape the show? Take the and share what you love and want more of! Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course waitlist here:
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141. Listener Q&A: Canceling Cards, Transfer Partner Confusion & Shopping Portals vs. Welcome Bonuses
11/10/2025
141. Listener Q&A: Canceling Cards, Transfer Partner Confusion & Shopping Portals vs. Welcome Bonuses
This episode is all about your questions—and real answers. I’m back with another listener Q&A, tackling the points and miles decisions you’re actually making right now. From whether it’s possible to move points between airline partners to deciding if that old United card still deserves a spot in your wallet, we’re covering it all. We’ll walk through when to hold or cancel airline cards, how to decide between co-branded and transferable points programs based on your travel goals, and how to decide which airline booking program is best when you have multiple options to book award flights.. You’ll also hear my take on shopping portals, welcome bonuses, and the Mesa card. This episode is packed with strategy, frameworks, and real-world examples to help you make confident decisions and earn more value from every point. Turn your everyday expenses into travel—and learn how to build a points strategy that actually works for you. Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/maximize-points-and-miles-travel-strategy/ Want to shape the show? Take the and share what you love and want more of! Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course
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140. Points Path: The Tool That Shows You the Best Value for Every Flight
11/03/2025
140. Points Path: The Tool That Shows You the Best Value for Every Flight
Ever look at Google Flights and wonder, “Should I use points for this or just pay cash?” If you’ve ever felt unsure about which option gives you the best value, this episode is for you. In the final episode of our Streamline, Stack, and Save mini-series, I’m joined by Julian Kheel, former editorial director at The Points Guy and senior editor at CNN, now founder of Points Path — a browser extension that works seamlessly within your browser when you’re searching flights to show you whether points or cash is the better deal. Points Path takes the guesswork out of booking. It helps you instantly compare cash fares and award redemptions on Google Flights, showing you where the real value lies so you can make the best booking decision every time. We talk trends in the award travel landscape, how Points Path focuses on simplicity to take the guesswork out of choosing flights, and why this tool deserves a place in your browser. Whether you’re a casual traveler or a seasoned award booker, you’ll also hear how its alert feature can track award prices and let you know when they drop — so you don’t have to keep checking. Julian shares how Points Path was designed to focus on simplicity, taking the guesswork out of choosing flights so you always know the best option. With more than 10 years of experience working with some of the most trusted names in the award travel space, Julian brings both insight and innovation to how we think about booking smarter. Get full show notes and transcript: Want to shape the show? Take the Point Me To First Class and share what you love and want more of! Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course waitlist here:
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139. Stack Shopping Portals and Card Offers for Bigger Rewards with Savewise
10/27/2025
139. Stack Shopping Portals and Card Offers for Bigger Rewards with Savewise
Do you ever find yourself opening multiple tabs, comparing shopping portal payouts, and trying to figure out which site is going to give you the most rewards for your online shopping — only to give up before you actually earn the points? If that sounds familiar, today’s episode is for you. In this Streamline, Stack, and Save mini-series episode, I’m joined by Avneesh Kohli, founder of Savewise, a powerful tool that shows you exactly how to combine the best shopping portal payouts with card-linked offers — so you can maximize every online purchase without the hassle of manual tracking or endless research. Savewise is a total game changer for award travelers who want to earn more points without wasting time. The platform automatically finds the best portal and card-linked combinations for each purchase, helping you get the highest payout possible — every time you shop online. In this conversation, Avneesh and I talk about how Savewise works, why it’s become one of my favorite online tools, and how it helps you earn more points with less effort. We also dive into how it fits into a broader points-earning strategy, why automation is key to long-term success, and how you can start using it right now — just in time for holiday shopping. Whether you’re new to the points world or a seasoned award traveler, this episode will help you make every purchase count. Get full show notes and transcript: Want to shape the show? Take the and share what you love and want more of! Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course .
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138. How to Track, Manage, and Maximize Your Credit Cards with Travel Freely
10/20/2025
138. How to Track, Manage, and Maximize Your Credit Cards with Travel Freely
Have you ever opened a new credit card for the welcome bonus, only to forget how much you’ve spent or when the deadline hits? Or maybe you’re juggling multiple cards and can’t remember which one to use next. In this next episode of our Streamline, Stack, and Save mini-series, I’m joined by Zac Hood, founder of Travel Freely, an app that helps you track your credit cards, sign-up bonuses, and annual fees — so you can stay organized, hit your goals, and never miss a reward. Zac built Travel Freely after realizing how easy it was to lose track of credit card bonuses, fees, and timelines. What started as a simple spreadsheet turned into a tool that helps thousands of travelers manage their rewards efficiently. In this conversation, Zac and I talk about how Travel Freely works, why it’s free to use, and how it helps users stay on top of their credit card portfolio. We also discuss how to plan future card openings strategically, how to track spending toward welcome offers, and how the app helps travelers simplify their credit card portfolio — especially when juggling multiple issuers and family accounts. You’ll also hear Zac’s story of building the platform from scratch and the lessons he’s learned about balancing automation, accuracy, and user trust in the points and miles world. Get full show notes and transcript Want to shape the show? Take the Point Me To First Class and share what you love and want more of! Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course waitlist here:
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137. Stop Guessing, Start Earning: How CardPointers Does the Work for You with Emmanuel Crouvisier
10/13/2025
137. Stop Guessing, Start Earning: How CardPointers Does the Work for You with Emmanuel Crouvisier
Do you ever forget which credit card to use for a purchase — or worry you’re missing out on bonus points and statement credits? It’s easy to lose track when every card has different categories, offers, and perks. This episode is part of our Streamline, Stack, and Save mini-series, where we’re exploring tools and strategies that simplify how you earn and redeem your points and miles. I’m joined by Emmanuel Crouvisier, creator of CardPointers, an app that helps you track your cards, bonus categories, and offers so you never miss a chance to earn or save. Emmanuel built CardPointers in 2019 to help people get more value from their credit cards without the spreadsheets, post-it notes, or constant mental math. The app automatically identifies which card to use for every purchase, keeps track of Amex, Chase, Citi, and Capital One offers, and helps you make sure your credits don’t expire before you can use them. We talk about what inspired Emmanuel to create the app, the features that make it powerful — like Autopilot, offer alerts, and Apple integration — and how privacy and security are built in at every step. Emmanuel also shares how CardPointers users save an average of $750 a year and why automation can improve both your points strategy and your relationships by eliminating financial friction. Whether you manage one card or twenty, this conversation will help you simplify your wallet, maximize your rewards, and make the points game easier to play. Get full show notes and transcript . Want to shape the show? to take the Point Me To First Class listener survey and share what you love and want more of! Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course waitlist
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136. Mini Retirements: Redefining How You Work, Rest, and Live with Jillian Johnsrud
10/06/2025
136. Mini Retirements: Redefining How You Work, Rest, and Live with Jillian Johnsrud
Do you think you have to wait until your sixties before you can retire? Maybe not. At least not the way we’ve been taught. In this episode, I’m joined by Jillian Johnsrud — author, podcast host, and coach — who challenges the idea of a traditional retirement in favor of taking mini retirements throughout your life and career. Jillian never expected to retire early, so she hatched a plan to retire often. Inspired by the idea of sabbatical years, she began sprinkling mini retirements throughout her life — and by 40 had taken more than a dozen of them. In our conversation, Jillian explains how mini retirements can help you recover from burnout, pursue long-term travel, test major life assumptions, and strengthen relationships. We talk about what makes a mini retirement different from vacation, how to talk to your employer about taking extended time off, and how to financially prepare. You’ll also hear Jillian’s personal stories, including therapy, tango, and national park adventures with her kids — and why mini retirements are one of the best investments you can make in yourself. Get full show notes and transcript: Want to shape the show? Take the Point Me To First Class listener survey and share what you love and want more of! Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course waitlist here:
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135. Amex Platinum Cards Refresh: What’s New, What’s Missing, and What We Really Think
09/29/2025
135. Amex Platinum Cards Refresh: What’s New, What’s Missing, and What We Really Think
Back in June, Chase refreshed its personal Sapphire Reserve card and introduced the Chase Sapphire Reserve Business card, complete with highest ever annual fees for rewards cards. Not to be outdone, American Express quickly followed with its own updates to the personal and business Platinum Cards. Now that the details are here, it’s time to look at what’s changed and what it means for cardholders. In this episode, I’m joined by Kelly, the Points and Miles Doc to walk through the Amex Platinum cards refresh. We cover the higher annual fees, the new credits, and why the personal Platinum still struggles with bonus categories. You’ll also hear our reactions to the removal of the 35% rebate on the business Platinum, the addition of a $600 hotel credit, and the new 2X earning on large purchases over $5,000. We share our thoughts on whether the $895 annual fee on the personal Platinum makes sense, how the new benefits are user-dependent, and why the business Platinum refresh feels more useful for high spenders. Get full show notes and transcript: Want to shape the show? Take the Point Me To First Class listener survey and share what you love and want more of! Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course waitlist here:
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134. The New Era of Award Travel: What’s Changing and How to Adapt
09/22/2025
134. The New Era of Award Travel: What’s Changing and How to Adapt
If you’ve been in the points game for years, you’ve probably noticed how much has changed recently. And if you’re newer, you might be wondering if you’re already too late. In this episode, I share why I don’t believe we’re in the “golden age” of award travel right now — but also why points are still incredibly valuable if you know how to adapt. Over the last couple of years, the rules around earning and redeeming points have shifted faster than ever. Credit card issuers are tightening welcome bonus and referral opportunities, airlines are reserving more award space for their own loyalty members, and transfer ratios are changing in ways that don’t always benefit us. But this doesn’t mean points are dead. It just means the strategies that worked five or ten years ago won’t cut it anymore. I’ll walk you through the biggest changes in points earning and redeeming, and the four core skills you’ll need to thrive in this new era of award travel. Whether you’ve been collecting for a decade or you’re just getting started, this episode will help you see clearly where the points landscape is headed and how you can still unlock incredible value. Turn your expenses into points and save tens of thousands of dollars a year on your wishlist travel. Don’t miss out! Click here to know more about my comprehensive online program, Points Made Easy. Enrollment opens on September 20, 2025 to September 27, 2025.
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133. 7 Keys to Better Award Flight Bookings
09/15/2025
133. 7 Keys to Better Award Flight Bookings
You’ve built up a stash of transferable credit card points. Maybe you’ve been working hard to optimize your cards, your categories, and your spending. But when it comes time to actually book the flights you’ve been dreaming about, you hit a wall. You’re not alone. For most points travelers, the hardest part isn’t earning points — it’s redeeming them for the best value. That’s why in this episode, I’m sharing the seven keys that make the difference between endlessly searching without results, and booking award flights that let you travel better, more often, and for less. I’ll walk you through how to identify your transfer partners, understand transfer ratios and timelines, leverage alliances and partnerships, and master booking calendars so you can finally unlock the outsized value your points hold. Whether you’ve only booked through your credit card’s portal or you’ve tried transferring points before and got stuck, these seven keys will change the way you approach award flights. Turn your expenses into points and save tens of thousands of dollars a year on your wishlist travel. Don’t miss out! Click here http://www.pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy to know more about my comprehensive online program, Points Made Easy. Enrollment opens on September 20, 2025 to September 27, 2025.
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132. From Frustration to $150K in Points Redemptions
09/08/2025
132. From Frustration to $150K in Points Redemptions
What does it really look like to transform your travel with credit card points? In this special episode, you’ll hear directly from Dr. Faryal Michaud, a past Points Made Easy student who went from feeling confused and frustrated by points to booking over $150,000 worth of award travel. From Qsuites to the Maldives, South Africa, Tahiti, and beyond, she shares the exact turning points that changed how she approached earning and redeeming points. You’ll hear how she overcame the frustrations so many people face in the beginning, the first redemptions that boosted her confidence, and how points have since emboldened her to experience life-changing trips she never thought possible. Faryal’s story is proof of how powerful this skillset can be—not just for one trip, but for a lifetime of travel. Turn your expenses into points and save tens of thousands of dollars a year on your wishlist travel. Don’t miss out! Click here to know more about my comprehensive online program, Points Made Easy. Enrollment opens on September 20, 2025 to September 27, 2025.
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131. Unpopular Opinion: Top 5 Reasons You Should Book Travel Through a Credit Card Travel Portal
09/01/2025
131. Unpopular Opinion: Top 5 Reasons You Should Book Travel Through a Credit Card Travel Portal
Think booking through your credit card travel portal is always a mistake? Not so fast. Last week, I shared five reasons why you’ll want to avoid making travel bookings through your credit card portal. But that’s not the whole story. There are also situations where using your card’s travel portal can be the smarter move. In this episode, I’m breaking down the five most compelling reasons to consider booking flights, hotels, or car rentals through your credit card’s portal — from points-earning opportunities to unlocking annual credits and even finding better award pricing than transfer partners. I’ll share the key tradeoffs, what this means for real-world bookings, and my own approach to when portal bookings actually make sense in my travel strategy. Turn your expenses into points and save tens of thousands of dollars a year on your wishlist travel. Don’t miss out! Click here to know more about my comprehensive online program, Points Made Easy. Enrollment opens on September 20, 2025 to September 27, 2025. Want to know what’s really possible with your points? Don’t just take it from me—hear from members who’ve used Points Made Easy to completely change the way they travel. From business class flights to dream vacations, their results speak for themselves. Watch their stories here -
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130. Top 5 Reasons to Avoid Booking Travel Through Credit Card Travel Portals
08/25/2025
130. Top 5 Reasons to Avoid Booking Travel Through Credit Card Travel Portals
If there’s one thing nearly every points traveler has done at least once, it’s book a flight, hotel, or car rental directly through their credit card’s online travel portal. With promises of 5x, 8x, even 12x bonus points, it can feel like the obvious choice. But as I share in today’s episode, those tempting multipliers often come at a serious cost—and the reasons why may surprise you. In this episode, I walk through the top five reasons you should avoid booking through credit card travel portals like Chase, Amex, Citi, and Capital One. From losing out on elite status perks and upgrades to paying more for the same flights or hotel rooms, I reveal the hidden downsides that don’t show up until it’s too late. You’ll also hear real-world stories from travelers who faced everything from missing reservations to costly rebookings—all because they used a portal instead of booking direct. Even more importantly, I’ll explain how using your points through a portal can devalue them by 2–10x compared to transferring to partners. I share specific examples, including how I used Chase points with Hyatt for a $65,000+ stay that would have cost 3.6 million points through the portal. Whether you’re new to points or have been booking this way for years, this episode will help you avoid costly mistakes and make smarter choices with your rewards. Turn your expenses into points and save tens of thousands of dollars a year on your wishlist travel. Don’t miss out! to know more about my comprehensive online program, Points Made Easy. Enrollment opens on September 20, 2025 to September 27, 2025. Want to know what’s really possible with your points? Don’t just take it from me—hear from members who’ve used Points Made Easy to completely change the way they travel. From business class flights to dream vacations, their results speak for themselves.
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129. Fan Favorite: The Psychology of Learning & Mastering Points Travel
08/18/2025
129. Fan Favorite: The Psychology of Learning & Mastering Points Travel
In this week’s episode, we’re re-airing a fan favorite that so many listeners have loved and revisited. If you missed it the first time, or just need a refresher, this is one you don’t want to skip. I love discussing discrete award travel topics like individual rewards credit cards and how best to leverage them, or the specific airlines and hotels that offer the best value for points. But today, I’m covering something that never gets talked about in the points travel world and yet is one of the secrets to becoming more proficient when it comes to points travel: The Dunning-Kruger Effect and how it relates to award travel competency and success. The Dunning-Kruger Effect is a type of cognitive bias that causes people to overestimate their knowledge or abilities, particularly in areas where they have little to no experience. While this may be an unfamiliar concept, you can probably already see why having some background on the Dunning-Kruger Effect makes all the difference when you’re learning something new, like points travel. Tune in to discover how the Dunning-Kruger Effect is impacting how you approach the hobby of points travel. I’m showing you the different stages of the journey when learning the ins and outs of points travel, and how to keep moving through the stages until you reach a point of confidence and competence. On September 20th, 2025, I’m opening up enrollment for Points Made Easy. Enrollment will only be open for one week and this is your last opportunity to join the course this year, so get on the waitlist here: Get full show notes and transcript: Want to shape the show? Take the Point Me To First Class listener survey and share what you love and want more of!
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128. The New Citi Strata Elite: Game Changer or Missed Opportunity?
08/11/2025
128. The New Citi Strata Elite: Game Changer or Missed Opportunity?
If a $595 annual fee premium credit card hits the market, should it automatically earn a place in your wallet? In this episode, I take a detailed look at Citi’s newest addition to the transferable points landscape: the Citi Strata Elite Card. From its standard 80,000-point welcome bonus to the elevated 100,000-point offer available through certain channels, we’ll walk through exactly what you get when you open this card. You’ll hear how its bonus categories actually work, why the time-restricted “Citi Nights” dining perk is so unusual, and what makes its non-category 1.5x earning stand out—or not—compared to other cards. We’ll also dig into the real value of the credits, including the split Blacklane credit, the merchant-specific Splurge credit, and the 2-night minimum hotel portal credit—plus where this card shines with American Airlines lounge passes and where it falls flat next to Citi’s own mid-tier options and the retired Prestige card. Before you sign up for the welcome bonus, I’ll share the points expiration rules that can cost you big if you cancel after a year, and what I think this launch reveals about the next wave of premium rewards cards. Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/citi-strata-elite-card-review/ Want to shape the show? Take the Point Me To First Class listener survey and share what you love and want more of! Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course waitlist here:
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127. Lounge Access Update: Credit Card Changes, Perks & Picks with Traci Siegel
08/04/2025
127. Lounge Access Update: Credit Card Changes, Perks & Picks with Traci Siegel
If you’ve ever been confused about airport lounge access—what counts, what’s changed, and what’s still worth it—you’re not alone. In this episode, I welcome back guest Traci Siegel for an updated look at lounge access using rewards credit cards in 2025. We unpack the biggest changes to credit card lounge access this year, including new restrictions on who gets in and when. From premium travel cards like the Amex Platinum and Capital One Venture X to underrated options and family-friendly picks, we’re breaking down which cards actually deliver on their lounge promises—and which ones have quietly downgraded their perks. If you’re trying to figure out which card is best for your personal travel style, or you’ve ever been turned away at a lounge counter and thought, “Wait, I thought this card included access,” this episode is for you. Get full show notes and transcript: Want to shape the show? Take the Point Me To First Class listener survey and share what you love and want more of! Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course waitlist here:
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126. How Much Is a Point Really Worth? A Deep Dive with Frequent Miler’s Greg Davis-Kean
07/28/2025
126. How Much Is a Point Really Worth? A Deep Dive with Frequent Miler’s Greg Davis-Kean
If you’ve ever hesitated before transferring points—or wondered if a redemption was “good enough”—this is the episode you’ve been waiting for. In this conversation with Greg Davis-Kean (a.k.a. Frequent Miler), we unpack how to think more strategically about the value of your points. Whether you’re sitting on a big stash or navigating your first transfer, you’ll hear expert insight into when to redeem, when to wait, and how to use point valuations as a guide—not a rule. We also dive into the psychology behind redemption pressure, real examples of high-value bookings, and why your goals should always shape your strategy. Get full show notes and transcript: Want to shape the show? Take the Point Me To First Class listener survey and share what you love and want more of! Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course waitlist here:
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125. Maximizing the Citi Ecosystem with Dr. Suzy Spadafora
07/21/2025
125. Maximizing the Citi Ecosystem with Dr. Suzy Spadafora
Ever feel like Citi cards get overlooked in points conversations? If you’ve written off Citi’s ecosystem—or just haven’t known how to make it work for your travel goals—this episode is full of smart, real-life strategy. Dr. Suzy Spadafora returns to discuss the strengths (and limitations) of the Citi points ecosystem. From the points earning cards Citi offers to putting their transfer partner menu to the test, we cover everything you need to know to decide if Citi cards deserve a spot in your wallet and discuss how to maximize these valuable points. Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/citi-points-asia-travel-strategy/ Want to shape the show? Take the Point Me To First Class listener survey and share what you love and want more of! Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course waitlist here:
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124. Mid-Year Points Update: What I Burned, Booked & Learned
07/14/2025
124. Mid-Year Points Update: What I Burned, Booked & Learned
Ever wonder what’s actually possible with points? In this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of how I’ve already booked and taken 5 international trips in 2025—spending 2.9 million points on award flights and hotels, and saving over $150,000 in travel costs. From a spring break family trip to Paris to a spontaneous 2-day Tokyo adventure, I’m walking you through exactly how I planned, booked, and flew these points-funded getaways. You’ll hear the real numbers—how many points each trip required, what the taxes and fees cost me, and the redemption value I got for each flight and hotel. I’ll break down my favorite award bookings of the year so far (including Emirates First Class, ANA “The Suite,” Lufthansa’s brand new Allegris First Class, and more), share what I loved—and what wasn’t worth it—and give you the key trends I’m seeing in award availability and program changes. Whether you’re a solo traveler who loves premium cabins, a parent planning school break trips, or someone building toward their next dream redemption, this episode will give you the insights and strategy you need to make your next booking your best one yet. Get full show notes and transcript: Want to shape the show? Take the Point Me To First Class listener survey and share what you love and want more of! Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course waitlist here:
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123. Using Real Estate Spending to Maximize Credit Card Points with Jaina Pallasigui
07/07/2025
123. Using Real Estate Spending to Maximize Credit Card Points with Jaina Pallasigui
Have you ever wondered how real estate investments could help you travel more—without spending more? In this episode, I’m joined by Jaina Pallasigui, a public health professional, real estate investor, and points enthusiast who turned her real estate expenses into business class flights and luxury hotel stays around the world. From managing short-term rentals to using insurance reimbursements and big-ticket renovations to her advantage, Jaina shares the exact strategies she uses to turn every investment dollar into reward points. We also talk through the mistakes many real estate investors make with credit cards, how to keep your strategy simple, and why some of your biggest expenses may be the key to unlocking unforgettable trips. This episode is full of creative insights—whether you're deep in the real estate world or just curious about new ways to maximize your spending. Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/real-estate-points-hacking/ Want to shape the show? Take the Point Me To First Class listener survey and share what you love and want more of! Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course waitlist here:
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122. Listener Q&A: Adding a Third Points Currency, Booking Emirates First, and Points Regret
06/30/2025
122. Listener Q&A: Adding a Third Points Currency, Booking Emirates First, and Points Regret
This episode is all about your questions—and real answers. I’m back with another listener Q&A, tackling the exact points and miles decisions you’re working through right now. Ever feel like you're making credit card decisions in a vacuum? From wondering if it's time to add Capital One or Mesa to your rewards card portfolio, to recovering from redemption regret, I’m walking through the strategy behind each question so you can move forward with more clarity and confidence. We’ll cover how to think about applying for “no lifetime language” Amex offers, why you might want to move credit lines between Chase cards, and what to do when your points plan feels a little off-track. This episode is packed with honest takes, strategic insight, and practical tips grounded in real-life scenarios. Get full show notes and transcript: Want to shape the show? Take the Point Me To First Class listener survey and share what you love and want more of! Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course waitlist here:
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121. Chase’s New Business Card Just Dropped & The CSR Gets An Update—Here’s Why We’re Not Impressed
06/23/2025
121. Chase’s New Business Card Just Dropped & The CSR Gets An Update—Here’s Why We’re Not Impressed
Chase just launched a new business credit card and rolled out changes to the Chase Sapphire Reserve—but are these updates actually worth getting excited about? In this episode, I’m joined once again by Kelly from The Points and Miles Doc for a candid review of what’s new in the Chase ecosystem. From rising annual fees to underwhelming credits and a business card that looks a lot like what already exists, we’re breaking down the updates—and what they really mean for your wallet. We also talk about how these cards stack up against competitors like Amex and Capital One, when the new benefits might be worth it, and why we’re not jumping to add either of these to our travel strategy just yet. If you're holding the Chase Sapphire Reserve or considering a new business card, this episode will help you make a more informed decision. Get full show notes and transcript: Want to shape the show? Take the Point Me To First Class listener survey and share what you love and want more of! Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course waitlist here:
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120. The biggest surprises (and letdowns) of 2025 so far
06/16/2025
120. The biggest surprises (and letdowns) of 2025 so far
Have you been wondering what’s really happening in the world of credit card points and award travel this year? In this episode, I’m joined by Kelly, The Points and Miles Doc to break down the biggest shifts in 2025 so far. From major devaluations to standout sweet spots, we’re giving you an honest look at what’s working now—and what’s not. We also dive into how international programs are outperforming U.S.-based ones, which transfer partnerships are showing real value, and why flexibility is more important than ever. Whether you’ve been feeling excited by the new opportunities or frustrated by unexpected roadblocks, this conversation will help you reset your strategy for the second half of the year and beyond. Want more help using your Alaska miles wisely? Join me for a live workshop on June 21st at 10am CDT where I’ll walk you through the best Alaska Airlines sweet spots and the tools I use to find them fast—so you can stop second-guessing and start booking. Click here to save your spot - Get full show notes and transcript: Want to shape the show? Take the Point Me To First Class listener survey and share what you love and want more of! Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course waitlist here:
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119. Alaska Airlines Sweet Spots: Amazing Ways to Use Alaska Miles (That You Might Be Missing)
06/09/2025
119. Alaska Airlines Sweet Spots: Amazing Ways to Use Alaska Miles (That You Might Be Missing)
Have Alaska miles—or thinking of transferring your Amex points before the June 30 deadline? In this episode, I’m breaking down some of the most valuable ways to redeem Alaska Airlines miles right now. From low-cost domestic redemptions to hard-to-find international business class flights, this guide walks you through the sweet spots that make Alaska’s program one of the most valuable in points travel. You’ll also learn what not to do with your Alaska miles (even if it looks like a good deal), plus a few rare redemptions that are great in theory—but nearly impossible to actually book. Whether you already have Alaska miles or you're considering a speculative transfer, this episode will help you use those points with confidence and strategy. Want more help using your Alaska miles wisely? Join me for a live workshop on June 21st at 10am CDT where I’ll walk you through the best Alaska Airlines sweet spots and the tools I use to find them fast—so you can stop second-guessing and start booking. Click here to reserve your spot - Want to shape the show? Take the Point Me To First Class listener survey and share what you love and want more of! Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course waitlist here:
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