Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Point Me To First Class

One of the most useful hotel programs in my wallet right now is also the most boring, and that turns out to be exactly why it works.

That program is Accor, and it tends to get overlooked in the points world, often by the very people who would get the most out of it. My guest, Dr. Suzanne Manzi, is the one who got me paying attention to it, and she knows the program inside and out.

We talk through what makes Accor so different from the hotel programs most of us default to, why its quietest qualities turn out to be its most useful ones, and the kinds of trips where it has come through for me when my usual strategy couldn't. If you travel internationally, travel with a family, or just want a dependable backup for the moments your favorite program comes up empty, I think you'll finish this one seeing Accor very differently.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/accor-points-explained 

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy 

You can have a small fortune in points between two people and still not be able to book the trip you want.

That's the trap this episode is built to help you avoid. Combining or sharing points with a partner, a spouse, or a family member sounds like it should be simple, but every points currency plays by its own rules, and a couple of them won't let you share points with someone else at all. Knowing which is which, well before you've found the award you want to book, turns out to be one of the quietest but most important parts of planning travel with another person.

I walk through all six major transferable currencies: Amex, Chase, Citi, Capital One, Bilt, and Rove, and grade each one on how easily it lets you combine points with someone else. Not all of them pass. More useful than the grades, though, is what to do about them, the setup worth doing now so the points you've earned together are usable when the trip you want finally appears. If you earn points with a spouse, a partner, or anyone you travel with, this is the housekeeping that keeps you from finding out too late that half your points are stranded in the wrong account.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/combine-credit-card-points-with-partner 

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy 

Some of the most valuable miles in award travel belong to a program most people have written off.

For years, Alaska Airlines miles were easy to overlook, and unless you lived in Alaska or flew the airline often, you probably had little reason to think about them. My guest, Betsey Wilson of Become Travel Rich and Alaska Airlines University, has spent more than two decades in this program and knows it better than anyone I know. As she explains, the real value of these miles, now part of the revamped Atmos Rewards program, shows up somewhere most people never look.

Betsey and I get into why this program has been so easy to dismiss, why that's been a mistake, and what makes it, in her words, one of the most generous loyalty programs out there. She shares where she's still finding standout value, which redemptions have gotten harder, and how to think about the Atmos credit cards and elite status without getting lost in the fine print. If you've ever looked at Alaska miles and decided this program wasn't for you, this conversation might change your mind.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/atmos-rewards-alaska-miles 

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

Planning an entire trip around one airline seat is a backwards way to travel, and every so often it's exactly the right one.

My friend Andrea and I have wanted to fly first-class Singapore Airlines Suites on the A380 for years. When we two award seats on their newest first class on a long-haul flight, we built a five-day trip around the world around them, five flights, and almost no regard for where any of it landed on a map. What follows is the whole story, the planning, the flying, and the frankly ridiculous decision-making it took to pull it off.

We get into how a trip like this comes together, why it turns the usual way of planning award travel on its head, and whether spending this many points on a few days of flying was worth it. You'll also hear our candid take on every cabin we flew, where we agreed, where we didn't, and which experiences lived up to the hype. 

Whether Singapore Suites is already on your wish list or you just want a fresh way to think about award travel, my hope is you come away seeing that a dream flight doesn't have to wait for the stars to align over your home airport. Listen in as you learn that sometimes the smartest move is to grab the seat when it appears and let the rest of the trip take shape around it.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/singapore-suites-around-the-world 

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

Collecting a big pile of points is not the same as being able to book the flights your family wants.

That gap shows up nowhere more clearly than when you're trying to get your whole family into business class to Asia. This week my guest is Maria Fung, founder of Maria Points the Way, who helps families use points and miles to reach Asia and Asia-Pacific. 

When Maria moved from Hong Kong to the US, she did everything the points world tells you to do, and soon found it wasn't getting her family home in the cabins she wanted. That led her to build a completely different approach, one that reverses the usual order, starting with the exact trip you want and working back to the points that get you there.

Maria and I get into why this goal trips up so many families, and why the usual points playbook quietly works against you here. She walks through the destination-first approach she built, a framework she calls the ASIA Method, and the shifts that make several premium seats far more attainable than they look. Whether Asia is an occasional trip to see relatives or a business class dream that has felt out of reach, you'll come away thinking about the whole thing differently.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/family-award-travel-to-asia 

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

Some of the biggest points opportunities have nothing to do with your credit card at all. 

It turns out hotels quietly reward the person who books an event with them, a conference, a retreat, a wedding, a family reunion, and most people have no idea. They're called planner points. 

To unpack them, I sat down with Rachel Posada Fletcher, who spent years as an event manager negotiating exactly these kinds of hotel contracts. And the best part is you don't have to plan events for a living to earn and benefit from planner points.

Tapping into this points earning potential comes down to simply knowing the opportunity is there and being willing to ask for it. Rachel gets into how these rewards work, the ways a single event can pay off on more than one front, and what she wishes more people understood before signing a hotel contract. If you run a business, help pull together events at work, or have a big celebration on the horizon, I think you'll finish this one seeing your next gathering as more than just an expense.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/hotel-planner-points 

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

Six months ago, Bilt rebuilt its entire rewards program, including releasing the new premium Palladium card with its promise of earning transferable points on rent and even mortgage payments, drawing a lot of attention in the points world. Today we are following up on what it's actually been like to carry and use the Bilt Palladium card now that the shine has worn off and real life has set in.

Kelly and I have almost identical points philosophies, which is exactly why it's so much fun that Bilt is where we split. She loves this card without reservation. I have a full love-hate relationship with mine, and over the course of the conversation we get into why, where the card has delivered, where it quietly drives me up a wall, and how two people who want the same things from points can land in such different places on the same card. 

Whether you already carry a Bilt card, you're weighing whether the Palladium belongs in your wallet, or you just enjoy hearing two friends disagree in good faith. I think you'll come away with a much clearer sense of who this card is for, and whether that's you.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/bilt-palladium-card-review  

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

Have you ever wondered what your award search tool can see that you can't?

My guest this week is Keith Van, who leads community at seats.aero, one of the award search platforms I reach for most. What made this so fun for me is that his team sees something the rest of us never do. They can watch how travelers everywhere are searching for award space all at once, which means they notice patterns in demand and in availability that none of us could piece together alone, and a few of the ones Keith shared upended assumptions I didn't know I was holding.

We also get into the part of these tools that trips people up the most, the gap between what a search shows you and what you can book right now, and how to protect yourself before you move your points. And Keith pulls back the curtain on how a platform like this works, from why it can see some airlines and not others to the features longtime users walk right past. Whether you've never opened an award search tool or you consider yourself a power user, I think you'll finish this one seeing these platforms, and the data underneath them, differently.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/seats-aero-award-search-data 

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

Have you ever run an award search, come up empty, and quietly wondered whether the flights you want are even out there?

That frustration usually comes down to one thing, and it isn't that the flights don't exist. It's that most of us were never taught how to search for them well. In this episode I break down two ways to search for award flights outside your credit card travel portal, where transferring points to airline partners can turn a one to one-and-a-half cent point into two, five, even ten cents of value, and why knowing how to search is the skill that unlocks all of it.

I get into both, the method most people lean on without realizing what it quietly misses, and the older, more hands-on approach that still turns up availability those tools can't see. Each one has real strengths and a few blind spots, and learning when to reach for which is what separates the searches that come up empty from the ones that end with a trip booked.

Whether you've leaned entirely on search tools and keep coming up short, or you're a confident manual searcher who has written those tools off, my hope is you walk away seeing why the best award searches use both, and where the flights you've been missing have been hiding all along.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/how-to-search-for-award-flights  

Enrollment for Points Made Easy is open! Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the course here: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

Have you ever wondered whether there's still travel value hiding inside the expenses you already have, points you could be earning but aren't, with no real way to know for sure?

That's one of the few questions in this hobby I've never been able to answer for you, and it's probably one you've quietly wondered about yourself. We have a rough way to gauge how well we redeem points, our cents per point at least gives us a benchmark, but there has never been a clean way to know whether the expenses you already have are earning a fraction of the points they could.

So in this episode I get into why earning potential is so hard to pin down, why two people who spend the same amount can have completely different potential, and the difference between an optimized card portfolio and a maximized one. 

Listen as I introduce the first version of a tool I built to take a crack at it, the Hidden Travel Budget Calculator. You give it your annual spend across a handful of categories, and it shows you how many points your expenses could earn, what those points could be worth in travel, and how much of that potential you're capturing right now. 

Whether you're newer to points and wondering if it's even worth it for the expenses you have, or you've been at this a while and just want to know how much room you have left, my hope is you come away seeing the opportunity that might still be sitting inside the spending you already do.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/points-earning-potential 

Want to see how much spending could be hiding in your own expenses? Try the Hidden Travel Budget Calculator here: https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/discover-your-hidden-travel-budget 

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

Have you ever had a points question where every source online seems to contradict the last, and what you really want is for someone to walk you through how to actually decide?

In this listener Q&A episode, I'm answering the questions you have sent in on everything from choosing your next credit card and where to credit your cash-paid flights to which Hyatt award is worth using, when. But the biggest topic I dig into is the Chase change to how its points transfer to Hyatt, and what that should, and shouldn't, change about the cards you already hold.

Listen in as I compare the Bilt Palladium and the Capital One Venture X, work through whether it's worth moving Chase points to Hyatt before the transfer ratio drops in October. And I talk about a brand-new Philippine Airlines award option, now bookable through Qatar, that opens up direct routes to Manila that used to be almost impossible on points. 

Whether you're deciding on your next card or sitting on a pile of points you're not sure what to do with, this episode gives you both the specific answers and a clearer way to think through your own decisions.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/credit-card-points-qa 

Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Points Made Easy is opening for enrollment soon, from August 15 - August 23, 2026. Join the Points Made Easy course waitlist now to have first dibs on enrollment: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

If you've ever looked at the cash sitting in an emergency fund, a business account, or your tax reserves and wished it could earn travel points the way your spending does, this conversation is for you.

For as long as I've been earning points and miles, one piece has been missing. We've gotten very good at earning points on the money we spend, but almost no one has offered a way to earn transferable points on the money we save. That's what made Symphony worth a close look, and I sat down with co-founder James Berry to understand how it works. 

Upfront: this isn't a recommendation and it isn't sponsored. I opened an account myself to see it firsthand, I do have an affiliate relationship with Symphony, and my goal is the same as always, to give you enough to decide for yourself.

We get into how the platform actually works, the fixed rate you earn and whether you take it as cash, as points, or a split of both. We also spend real time on the questions worth asking before putting money anywhere new, why it isn't FDIC insured, how the risks weigh against the rewards, and who it fits versus who should stay away. And we close on the bigger question underneath it all, whether saving could become a new way to earn points alongside spending.

Whether you decide it's for you or you'd rather watch from the sidelines for now, the approach is the same, understand it first, then make the call that fits your own goals and risk tolerance.

Earn up to 5,000 bonus points for opening and funding a new Symphony account: join.symphony.io/devon 

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/earn-points-on-savings-symphony 

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

Some links in these show notes are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

If you've been paying attention to points and miles this year and something has felt off, like the ground keeps shifting under the rules you thought you understood, you are not imagining it.

I'm joined again by my good friend and points expert, Kevin Zanes, to make sense of it all. We are hitting pause at the halfway mark of the year to ask what the biggest stories in points, miles, and award travel have really been so far, and more importantly, what those changes tell us about where this whole hobby is headed. This year hasn't just brought the usual devaluations we all expect. It has brought step changes big enough to make both of us reconsider strategies we've relied on for years.

Kevin and I each picked our top three stories and compared notes. We get into the Hyatt award chart overhaul and whether chasing Globalist status still makes sense, the new Qatar restrictions on booking award flights for family and friends, the three new Bilt cards and how they reshuffled where our everyday spend goes, and the way United is now tying its best award space and discounts to holding a co-branded card. I also walk through the Chase change I'm most worried about, a differential transfer ratio to Hyatt that depends on which card you hold, and why I think it could open a floodgate. Listen in as we spend just as much time looking forward as back, on super currencies, newer players like Symphony and Rove, and the rise of the co-branded airline card as a value multiplier.

Whether you've been collecting points for a decade or you just opened your first card, this one is less about the headlines and more about reading the trends underneath them, so you can decide where your own time and attention are actually worth spending for the rest of the year.

Earn up to 5,000 bonus points for opening and funding a new Symphony account here.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/2026-points-miles-mid-year-review 

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

*Some links in these show notes are affiliate links, meaning we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

If you've been eyeing one of Hyatt's newer Mexico resorts and wondering whether it's actually worth your points, you're not alone.

I'm joined this week by Michele from Fancy Travel Pointers, and the two of us have both separately stayed at Park Hyatt Los Cabos at Cabo del Sol and Alila Mayakoba within the last six months. Instead of each doing a solo review, we decided to sit down and compare notes, since we booked, stayed, and experienced both properties independently and didn't come away agreeing on everything.

We walk through exactly how we each booked these stays in points, what room categories and upgrades we landed, and how the two resorts stack up on rooms, pools, dining, and service. I talk about the exceptional pool service and an unexpected ear-piercing emergency at Park Hyatt Cabo, and Michele shares why the lagoon side sold her on Alila Mayakoba over the beach. We also get into the dining misses at both properties, whether either one has a kids' club, and how Hyatt's newly changed award chart is reshaping whether a category 8 redemption like Park Hyatt Cabo still makes sense going forward. Michele also weighs in on how both properties compare to the neighboring Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, long considered the pinnacle points redemption in the area.

Whether you've got one of these resorts on your wish list or you're just trying to figure out where your Hyatt points go furthest right now, this conversation should help you decide.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/park-hyatt-cabo-vs-alila-mayakoba 

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

Have you ever transferred miles into a program and then realized you only ever use it to book the same handful of flights everyone else does?

Air Canada Aeroplan might be the most useful airline program that US travelers consistently overlook, and after this conversation I think you'll see why so many experienced points and miles enthusiasts treat it as a core part of their strategy. Today I'm talking with Anshul Singh of Points, Miles, and Bling, who has spent years inside the Aeroplan ecosystem and has used it to book everything from business class to Europe to trips most people never imagine points can unlock.

Anshul and I get into why Aeroplan hits a rare balance between being easy to use and deep enough to reward the people who dig in, and why its network of close to 50 airline partners is where the real opportunity lives. Listen as we talk about the overlooked partner bookings most travelers walk right past, like Brussels Airlines business class out of Washington Dulles and Emirates and Air Mauritius routes you would never expect through a Star Alliance program, how Aeroplan's stopover rules let you build a single ticket that visits more than one place, and the Hotel Savers chart that points airline miles at high-end hotels like Six Senses and Fairmont. 

We also cover the smart way to think about buying Aeroplan points around a promotion, and my favorite part of the whole conversation, how the same program that flies you to Europe can take you to see polar bears in Churchill, the northern lights over the Canadian Arctic, and whale pods up and down both coasts. Whether you're brand new to Aeroplan or you've transferred miles into it before and never looked past the obvious flights, this episode will change how you see the whole program.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/air-canada-aeroplan-strategy 

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

If you've ever looked at United Polaris business class prices and thought they were completely out of reach, you're not alone. They can be outrageously expensive to book whether you're eyeing paying cash or points.

But what if there was a third path - something between paying full cash for a premium ticket and redeeming a massive amount of miles outright? Miguel Rueda, from the Let's Get to the Points podcast, shares about a strategy within the United loyalty program that most travelers either don't know about or completely overlook. It's called a Mileage Plus Upgrade Award, and understanding how it works fundamentally changes what's possible when you're flexible with dates and routes.

Miguel and I discuss what these awards actually are, how they differ from traditional award bookings, what PZ space means and why it matters for this strategy, and how to search for and confirm these upgrades. We walk through the specific mechanics of how this works, the tools you'll need, how to enable expert mode on United's platform, and the step-by-step booking process. We also explore when this strategy offers exceptional value and which routes and regions consistently show the strongest availability for premium cabin seats.

Whether you have United miles, transferable points you can move into United, or just a willingness to mix a little cash with your miles, this episode reveals how multiple Polaris seats can be available on a single flight—a game-changer for families and groups that have struggled to find premium cabin availability elsewhere.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/united-mileageplus-upgrade-awards 

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

Have you considered London as your next award travel destination but weren't sure where to start?

London is one of the most accessible and rewarding destinations for both beginner and experienced award travelers, but it comes with unique challenges that most people don't anticipate. The city's accessibility makes it ideal for your first international points trip, yet the mechanics of award pricing, taxes and fees, and hotel value require strategy to maximize your redemptions.

Today I'm talking with Hunter Threadgill, known in the points and miles community as The Professor of Points. Hunter holds a PhD in psychology and applies a scientific approach to points optimization. We dive deep into why London deserves a place on your award travel radar, the surprising barriers that catch most travelers off guard, and the specific strategies that separate good bookings from great ones. We cover everything from navigating the UK's APD taxes to discovering lesser-known award programs that offer exceptional value, hotel redemption decisions for city stays, and even the psychology behind how we earn and use our points.

Whether you're planning your first international points trip or you're a seasoned traveler looking to master London specifically, this conversation changes how you think about award travel strategy.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/award-travel-london-strategy-guide  

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

Most travelers think booking a flight is the finish line. They hit purchase and consider the deal done.

Sam Hollander knew something they didn't: the booking is actually just the beginning. When domestic airlines permanently removed change fees during the pandemic, they accidentally created an enormous opportunity for travelers to save money after they've already booked their flights and hotels. Sam founded Autopilot, a platform to help solve the problem most travelers face: they don't have the time or energy to manually monitor prices and rebook when fares drop, even though they legally can.

Sam and I dive into how airline repricing actually works, which flights are most likely to drop in price (spoiler: premium cabins and international routes), the pricing data he's uncovered after tracking millions of travel reservations, and how the timing of your booking impacts your repricing potential. We also explore the psychology of booking early versus waiting for a better deal, the practical features Autopilot offers for different types of travelers, and why the post-booking experience is where the real travel optimization opportunity lives.

When you sign up for Autopilot and upgrade to Pro, use code 'PMTFC' to get 3 months free. Click here to sign up and get started today: https://www.withautopilot.com/?partner=PMTFC

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/autopilot-flight-price-tracking 

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

Have you ever wondered why Capital One's approval decisions feel completely random - approval for some, denial for others, with almost no rhyme or reason?

Capital One has a well-earned reputation for being unpredictable with credit card approvals. When Katie from Katie's Travel Tricks saw the launch of the new Capital One Business Venture card, she decided to move beyond anecdotes and collect real data. She surveyed her audience about their approval and denial experiences, gathered nearly 150 responses, and analyzed the patterns using data to answer the questions everyone has been asking: what actually matters to Capital One?

Katie and I break down what her data revealed about the three strongest approval predictors, why the conventional wisdom about waiting six months between Capital One applications might not be accurate, which metrics matter (credit score, hard inquiries, pre-approval status) and which ones surprisingly don't, and how business structure (sole proprietor versus LLC) impacts your approval chances. We also discuss what role the Capital One Business Venture Card plays in your overall rewards strategy and how to think about it within the larger Capital One ecosystem.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/capital-one-approvals-data    

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

Have you heard about the quiet Chase promotion that could be one of the biggest points-earning opportunities we've seen in years?

In May 2026, Chase launched a promotion through the digital payment platform Paze that allows cardholders to earn 10 times Chase Ultimate Rewards points on eligible transactions—and up to 14 times on certain cards through the end of 2026. Dr. Michelle Walther and I discuss why we were initially skeptical of this opportunity and why we've become convinced it could be genuinely significant for points enthusiasts.

Michelle and I break down how the Paze platform works, which Chase personal cards are eligible, what merchants currently accept Paze, and the surprising opportunities we've already discovered to maximize this promotion. We share the real purchases we've tested, the points we've already earned, the glitches we've encountered, and the stacking strategies that could generate enormous numbers of Chase points over the next seven months. We also discuss everything from Disney gift cards to DoorDash to gift card retailers like Newegg that make this promotion far more valuable than the merchant list initially suggests.

Download your Paze Troubleshooting guide: https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/170-paze-guide

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/chase-paze-promotion

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

Have you ever fallen so in love with a city that you started seriously considering moving there?

That's exactly what happened to us in Kyoto. In part two of our Japan spring break trip recap, my husband Brandon and I continue our family travel story as we settle into five nights at the Park Hyatt Kyoto, a property so beautiful that I can confidently say it's the most stunning hotel I've experienced anywhere in the world. Brandon and I share our honest take on each Kyoto activity we did as a family, from the interactive art experience at Team Labs that became our trip highlight to the Nintendo Museum visit that had Brandon rethinking our packing strategy, to discovering that the famous bamboo forest came with far more crowds than we expected.

We also talk about the incredible food we ate that genuinely made us fantasize about relocating permanently, the travel decision I made for our journey home that turned into a stressful mistake, and the full accounting of what this entire nine-day trip actually cost. Listen as I break down every flight and hotel so you can see the real investment required to make this happen for a family of four.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/japan-family-trip-recap-part-2 

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

Have you ever been tempted to completely change your vacation plans because of an irresistible points deal?

That's exactly what happened when Japan Airlines did a random first class award dump last April. I couldn't resist jumping on the opportunity to book our family of four in first class to Tokyo - even though it meant splitting us across two different flights and completely scrapping our original Mexico plans.

For the first time in this podcast's history, my husband Brandon joins me at the mic to recap our spring break trip to Japan with our two kids. In part one of this two-part series, Brandon and I walk through how this accidental trip came together, what it was like flying Japan Airlines first class as a family, our stay at the newly renovated Park Hyatt Tokyo, and the reality of traveling with kids in Japan - from the Pokémon Cafe to nearly missing the bullet train to Kyoto.

This is an honest, unfiltered look at what goes right and what goes wrong even with advanced planning, as we cover the flight drama, the Tokyo highlights, and everything that happened before we made it to Kyoto.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/japan-family-trip-recap-part-1 

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

Have you ever felt like you're so caught up in your daily roles and responsibilities that you've lost touch with who you are beneath all of that?

Dr. Stacey Funt, a radiologist, health coach, and founder of LH Adventure Travel, believes that travel has the power to help us reconnect: not just with the world around us, but with ourselves. She curates wellness and adventure group trips for women to some of the most transformative destinations on earth, from trekking the Inca Trail to exploring the Atlas Mountains to hiking in the Himalayas. But the real transformation doesn't come from the destinations themselves. It comes from what happens when women finally give themselves permission to step away from everything they're responsible for and into an experience that's entirely their own.

Dr. Stacey Funt and I discuss why that permission is often the hardest part, what changes when you remove the mental load of planning and managing everything, and why traveling with a group of like-minded women creates such a unique space for vulnerability and connection. She also opens up about how a solo trek in Nepal during one of the darkest periods of her life became the catalyst for building a business around creating these kinds of experiences for others.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/wellness-adventure-travel-stacey-funt 

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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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

If you're a business owner who pays payroll for yourself or your employees, you might be sitting on one of the biggest untapped points-earning opportunities in your business—and it doesn't require opening new cards or chasing welcome bonuses.

DeAndre Coke, a financial advisor and points expert, returns to the show to give us a much-needed update on earning credit card points for payroll expenses using the Zil Money platform. We first talked about this strategy back in Episode 105 last year, but right after that conversation aired, the entire system experienced major disruptions. DeAndre and I discuss what happened over the past year, what's different and working reliably now, and how business owners can approach this strategy moving forward.

DeAndre and I walk through the step-by-step process for how this works, which credit cards are currently the best options for maximizing points, and the real math behind the ROI—including the processing fees, platform costs, and how to actually evaluate whether this makes sense for your business. We also cover critical best practices to avoid disrupting your payroll and who this strategy is and isn't right for.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/earning-points-on-payroll-update 

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If you've ever wished you could talk about points and miles with people who are just as enthusiastic about it as you are—without worrying about annoying anyone—this episode is for you.

Dr. Andrea Mabry and I are officially announcing the 2027 Point Me to First Class Conference, taking place in Austin, Texas from April 29th through May 2nd at the Hyatt Regency Austin. After the incredible response to our first conference in Chicago, we knew we wanted to do this again—and this time, we're giving you a full year to plan ahead.

Listen in as Andrea and I discuss why we're hosting another live in-person event, what makes this format so valuable compared to learning online, and all the details you need to know about the conference. We share details from the speaker lineup and our session format to room rates, CME accreditation for medical providers, and how to register. Whether you've been to points conferences before or you're considering attending your first one, this episode walks through what to expect and who this conference is designed for.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/2027-conference-announcement-austin 

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If you've been holding the same credit cards for years, you might be missing out on one of the most underutilized strategies for building a stronger, more cost-effective rewards card portfolio.

Product changes don't get the same attention as opening new cards for big welcome bonuses or booking aspirational travel. But they offer surprising benefits that can help you lower annual fees, acquire cards that are no longer open to new applicants, and even stack spend thresholds in ways that compound your rewards. In this episode, I'm breaking down exactly what credit card product changes are, how they work, and the five main ways you can use them strategically to your advantage.

Listen in as I walk through the mechanics of upgrade and downgrade product changes, the key benefits and limitations to understand, and tactical examples of how to use product changes to hold multiple copies of high-value cards, access cards that are closed to new applications, and maximize bonus category earning without opening new accounts.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/credit-card-product-changes-strategy 

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Have you ever wondered if the advice you're following about credit cards and points is still relevant—or if the landscape has shifted enough that the old "rules" no longer apply?

In this listener Q&A episode, I'm answering your questions on everything from Rakuten rewards strategy and Chase credit card approvals to hotel booking during peak travel times and whether hotel status is worth the spend. But the biggest topic I tackle is one I've been thinking about a lot lately: how my fundamental advice about earning and using points has evolved over the past decade.

Listen in as I walk through why I no longer recommend Chase as the automatic starting point for everyone, why co-branded credit cards are becoming more strategically important than they used to be, and why the barrier to entry in this hobby may be lower than ever—but the bar for getting real value is actually higher. Whether you're just starting out or you've been in this space for years, this episode offers both tactical answers and a bigger-picture look at how to think about points strategy in the current landscape.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/listener-qa-points-strategy-evolution 

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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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

If you've been transferring points to the same airline programs over and over, you might be missing out on one of the most fascinating but overlooked loyalty programs in the points world - Japan Airlines Mileage Bank.

Now that Japan Airlines is a direct transfer partner of Bilt, Capital One, and Rove, accessing this program is easier than ever. But given how new this is to many of us, you may not yet be familiar with its incredibly powerful sweet spots—both for flying on Japan Airlines operated flights and for booking flights on partner airlines. 

In this episode, I'm joined by Michael Gandara from Nurse Michael Travels to break down how the Japan Airlines program works, highlight some of the best sweet spots for redeeming Japan Airlines miles, and talk about how to actually find and book those awards on the Japan Airlines website.

Michael and I discuss what makes this program different and powerful compared to other airline loyalty programs, walk through the practical realities of searching for award space, and cover the quirks you need to know before transferring miles. Whether you've been curious about Japan Airlines miles or you're ready to start using them strategically, this episode breaks down everything you need to know to start leveraging this program effectively.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/japan-airlines-miles-sweet-spots-strategy 

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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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

Have you ever seen a points deal that looked too good to be true? 250 Avios per dollar spent. 240 American Airlines miles per dollar. Those kinds of multipliers make you do a double-take and for good reason. Deals like these are as enticing as they are uncertain. 

In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Sujatha Murali to talk about what I call points earning unicorns—rare, outsized opportunities where the upside can be enormous, but the outcome is far from guaranteed. We break down how to think through the risk versus reward when these deals appear, the psychological traps that make them so hard to resist, and the framework we use to decide whether to jump in or sit one out.

Sujatha and I walk through real examples, including my decision to take advantage of the Simply Miles deal that netted me over 1.1 million American Airlines miles, and our decisions around the recent Kate Spade 250x Avios opportunity. We discuss how to evaluate whether you can actually use the points you're considering buying, the importance of reading terms and conditions even when you're excited, and how to build your own decision-making process. If you've ever wondered whether one of these deals is the opportunity of a lifetime or just a really expensive mistake, this episode gives you a framework for thinking it through.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/points-earning-unicorns-risk-reward 

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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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

If you've been focused on earning hotel points, you might be overlooking one of the most powerful strategies for saving money on luxury hotel stays—and it doesn't require hundreds of thousands of points.

In this episode, I'm joined by Jess Field of Points Talk Squad to break down exactly how Hilton free night certificates work and how you can strategically earn and use them for maximum value. Hilton free night certificates stand out because they have no cap on how many points a room can cost—as long as there's standard award availability, you can use a certificate even if the room would otherwise cost 200,000 or 250,000 Hilton points per night.

Jess and I talk about the best ways to earn these certificates, how to combine them with Hilton points for longer stays, which properties deliver the most spectacular value, and the current limited-time promotional offers that make this an especially compelling time to get into Hilton. Whether you're completely new to Hilton or you already have certificates sitting in your account, this episode gives you a clear framework for making the most of one of the most valuable perks in the points world.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/hilton-free-night-certificates-strategy 

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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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

Over the past decade, Hyatt has had one of the most beloved hotel loyalty programs in the points world—and a big reason for that has been its simple, predictable award chart that made it possible to get incredible value from Hyatt points.

That's (potentially) about to change as Hyatt recently announced a major overhaul to its award chart structure that will introduce dozens of new pricing levels and dramatically shift how award nights are priced at properties around the world. In this episode, I'm joined by Kelly, the Points and Miles Doc, to dig into what Hyatt announced, what these changes mean in practice for people who use Hyatt points, and whether this fundamentally shifts the value of Hyatt points going forward.

We talk about the mechanics of the new evolved award chart, the potential impact on different types of travelers, why Hyatt made this change now, how it compares to what could have happened, and what strategy adjustments—if any—points users should consider making in response to these changes.

If you've been following this announcement or you use Hyatt points for hotel stays, this episode walks through the details you need to understand what's shifting, what's staying the same, and how to position yourself for these changes.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/hyatt-award-chart-changes-2026 

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

If you're planning to pay taxes by credit card this year, now is the time to set up your strategy—not the week before tax day.

Every year, I see posts from people whose tax payment plans went sideways at the last minute. A declined charge, payments that didn't post, a payment that went to the wrong card—these problems are stressful on their own, but they're especially problematic when you're troubleshooting them on tax day. Listen in as I walk through the five key considerations for turning tax payments into points stress-free, plus the specific pitfalls that trip people up if they don't know to expect them.

I cover everything from creating your most powerful points-earning plan and timing your credit card applications correctly, to navigating the logistics of payment platforms and avoiding the PayPal mistakes that cost people thousands of points. I also share what you need to know about using Amex cards for tax payments, including why you should never use the virtual card number and how to access spend bonuses that make large tax bills even more lucrative for points earning.

Whether you're paying a few thousand or multiple six figures in taxes, this episode gives you the framework to maximize your points while avoiding the mistakes that derail so many people's tax payment strategies each year.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/tax-payments-points-strategy 

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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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

For the first time in over a decade, I'm actively chasing status in multiple loyalty programs—and it's a major shift from my usual points strategy.

Historically, status hasn't been a focus for me beyond Hyatt Globalist. But this year, I'm pursuing top-tier or near top-tier status in four programs: Hyatt Globalist, Bilt Platinum, Air France Flying Blue Platinum, and American Airlines Platinum Pro. Listen in as I walk through why these specific statuses suddenly jumped to the top of my priority list, what benefits justify the effort required to earn them, and my exact plan for qualifying for each one.

I also share the four key questions to ask yourself before chasing any status, because the reality is that you don't need status to have a successful award travel experience. From understanding opportunity costs to accessing status benefits through credit cards instead, this episode covers how to evaluate whether pursuing status actually makes sense for your travel style and goals.

Whether you're considering your own status strategy for the year or feeling confident about not chasing status at all, this episode will help you think strategically about how loyalty program status fits into your points plan.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/2026-loyalty-status-strategy 

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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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

Today we're picking up where we left off last week with Dr. Alison Curfman—and diving into what happens after the flights are booked.

Part 1 covered how Alison finds award flights and books hotels for her family of six to eight people when they travel. In Part 2, we're talking about execution—the systems and strategies that make those trips actually run smoothly. Listen in as Alison shares her approach to managing overnight flights with kids, minimizing food costs, and keeping complex multi-city itineraries organized across dozens of bookings.

What makes this conversation different is how much it goes beyond a typical points strategy. We discuss Alison's framework for daily family meetings that give kids a voice and reduce meltdowns, her intentional approach to fostering independence by putting kids in charge of navigation and planning, and the creative ways she uses AI to enhance learning experiences on the ground. We also explore the career and mindset shifts that made her location-independent lifestyle possible, and how she's designed flexibility into both her work and family travel.

Whether you're planning your first big family trip or looking to refine your system for regular international travel, this episode offers practical strategies you can apply immediately.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/award-travel-large-families-part-2/ 

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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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

If you've ever thought award travel isn't possible with a large family or group, this episode will change your mind.

In Part 1 of this conversation, I sit down with Dr. Alison Curfman, a pediatric emergency physician, entrepreneur, and relentless optimizer who regularly travels the world with her family—typically six to eight people depending on whether au pairs or grandparents join. After co-founding a healthcare company that scaled to a nine-figure valuation, Alison transitioned into advisory and consulting work that she could do from anywhere. Listen in as Alison walks through her exact strategy for finding business class flights for large groups, her hotel booking approach that keeps everyone comfortable without breaking the bank, and why positioning flights have become part of the adventure rather than a hassle.

We cover how she anchors her trip planning around long-haul flights, builds itineraries around award availability instead of fixed destinations, and uses spreadsheets and organization systems to keep track of multiple bookings across airlines and hotels. Allison also shares practical insights on traveling light with kids, leveraging Hyatt's loyalty program strategically, and combining fine hotels & resorts credits with points to maximize value on family trips.

Whether you're traveling with four people or eight, this episode offers a roadmap for making large family award travel not just possible, but truly enjoyable.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/award-travel-large-families-part-1 

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

Have you ever wondered what points lessons other travelers learned the hard way—so you don't have to?

Today's episode is a little different. I recently crowdsourced the biggest points lessons learned in 2025 from members of my community, and the responses were so good. Some were tactical, others were mindset-shifting, and more than a few had me laughing because they highlighted mistakes that are just so relatable in this hobby.

In this episode, I'm sharing the most insightful, surprising, and valuable takeaways from real travelers across the spectrum of experience—from those just starting their rewards journey to seasoned award travel veterans. I've organized these lessons around five main themes: be proactive and be prepared, stay curious and creative, don't let perfect be the enemy of done, automate and plan ahead to prevent year-end stress, and high-value specific tips you need to know. 

From transfer timing surprises and phantom award space to the power of flexibility and actually spending your points instead of hoarding them, these real-life lessons will help you earn more strategically, book better redemptions, and navigate award travel with less stress in 2026.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/2025-points-lessons-learned/ 

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

In a hobby full of rules, Avios prove to be an exception—and understanding how they work can unlock some of the best award flight opportunities available.

In this episode, I'm breaking down everything you need to know about Avios, the points currency used by British Airways, Qatar, Finnair, Iberia, Aer Lingus, and several other airlines. One crucial aspect of Avios that makes them unique among points currencies is their ability to move between partner accounts, which creates opportunities you won't find anywhere else.

Listen in as I walk through what makes Avios so versatile, how to earn them strategically, and how to use their transferability to access better award pricing. I also cover British Airways' Points Boost feature that lets you buy Avios at a fraction of the usual cost, and share practical tips on setting up accounts, avoiding surprise fees, and finding the best value for your award flights.

Whether you're brand new to Avios or looking to squeeze even more value from these programs, this episode will show you how to think strategically about one of the most powerful—and underutilized—points currencies in award travel.

Get full show notes and transcript: www.pointmetofirstclass.com/avios-guide-transfers-sweet-spots 

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

If you've ever wondered what's the difference between just saving money versus creating wealth that actually matters, this conversation is for you.

In this episode, I'm joined by Lauren Oschman, founder of Vestia Personal Wealth Advisors, who grew up watching her interventional cardiologist father work incredibly hard while struggling to balance wealth building with being present at home. That experience shaped her entire approach to financial planning, which she now brings to nearly 600 physician families across the country. We're talking about how to identify what actually matters to you financially, the myths that keep high-earning women from taking control of their finances, and why you don't need to have your act together before working with a financial advisor.

Lauren and I discuss what financial advisors actually do beyond managing investments, the difference between saving money and strategically building wealth, and the biggest missed opportunities she sees among high earners. We get into practical strategies around tax planning over your lifetime, contract negotiation, and estate planning. We also talk about green flags and red flags when choosing a financial advisor and why dual physician households need different approaches to tax strategy. Whether you're just starting to think about wealth building or refining your financial strategy, this conversation offers insights and advice you can actually use.

Get full show notes and transcript: www.pointmetofirstclass.com/financial-planning-wealth-building-lauren-oschman

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

Have you ever wondered if earning points on your mortgage or rent is actually worth the math? Or whether a card that earns two times points on everything can really compete with what you're already holding?

Bilt just released three brand new credit cards, and they're more complex than any card launch I've seen in a while. This isn't just about welcome bonuses and bonus categories— there's an entirely new internal currency called Bilt Cash, along with processing fees to calculate, and real formulas you need to run to figure out if any of these cards make sense for your situation.

In this episode, I'm joined by Kelly, the Points and Miles Doc, to break down all three new Bilt cards: the no annual fee Bilt Blue, the $95 Bilt Obsidian, and the $495 Bilt Palladium. We analyze the welcome bonuses, points earning structures, and how each card compares to its closest competitors. We walk through the Bilt Cash system, explain exactly how much you'd need to spend to earn points on housing payments without paying fees, and discuss who these cards actually benefit. We also share why we both applied for the Bilt Palladium within hours of its release and what makes Bilt's transfer partners worth paying attention to.

Get full show notes and transcript: http://pointmetofirstclass.com/bilt-credit-cards-2026-analysis

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

Today we're picking up where we left off last week in our 2025 points recap. In this second part of our year-in-review series, Dr. Andrea Mabry and I continue to break down the travel we actually booked with all those points we earned in 2025. 

We're sharing the total value of travel we booked, our average redemption values, and the specific trips we planned—from family vacations to aspirational first class products. We also reveal what we've already booked for 2026, including trips worth over $300,000 combined.

Andrea and I each share how many points we used to book travel in 2025, what that travel was worth, and what we paid out of pocket in taxes and fees. We talk about booking business class for large groups from non-hub airports, navigating award space challenges and disappointments, and the airline products that delivered exceptional value versus the ones that fell flat. 

Listen in as we discuss the strategic decisions behind our redemptions and the lessons we're applying to future travel. Whether you're planning your first award trip or refining your approach to premium cabin bookings, this episode offers real numbers, honest takeaways, and strategies you can apply to your own travel.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/2025-points-redemptions-year-in-review-part-2/

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

Do you ever wonder what cards other people have, how they use them, and exactly how many points they're earning each year? I'll be honest—I'm nosy when it comes to other people's points, and I love getting a peek inside someone else's points earning strategies.

In this first part of a two-part year-in-review series, I've invited Dr. Andrea Mabry back to the show to break down everything that shaped our points earning in 2025. This has become one of my favorite Point Me to First Class traditions, and this year marks the third installment of this annual series. We're pulling back the curtain on the credit cards we opened, the unexpected opportunities we seized, and the total number of points we earned across all our points ecosystems, from Chase and Amex to Capital One, Citi, and beyond.

Andrea and I each share our total points earned for the year, then break those numbers down by transferable versus airline-specific currencies, welcome bonuses versus organic spend, and the earning methods that delivered the most value. We talk about why this was an unusually busy year for new card acquisitions, what happened when an entire points program collapsed overnight, and what's on our radar for 2026. 

Whether you're mapping out your own points strategy or just curious how two points enthusiasts approach earning at scale, this conversation offers real numbers, honest reflections, and the lessons we're taking into the new year.

Get full show notes and transcript: www.pointmetofirstclass.com/2025-points-year-in-review-part-1 

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/​​year-in-points-review-2025

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/2025-points-miles-year-in-review-part-2/ 

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/2025-points-and-miles-year-in-review-part-1/ 

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/world-of-hyatt-behind-the-scenes/ 

Want to shape the show? Take the Point Me To First Class listener survey and share what you love and want more of! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeAPfb3wIaphMn_NoQzm_fljydsivTELQwh7pYoxrI2uTFoKQ/viewform?usp=header 

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

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.

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Special bonus for PMTFC podcast listeners! New to Rove? Sign up now and receive 1,500 Rove miles automatically at www.rovemiles.com/pmtfc

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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.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/rove-loyalty-platform/ 

Want to shape the show? Take the Point Me To First Class listener survey and share what you love and want more of! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeAPfb3wIaphMn_NoQzm_fljydsivTELQwh7pYoxrI2uTFoKQ/viewform?usp=header

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

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 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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

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 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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

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 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

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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/plan-award-flights-faster-with-points-path/

Want to shape the show? Take the Point Me To First Class listener survey here 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: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy