Claim OwnershipPoint Me To First Class
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© 2024 Devon Gimbel MD LLC All Rights Reserved
Description
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.
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.
89 Episodes
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In this episode, I dive deep into the implications of the Alaska-Hawaiian merger and explore how you can now effectively transfer your Amex points to Alaska Airlines via Hawaiian Airlines. This is a game-changer for anyone looking to book high-value award flights on Alaska and its partner airlines. Discover the three partner award flights that I'm most excited about booking with my newly acquired Alaska miles, as well as some honorable mentions that you won't want to miss. I reveal exactly how many Amex points I transferred to Alaska via Hawaiian Airlines and discuss why doing the same might be a terrible idea for you. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/blog/amex-to-alaska-3-business-class-award-redemptions 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 one tropical dream destination that makes its way onto many points enthusiasts’ wish lists: Bora Bora. I have a fantastic guest on today’s show who just returned from an incredible anniversary trip to this iconic paradise, flying business class on points, and she's here to spill all the details. Dr. Chandani DeZure is a returning guest to the podcast. She’s a Board-Certified Pediatrician and a mother of two living in California, and she’s been on some truly amazing trips since she started maximizing points for travel way back in 2014. Tune in this week as Chandani and I dive into everything from overwater bungalows and stunning sunsets to the best ways to book, budget and plan your own getaway to Bora Bora. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/blog/planning-bora-bora-getaway-dr-chandani-dezure 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, I'm joined by Kristin Addis, creator of Be My Travel Muse, one of the world’s most-read travel blogs, and Parenthood Adventures. Kristin has visited 65 countries and collected 16 passport stamps for her toddler son. She shares her wealth of knowledge on solo female travel, which she has been doing since 2012, and more recently, her expertise in travelling the world with her young family by using credit card points. Learn Kristin’s tips on everything from the best airlines and accommodations for traveling with kids using points, to essential products and toys for smoother journeys. Luxury trips with an infant will look different to traveling with your young children, but what Kristin has to share will help you create beautiful experiences that you and your kids will benefit from forever. Get full show notes and more information here: https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/blog/globetrotting-young-kids-kristin-addis 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
Dr. Kipp Lassetter is a physician and tech entrepreneur with a distinguished background in emergency medicine and healthcare IT. Currently, Dr. Kipp is focused on revolutionizing the real estate industry as the founder of RBN, a startup dedicated to rewarding consumers with valuable points when they buy or sell a home with a top local realtor. Tune in this week as RBN co-founder and CEO Dr. Kipp Lassetter joins me to explain how to earn points on the purchase or sale of your home. He explains how this program works, the unique ways you can use RBN points, and how you can squeeze extra value out of them. If you have a home purchase or sale on the horizon, you won't want to miss this. Get full show notes and more information here: https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/blog/points-real-estate-transactions-dr-kipp-lassetter Get your digital ticket for the Points Made Easy conference here: https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/PMTFCconference 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
Melissa Parsons, MD, is a recently retired Board-Certified Pediatrician and now a life coach who helps amazing women learn to love their lives. Today, however, she’s here to talk about how she booked a phenomenal trip just two months in advance, getting amazing deals in the process. While not everything went perfectly to plan— from a record-breaking heatwave in Barcelona to an uncomfortable train ride— Dr. Melissa and John had the opportunity to enjoy world-renowned cuisine, stunning art, and iconic architecture. Dr. Melissa shares how she made it happen and offers unique travel tips for planning your own dream trip to Spain. Get full show notes and more information here: https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/blog/dream-empty-nest-trip-spain-using-points-dr-melissa-parsons Get your digital ticket for the Points Made Easy conference here: https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/PMTFCconference 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, I sit down with Ben Komenkul, who knows everything there is to know about leveraging points for hotel stays. Ben is a seasoned expert in the world of Points and Miles, with over a decade of experience mastering the art of travel rewards. As the founder of Ben’s Big Deal, he combines his deep understanding of financial services, gained over a 30-year career, with his passion for travel. Tune in this week to elevate your hotel awards game to the next level. Ben shares his insights on the key differences between using points for flights versus hotels, and reveals the true value of various hotel point currencies. He also provides practical tips on choosing the right hotel brand for your travel needs and style. Ben even shares his secret to getting great treatment from hotels, even without top-tier status. Get full show notes and more information here: https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/blog/hotel-award-travel-fundamentals-ben-komenkul Get your digital ticket for the Points Made Easy conference here: https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/PMTFCconference 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
Dr. Suzy Spadafora is back on the show this week. She’s a points and miles pro who has opened over 30 rewards credit cards since 2016, and her P2 has opened 25. She keeps detailed notes on the retention offers she scores each year when annual fees hit. By employing a few simple strategies, Dr. Suzy often convinces banks to incentivize her to keep her cards open with statement credits, bonus points, or waived annual fees. Tune in today to hear Dr. Suzy's insider secrets for maximizing credit card retention offers. She shares the exact script she uses when calling credit card providers, the most common mistakes to avoid, and how to decide if an offer is worth taking. With her tips, you'll be racking up extra points and perks on your lesser-used rewards cards in no time. Get full show notes and more information here: https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/blog/credit-card-retention-call-dr-suzy-spadafora Get the Travel Freely app here: https://my.travelfreely.com/share?bref=dcw
Kelly, the Points and Miles Doc, is a returning guest on the podcast, and she has a wealth of knowledge to share on the Capital One transferable points currency. I recently started focusing on Capital One in my own points strategy, so we have a ton to discuss. Tune in this week to learn everything you need to know about the world of Capital One. We give you an overview of all the Capital One rewards cards, who this points system benefits most, some of the shortcomings and limitations of this points currency, and we show you the best ways to put your Capital One credit cards and points to great use. Get full show notes and more information here: https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/blog/capital-one-points-and-miles-doc Sign up for the Points Made Easy conference taking place September 20 - 22, 2024 in Chicago here: https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/PMTFCconference
Doing a points check-in is the best possible way to recalibrate and course correct while there's still plenty of time left in the year. This means getting clear on every aspect of your points world, including your current points balances, credit card welcome bonuses, loyalty program status, and estimating your upcoming spend. Whether you're brand new to points and miles or a seasoned pro, tune in this week for a comprehensive strategy for evaluating your progress and making the most of your remaining spend for the year. Even if you don't have a points plan in place yet, the strategy I share today will help you get ready for taking a more intentional approach to reaching your points goals in the future! Get full show notes and more information here: https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/blog/mid-year-points-check-in-evaluate-recalibrate-your-strategy Join the waitlist for Points Made Easy here: https://www.pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy
Do you need a profitable business to apply for business credit cards? If your P2 has been repeatedly rejected for new card applications, how do you get them accepted? In this listener Q&A episode, we dive into a variety of topics related to optimizing your credit card strategy, whether you're just getting started in the points and miles game or looking to take your earnings to the next level. Learn about credit freezes, what they do and don't protect you from, and why it's a good idea to consider freezing your credit reports. Get full show notes and more information here: https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/blog/p2-approved-business-credit-cards-w-2-employees-q-a Join the waitlist for Points Made Easy here: https://www.pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy
1One of the most rewarding ways to get the most value from your points is booking sweet spot awards. These awards represent unique opportunities to book incredible flights at points prices that are a steal, but in order to take advantage of these sweet spots, you have to know what you're looking for. That's where award travel expert Allison Tackette comes in. She has been booking points and miles sweet spots for over 10 years and now helps others book their own dream trips. Hear all about the most enticing award sweet spots and the best ways to fly to Europe, Asia, South America, Africa and more using a fraction of the typical points required. Whether you're a points beginner or already have award travel experience, you'll leave this episode equipped with the knowledge and strategies to start finding your own sweet spot award flights. Get full show notes and more information here: https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/blog/unlocking-sweet-spot-awards-allison-tackette Join the waitlist for Points Made Easy here: https://www.pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy
Dr. Niki Topp is a board-certified OB/GYN who is now retired from clinical practice. After moving to South Africa 8 years ago, her career focus switched toward philanthropy and opening her own small business. She is also the founder and director of a non-profit called Ithemba Ngemfundo, which focuses on improving early education in the townships of South Africa. Through her travel business Wandering Leopard, Dr. Topp plans group trips to South Africa, specifically for female physicians, which is why I have her on the show. Discover Niki's tips for booking your dream safari vacation, learn about your different options, and decide what works best for you. Get full show notes and more information here: https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/blog/dream-safari-budget-locations-luxury-dr-niki-topp Join the waitlist for Points Made Easy here: https://www.pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy
Is it possible to book four or more business class award tickets on the same flight? You might think it's outright impossible to get a deal like this, but in my experience, you have more options than you think. When you know what you're looking for and you have a strategy for getting it, you increase your chances of finding what you want. That's exactly what we're covering in part two of this series. Discover the specific business class award flights that are considered zebras and unicorns. I dive into the specific challenges you'll face when trying to get your hands on a zebra or a unicorn, and you'll learn what your award-booking game plans need to include if you don’t want to come away from your awards search empty-handed. Get full show notes and more information here: https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/blog/horses-zebras-unicorns-business-class-award-flight-edition-part-2 Join the waitlist for Points Made Easy here: https://www.pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy
In the world of points travel, you're probably familiar with the concept of a unicorn award. These are flights so rare they might as well be magical, mythical creatures because your chances of seeing one are slim to non-existent. Award flights, especially long-haul business class award flights, are not all created equal in terms of how easy they are to find and book. Premium cabin award flights are like horses, zebras, and unicorns. Some are common, easy to find, and easy to book. Others are unicorns that are rarely seen and impossible to predict but beautiful and magical nonetheless. When people try to redeem their points for the first time, they have expectations that leave them feeling discouraged when they can't find the flights they want. Sometimes you want a unicorn, but you're better off trying to find a horse or even a zebra. So by the end of this two-part podcast series, you'll be able to identify which award flights are horses, which are zebras, which are unicorns, and which you can get your hands on. Get full show notes and more information here: https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/blog/horses-zebras-unicorns-business-class-award-flight-edition-part-1 Join the waitlist for Points Made Easy here: https://www.pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy
Getting value from points comes down to two simple things: earning points (ideally as many as possible for the money you're spending) and using points (ideally as few as possible for any given award), so you can take more trips, save more money, and have more travel options available. It's time to dive deep into a simple approach for part one of the points-travel cycle: earning points. Discover a framework for thinking about your expenses from a high-level perspective so you can quickly and easily identify the points-earning opportunities that you aren't yet leveraging. Beginners will find this episode particularly eye-opening, but there are also plenty of tips here for more experienced points travelers, so there's something for everyone. Get full show notes and more information here: https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/blog/mastering-expense-buckets-for-maximum-points Join the waitlist for Points Made Easy here: https://www.pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy
Whether it's sipping champagne in first class, watching the sunset in an overwater bungalow in the Maldives, or enjoying access to the best first-class airport lounges, there are some aspirational redemptions that always seem to get the most attention from points enthusiasts. But before you can turn your travel dreams into reality using points, you need to first uncover what your unique wish list looks like. That's exactly what my guest this week is here to discuss. Tune in this week to start uncovering not only what you want to get out of points travel but what you desire from your experience of being alive. You'll learn the impact of introducing what my guest, Board-Certified Palliative Care Physician, Life and Wellness Coach, Dr. Faryal Michaud, calls high-definition moments into your life, what changes when you focus on writing your best chapter, and how to bring the magic of travel into your everyday life. Get full show notes and more information here: https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/blog/the-reverse-bucket-list-dr-faryal-michaud Join the waitlist for Points Made Easy here: https://www.pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy
If you have a high monthly credit card spend and want to leverage these expenses to earn even more points, this episode is for you. Signup bonuses are the easiest way to earn a huge points return for every dollar spent, but what I'm sharing today allows you to expand upon this strategy, sometimes with relatively little effort, and earn more points without needing to take out new cards and rely on welcome bonuses. Tune in this week to learn everything you need to know about Chase Spending Offers. I discuss how Chase Spending Offers make already strong points-earning cards even better, and you'll learn not only how Chase Spending Offers work but also how to integrate them into your overall points strategy. Get full show notes and more information here: https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/blog/racking-up-points-with-chase-spending-offers Join the waitlist for Points Made Easy here: https://www.pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy
Kevin Zanes has a background in data science and analytics that he now uses to scour award programs for the best points deals. So on today's show, we're talking math, data, and how these two things help you land the most amazing points deals. Tune in this week to discover how data can get you the best value for your points. Kevin is using data and technology to dispel common myths of the award travel community, and he's revealing the math-backed truth about what he calls the single best points-earning credit card on the market. Whether you're new to award travel or a seasoned points traveler, this episode is packed with value and insights you won't find anywhere else. Get full show notes and more information here: https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/blog/analytic-approach-points-travel-kevin-zanes Join the waitlist for Points Made Easy here: https://www.pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy
Dr. Laura Jana is an Omaha-based pediatrician, social entrepreneur, and award-winning children/parenting book author. From early literacy advocate and 9-year owner of a 200-student educational childcare center to advisor to Mattel, Primrose Schools, and spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics, she is dedicated to addressing the most pressing needs of children, families, and communities. Hear about an unforgettable trip taken by a member of the Point Me to First Class Community. This trip is on many of your bucket lists, and Dr. Laura Jana is here today to discuss why she decided to book this trip, why you don't need to book all your trips on points, and hopefully inspire you for your next amazing trip, whether you book it using points or not. Get full show notes and more information here: https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/blog/don-t-need-points-trip-dr-laura-jana Join the waitlist for Points Made Easy here: https://www.pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy
Today, I'm joined by my friend, points-earning expert Dr. Andrea Mabry. She's here to show you exactly how to earn points by paying off your student loans or by paying for your kid's education. This is taking one of your biggest expenses and leveraging it to earn more points, and Andrea's here to show us how to make this part of a financially responsible points strategy. Discover how to earn tons of points for expenses you already have: student loans or paying for your child's education. You can't use your cards to pay directly towards student loans or a 529 plan, but Andrea is sharing an amazing workaround to earn points from fulfilling these huge expenses. Get full show notes and more information here: https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/blog/paying-student-loans-529-plans-dr-andrea-mabry Join the waitlist for Points Made Easy here: https://www.pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy
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