The AMEX Gold Card is one of the cards that I don't think gets talked about enough...In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how the AMEX Gold Card works, who it’s best for, and who should skip it. If you spend a lot on groceries and dining and dream of turning everyday purchases into luxury travel, this episode will help you decide if this card deserves a spot in your wallet.In this episode, you’ll learn:What the AMEX Gold Card really is (and what it’s not)How AMEX Membership Rewards points actually turn into free or luxury travelWhy this card is considered an earning powerhouse for groceries and diningHow to use AMEX points for flights and elevated travel experiencesThe truth about AMEX Gold credits — and whether they truly offset the annual feeWho the AMEX Gold Card is perfect for (especially families and everyday spenders)Who should not get this cardHow the AMEX Gold fits into a smart, long-term travel credit card strategyThe AMEX Gold Card can be incredibly powerful, but only when it’s used intentionally. I’ll walk you through how this card fits alongside other popular travel cards and why combining cards often unlocks better trips, better redemptions, and more flexibility.If you’ve ever wondered:“Is the AMEX Gold worth the annual fee?”“Can I really use grocery and dining points for luxury travel?”“Should I get the AMEX Gold or something else first?”This episode is for you.Want help deciding if the AMEX Gold Card is right for you?If you’re ready to stop guessing and want a personalized plan, here are a few ways I can help:Elevated Escape – One-on-one help choosing the right credit card and building your strategyCredit Card Offers-Top OffersTravel Points Academy – Learn the full system for earning and using points for free travel
Why Flexible Points Need to Be Your Strategy for 2026 (Real Trip Breakdown + How I Picked the Best Luxury Hotel Using Chase, Amex, Hyatt, Hilton & Marriott)If you want 2026 to be the year you finally take that luxury vacation without draining your bank account, this is the episode you need in your life. Today, I’m breaking down why flexible points are the MOST important strategy for travel in 2026 — especially if you want free flights, luxury hotel stays, and maximum redemption value.And to show you exactly why flexible points matter so much, I’m walking you through a real trip I just planned where I compared multiple luxury hotel options using points from different banks (Chase, Amex). Because here’s the truth: 👉 If you only collect airline miles or stay loyal to one hotel chain… you’re going to miss out on the BEST deals.Flexible points change everything.⭐ In This Episode, You’ll Learn:→ Why flexible points (like Chase UR, Amex MR & Capital One Miles) give you the biggest travel freedomWe’ll talk about how flexible programs allow you to choose the BEST redemption across multiple airlines and hotels — instead of being locked into one brand.→ Why flexible points ALWAYS outperform fixed-value rewardsI break down real numbers, real examples, and what these points can do that cash back simply can’t.→ How I planned a luxury trip by comparing multiple hotel options across different point currenciesThis is where it gets fun. I’ll walk you through:The exact resort options I looked atHow many points each one costWhich bank each option aligned withAnd how having multiple point pools saved me hundreds — sometimes thousands — of dollars.This story will show you EXACTLY why flexible points give you negotiation power, choice, and the freedom to book the best deal, not just the one option you’re stuck with.→ Why 2026 is the year flexible points matter more than everWe’re entering a new era of:Dynamic pricingMore transfer bonusesHigher travel costsIncreased redemption opportunitiesFlexible points give you the upper hand in all of it.✈️ Real-Life Trip Breakdown (The Part Listeners LOVE)I’ll explain:Which resort I almost bookedAnd how having access to multiple point currencies gave me control over the entire process.This is literally the strategy my clients use to save $10,000+ a year.🧠 Why This Matters for YouIf you’ve ever felt stuck because:Flights were too expensiveHyatt didn’t have availabilityMarriott wanted 80,000 points per nightCapital One’s portal pricing was too high…this episode is your permission slip to STOP locking yourself into one ecosystem.💼 Ready to Build Your 2026 Flexible-Points Strategy?If you want to build your first points system, earn 100,000+ points easily, or get help choosing the right cards for your 2026 travel goals… 👉 Join Travel Points Academy — this is EXACTLY what we do inside the program.See Best Credit Card Offers HERE
If you’ve ever wondered where to start with travel points… this is the episode for you. Today we’re doing a full deep dive on the Chase Sapphire Preferred — the #1 card I recommend to beginners, moms, families, small business owners, and anyone who wants to travel for (almost) free.This card is simple, powerful, beginner-friendly, and unlocks the fastest path to free flights and hotel stays — all with a low annual fee and perks that are actually useful.In this episode, we cover:✨ What You’ll Learn• Why the Chase Sapphire Preferred is the ultimate starter card (and why it outperforms most “premium” cards for everyday travelers)• How the sign-up bonus alone can unlock $1,000–$2,000 in free travel Flights, Hyatt stays, Disney trips, Hawaiian vacations — all possible with ONE bonus.• How to earn points daily without changing your lifestyle 3x dining, 2x travel, and how broad Chase’s travel category actually is.• The perks people don’t talk about enough:$50 annual hotel creditPrimary rental car insurance (huge money saver!)No foreign transaction feesTrip delay, trip cancellation, and baggage coverage25% boost when booking through Chase Travel10% points bonus every yearDoorDash DashPass subscriptionInstacart+/Instacart statement credits• Why Ultimate Rewards points are some of the highest-value points on the market• When to redeem in the travel portal vs when to transfer to Hyatt, United, Air Canada, Southwest & more✨ Why Everyone Needs This CardThis episode makes the case for WHY the Chase Sapphire Preferred is the best “foundation card” for:Families planning Disney or spring breakMoms wanting to save money but travel moreBeginners wanting one simple card that does it allSmall business owners wanting flexible, high-value pointsAnyone wanting free flights + free hotel nights ASAP✨ Links & ResourcesIf you’re ready to start using points the right way:👉 Join Travel Points Academy The step-by-step program to earn your first 100,000 points and book your first free trip. Perfect for beginners or anyone with a trip goal in mind.👉Best Credit Card Offers Want to grab this card or another one, here are the best offers right now👉 Free Mini Course Check out this free mini course to get you started with points today!
📝 Episode DescriptionIn today’s episode, I’m breaking down the best current credit card offers for earning travel points fast — perfect for beginners, business owners, or anyone wanting to jumpstart their next almost-free trip. I’ll share why these cards are hot right now, who they work best for, and how to know which one fits your travel goals.If you’ve been thinking about opening a new card to maximize points, this episode will help you choose the right one with confidence.💳 Cards Mentioned in This EpisodeCapital One Venture XCapital One Venture X BusinessChase Ink Business PreferredSouthwest Rapid Rewards PlusAmex Hilton Honors Aspire✨ In This Episode, You’ll LearnWhy these current offers are worth paying attention toHow to pick a card based on your travel goals, not hypeHow business owners can turn everyday expenses into major travel winsThe mindset behind choosing one strategic card instead of chasing every offer🔔 Best Credit Card Offers ListReady to Level Up?If you want step-by-step guidance choosing the right card and turning your spending into free family travel, check out Travel Points Academy — my signature program that helps you earn and redeem points with confidence.
This week’s episode is all about one thing: helping you dream bigger before my 5 Days of Black Friday Deals drop next week.I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing REAL student stories — moms, beginners, and busy women just like you — who learned how to use travel points and completely transformed how they vacation.These wins aren’t rare. They’re predictable. And next week, you’re going to have the chance to get the same tools, shortcuts, and support they did… for the only time this year.✅ Inside This Episode, You’ll Hear:✨ Real Travel Transformation Stories✨ The Mindset Shift That Changes Everything✨ Why These Successes Matter for YOU✨ A Sneak Peek at My 5 Days of Black Friday DealsEvery woman in these stories started:confusedoverwhelmedunsure which card to openor afraid to “do it wrong”And small steps led to massive wins.✅ If You’re Ready to Change How You Travel in 2026…Make sure you're checking your email next week. Each morning, Monday through Friday, I’m dropping a brand-new Black Friday deal — and Day 1 is the one you do NOT want to miss.Grab a Sneak Peak of Next Week's Offers
🎙️ Episode Description:If you pay rent or shop online, this episode is your new superpower. Today, Megan breaks down the HUGE recent shift in the travel points world: the BILT program paired with Rakuten.You’ll learn how earning points on rent, mortgage + points on almost every online purchase can turn into free flights, luxury hotels, Disney vacations, and more — without changing your budget.✅ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:What the BILT Rewards program is and why it’s the #1 card for rentersHow rent payments can translate into flights, Hyatt hotels, and luxury travelWhy the new Rakuten + BILT connection is a massive earning opportunityHow to stack points on rent AND all your online holiday shoppingHow this strategy can easily unlock free Hyatt nights, AA flights, and moreWhy this is the best time of year to maximize earning✅ Why This Matters:For the first time ever, you can combine:Points on rent + soon mortgagePoints on everyday online shoppingTransfer access to Hyatt, American Airlines, United, and premium partnersThis creates one of the fastest, easiest point-earning systems for beginners and advanced travelers.✅ Resources:Rakuten Sign Up LinkBILTBlack Friday Sneak PeakFree $100 Vacation Mini-Series
Think travel points only cover flights and hotels? Think again! In this episode, Megan breaks down all the creative ways you can use your points — from Disney park tickets to Airbnb stays, cruise ships, tours, and excursions — so you can plan your next dream trip for a fraction of the cost.You’ll learn insider tips on:🎢 How to use points for Disney tickets and other theme parks🏡 Booking Airbnb stays using credit card points (yes, it’s possible!)🚢 Redeeming points toward cruises and luxury voyages🏝️ Using points for tours, excursions, and experiences around the world✈️ And of course, the best strategies for flights and hotel redemptionsIf you’ve ever wondered just how far your points can take you — this episode will blow your mind!🔗 Resources Mentioned:Black Friday WaitlistFollow Megan on Instagram
If you’ve been thinking about opening a travel credit card, this is your sign — the holidays are hands-down the best time of year to do it!In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly why now is the perfect time to open a new card, how to use your holiday spending to hit minimum spend requirements without overspending, and which cards are currently offering elevated welcome bonuses so you can start earning free flights and luxury stays fast.You’ll learn:💳 Why your holiday shopping and travel make it easy to meet minimum spend requirements🚀 Which cards are offering elevated bonuses right now (and how to pick the one that fits your travel goals!)If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to start earning travel points — this is it. Don’t let another holiday season pass without using your spending to work for you.🔗 Resources Mentioned:Travel Points Academy — learn step-by-step how to earn and redeem points for luxury travelLuxury Vacations For $100 or Less Mini-Course— get this free course to walk you through all the basics of credit card pointsBest Credit Card Offers-Follow me on Instagram @pointstooparadise for daily tips on free travel
Get ready for a cozy mountain escape as we head to the Pacific Northwest! In this Destination Day episode, I’m taking you on a journey through two of Washington’s most charming spots — Leavenworth, the storybook Bavarian village tucked in the Cascades, and Suncadia Resort, a luxury mountain retreat perfect for families and couples alike.We’ll talk about the best ways to plan a Washington getaway using points, where to stay, what to eat, and the can’t-miss experiences that make this part of the state feel like something out of a snow globe in winter — and a nature lover’s paradise in summer.In this episode, you’ll learn:🏔️ How to get to Leavenworth and Suncadia using points (yes, even from across the country!)🏨 The best hotels and vacation rentals you can book on pointsWhether you’re craving Christmas magic, mountain views, or a relaxing spa weekend, Washington State has it all — and I’ll show you exactly how to make it happen without spending a fortune.✈️ Mentioned in this Episode:Travel Points Academy → Learn how to earn and redeem points for your next mountain getawayFree Workshop Thursday October 23rd
If you’ve ever wondered whether the Chase Sapphire Reserve® is really worth the annual fee — this episode is your go-to guide. We’re doing a full deep dive into one of the most talked-about premium travel credit cards on the market.In this episode, we’ll cover:💳 The best benefits ✈️ The $300 annual travel credit🧳 How to decide if this card is right for you (and when it’s not!)Whether you’re new to travel rewards or already deep into the points game, this episode will help you see exactly how the Chase Sapphire Reserve can level up your adventures — and when it’s worth the investment.🌴 Mentioned in this Episode:Chase Sapphire Reserve® CardCheat SheetTravel Points Lounge
The Capital One Venture X card has quickly become one of the most talked-about premium travel credit cards — and for good reason. With its generous rewards, easy-to-use perks, and simple redemption system, it’s often the first luxury card I recommend to travelers ready to take their points game to the next level.If you’ve been curious about adding a premium travel card to your wallet — or you already have the Venture X and want to make sure you’re getting every ounce of value — this episode will help you understand exactly how to use it like a pro.Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Grab the Capital One Venture XJoin the Travel Points Lounge
The American Express Platinum card is one of the most talked-about travel credit cards — but is it really worth the hefty annual fee? In this episode, I’m doing a deep dive into everything you need to know about the AMEX Platinum so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your wallet and your travel goals.Here’s what you’ll discover in this episode:💎 A breakdown of the AMEX Platinum’s benefits, from lounge access to statement credits✈️ How to maximize your points earning potential on everyday purchases🏨 The best sweet spots for redeeming AMEX Membership Rewards for flights and hotels🧳 Travel perks that make this card shine (hello, Centurion Lounge!)💳 Who this card is perfect for — and who might want to skip it⚖️ My honest take: when the annual fee is worth it, and when it’s notWhether you’re considering adding the AMEX Platinum to your wallet or just want to make sure you’re getting the most out of it, this episode will give you the clarity and strategy you need.Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Travel Freely App:Travel Freely Partner Home 3Card Pointers App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/cardpointers/id1472875808Join the Travel Points Lounge: Travel Points Lounge | Points Too Paradise
In this episode, I share how I booked Alila Ventana Big Sur—a luxury, all-inclusive Hyatt resort perched above California’s rugged coastline—using points. From sweeping redwood and ocean views to included meals, hikes, and wellness experiences, this stay was the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.You’ll hear:How I booked my stay with points and maximized valueWhat’s included (and what’s not) in the all-inclusive experienceTips to make the most of your Big Sur getawayIf you’ve ever dreamed of a luxury escape without the luxury price tag, this episode will inspire your next trip.Ways to learn how to book luxury vacations:Travel Points Lounge: Travel Points Lounge | Points Too ParadiseElevated Escape: Elevated Escape | Points Too Paradise
I’m celebrating my birthday in a big way this month — by giving away free coaching! 🎂 I originally opened just 5 spots for quick coaching sessions to help women map out their dream vacations using travel points… but the response was so fun and impactful that I decided to open up 5 more spots.In this episode, I share a behind-the-scenes story of one woman who came to me dreaming of a bucket-list trip to Egypt. In just one hour together, we mapped out a full strategy that could save her over $15,000 on flights and hotels. Suddenly, what once felt impossible became completely doable.If you’ve ever dreamed of taking that once-in-a-lifetime vacation — whether it’s Egypt, Europe, or your favorite island escape — this episode will show you what’s possible when you leverage the power of points.✨ Here’s what you’ll hear in today’s episode:Why I’m giving away free birthday coaching spots (and how to grab one before they’re gone!)How a simple shift in strategy made a $15,000 Egypt trip feel possibleThe mindset upgrade that comes when you finally see luxury travel within reachHow you can take your dream trip for less than $100 out of pocketResources:📩 Want one of the limited coaching spots? Message me on Instagram ✨ Elevated Escape
Big news in the travel world — the new ATMOS program is here, and it’s packed with fresh opportunities for travelers who love saving big on flights and hotels. In this episode, I’m breaking down everything you need to know about how the program works, the best ways to maximize your points, and what makes it stand out from other loyalty programs.Here’s what you’ll learn in today’s episode:🔑 How the new ATMOS points system works (and why it’s different from others)💳 The latest ATMOS credit card offers and what kind of bonuses you can grab right now🎯 Sweet spots for booking flights with partner airlines — where your points stretch the furthest👯 How the ATMOS companion passes work, who qualifies, and how you can use it for maximum savings🧳 My favorite strategies to stack these perks with other travel programsWhether you’re brand new to travel points or already a seasoned pro, this episode will help you understand if ATMOS is worth your attention and how you can start using it to book dream trips for a fraction of the cost.Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:ATMOS Ascent CardATMOS Summit CardATMOS Business CardJoin the Travel Points Lounge: Travel Points Lounge | Points Too Paradise
Ever wondered how to get the most out of your hard-earned travel points? In this episode, I’m breaking down the ultimate sweet spot for points redemptions—Hyatt Hotels.I’ll cover:Why Hyatt consistently delivers outsized value for your pointsReal examples of how I’ve booked luxury stays for a fraction of the costIf you’ve been asking yourself, “What’s the best way to use my points?”—this episode will give you the answer (and probably inspire your next dream trip!).Resources & Links:Join my free workshop: Free Travel FormulaTravel Points Lounge: Travel Points Lounge | Points Too Paradise
Discover how to fast-track your way to the Southwest Companion Pass using a limited-time elevated credit card welcome bonus—and potentially enjoy nearly two years of free travel for a companion.
Let's travel to San Antonio, Texas! Where we stayed at the Marriott JW San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa.Resources:Travel Points Lounge
Come along as we travel to White Sands National Park and talk about where to fly into, where to stay and all about what you need to do when visiting on points!Travel Points Lounge: Travel Points Lounge | Points Too Paradise
Free Travel Formula Workshop: Free Travel FormulaTravel Lounge Membership: Travel Points Lounge | Points Too Paradise