Points Talk With The Travel Mom Squad podcast

#Society #Travel #Podcasting Education #Alex, Pam and Jess #Travel Hacking Mom: Travel on Credit Card Points

28:24

In our second installment of the Small Business Starter Kit series - we’re tackling a topic that’s sometimes tricky, sometimes confusing, but ever-present: taxes. Hosts Austin and Jannese have an insightful conversation with entrepreneur Isabella Rosal who started 7th Sky Ventures , an exporter and distributor of craft spirits, beer, and wine. Having lived and worked in two different countries and started a company in a heavily-regulated field, Isabella is no stranger to navigating the paperwork-laden and jargon-infused maze of properly understanding taxes for a newly formed small business. Join us as she shares her story and provides valuable insight into how to tackle your business’ taxes - so they don’t tackle you. Learn more about how QuickBooks can help you grow your business: QuickBooks.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

Points Talk with the Travel Mom Squad

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Are you tired of not being able to travel because it's just so expensive? Do finances keep you from your dream destinations and making memories with your family? In this podcast, we show you how you can fulfill that dream of traveling without spending more money. We've earned millions of credit card points to travel all over the world and take our families on amazing vacations. Vacations to Hawaii, Europe, and Disneyland are all possible for nearly free with credit card points and miles. By using credit cards strategically for your everyday expenses, you too can travel for nearly free! We can't wait to help you get that first, nearly-free vacation! Tired of not traveling due to the expense? We can teach you how to travel for pennies on the dollar by using credit card points and miles!

120 episodes

Points Talk with the Travel Mom Squad

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updated 4 days ago

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120 episodes

#Society #Travel #Podcasting Education #Alex, Pam and Jess #Travel Hacking Mom: Travel on Credit Card Points

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Points Talk with the Travel Mom Squad

1
120. How Megan Used Points & Miles for the Ultimate Harry Potter Family Trip 43:17

4 days ago43:17

43:17

What’s better than throwing a Harry Potter-themed birthday party? How about taking your child on a real Harry Potter adventure across Scotland and London! That’s exactly what Megan did for her daughter’s 10th birthday—making the magic come alive with points and miles. In this episode, Megan explains how she made this trip happen for her family of five—and how using points made it more affordable than a trip to Universal Studios! Flying to Scotland on Points Megan and her family started their journey with flights on KLM Flying Blue, taking advantage of the 25% discount for kids under 12. Because they were able to book five economy tickets for just 85,000 points plus taxes/fees, they were able to splurge some on an upgrade to premium economy at check-in. Add in Priority Pass lounge access during their layover (thanks, credit card benefits!) and the whole experience got even better. Exploring Scotland: The Highlands & Harry Potter Locations After landing in Edinburgh, Megan and her family hit the road to explore Scotland’s most famous sights—including key Harry Potter filming locations at Glencoe, Glenfinnan Viaduct, and Loch Shiel. From Scotland to London: Train Travel & Harry Potter Studio Tour After road-tripping through Scotland, the family took the train from Edinburgh to London, booking first-class seats for extra space and lounge access. London's Harry Potter Activities! Megan’s family visited: King’s Cross Station (Platform 9 ¾) – A must for any fan. Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour – The ultimate experience, where her daughter got to open the doors to the Hogwarts Great Hall because it was her birthday! They spent over five hours exploring movie sets, props, and magical effects. London on Points: Hyatt Regency Blackfriars & The Cursed Child Play For accommodations, used Hyatt points and the Hyatt Family Plan Rate, getting four nights at the Hyatt Regency London Blackfriars for: ✅ 77,000 points for one room ✅ $700 total for the second room The hotel's location meant Megan's family got free wristbands allowing access to the prime areas for watching New Year's Eve fireworks over Big Ben and the London Eye! To top off their trip, they saw Harry Potter and the Cursed Child—a six-hour theater experience that still had the kids completely engaged. Find out what blew Megan away and why going to the play in London is worth traveling for. Links For This Episode: Pam’s Hotel Upgrade Template: Hotel Upgrade Form: https://travelmomsquad.ck.page/hotel-upgrade Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Episode Minute By Minute: 00:30 – Meet Megan and hear about how this trip came together 02:00 – Booking flights on KLM 06:15 – Harry Potter sites in Scotland 12:30 – Train to London 17:00 – Platform 9 ¾ & the Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour 25:45 – Staying at Hyatt Regency London Blackfriars 33:00 – Seeing The Cursed Child play 40:00 – Final thoughts and Megan’s tips If you’ve ever wanted to take your family on a magical, unforgettable trip, this episode is for you!…

Points Talk with the Travel Mom Squad

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119. Sexy vs. Unsexy Award Redemptions 22:09

11 days ago22:09

22:09

We all love talking about luxurious, over-the-top award redemptions—think first-class flights, overwater villas, and five-star resorts. But let’s be real—some of the best uses of points and miles are not Instagram-worthy. In this episode, we break down the difference between sexy and unsexy redemptions, why both are important, and how they each play a role in maximizing your points strategy. What Makes a Redemption “Sexy”? Pam kicks things off with her signature philosophy: “A sexy redemption is a Pam redemption.” For her, that means business-class flights on international routes and stays at luxury hotels. But she also reminds us that sexy is subjective—a Southwest flight to Hawaii can absolutely be a dream-worthy redemption for a family! Jess adds that she aspires to make every redemption as “Pam-level” as possible, but admits that her first year of points and miles was entirely unsexy. Unsexy Redemptions: The Unsung Heroes of Travel Not every redemption is flashy, but that doesn’t mean it’s not valuable. Alex shares how some of her best redemptions have been for things like: Flying last-minute for a wedding, funeral, or family emergency Booking budget-friendly Hyatt Place stays for soccer tournaments Using airport hotels for positioning flights to avoid travel disruptions Staying in hotels during home renovations or natural disasters While they may not be glamorous, these redemptions save real money and make everyday travel easier. As Pam puts it, “If you can cover an ‘unsexy’ expense with points and it costs you nothing, that’s actually pretty sexy.” Our Favorite Sexy and Unsexy Redemptions Each of us shares a mix of redemptions that stand out: Jess: Emirates first class with an onboard shower and champagne (sexy!) vs. Hyatt stays during a Houston freeze and power outage (unsexy but a lifesaver). Alex: A Maldives overwater villa + Qatar Qsuite flights (sexy!) vs. a last-minute flight to care for her sister after surgery (not glamorous, but necessary). Pam: Business class Singapore Airlines flights to Thailand + Ritz-Carlton stays (sexy!) vs. booking a flight to London during COVID for a hospitalized grandchild (priceless). Why Every Redemption Has Value At the end of the day, points and miles are a tool for travel freedom—whether that means luxury vacations, practical family trips, or unexpected emergencies. As Jess reminds us, “No redemption is a bad redemption if it saves you money and makes your life easier.” Whether you’re dreaming of first-class flights or just want to avoid paying cash for a last-minute family trip, this episode will help you make the most of your points—sexy or not! Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Jess’s Emirates first class reel: https://www.instagram.com/reel/CtPGqi2gKvI/?igsh=dzZrOXp2NnA1djhw Episode Minute By Minute: 00:30 – What is a “sexy” vs. “unsexy” award redemption? 01:40 – Pam’s philosophy: Why luxury redemptions are her go-to 07:00 – Alex’s take: Why family travel means balancing both 15:30 – Unsexy redemptions: Why they’re just as valuable 22:45 – Our best (and worst) redemption stories 30:00 – Why no redemption is a bad redemption…

Points Talk with the Travel Mom Squad

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118. Going For the Gold or Picking Up Platinum: All About American Express Cards 41:40

18 days ago41:40

41:40

If you've been eyeing an American Express card but aren’t sure which one to get, you’re in the right place! In this episode, we break down two great personal cards—the American Express® Gold Card and The Platinum Card® from American Express—and two great business cards—the American Express® Business Gold Card and The Business Platinum Card® from American Express. These powerhouse cards are key for earning American Express Membership Rewards®. We share our personal experiences with these cards, favorite card benefits, and what we’d recommend for anyone looking to maximize their points-and-miles strategy. First, the Personal Card Breakdown The American Express® Gold Card: The Food Lover’s Dream Card Pam kicks things off by sharing why the American Express® Gold Card has been a staple in her wallet for years and how the benefits this card offers are amazing for foodies. The Platinum Card® from American Express: Travel Perks Galore The Platinum Card® from American Express isn’t just a credit card; it’s a travel lifestyle. If you're a frequent traveler, this card's benefits can come in clutch. Up Next: Two Great Business Cards American Express® Business Gold Card: Small-Business Winner This card is perfect if you want flexible spending-category bonuses and great perks for small businesses (including office-supply stores). The Business Platinum Card® from American Express: Even More Travel Perks A great go-to card for cell-phone insurance coverage & statement credits, plus travel benefits like lounge access a new Hilton credit. Credits & Perks: Jess breaks down the key differences between all the perks and credits, and whether they might make sense for you. As Alex puts it, "Don't let the credits stress you out. If using them feels like work, the card might not be worth it for you." Pro Tips for Maximizing Your Cards The Travel Mom Squad shares some expert tips to get the most value: elevated offers, reminders for monthly credits, and how to earn referral points. Links: Credit Card Benefits Cheat Sheet: https://travelmomsquad.kit.com/benefits-cheat-sheet Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Cards mentioned in the episode The American Express® Gold Card: http://travelmomsquad.com/american-express-gold The Platinum Card® from American Express: https://travelmomsquad.com/refer/american-express-platinum-card/ American Express® Business Gold Card: http://travelmomsquad.com/american-express-business-gold The Business Platinum Card® from American Express: http://travelmomsquad.com/american-express-business-platinum Episode Minute By Minute: 00:30 – Why we love American Express Membership Rewards® for travel 01:00 – The personal cards 02:30 – Restaurant benefits, quirks, and ice-cream cakes galore 10:15 – Travel benefits: lounge access, travel perks 17:00 – The key differences explained 21:30 – The business-card breakdown 24:30 – All about business welcome offers 33:00 – How to inquire about retention offers 38:30 – Our final verdict: which cards we keep and why If you want to earn more American Express Membership Rewards®, this episode is a must-listen! Tune in to hear all the details, plus some hilarious behind-the-scenes stories about how we use our points for everyday treats and family travel.…

Points Talk with the Travel Mom Squad

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117. How to Book Family Flights to Europe Using Points and Miles 40:49

25 days ago40:49

40:49

Dreaming of taking your family to Europe without draining your wallet? In this episode, we sit down with our team member and resident Europe travel expert, Traci Siegel, to share her tried-and-true tips for flying a family overseas using points and miles. These strategies will help make your dream a reality! Family Travel 101: The Big Differences Flying solo or as a couple is one thing—booking flights for a family of four, five, or more is a whole different game. Traci shares the biggest challenges families face, like securing multiple award seats, navigating school calendars, and choosing flights that work with kids' needs. Traci’s advice? Plan ahead, prioritize nonstop routes when possible, and always consider how the experience will feel with little ones in tow. The Best Programs for Family Flights to Europe Traci breaks down her top picks for family-friendly travel to Europe: Flying Blue (KLM/Air France): The ultimate program for family flights thanks to its 25% discount for kids aged 2-11. Aeroplan (Air Canada): Great availability and useful for connecting flights. Virgin Atlantic: Often overlooked, but perfect for flights to London—especially since they now allow household pooling of points. British Airways: A solid option, especially with their recent improvements in saver availability. Alaska Mileage Plan: Can be great for business-class flights to Ireland on Aer Lingus. Timing Is Everything: When to Book for the Best Deals The key to scoring great flights? Timing. As Traci says, “Planning ahead is a superpower when you’re traveling with kids.” If you’re eyeing flights for next year’s spring break, start looking during this year’s break! She also recommends tools like Seats.aero to set alerts for award availability. Business Class with Kids: Is It Worth It? Many parents wonder if business class is worth the points for family travel. Traci breaks down the pros and cons, and drops a tip about how to try a smooth last-minute switch from economy to business class. Europe with kids doesn't have to be a bucket-list dream. It's something you can do every year, and you can use these strategies to plan your next trip today! Links: Links For This Episode: https://pointstalk.supercast.com Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Episode Minute By Minute: 00:30 – Meet Traci and hear about her family's frequent trips to Europe 03:00 – The biggest differences when booking award flights for families 06:15 – Top airline programs for family-friendly travel 10:30 – The importance of timing and when to start searching 15:20 – How to fly business class with kids without breaking the points bank 22:45 – Common mistakes and how to avoid them 28:00 – Tips for booking from smaller airports 35:00 – Final takeaways and encouragement to start planning today If you've ever dreamed of taking your family to Europe, this episode gives you the roadmap to make it happen with points and miles. Tune in now to get all the details, plus Traci’s expert insights and funny family travel stories!…

Points Talk with the Travel Mom Squad

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116. Everything You Need to Know About Flying Blue 42:58

5 weeks ago42:58

42:58

If you’ve been looking for a go-to points and miles program for international travel, let us introduce you to Flying Blue, the joint loyalty program of Air France and KLM. In this episode, we’re diving into why this program has become one of our absolute favorites. Why We Love Flying Blue Pam kicks things off by breaking down the basics, including which airlines use Flying Blue and how you can easily transfer points to that program. Sweet Spots & Family Perks One of the biggest reasons we love Flying Blue? Their incredible award pricing. Even after their recent devaluation, it’s still one of the best options for booking flights to Europe. Megan highlights how Flying Blue offers discounted kids’ fares, and Alex shares how she used these discounted fares to book amazing flights for her whole family of six to Amsterdam. Promo Awards & Transfer Bonuses = Big Savings Another reason we keep coming back to Flying Blue is their monthly Promo Rewards. These discounted routes—often between major U.S. and European cities—can significantly lower the miles needed for economy flights. And stacking Promo Awards with transfer bonuses from credit card programs is where the real magic happens. Best Ways to Book Flights Megan shares her top strategies for getting the best deals with Flying Blue and Alex also highlights one of Flying Blue’s coolest perks: free stopovers in Amsterdam or Paris! Flights We’ve Booked Using Flying Blue The Travel Mom Squad has taken full advantage of this program. Here are just a few flights we’ve booked recently: SLC to Amsterdam (nonstop!) for 105,000 miles total for a family of six Boston to London on Virgin Atlantic Upper Class for 29,000 Flying Blue miles JFK to Nairobi in Air France business class for 95,000 miles LAX to Tahiti in Air France premium economy for 50,000 miles per ticket Morocco trip: From the US to Morocco and back for 100,000 miles in business class Final Thoughts: Is Flying Blue Right for You? If you’re not already using Flying Blue, this is your sign to start exploring its potential! Tune in now to learn all the details, and let us know—where would you use Flying Blue miles to go next? Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Link to Transfer Bonus Post: Transfer Bonuses and Sales on Points & Miles February 2025 - Travel Mom Squad - https://travelmomsquad.com/transfer-bonuses-and-sales-on-points-miles-january-2025 Episode Minute By Minute: 00:30 – Intro: Why Flying Blue is one of our favorite loyalty programs 01:15 – What is Flying Blue? A quick breakdown of the program 03:00 – Transferable points: Why Flying Blue is easy to earn 06:15 – Why families love Flying Blue (discounted kids’ fares & family pooling) 10:20 – Monthly Promo Awards & stacking with transfer bonuses 15:45 – Best ways to book: Finding deals on the Flying Blue calendar 20:30 – Free stopovers in Amsterdam & Paris 25:00 – Flights we’ve booked using Flying Blue miles 35:00 – Final thoughts: Why Flying Blue is still a great program despite devaluation…

Points Talk with the Travel Mom Squad

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115. Our Honeymoons—Then vs. Now! Get Your Honeymoon for Nearly Free Using Points and Miles 33:04

6 weeks ago33:04

33:04

For Valentine’s Day, we’re taking a trip down memory lane! In this episode, we’re sharing all the details about our honeymoons—how we booked them before we knew about points and miles, what we spent back then, and what we'd do today now that we’re points-savvy. Spoiler alert: our original honeymoons were not nearly as luxurious (or strategic!) as what we could plan today. Pam’s “Not-So-Luxurious” Road Trip Honeymoon Pam kicks things off by sharing her 1974 honeymoon—let’s just say, points and miles were not a thing, and neither was luxury travel. If she could redo it today, Pam would plan a dreamy trip to Greece, flying Emirates business class, stopping in NYC on the way, and relaxing at stunning hotels in Santorini and Crete—all on points. Alex’s Two-Part Honeymoon: Park City & Mexico Since Alex’s husband played college football, their wedding date was dictated by the sports schedule, leaving them with a tight honeymoon window. Flights and accommodations came from family gifts. Today, she would book an easy, stress-free honeymoon at the Andaz Maui using points and a travel credit for a rental car—keeping the travel cost to just $22! Jess’s First Trip to Europe: Budget Paris & London Jess technically did use miles for her honeymoon—but in the least efficient way possible. Jess's economy flights to Europe came from years of earning miles on a single airline card. Looking back, she would book Emirates first class to Italy, stay at the Grand Hotel Victoria in Lake Como, and enjoy luxury Hyatt stays in Florence—all for far less out of pocket than she originally spent! Why We’d Do Things Differently Today Weddings are expensive, but newlyweds can use their wedding expenses to earn credit card welcome offers. That means luxurious hotels, business-class flights, and less out of pocket than budget honeymoons! And the best part is taking “honeymoon-level” trips every single year—because why limit luxury travel to just one trip? If you're planning a honeymoon or dreaming about a do-over, this episode is a must-listen! Tune in now and start planning your dream trip for less! Links: How to Get Your Next Vacation for Nearly Free: How to Get Your Next Vacation for Nearly Free - https://travelmomsquad.lpages.co/freevacation Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Episode Minute By Minute: 00:30 – Walking down memory lane: How we booked our honeymoons pre-points & miles 01:40 – Pam’s honeymoon: A road trip, Disneyland on Christmas, and a car breakdown 07:00 – What Pam would do differently today: A dream Greece trip on points 13:00 – Alex’s honeymoon: A football schedule, Park City, and a timeshare in Cabo 17:00 – How Alex would redo her honeymoon for $22 with points 22:00 – Jess’s honeymoon: Economy flights to Europe and a budget hotel in Paris 26:30 – Jess’s dream honeymoon today: Emirates first class and Italian luxury hotels 31:00 – The best honeymoon strategy: Use wedding expenses to earn free travel 33:00 – Why every year can feel like a honeymoon with points and miles…

Points Talk with the Travel Mom Squad

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114. All About Transfer Bonuses: What They Are and How to Use Them To Get Even More Points 26:17

7 weeks ago26:17

26:17

Transfer bonuses are one of the best ways to stretch your points further, and in this episode we’re breaking down everything you need to know about them. From understanding how they work to sharing the bonuses we’ve taken advantage of, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you maximize your rewards and travel more for less. What Are Transfer Bonuses? Pam explains that what transfer bonuses are and how big a difference they can make in your redemptions. For example, a recent American Express bonus to Virgin Atlantic offered a 40% increase, turning 100,000 Membership Rewards into 140,000 Virgin Atlantic miles. When to Use Them While transfer bonuses can be tempting, Alex emphasizes the importance of having a plan. Speculative transfers (moving points without a specific booking in mind) can leave you stuck with miles you don’t need if your plans change. The takeaway? If you’re new to points, only use transfer bonuses when you know you’ll use the miles. Stacking Bonuses for Maximum Value Jess shares how stacking transfer bonuses with existing airline or hotel promotions can unlock even more value. And Alex highlights Flying Blue’s monthly promo awards and child discount, which allow you to save even more by pairing discounted flights with transfer bonuses. Hotel Transfer Bonuses Jess dives into the hotel side of transfer bonuses, highlighting the best options and the ones that might not be a good deal. Our Favorite Transfer Bonus Wins Each of us shares a recent win: Pam: Transferred 100,000 Amex points to Virgin Atlantic with a 40% bonus, booking a round-trip business class flight to London for just 58,000 miles and $600 in fees. Alex: Used a 20% transfer bonus to Flying Blue to book business class flights to Morocco with her mom and sisters for just 55,000 points each way. Jess: Took advantage of a Capital One transfer bonus to Virgin Red, then Virgin Atlantic, to book a KLM flight for nearly 50% fewer points. Transfer bonuses are an incredible way to maximize your points and miles, but timing and planning are everything. Whether you’re saving for a luxury business-class flight or looking to reduce the cost of a family vacation, these promotions can make a big difference. Check out our blog for monthly updates on the latest transfer bonuses, and start planning your next big adventure! Links: Subscribe to Points Talk Premium: https://pointstalk.supercast.com/ Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Transfer Bonuses and Sales on Points & Miles January 2025 - Travel Mom Squad Episode Minute By Minute: 00:30 – Introduction: What are transfer bonuses? 01:15 – Pam explains how transfer bonuses work 10:30 – When to use (and not use) transfer bonuses 15:00 – Stacking bonuses for flights and hotels 21:30 – Jess’s Hilton strategy and hotel transfer tips 27:55 – Favorite transfer bonus wins from Pam, Alex, and Jess 35:00 – Final thoughts on maximizing transfer bonuses…

Points Talk with the Travel Mom Squad

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113. Inside Our Hawaiian Holidays – How We Spent the Holidays in Hawaii on Points and Miles 1:08:43

8 weeks ago1:08:43

1:08:43

The holidays are magical no matter where you celebrate, but spending them in Hawaii? That’s next-level. In this episode, the Travel Mom Squad shares how we used points and miles to pull off unforgettable trips to Maui and Kauai over the Christmas and New Year holidays. We’re giving you all the behind-the-scenes details so you can start planning your own Hawaiian holiday adventure. Maui with Alex’s Crew Alex starts by sharing how she surprised her family with a Christmas gift they’ll never forget: six nights at the Hyatt Regency Maui. Planning a year ahead made all the difference, allowing her to lock in the best rates using 210,000 Hyatt points for two king rooms. Alex breaks down why booking early is crucial during peak season and how transferring points to Hyatt made this dream trip possible. Pam’s Anniversary Upgrade Quest Pam recounts her experience booking alongside Alex and attempting to score a suite upgrade using Hyatt’s upgrade award. While she didn’t get the full upgrade she hoped for, Pam shares the hilarious story of how a mix-up led to Alex receiving flowers meant for Pam’s 50th wedding anniversary. Kauai Adventures with Jess Over on Kauai, Jess’s family enjoyed six nights at the Grand Hyatt Kauai, covering two rooms with a whopping 420,000 Hyatt points. Jess explains how she maximized her points strategy by leveraging Hyatt’s Guest of Honor program and sharing tips for making family stays more enjoyable. Flights and Rental Cars: Navigating the Holidays Booking flights to Hawaii during peak season can be daunting, but we share how Pam's experience was flying United and how Jess and Alex got creative with Southwest companion passes, gift cards, and points to keep costs down. Jess also shares her game-changing experience renting a car with Pineapple Express on Kauai—a rental-car service that lets you skip the lines and even includes beach gear! Hawaiian Holiday Takeaways The best part of these trips? Spending time with family and meeting some of you, our listeners, who were also in Hawaii thanks to points and miles. Whether it’s taking the grandparents along, planning a holiday surprise for your kids, or just soaking up the aloha spirit, this episode is packed with inspiration for your next adventure. Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Links For This Episode: How to Take Your Family to Hawaii for Nearly Free: Family Guide to Hawaii on Points & Miles - https://travelmomsquad.ck.page/products/hawaii-family-guide Shaka Guide: Kauai Tours | Audio Tour Guide - https://www.shakaguide.com/tours/kauai Reservations for Kalalau trail: Reservations - Go Hāʻena - https://gohaena.com/ Pineapple Express car rental: https://pineappleexpresskauaicarrentals.com Episode Minute By Minute: 00:00 – Intro: How we each spent the holidays in Hawaii 01:30 – Alex’s Maui trip: Booking the Hyatt Regency and family surprises 07:00 – Pam’s story: Anniversary upgrades and club lounge tips 15:20 – Jess’s Kauai trip: Guest of Honor perks and family fun 23:30 – Flights: Southwest companion passes and creative savings 31:45 – Rental cars: Tips for Maui and Kauai 41:00 – Reflections: Meeting listeners and making memories…

Points Talk with the Travel Mom Squad

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112. You’re NOT As Bad At Points As You Think You Are! Conversation with Devon Gimbel 47:52

9 weeks ago47:52

47:52

Feeling overwhelmed by points and miles? You’re not alone! In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Devon Gimbel of Point Me to First Class to discuss the psychology of learning points and miles—and why you’re probably doing better than you think. Whether you’re new to the game or feeling stuck, Devon shares her expertise and encouragement to keep going. Devon’s Journey: From Skeptic to Expert Devon begins by sharing her personal journey into points and miles. Growing up in a single-parent household, travel was often limited to road trips and camping. And Devon didn’t dive in immediately—she was skeptical of credit cards and their potential for debt. Slowly but surely, she learned how to responsibly leverage points and miles, and her first intentional redemption? Flying Lufthansa First Class to Paris! The Four Phases of Learning Points and Miles Devon introduces the “four phases of learning” and how they apply to mastering points and miles: Ignorance is Bliss: At the start, you don’t know what you don’t know, and every little win feels huge. The Valley of Despair: Confidence takes a hit as you realize how much more there is to learn, but this phase is key to growth. Conscious Competence: Skills and knowledge improve, though it still requires effort to apply them. Unconscious Competence: With time and practice, navigating points and miles becomes second nature. The takeaway? Feeling frustrated doesn’t mean you’re failing—it’s a natural part of the learning curve! Mistakes Are Part of the Process Devon, Alex, and Jess share their own cringe-worthy redemption stories to remind listeners that no one starts as an expert. From redeeming points for DVDs on Amazon to cashing in for economy flights when premium options were available, everyone has made choices they’d change now. But as Devon points out, mistakes are how you learn—and each one gets you closer to becoming a points pro. Practical Tips for Staying Motivated Devon also offers practical advice for listeners feeling stuck. Her key tips: Focus on progress, not perfection. Use tools like Travel Freely and Seats.Aero to streamline the process. Set realistic goals based on your travel priorities. And most importantly, don’t compare your journey to someone else’s. Whether you’re road-tripping with kids or planning a dream solo trip, success looks different for everyone. Keep Going—You’re Doing Better Than You Think If you’re feeling overwhelmed, tune in for a dose of encouragement and actionable steps to move forward. Devon’s insights will leave you inspired to keep learning, keep trying, and keep traveling. Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Where You Can Find Devon: Website: https://pointmetofirstclass.com Podcast: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pointmeto_firstclass Episode Minute By Minute: 00:30 – Meet Devon and learn about her inspiring travel journey 07:00 – Breaking down the four phases of learning points and miles 16:00 – Personal stories: Mistakes, lessons, and growth 30:00 – Tools and strategies to simplify the learning process 42:00 – Final thoughts: Why you’re better at points than you think…

Points Talk with the Travel Mom Squad

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111. Looking Ahead to 2025—Our Cards, Trips, and Goals! 33:35

10 weeks ago33:35

33:35

It’s never too early to plan for your next adventure! In this episode, the Travel Mom Squad team looks ahead to 2025, sharing the trips we’ve already booked, the credit cards we’re eyeing, and our goals for the year. From Bora Bora to Spain, and everything in between, we’re setting the stage for another year of nearly free travel—powered by points and miles! The Cards We’re Excited About for 2025 Jess kicks things off with a breakdown of the credit cards she’s targeting, starting with the Capital One Spark Cash Plus and a high-value 80,000-mile Alaska Airlines personal card offer. Pam and Alex are also planning to go for the Capital One Spark Cash Plus, while Alex shares how she’s strategizing with Citi AAdvantage business cards to maximize welcome offers. The key takeaway? Timing matters when it comes to opening new cards and meeting bonus requirements. Trips We’ve Already Booked Between the three of us, we’ve got a packed itinerary for 2025! Highlights include: Jess: Birthday celebrations in San Miguel de Allende, spring break in Japan, and summer escapes to Iceland and Ireland. Alex: A Costa Rica adventure with her family, a Maui getaway, and a bucket-list trip to Bora Bora with her husband. Pam: A whirlwind journey through India, Nepal, and Bhutan, along with visits to Spain, Maui, and Bora Bora. We talk about how planning trips far in advance ensures award availability and allows us to secure premium travel experiences. Points and Miles Strategies for the Year Ahead One thing is clear: flexibility is crucial for success in the points and miles world. Alex shares how she’s keeping her plans open for potential limited-time offers, while Jess talks about balancing her earn-and-burn strategy to maximize the value of her points. Pam reflects on how having a solid points balance gives her the freedom to take spontaneous trips or splurge on luxury experiences. Make 2025 Your Best Travel Year Yet! If you’re ready to make 2025 the year of nearly free travel, tune in to this episode for inspiration and actionable tips. We also share a free masterclass on how to get your next vacation for nearly free, so be sure to check the show notes for the link. Let’s make this your best travel year yet! Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad How to Get Your Next Vacation for Nearly Free: https://travelmomsquad.lpages.co/freevacation How I Got Approved for the Capital One Spark Cash Plus: https://travelmomsquad.com/how-i-got-approved-for-the-capital-one-spark-cash-plus/ Episode Minute By Minute: 00:30 – Introduction: Looking ahead to 2025 01:00 – The credit cards we’re eyeing for 2025 11:00 – Our travel plans: Highlights from our booked trips 28:00 – Points strategies and staying flexible 31:00 – Points and miles goals for the year ahead 33:00 – How to make 2025 your best travel year yet…

Points Talk with the Travel Mom Squad

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110. The Best of 2024—Our Favorite Hotels, Flights, and Offers 41:14

11 weeks ago41:14

41:14

2024 was a year to remember! In this episode, we’re sharing our best of 2024 awards, from unforgettable hotel stays and flights to top credit card offers that helped us turn big dreams into reality. If you’ve ever wondered what points and miles can do, this episode will inspire you to dive in and start planning your own adventures. Pam’s Picks: Bougie Moments at the Grand Hotel Victoria and Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Pam shares her top hotel stays of the year, starting with a stay in Lake Como. This “lifestyle of the rich and famous” property left Pam feeling like royalty, even as she joked about rocking athleisure among designer outfits. Her other favorite? The Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi, where she enjoyed incredible January weather and a suite upgrade that made her feel like she was living in a dream. Alex’s Favorite Stay: Greece with a Twist Alex highlights her stay at Canaves Oia Suites in Santorini. The breathtaking views, private infinity pool, and authentic cave house design made it a “pinch me” experience. This trip reminded Alex why points and miles are so worth it—making unforgettable luxury accessible. Jess’s Overwater Villa Moment in Bora Bora Jess couldn’t top her Conrad Bora Bora stay this year, calling it a “pinch me” experience. From the overwater villa to stargazing on her private deck, Jess shared how she turned a $15,000 dream trip into a reality with Hilton points. Her takeaway? These moments are priceless, and points make them possible. Top Flights of the Year Pam’s favorite flight was on the luxurious Etihad Apartments, booked with Air Canada miles for just 65,000 points. Her first-class experience, complete with caviar service and a private suite, was a highlight of the year. Alex shared a special memory of flying business class on Singapore Airlines, while Jess raved about Turkish Airlines’ new A350 suite, complete with the best corn soup she’s ever had. The Best Credit Card Offers of 2024 The team also reviewed their favorite credit card offers of the year. Pam scored big with the Chase Freedom Unlimited. Alex loved the Chase Ink Business Preferred’s 120,000-point bonus, and Jess highlighted the Capital One Spark Cash Plus, which earned her 260,000 miles. Looking Ahead to 2025 As the episode wraps up, the team reflects on the incredible opportunities points and miles offered in 2024 and teases what’s to come in 2025. Whether you’re just getting started or already a pro, there are plenty of offers and strategies to help you plan your best year of travel yet. Want to Learn More? If you’re ready to start making memories like these, check out our free webinar, How to Get Your Next Vacation for Nearly Free. The link is in the show notes—don’t miss it! Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Episode Minute By Minute: 02:00 – Favorite hotel stays: Pam, Alex, and Jess share their picks 10:00 – Best flights: From Etihad Apartments to Turkish Airlines suites 22:00 – Top destinations: Portugal, Japan, and more 30:00 – Best credit card offers and strategies for 2024 39:30 – Looking ahead: What we’re excited about in 2025…

Points Talk with the Travel Mom Squad

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109. Our 2024 Points and Miles Recap—Cards We Opened, Closed, and the Trips We Took 40:21

12 weeks ago40:21

40:21

As 2024 comes to a close, the Travel Mom Squad is reflecting on an incredible year of points and miles. In this special episode, we’re breaking down the credit cards we opened and closed, the strategies we used to rack up points, and the unforgettable trips we took along the way. If you’re curious how points and miles can transform your travel, this episode is a must-listen! The Cards That Made 2024 Happen Jess, Alex, and Pam each opened (and closed) a variety of cards to maximize their points strategies. From Chase Ink cards to the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card, the team shares how they targeted cards with elevated welcome offers and leveraged creative strategies to earn millions of points. Lessons Learned From Closing and Downgrading Cards A major part of managing a points portfolio is knowing when to say goodbye. The team discusses their approach to closing and downgrading cards, emphasizing the importance of timing to avoid red flags. A Year of Incredible Travel From Bora Bora to the Italian Dolomites, 2024 was packed with bucket-list trips. Jess’s travel highlights included following Taylor Swift across the globe, visiting Tokyo, Scotland, and Santorini. Alex took her family on a trip to Amsterdam and London, and Pam reflected on her most cherished moments, from flying Etihad Apartments to enjoying three-generational family getaways. The best part? Nearly all of these adventures were made possible by points and miles. The Emotional Impact of Points and Miles Pam ends the episode on a heartfelt note, sharing how compiling her 2024 recap brought her to tears of gratitude. “This is something I never would have been able to do without credit card points and miles,” she says. The team agrees: this hobby is about so much more than just saving money. It’s about creating memories and opportunities that wouldn’t otherwise be possible. Looking Ahead to 2025 The Travel Mom Squad is already planning for another year of unforgettable travel, and this episode is full of inspiration for how you can start planning your own points-powered adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, the lessons and stories shared here will motivate you to dream bigger and travel smarter. Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad How I Got Approved for the Capital One Spark Cash Plus How to Get Your Next Vacation for Nearly Free Episode Minute By Minute: 00:30 – Reflecting on an amazing year of points and miles 01:15 – Cards opened in 2024 and how they shaped our strategies 15:00 – Closing and downgrading cards: Tips and lessons learned 25:00 – Highlights from Jess, Alex, and Pam’s 2024 trips 35:00 – The emotional impact of creating memories with points and miles 38:00 – What’s ahead for 2025 - what’s coming up next on the show!…

Points Talk with the Travel Mom Squad

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108. What Type of Points and Miles Traveler Are You? 28:55

13 weeks ago28:55

28:55

Ever wonder what kind of points and miles traveler you are? In this episode, the Travel Mom Squad dives into the different types of travelers and how your personal travel style can shape your points strategy. From planners to luxury travelers to earn-and-burn enthusiasts, we break down the styles that work best for different lifestyles and goals—and share what type of travelers we are, too! Alex: The Planner and Strategist Alex kicks things off by sharing how her style has evolved. As a planner, Alex focuses on specific trips she wants to take and chooses credit cards to make those trips happen. She balances planning with flexibility, chasing transferable points and limited-time offers that align with her travel goals. Her advice? Always keep the 5/24 rule in mind and prioritize cards that fit your long-term plans. Pam: The Type-A Luxury Traveler Pam describes herself as a “no-chill, Type-A overachiever” who loves the finer things in life. With over 5 million points and miles, Pam can book anything at a moment’s notice. Her strategy focuses on luxury—think first-class flights and five-star hotels. For those in a similar stage of life, Pam emphasizes making points work for you while enjoying the rewards of your hard-earned travel perks. Jess: The Earn-and-Burn Expert Jess takes a completely different approach: earning points quickly and redeeming them just as fast. “By the end of this year, I’ll have redeemed over a million Hyatt points,” she says. Jess avoids stockpiling points, knowing they devalue over time. Her philosophy? Use them while they’re at their peak value to create unforgettable family memories. Other Traveler Types and Strategies The Domestic Traveler: Focused on U.S. destinations, this traveler maximizes Chase Ultimate Rewards and co-branded hotel cards for family road trips or visiting relatives. The Road Tripper: Ideal for families who avoid flying, this strategy uses hotel cards like Hyatt or Marriott to save on stays during sports tournaments or weekend getaways. The Disney Fanatic: For those who visit Disneyland or Disney World annually, Capital One cards help erase ticket purchases and make magical trips more affordable. Your Travel Style, Your Strategy There’s no “right” way to approach points and miles. The best strategy is the one that fits your lifestyle and goals. As Pam puts it, “You do you!” Ready to Find Your Traveler Type? Tune in to the full episode to hear more about each style and figure out which one resonates with you. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned pro, this episode will help you refine your strategy and make the most of your points. Links: Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Episode Minute By Minute: 00:30 – Introduction: How your travel style shapes your points strategy 01:15 – Alex: The planner and how she prioritizes flexibility 10:08 – Pam: The luxury traveler with 5 million points 15:23 – Jess: The earn-and-burn approach to points 21:30 – Domestic travelers, road trippers, and other styles 27:55 – Takeaways: Why any strategy can work for your goals…

Points Talk with the Travel Mom Squad

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107. Meet the Team Behind Travel Mom Squad: Megan, Traci, and Claire! 56:52

14 weeks ago56:52

56:52

You’ve heard us share our travel stories and tips, but today we’re introducing you to three incredible women who help make Travel Mom Squad possible. Megan, Traci, and Claire aren’t just our teammates—they’re passionate travelers and moms with their own inspiring journeys in the world of points and miles. In this episode, we dive into how they got started, their favorite travel wins, and what keeps them motivated to help families travel better. Hit play to hear their stories! Megan: From Student to Digital Manager Megan is the glue that holds our team together, managing everything from card consultations to staying on top of the best credit card offers. A longtime points and miles enthusiast, Megan took her first points-funded trip to China in 2014, booking round-trip flights and two weeks of hotels for free! Fast forward to today, and she’s orchestrating epic family adventures, including a two-week trip to Hawaii and Australia. Her advice? Don’t be afraid to expand your plans. As Megan says, “We were already halfway to Australia, so why not go all the way?” Traci: The Fact-Checking Pro Traci’s role is all about keeping our blog and content accurate and compliant, but her travel experience is just as impressive. She’s been in the points and miles game for over a decade and even introduced Jess to this world! Traci shared highlights from her family’s DIY around-the-world trip, pieced together with points and miles. From art tours in Milan to a luxury cruise in Ha Long Bay, Traci’s travel philosophy is all about maximizing memories while balancing practicality. And yes, she admits economy ankles are real—but so is the joy of exploring new destinations! Claire: Building Memories with Birthday Trips As our Facebook community manager, Claire is a familiar face to anyone in our group. But did you know she started her points journey by buying Travel Mom Squad’s course for herself? Since then, Claire has turned family birthdays into opportunities for travel. Her next adventure? Taking her oldest to London and Paris for senior photos—a dream trip made possible with points. The Takeaway: Your Team, Your Inspiration What makes Travel Mom Squad special isn’t just the places we’ve been—it’s the team behind the scenes, working to help you unlock the magic of points and miles. Whether you’re new to points or a seasoned pro, this episode will inspire you to dream big, plan smart, and keep making memories with your family. Tune in now to hear their stories and start thinking about your next adventure! Links: Join Our FREE Webinar, Learn How To Travel Nearly Free! https://travelmomsquad.lpages.co/freevacation Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad Episode Minute By Minute: 01:15 – Megan’s role at TMS and how she got started with points and miles 07:00 – Megan’s most memorable family trip and how points made it possible 15:30 – Traci’s background in points and miles and her favorite travel style 22:45 – Traci’s incredible DIY around-the-world trip with her family 33:00 – Claire’s introduction: How she discovered TMS and her role as the Facebook community manager 41:00 – Claire’s approach to birthday trips and favorite points-based travel moments…

Points Talk with the Travel Mom Squad

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106. How to Get Free Global Entry and TSA PreCheck® for Your Family 31:51

15 weeks ago31:51