Podcast
Points Talk®: Your Travel Dreams, Made Possible by Points
Hosted by Points Talk Squad · EN
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.
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!
If you're looking for even more Points Talk®, featuring the latest news in points, miles, and credit cards, behind-the-scenes insights, and a monthly Ask Us Anything episode—subscribe to Points Talk® Premium: https://pointstalk.supercast.com
11episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
192. Everything You Need to Know About Avios Points with Devon Gimbel
1w ago00:59:31Tap to summarizeWhat are Avios and why should you care about them? In this episode, the Points Talk Squad is joined by points expert Devon Gimbel of Point Me to First Class to break down everything you need to know about Avios. You'll learn how these points work, how to earn them, and why they can be such a valuable part of a points and miles strategy. Devon explains how Avios programs differ from other airline loyalty programs, how to transfer and use Avios across different programs, and strategies for finding valuable redemptions. She also shares common mistakes, how to think about award pricing, and ways to decide when Avios are the right choice for your travel goals. Whether you're new to Avios or looking to get more value from your points, this episode will help you understand how this unique points currency fits into your overall strategy. You'll learn how to approach earning and redeeming Avios so you can take advantage of more flight options when planning future trips. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: pointstalksquad.com/192 If you're looking for even more Points Talk®, featuring the latest news in points, miles, and credit cards, behind-the-scenes insights, and a monthly Ask Us Anything episode—subscribe to Points Talk® Premium: https://pointstalk.supercast.com/ Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: https://pointstalksquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/ Points Talk® is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@pointstalksquad Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/pointstalksquad
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191. Italy on Points: Jess's Family Trip to Lake Como and the Dolomites
2w ago00:40:31Tap to summarizeHow did Jess use points and miles to plan her family trip to Italy? In this episode, Jess shares how she planned a trip to Milan, Lake Como, and the Dolomites with her family. She walks through how she booked flights and accommodations using points, and the decisions she made to create an itinerary that worked for her group. Jess breaks down her strategy for booking flights, maximizing hotel benefits, and deciding when a vacation rental made more sense than traditional hotel stays. She also shares practical travel tips from the trip, including navigating Italy with a rental car, planning activities in the Dolomites, and how the region compares to Switzerland for families. You'll hear highlights from the trip, including memorable stays, challenging hikes, and how Jess used points strategically throughout the planning process. From deciding where to use points to choosing when to pay out of pocket, this episode shares practical ideas for planning international trips and making the most of your rewards. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: pointstalksquad.com/191 If you're looking for even more Points Talk®, featuring the latest news in points, miles, and credit cards, behind-the-scenes insights, and a monthly Ask Us Anything episode—subscribe to Points Talk® Premium: https://pointstalk.supercast.com/ Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: https://pointstalksquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/ Points Talk® is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@pointstalksquad Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/pointstalksquad
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190. Airline Co-Branded Credit Cards Deep Dive
3w ago00:47:12Tap to summarizeAre airline co-branded credit cards worth keeping alongside flexible points currencies? In this episode, Alex, Jess, and Pam break down the features, perks, and earning potential of popular airline cards, highlighting which ones deliver real value for different travel goals. The Squad compares rewards structures, sign-up offers, and annual fees across popular co-branded cards. They also cover how to leverage elite status, companion tickets, and provide practical guidance for deciding which cards are worth holding based on your travel priorities. After listening, you'll have a better sense of how co-branded cards can complement your flexible points currencies, which perks are genuinely valuable, and actionable strategies to get the most from your points and overall travel rewards. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: pointstalksquad.com/190 If you're looking for even more Points Talk®, featuring the latest news in points, miles, and credit cards, behind-the-scenes insights, and a monthly Ask Us Anything episode—subscribe to Points Talk® Premium: https://pointstalk.supercast.com/ Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: https://pointstalksquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/ Points Talk® is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@pointstalksquad Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/pointstalksquad
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189. Hyatt Changes & Devaluation: How Are Things Looking?
4w ago00:34:30Tap to summarizeWhat's changed in Hyatt's award chart and how is it affecting travelers? In this episode, the Points Talk Squad breaks down the recent Hyatt devaluation and what it means for points redemptions. You'll hear their first impressions of the program after the May 2026 changes and the key updates travelers need to know. The Squad walks through the practical impacts of the changes, including the new categories and which award nights have shifted. They also discuss their thoughts on potential future adjustments, and how to make the most of your points with the new award chart, and whether maintaining Globalist status is still worth it By the end of this episode, you'll understand the key changes in Hyatt's program, how the devaluation might affect your upcoming travel, and tips for navigating award redemptions going forward. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: pointstalksquad.com/189 If you're looking for even more Points Talk®, featuring the latest news in points, miles, and credit cards, behind-the-scenes insights, and a monthly Ask Us Anything episode—subscribe to Points Talk® Premium: https://pointstalk.supercast.com/ Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: https://pointstalksquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/ Points Talk® is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@pointstalksquad Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/pointstalksquad
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188. Traveling to Portugal with Points: Alex's Family Trip to Lisbon & the Algarve
Jul 700:49:27Tap to summarizeHow did Alex use points and miles to save on her family's summer trip to Portugal? In this episode, Alex walks through her trip to Lisbon and the Algarve with her family of six, sharing how she booked flights and hotels using points, what worked well, and the experiences that stood out most. Alex explains the strategies she used for maximizing points, navigating award bookings, and selecting accommodations that fit her family. She highlights what surprised her about traveling to Lisbon and the Algarve, including moments that made the trip enjoyable for both adults and kids. You'll also hear about the family's stop in Boston along the way and Pam's favorite highlights. By the end of this episode, you will understand how to plan a family trip to Portugal using points, practical strategies for booking award travel, and tips Alex relied on to maximize her points and miles for her family of six. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: pointstalksquad.com/188 If you're looking for even more Points Talk®, featuring the latest news in points, miles, and credit cards, behind-the-scenes insights, and a monthly Ask Us Anything episode—subscribe to Points Talk® Premium: https://pointstalk.supercast.com/ Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: https://pointstalksquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/ Points Talk® is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@pointstalksquad Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/pointstalksquad
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187. Mid-Year Check-In: Points and Miles Changes
Jun 3000:29:54Tap to summarizeWhat do you need to know about points and miles changes now that we are halfway through the year? In this episode, the Points Talk Squad walks through the most important updates, what these changes mean for your strategy, and how to make the most of your points in 2026. The Squad also dives into practical examples of how these mid-year changes can affect your travel plans and loyalty programs. They cover updates across popular credit card, hotel, and airline rewards programs, including tweaks to earning rates, new categories, and adjustments to redemption options. By the end of this episode, you will have a clear picture of what's changed in your points and miles programs, tips for adjusting your earning strategies, and insight into which updates may impact your travel and reward redemptions. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: pointstalksquad.com/187 If you're looking for even more Points Talk®, featuring the latest news in points, miles, and credit cards, behind-the-scenes insights, and a monthly Ask Us Anything episode—subscribe to Points Talk® Premium: https://pointstalk.supercast.com/ Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: https://pointstalksquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/ Points Talk® is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@pointstalksquad Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/pointstalksquad
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186. Three New Welcome Offers: Which One Is Best for You?
Jun 2300:24:11Tap to summarizeAre you trying to decide which new Chase credit card offer is the best fit for you? In this episode, the Points Talk Squad breaks down three new elevated welcome offers currently available, including a rare opportunity to earn 100,000 of their favorite points. The Squad dives into the earning potential, statement credits, bonus categories, and perks of each card. They compare the offers to show how small differences can affect long-term value and share tips for maximizing rewards when evaluating multiple offers. They also explore which offers might be the best fit based on your goals, spending habits, and priorities. By the end of the episode, you will have a clear understanding of how to evaluate these three new Chase credit card offers, strategies for deciding which card fits best for your wallet and lifestyle, and practical guidance for making the most of the points, perks, and credits available. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: pointstalksquad.com/186 If you're looking for even more Points Talk®, featuring the latest news in points, miles, and credit cards, behind-the-scenes insights, and a monthly Ask Us Anything episode—subscribe to Points Talk® Premium: https://pointstalk.supercast.com/ Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: https://pointstalksquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/ Points Talk® is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@pointstalksquad Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/pointstalksquad
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185. Unpopular Credit Card Benefits We Actually Love
Jun 1600:51:37Tap to summarizeAre you tired of high annual fees, confusing credits, and benefits you never actually use? In this episode, the Points Talk Squad breaks down credit card benefits that fly under the radar but can deliver real value. Alex, Jess, and Pam share the overlooked perks they actually use, as well as the benefits they think could be removed or improved. The Squad dives into specific examples, showing how even small or uncommon perks can add up. They discuss their wishlists for dream benefits, explain how to track and use credits effectively, and share creative ways to make the more challenging or complex credits actually deliver value in real-world situations. By the end of the episode, you will have a clear understanding of which credit card benefits are genuinely valuable, practical strategies for maximizing the perks you already have, and insight into the features that are most worth pursuing for your own wallet. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: pointstalksquad.com/185 If you're looking for even more Points Talk®, featuring the latest news in points, miles, and credit cards, behind-the-scenes insights, and a monthly Ask Us Anything episode—subscribe to Points Talk® Premium: https://pointstalk.supercast.com/ Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: https://pointstalksquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/ Points Talk® is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@pointstalksquad Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/pointstalksquad
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184. The Best Online Shopping Portals: Stop Leaving Points on the Table
Jun 900:39:43Tap to summarizeAre you getting all the points you could when shopping online? In this episode, the Points Talk Squad breaks down how to use online shopping portals to earn more rewards, including tips for popular portals like Rakuten. They also explain how tools like Savewise can alert you to points and cashback opportunities, so you never miss out. The Squad walks through strategies for shopping smarter, including timing purchases, stacking offers, and comparing portals to see which gives the best rewards. You'll also learn the differences between earning points and cashback and how to decide which approach makes the most sense depending on your purchases and goals. You'll hear real-world examples of potential earnings from shopping portals, common pitfalls to avoid, and how to identify the best opportunities without feeling overwhelmed. By the end of the episode, you'll have practical takeaways for using portals efficiently and making the most of every online purchase. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: pointstalksquad.com/184 If you're looking for even more Points Talk®, featuring the latest news in points, miles, and credit cards, behind-the-scenes insights, and a monthly Ask Us Anything episode—subscribe to Points Talk® Premium: https://pointstalk.supercast.com/ Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: https://pointstalksquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/ Points Talk® is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@pointstalksquad Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/pointstalksquad
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183. Travel Insurance and What to Do When Travel Goes Wrong with Lisa Jarvis
Jun 200:47:49Tap to summarizeClarification from guest Lisa @chasingmemories.co: When using a credit card like the Chase Sapphire for trip cancellation/interruption benefits, the card generally reimburses only the nonrefundable portion of your trip that you actually charged to that card — not your full trip cost. Booking part of your trip on the card may make you eligible for the benefit, but coverage is limited to what was charged. Confirm the amount you're relying on is actually covered. Please note: credit card policies and benefits can change at any time. Always refer to your card's current Guide to Benefits for the most up-to-date information. What happens if your flight gets canceled, your luggage disappears, or you need medical care in another country? In this episode, the Points Talk Squad is joined by Lisa Jarvis, who specializes in travel insurance, passenger rights, and travel safety. Together, they break down what travelers actually need to know about travel insurance and credit card coverage before something goes wrong. Lisa shares how travel insurance works alongside credit card travel protections, including what is and is not typically covered when booking trips with points and miles. They also discuss travel mishaps, including lost luggage, medical emergencies abroad, long flight delays, and how passenger rights can sometimes help travelers recover costs after major disruptions. You'll hear practical tips for choosing travel insurance, understanding what your credit cards actually cover, and knowing what steps to take when travel plans go sideways. Whether you travel a few times a year or book frequent award trips, this episode will help you feel more prepared and confident the next time something unexpected happens while traveling. You can find links to resources mentioned in this episode plus the transcript here: pointstalksquad.com/183 If you're looking for even more Points Talk®, featuring the latest news in points, miles, and credit cards, behind-the-scenes insights, and a monthly Ask Us Anything episode—subscribe to Points Talk® Premium: https://pointstalk.supercast.com/ Ready to get started with NEARLY FREE travel? Click here for the exact offers we would sign up for this month: https://pointstalksquad.lpages.co/bestoffers/ Points Talk® is also on YouTube! You can watch this episode here: youtube.com/@pointstalksquad Let us know what you want to hear on the podcast by sending us a DM on Instagram: instagram.com/pointstalksquad
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