Point Me To First Class
Devon Gimbel MD
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books
20 snips
Jun 23, 2025 • 56min
121. Chase's New Business Card Just Dropped & The CSR Gets An Update—Here's Why We're Not Impressed
In this engaging discussion, Kelly K from The Points and Miles Doc shares her insights on the newly launched Chase business credit card and updates to the Chase Sapphire Reserve. The duo explores the disappointment surrounding the business card's lackluster offerings and how it compares to competitors like Amex and Capital One. They delve into the complexities of the Sapphire Reserve's increased fees and convoluted reward structure, urging listeners to evaluate the real benefits against their travel strategies and spending habits.
45 snips
Jun 16, 2025 • 1h 20min
120. The biggest surprises (and letdowns) of 2025 so far
In this discussion, Kelly, The Points and Miles Doc, a sought-after expert on credit card rewards and award travel, shares insights on 2025's major points and miles developments. They uncover notable devaluations and highlight standout programs like Alaska Airlines and Asia Miles. The conversation dives into the new Japan Airlines partnership, customer service's crucial role in financial products, and growing frustrations with major credit cards like Amex and Chase. Listeners will glean strategies to optimize their travel rewards and navigate the evolving landscape.
42 snips
Jun 9, 2025 • 29min
119. Alaska Airlines Sweet Spots: Amazing Ways to Use Alaska Miles (That You Might Be Missing)
Discover how to unlock the hidden value of Alaska Airlines miles for your travels! Explore unique award sweet spots both domestically and internationally. Learn strategic booking practices and uncover exclusive routes that will maximize your mileage. Don't miss out on tips for avoiding common pitfalls and enhancing your travel experience. Plus, get excited about an upcoming workshop designed to sharpen your booking skills!
72 snips
Jun 2, 2025 • 38min
118. Jet-Set with JAL: Bilt's Boldest Transfer Partner Yet
Join award travel strategist Ben Komenkul as he unveils the exciting new partnership between Bilt and Japan Airlines. Ben shares tips on maximizing travel rewards, revealing how to fly business class to Japan without breaking the bank. Discover the perks of JAL’s mileage program, including unique stopover allowances, and learn the ins and outs of point transfers. From regional flights to booking with partners like Emirates, this conversation is packed with strategies to unlock premium travel experiences. Ideal for those looking to elevate their travel game!
30 snips
May 26, 2025 • 27min
117. Making Smart Transfer Moves: When Speculative Points Transfers are Worth It (And When They're Not)
A major transfer pathway for points is closing soon, prompting discussions about whether to move Amex points to Alaska Airlines. Discover a personal strategy for evaluating speculative transfers with a 4-step framework. The episode dives deep into the implications of Hawaiian Airlines ending its partnership with Amex and how to make confident points transfer decisions, even without a specific booking in mind. Perfect for anyone navigating the changing landscape of award travel!
10 snips
May 19, 2025 • 25min
116. The Award Travel Trick Hiding in Plain Sight: Fifth Freedom Flights
Discover the hidden gem of fifth freedom flights, a unique airline route that can unlock exceptional award space and experiences. Learn how this often-overlooked option allows airlines to connect two foreign countries for incredible travel opportunities. Dive into the historical context of these flights and explore specific routes across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. Whether you're a frequent flyer or just planning your next trip, fifth freedom flights could be the secret to scoring better premium cabin tickets!
32 snips
May 12, 2025 • 44min
115. Rhythms, Routines, and REM: Expert Tips to Manage Jet Lag & Sleep Disruption While Crossing Time Zones
Leah Corkum and Marlee Boyle, co-founders of Sleep-Works, share expert insights on sleep health and strategies to combat jet lag. They discuss how travel disrupts sleep, the real causes of jet lag, and the pivotal roles of light exposure and sleep environment. Listeners learn practical tips for adjusting sleep schedules and using melatonin effectively. The duo also highlights the importance of sleep hygiene and offers techniques for ensuring restful nights, especially for children navigating time zone shifts.
51 snips
May 5, 2025 • 31min
114. Finally! Turning Your Mortgage into Points: How Mesa is Flipping the Script on Rewards
Kelley Halpin, CEO of Mesa, leads the conversation on an innovative credit card that rewards owners for their mortgage payments and major household expenses. She reveals how the Mesa card fills a significant gap in the rewards world, particularly for homeowners. Kelley discusses the card's unique ability to convert everyday spending into valuable points, highlighting its benefits for overlooked segments like single females. Plus, she dives into exciting future potential and partnerships that enhance the card's offerings.
23 snips
Apr 28, 2025 • 20min
113. 4 Ways to Maximize Points for Costco Spend (Without Overcomplicating It)
Discover how to supercharge your Costco shopping trips with strategic credit card usage. Learn four effortless ways to earn maximum points, whether you’re shopping in-store or online. The discussion highlights which cards work best and provides tips for using methods like Instacart. Find out how to align your spending habits with your points goals, making your shopping experience both rewarding and simple!
6 snips
Apr 21, 2025 • 15min
112. Best Ever or Big Mistake? 3 Steps to Evaluate if Best-Ever Welcome Offers are Right for You
Elevated credit card welcome bonuses can be tempting, but are they worth it? Discover how to evaluate offers like the Chase Sapphire Preferred’s 100,000 points. Learn three essential questions to ask before applying: Are you eligible? Does it fit your travel goals? What's the opportunity cost? This insightful discussion helps you avoid the allure of shiny bonuses and turn them into strategic advantages for your travel plans.
