213. How to Travel More (and WELL) in 2025 with Brian Kelly aka The Points Guy

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Feb 10, 2025

Brian Kelly, founder of The Points Guy, transforms finance and travel into rewards for millions. He shares insights on the evolution of travel rewards and tips for selecting credit cards that maximize points. Personal stories reveal his journey from a corporate path to travel entrepreneurship, while practical advice covers family travel strategies and overcoming flight anxiety. Kelly emphasizes the importance of booking directly with airlines and offers innovative techniques for navigating jet lag, making travel both enjoyable and financially savvy.

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ANECDOTE

TPG Origin Story

Brian Kelly started The Points Guy blog in 2010 while working a stressful job at Morgan Stanley during the 2008 financial crisis.
He traveled luxuriously using points, despite being cash-poor, even flying with Madonna once.

ADVICE

Points for Everyone

Accumulating credit card points is achievable for average people, even without extensive business travel.
Banks offer various cards with signup bonuses and rewards for everyday spending.

ADVICE

Maximize Everyday Spending

Use credit cards for everyday expenses like groceries and rent to maximize points earned.
Credit cards also offer purchase protection and other valuable perks.

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Today’s guest probably needs no introduction, because I’m sure you’ve heard of him. The Points Guy, aka Brian Kelly, is joining us live in studio to talk about how he transformed his love for travel and financial management into a platform that helps millions of people around the world. We dive into everything from how reward programs have evolved over the years to the big changes the travel industry has seen since 2010.

In this interview he shares personal stories—especially how he navigated the stress of the 2008 financial crisis—and tons of practical tips for anyone looking to choose the right travel credit cards and maximize points and miles. We also cover common travel challenges like jet lag and flying with kids (something I know many of us have struggled with!).

Beyond that, we chat about how to be strategic with your travel bookings, why booking directly through the airline can often be better than using OTAs, and why travel insurance is such a lifesaver. If you’re hoping to get more bang for your buck (or points) the next time you take a trip, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!

Special thanks to Spotify for letting us film this episode in their Spotify Studios in NYC!

Brian’s Links:

Website: https://thepointsguy.com/

How to Win at Travel: https://thepointsguy.com/book/

Get our credit card recommendations: https://herfirst100k.com/money-tools

Read transcripts, learn more about our guests and sponsors, and get more resources at https://herfirst100k.com/financial-feminist-show-notes/213-how-to-travel-more-and-well-in-2025-with-brian-kelly-aka-the-points-guy/

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