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
10 snips
Aug 11, 2025 • 36min
128. The New Citi Strata Elite: Game Changer or Missed Opportunity?
Dive into the intriguing world of the Citi Strata Elite Card, featuring an 80,000-point welcome bonus and unique dining perks. The discussion reveals how its non-category earning compares to other cards and the true value of various credits like Blacklane and Splurge. Plus, explore the pros and cons of lounge access with American Airlines and why points expiration rules could impact your decision. Discover whether this card is a game changer or just another option in a crowded market.
21 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 48min
127. Lounge Access Update: Credit Card Changes, Perks & Picks with Traci Siegel
In this chat with Traci Siegel, an expert on credit card rewards, listeners dive into the latest changes in airport lounge access for 2025. Traci breaks down new restrictions and highlights the best cards for lounge access, including family-friendly options and premium choices. She emphasizes tailoring your card selection to fit your travel style and offers practical tips for navigating popular lounge programs. Plus, get insights on co-branded cards and the Chase Ritz Carlton's unique benefits—perfect for travelers looking to make the most of their airport experience!
17 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 55min
126. How Much Is a Point Really Worth? A Deep Dive with Frequent Miler’s Greg Davis-Kean
Greg Davis-Kean, a frequent traveler and expert from Frequent Miler, shares his insights on the true worth of travel points and miles. He discusses how to strategically evaluate point redemptions and the psychology behind redemption pressure. Listeners learn when to redeem versus when to wait for better opportunities, plus tips on maximizing hotel loyalty programs and transferable credit card points. Davis-Kean also highlights recent changes, like Chase's points boost feature, and provides guidance on navigating award travel effectively.
9 snips
Jul 21, 2025 • 59min
125. Maximizing the Citi Ecosystem with Dr. Suzy Spadafora
Dr. Suzy Spadafora, a points and miles enthusiast, dives into the often-overlooked Citi points ecosystem. She demystifies the unique advantages of Citi cards compared to competitors, discussing their transfer partners and earning potential. The conversation highlights strategies for maximizing rewards, including booking unique hotel stays and premium cabin travel to Asia. Suzy shares personal experiences and practical tips that make navigating Citi’s complex points landscape a rewarding adventure for both novice and seasoned travelers.
14 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 42min
124. Mid-Year Points Update: What I Burned, Booked & Learned
Discover the incredible possibilities of travel points! The host shares how they booked five international trips in 2025, saving over $150,000. Hear about the memorable experiences flying Emirates First Class and ANA 'The Suite.' Learn key strategies for maximizing points value and tips on flexible travel dates. The highs and lows of each journey are explored, along with insights into award flight booking intricacies. Whether you're planning family trips or dreaming of luxurious getaways, there's plenty of valuable advice for your next adventure!
Jul 7, 2025 • 33min
123. Using Real Estate Spending to Maximize Credit Card Points with Jaina Pallasigui
Join Jaina Pallasigui, a public health professional turned real estate investor, as she reveals how to turn your real estate expenses into unforgettable travel experiences. Discover her strategies for managing short-term rentals, leveraging big-ticket renovations, and using insurance reimbursements to rack up credit card points. Jaina also highlights common pitfalls to avoid and shares insights on blending passive and active investment strategies. Whether you're a seasoned investor or simply looking to maximize spending, her tips are sure to inspire.
53 snips
Jun 30, 2025 • 1h 10min
122. Listener Q&A: Adding a Third Points Currency, Booking Emirates First, and Points Regret
Dive into the world of credit card points and travel strategies! Discover whether adding a third currency to your rewards portfolio is worth it. Get practical tips on reallocation of credit lines and maximizing rewards from premium airline bookings. The hosts tackle listener challenges, including overcoming buyer's remorse and optimizing cash back cards. Expect real answers that empower your points decisions, paired with honest insights that clarify the sometimes confusing landscape of travel rewards!
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.
30 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.
33 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!
