Point Me To First Class

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!

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!

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!

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!

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.

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.

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!

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.

Chris Hutchins, the savvy host of All the Hacks, shares his extensive knowledge on optimizing life, travel, and finances. He reveals clever strategies for maximizing credit card rewards and transforming money into a tool for purpose. Tune in as he discusses the art of reducing decision fatigue and enhancing travel experiences, all while keeping the focus on joy and efficiency. Chris also dives into unique financial strategies, like purchasing gold bars at Costco, while emphasizing the importance of digital security and privacy.

In this engaging conversation, tax payment expert Dr. Sujatha Murali shares her wealth of knowledge on navigating the changing landscape of credit card payments for taxes. With a keen focus on 2025 updates, she reveals strategies to maximize rewards and minimize fees. Listeners learn the best types of cards to use, smart PayPal practices, and how to turn tax expenses into valuable points for travel. Whether it's $5K or $50K, Dr. Murali equips you with essential tips to save big and roam the world in style!