Have you ever had a travel day that felt almost too good to be true or one that completely fell apart before you even left the airport? In this episode, Alex, Jess, and Pam share their best and worst travel days and the moments that made those experiences so memorable for very different reasons. They reflect on standout travel days that still rank as favorites, including premium cabin flights, last-minute upgrades, and trips where everything came together seamlessly. The conversation also covers...
Feb 10, 2026•50 min
How are you navigating the new rules for airport lounge access? With major changes impacting families in 2026, this episode breaks down what you need to know about the evolving lounge access landscape. The removal of free guest access and the introduction of fees for authorized users could significantly affect your travel experience. While the loss of free guest access is a tough pill to swallow, there are still options to make the most of your lounge access. In this episode, we explore which ca...
Feb 03, 2026•45 min
Do you feel overwhelmed by the constant changes in the points and miles world? In this episode, we break down everything that happened in 2025, from exciting new card releases to some challenging policy changes. Whether you're feeling discouraged by the negative headlines or wondering if this hobby is still worth it, we're here to reassure you that there are still plenty of opportunities to earn points and travel nearly free. We'll share our personal experiences with the good, the bad, and the u...
Jan 27, 2026•39 min
How do you decide which credit cards actually earn a permanent spot in your wallet? In this episode, Alex, Pam, and Jess break down the cards they plan to carry daily in 2026 and the thinking behind those choices. Instead of chasing every new offer, they focus on what truly supports their real-life spending, travel habits, and priorities. The Squad walks through the factors that matter most when choosing everyday cards, like whether they are working on minimum spend, earning flexible rewards, or...
Jan 20, 2026•33 min
Do you get overwhelmed booking award travel, especially business class flights? In this episode, Alex and Jess are joined by Gunnar Olson and Kyle Potter from Thrifty Traveler to talk through what really goes into finding great award opportunities. They share how they each got started with points and miles, how they approach finding strong redemptions today, and how deal alerts can support trip planning without requiring you to constantly search on your own. The conversation explores the types o...
Jan 13, 2026•54 min
How did Alex, Pam, and Jess go from confusion about points and miles to becoming the Points Talk Squad? In this episode, they each share their personal journeys into the world of award travel. From initial curiosity to their first unforgettable trips, they discuss how discovering points and miles changed the way they travel. You'll hear how each of them navigated the learning curve, discovered the thrill of maximizing rewards, and shaped their travel experiences in a new way. Listen in for their...
Jan 06, 2026•41 min
What are your travel plans for 2026, and how are you using points and miles to make them happen? In this episode, Alex, Pam, and Jess share their exciting plans for the upcoming year. From safaris in Tanzania to river cruises in France, they break down how they're using credit card rewards to book these dream trips and maximize their points. The Squad dives into their strategies for the year, discussing the cards they plan to open and which ones they'll be canceling. You'll also hear about their...
Dec 30, 2025•47 min
What were the highlights this year for award travel for the Points Talk Squad? In this episode, Alex, Pam, and Jess take you through their year of points and miles. The Squad walks through their card openings, closures, and the strategies they used to earn millions of points . They also share how they used those points for family vacations, girls' trips, and more. From Bora Bora to Iceland to Japan, the Squad discusses the destinations they traveled to and how they turned their points into memor...
Dec 23, 2025•41 min
What should you consider when choosing between Disney's newest Wish class ships? In this episode, Alex and Jess are joined by Megan to continue their comparison of the Disney Wish, Disney Treasure , and Disney Destiny . After sharing first impressions in part one, they now dive into the experiences that shape your trip once you're onboard, from pool decks and waterslides to room locations, ship layouts, and how the itineraries differ. You will also learn about Disney Cruise pricing, how to plan ...
Dec 16, 2025•44 min
What should you expect when you step onto Disney's newest Wish class ships for the very first time? In this episode, Alex and Jess are joined by Megan to compare their recent sailings on the Disney Wish, Disney Treasure, and Disney Destiny. They share their first impressions of each ship and explore how the theming, atmosphere, and design shape the experience from the moment you enter the grand hall. They highlight the major elements that stood out during their sailings, including the overall vi...
Dec 09, 2025•54 min
Have you ever wondered whether it is easier to travel with toddlers or teens when you are using points and miles to explore the world as a family? In this episode, Alex and Jess are joined by Traci as they share what they have learned from years of traveling with kids at every age. They talk honestly about the joys and challenges that come with each stage, from managing nap schedules to giving older kids more independence on the road. You will hear real stories about tantrums in beautiful places...
Dec 02, 2025•49 min
Is Marriott Bonvoy® the secret to luxury hotel stays , or just another confusing points program? In this episode, Alex and Pam break down how to earn, redeem, and maximize Marriott Bonvoy® points. They simplify the complex credit card options and eligibility rules, covering strategies for earning points, using free-night certificates, and enjoying luxury hotel stays. Alex and Pam walk through each Marriott credit card option, explaining the value of free-night certificates and why they often pro...
Nov 25, 2025•47 min
Have you used all your card credits and perks before the year ends? With the holidays approaching and schedules getting busier, it's easy to forget about valuable benefits waiting to be redeemed. From shopping and dining credits to free night certificates and travel perks, there's still time to make sure nothing goes unused. In this episode, Alex, Pam, and Jess walk through an end-of-year checklist to help you review the benefits and rewards that often expire on December 31. They share strategie...
Nov 18, 2025•37 min
This short bonus episode comes with an important update from the Squad. After an unexpected curveball and a lot of behind-the-scenes work, Alex, Pam, and Jess share what's been happening and why this moment marks the start of a new chapter. You'll hear why they made this decision, what it means for the podcast and the community, and what isn't changing as they move forward. Press play to hear the full story and the official announcement. You can find the updated Points Talk Squad website here: p...
Nov 17, 2025•11 min
Do you need help planning a girls' trip that feels luxurious but doesn't drain your wallet or your points balance? Whether you picture spa days in the desert, shopping weekends in big cities, or a European escape filled with good food and laughter, The Points Talk Squad shares their favorite types of getaways and how to make them happen using points and miles. In this episode, Alex, Pam, and Jess talk about how they plan and book their own girls' trips, from choosing destinations and coordinatin...
Nov 11, 2025•54 min
Have you ever wondered if it's actually possible to visit Switzerland without spending a fortune? From business-class flights booked on points to scenic train rides through the Alps, Jess shares how she planned a stunning mother-daughter trip that balanced comfort, adventure, and strategy in one unforgettable experience. In this episode, she breaks down how she used points and miles for flights and hotels, navigated Switzerland's complex train and cable car system, and found smart ways to save o...
Nov 04, 2025•47 min
Have you ever wondered what it's really like to experience Morocco - including the medinas, the desert, and the Blue City - all in one trip? From camel rides in the Sahara to wandering the alleyways of Fez, this trip was all about embracing adventure, culture, and connection in one unforgettable journey. In this episode, Alex and Pam share how they explored Morocco on a whirlwind girls' trip using a mix of points, miles, and cash. Listen in to learn how to plan your own Moroccan adventure, from ...
Oct 28, 2025•57 min
Are premium credit cards really worth their steep annual fees? In this follow-up to last week's episode, The Travel Mom Squad digs into the true value behind four of the most popular premium cards. They look beyond the price tags to compare how these cards perform when you factor in credits, perks, and everyday usability. From easy-to-redeem travel credits to lifestyle benefits that require more effort, the Squad breaks down how to calculate whether a card earns its place in your wallet long-ter...
Oct 21, 2025•35 min
Which premium credit card is really worth it for your travel style and spending habits? In this episode, the Travel Mom Squad put four of the top-tier cards head-to-head. They break down the American Express Platinum Card®, Capital One Venture X, Chase Sapphire Reserve®, and the brand-new Citi Strata Elite℠, exploring the earning potential, perks, and lifestyle benefits of each to help you evaluate which one fits your wallet best. Alex, Jess, and Pam walk you through the differences in earning p...
Oct 14, 2025•44 min
Short getaways don't have to be stressful or require a full week off . In this episode, the Travel Mom Squad explores the world of micro-trips : perfectly sized escapes that deliver maximum value and relaxation. Alex, Jess, and Pam share their experiences planning and enjoying these quick getaways, from domestic city breaks to international trips, and show how even a few nights can feel like a meaningful vacation. You will hear which destinations work best for micro-trips based on your location,...
Oct 07, 2025•30 min
The world of points and miles can feel overwhelming when everyone has an opinion on the "right" way to do things. In this episode, the Travel Mom Squad break down common travel rewards advice and show why it doesn't always apply to every traveler. From what counts as smart redemptions to how to prioritize your points, they give you permission to ignore the rules and focus on what works for your own goals. Throughout the episode, the Squad shares examples from their own travel experiences. If you...
Sep 30, 2025•31 min
Does a getaway to a wellness resort seem like an unattainable luxury ? Alex and Jess recently stayed at Miraval Arizona. In this episode, they're sharing their experience from booking their flights and room to their favorite activities, and everything in between. While Miraval is known for its premium wellness experience, they're here to show you how it can be more accessible, especially when booking with points. They'll also give you the honest rundown on the resort's all-inclusive offerings, t...
Sep 23, 2025•41 min
Which credit card would you choose if you could only pick one from each major bank? In this episode, the Travel Mom Squad shares their top picks and explains why each card works best for their individual travel habits, home airports, and spending priorities. While there isn't a single right answer for everyone, their discussion gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how they approach selecting cards for real-world travel. The Squad debates and compares cards across categories, weighing benefits, ...
Sep 16, 2025•45 min
Ever wondered how you can fly someone for free on all your Southwest® flights for the next year or two? The Southwest® Companion Pass® is one of the most valuable perks in travel rewards, especially for families who travel frequently. It allows a companion to fly with you for just taxes and fees, giving you the chance to maximize your trips without extra cost . With recent changes to Southwest® credit cards and policies, knowing how to earn and use the pass effectively is key. The Travel Mom Squ...
Sep 09, 2025•34 min
Are you feeling overwhelmed about planning your first international trip? From excitement about exploring a new destination to concerns about currency exchanges, language barriers, and navigating unfamiliar transportation systems, there's a lot to consider. But whether you're a first-time traveler or a seasoned domestic traveler, the good news is that with a little preparation, international travel can be far less intimidating than it seems. In this episode, the Travel Mom Squad breaks down the ...
Sep 02, 2025•45 min
Do you struggle to find hotel rooms in Europe that can accommodate your entire family? Many European hotels limit occupancy to just two guests per room , leaving families either piecing together multiple bookings or endlessly searching for those rare properties that actually sleep f our or more . And because of strict occupancy rules, you can't just show up with extra kids and hope for the best — some hotels will turn you away at check-in. Today, Traci joins Alex and Jess to share her extensive ...
Aug 26, 2025•50 min
Are Chase Ultimate Rewards® still the best points for travel? The Travel Mom Squad certainly thinks so. These points offer unmatched flexibility and value, making them a cornerstone of any serious travel rewards strategy . With recent changes to Chase's offerings, this episode is your guide to the essential updates in 2025. In this episode, the Squad dives into why Chase Ultimate Rewards® remain their top choice and breaks down all the cards that earn them. From the revamped Chase Sapphire Reser...
Aug 19, 2025•39 min
Overwater bungalows in Bora Bora might seem like a once-in-a-lifetime splurge, but what if you could experience it more than once? The crystal-clear lagoons and breathtaking Polynesian sunsets are even sweeter when you know how to make this dream destination a reality without breaking the bank. Points and miles turn this exclusive getaway into a repeatable experience, without the steep price tag . This week, Alex, Pam, and Jess share their second trips to the Conrad Bora Bora. From positioning f...
Aug 12, 2025•1 hr 7 min
No one loves the annual fees of credit cards, but what if they could save you hundreds on travel? Free-night certificates are one of the most valuable perks you can earn from hotel credit cards, and with the right strategy, they can easily pay for themselves year after year. While many travelers cancel their cards after claiming the welcome bonus, the savvy few know that some cards deliver ongoing value, thanks to these certificates. In this episode, the Travel Mom Squad breaks down how hotel fr...
Aug 05, 2025•48 min
Dragging multiple suitcases through cobblestone streets in Europe while trying to catch a train is the moment many travelers realize they've packed too much. The struggle of navigating airports with excessive luggage, waiting at baggage claim, and worrying about lost bags can turn what should be an exciting journey into a stressful ordeal. The Squad has mastered the art of traveling with just a carry-on, even on trips lasting two weeks or more . In this episode, they share their tested strategie...
Jul 29, 2025•49 min
