Have you been wondering what’s really happening in the world of credit card points and award travel this year?

In this episode, I’m joined by Kelly, The Points and Miles Doc to break down the biggest shifts in 2025 so far. From major devaluations to standout sweet spots, we’re giving you an honest look at what’s working now—and what’s not. We also dive into how international programs are outperforming U.S.-based ones, which transfer partnerships are showing real value, and why flexibility is more important than ever.

Whether you’ve been feeling excited by the new opportunities or frustrated by unexpected roadblocks, this conversation will help you reset your strategy for the second half of the year and beyond.

Want more help using your Alaska miles wisely?

Join me for a live workshop on June 21st at 10am CDT where I’ll walk you through the best Alaska Airlines sweet spots and the tools I use to find them fast—so you can stop second-guessing and start booking. Click here to save your spot - https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/offers/g9uBpeJK

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/mid-year-award-travel-review-2025/

Want to shape the show? Take the Point Me To First Class listener survey and share what you love and want more of! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeAPfb3wIaphMn_NoQzm_fljydsivTELQwh7pYoxrI2uTFoKQ/viewform?usp=header

Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course waitlist here: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

Have Alaska miles—or thinking of transferring your Amex points before the June 30 deadline?

In this episode, I’m breaking down some of the most valuable ways to redeem Alaska Airlines miles right now. From low-cost domestic redemptions to hard-to-find international business class flights, this guide walks you through the sweet spots that make Alaska’s program one of the most valuable in points travel.

You’ll also learn what not to do with your Alaska miles (even if it looks like a good deal), plus a few rare redemptions that are great in theory—but nearly impossible to actually book.

Whether you already have Alaska miles or you're considering a speculative transfer, this episode will help you use those points with confidence and strategy.

Want more help using your Alaska miles wisely?

Join me for a live workshop on June 21st at 10am CDT where I’ll walk you through the best Alaska Airlines sweet spots and the tools I use to find them fast—so you can stop second-guessing and start booking. Click here to reserve your spot - https://points.pointmetofirstclass.com/offers/g9uBpeJK

Want to shape the show? Take the Point Me To First Class listener survey and share what you love and want more of! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeAPfb3wIaphMn_NoQzm_fljydsivTELQwh7pYoxrI2uTFoKQ/viewform?usp=header

Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course waitlist here: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy

Have you ever dreamed of flying to Japan in business class—without paying out of pocket? Bilt just made that a lot easier.

In this episode, I’m joined by award travel strategist Ben Komenkul to talk about the newest (and most exciting) Bilt Rewards transfer partner: Japan Airlines. This partnership opens the door to premium flights across Asia and around the world—and it’s not just for those planning a trip to Tokyo.

Ben and I walk through everything from low-cost regional flights and lie-flat business class options to more advanced redemptions like partner bookings with Emirates or Korean Air. We also share the biggest tips and pitfalls to know before transferring your Bilt points, including how to avoid JAL’s 60-day award booking delay and why their mileage expiration policy might not work for everyone.

If you’ve been curious about using Bilt points—or want to understand when this program can unlock premium cabin value—this is a must-listen.

Get full show notes and transcript: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/book-japan-airlines-with-bilt-rewards/

Want to shape the show? Take the Point Me To First Class listener survey and share what you love and want more of! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeAPfb3wIaphMn_NoQzm_fljydsivTELQwh7pYoxrI2uTFoKQ/viewform?usp=header

Eager to learn the secrets of award travel so that you can turn your expenses into unforgettable experiences? Join the Points Made Easy course waitlist here: https://pointmetofirstclass.com/pointsmadeeasy