Points Too Paradise

Megan Lanford
  • 4.6 (12)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to Points Too Paradise, the podcast that shows you how to turn your everyday spending into unforgettable vacations—all using credit card points and travel rewards! Hosted by Megan Lanford, a travel points expert and mom who went from barely affording one vacation a year to taking six+ luxury trips annually—saving over $20,000 a year on travel. In each episode, you’ll get insider travel tips, credit card strategies, and real-life redemption hacks to help you: -Earn free flights and hotel stays with points & miles - Find the best travel credit cards for your lifestyle - Unlock first-class upgrades & VIP experiences - Plan bucket-list trips without breaking the bank Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned points pro, Points Too Paradise will teach you how to maximize your rewards, travel more, and spend less. Ready to start booking your dream vacations for (nearly) free? Subscribe now and let’s turn your points into paradise!

  1. 5D AGO

    Destination Day: Sedona, AZ — A Luxury Stay at Enchantment Resort

    Have you ever visited a place that immediately makes you slow down, breathe deeper, and feel completely present? That’s exactly what Sedona, Arizona did for us—especially while staying at the stunning Enchantment Resort. In this Destination Day episode, I’m taking you inside one of the most magical red-rock destinations in the U.S. and sharing what it’s really like to stay at Enchantment, a luxury resort tucked into Boynton Canyon. From jaw-dropping views to peaceful desert energy, this trip was equal parts rest, adventure, and luxury—and yes, we used points to make it happen. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a wellness-focused escape, or a family trip that still feels elevated, this episode will help you decide if Sedona (and Enchantment) belongs on your travel bucket list. In this episode, you’ll hear: What makes Enchantment Resort so special (location, vibes, and amenities)Who this resort is best for: couples, families, or solo travelersWhat we did in Sedona beyond the resort (easy adventures + relaxation)This episode is perfect if you love: Luxury resorts with nature viewsUnique U.S. destinations that feel otherworldlyWellness, hiking, and slow travelResources: Travel Points Academy – Learn my full step-by-step system for earning and using points Best Credit Card Offers Right Now- Take a look at all the card offers to find your next card Follow Along on Instagram

    18 min

  2. 12/23/2025

    How Many Points Do You Actually Need for Luxury Hotels?

    Luxury hotels look incredible online… but when it comes to points, most people are left wondering: How many points do I really need to stay there? In this episode, I’m breaking down the real numbers behind luxury hotel stays on points — without the overwhelm. We’re talking actual ranges, real examples, and the biggest mistakes I see people make when trying to book elevated hotels with their points. If you’ve ever thought: “I probably don’t have enough points”“Luxury hotels must take millions of points”“I’ll just save my points for flights instead”This episode will completely change how you think about hotel redemptions. In this episode, you’ll learn: What “luxury” actually means in the world of points (and what it doesn’t)Why cash price and point price rarely tell the same storyHow many points luxury hotels typically cost per nightReal Hyatt luxury hotel examples and why Hyatt is a favorite for points usersReal Marriott luxury hotel examples — and when they make senseHow to book luxury hotels without hotel-specific pointsYou don’t need a million points — but you do need a plan. In this episode, I walk through realistic point ranges for weekend getaways, resort stays, and longer city trips so you can stop guessing and start planning intentionally. Why strategy matters more than your point balance Luxury travel doesn’t come from randomly earning points — it comes from knowing which points to earn, when to earn them, and how to use them. I’ll show you how flexible points, hotel programs, and timing all work together to unlock high-end stays for far fewer points than most people expect. Want help planning your luxury hotel stay? If you’re ready to stop Googling and want personalized guidance, here are a few ways I can help: Elevated Escape – Personalized help choosing the right cards and points strategyBest Credit Card Offers- Grab the cards to get you the points needed for a luxury stayTravel Points Academy – Learn my full step-by-step system for earning and using pointsIf this episode helped you, be sure to save it, share it with a friend, and leave a review — it helps more women and families learn how to travel luxuriously without blowing their budget.

    21 min

  3. 12/16/2025

    AMEX Gold Deep Dive: Is This the Best Card for Groceries & Eating Out?

    The AMEX Gold Card is one of the cards that I don't think gets talked about enough... In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how the AMEX Gold Card works, who it’s best for, and who should skip it. If you spend a lot on groceries and dining and dream of turning everyday purchases into luxury travel, this episode will help you decide if this card deserves a spot in your wallet. In this episode, you’ll learn: What the AMEX Gold Card really is (and what it’s not)How AMEX Membership Rewards points actually turn into free or luxury travelWhy this card is considered an earning powerhouse for groceries and diningHow to use AMEX points for flights and elevated travel experiencesThe truth about AMEX Gold credits — and whether they truly offset the annual feeWho the AMEX Gold Card is perfect for (especially families and everyday spenders)Who should not get this cardHow the AMEX Gold fits into a smart, long-term travel credit card strategyThe AMEX Gold Card can be incredibly powerful, but only when it’s used intentionally. I’ll walk you through how this card fits alongside other popular travel cards and why combining cards often unlocks better trips, better redemptions, and more flexibility. If you’ve ever wondered: “Is the AMEX Gold worth the annual fee?”“Can I really use grocery and dining points for luxury travel?”“Should I get the AMEX Gold or something else first?”This episode is for you. Want help deciding if the AMEX Gold Card is right for you? If you’re ready to stop guessing and want a personalized plan, here are a few ways I can help: Elevated Escape – One-on-one help choosing the right credit card and building your strategyCredit Card Offers-Top OffersTravel Points Academy – Learn the full system for earning and using points for free travel

    14 min

  4. 12/09/2025

    Why Flexible Points Should Be Your #1 Strategy for 2026 (How I Used Them to Book a Luxury Resort)

    Why Flexible Points Need to Be Your Strategy for 2026 (Real Trip Breakdown + How I Picked the Best Luxury Hotel Using Chase, Amex, Hyatt, Hilton & Marriott) If you want 2026 to be the year you finally take that luxury vacation without draining your bank account, this is the episode you need in your life. Today, I’m breaking down why flexible points are the MOST important strategy for travel in 2026 — especially if you want free flights, luxury hotel stays, and maximum redemption value. And to show you exactly why flexible points matter so much, I’m walking you through a real trip I just planned where I compared multiple luxury hotel options using points from different banks (Chase, Amex). Because here’s the truth: 👉 If you only collect airline miles or stay loyal to one hotel chain… you’re going to miss out on the BEST deals. Flexible points change everything. ⭐ In This Episode, You’ll Learn: → Why flexible points (like Chase UR, Amex MR & Capital One Miles) give you the biggest travel freedom We’ll talk about how flexible programs allow you to choose the BEST redemption across multiple airlines and hotels — instead of being locked into one brand. → Why flexible points ALWAYS outperform fixed-value rewards I break down real numbers, real examples, and what these points can do that cash back simply can’t. → How I planned a luxury trip by comparing multiple hotel options across different point currencies This is where it gets fun. I’ll walk you through: The exact resort options I looked atHow many points each one costWhich bank each option aligned withAnd how having multiple point pools saved me hundreds — sometimes thousands — of dollars.This story will show you EXACTLY why flexible points give you negotiation power, choice, and the freedom to book the best deal, not just the one option you’re stuck with. → Why 2026 is the year flexible points matter more than ever We’re entering a new era of: Dynamic pricingMore transfer bonusesHigher travel costsIncreased redemption opportunitiesFlexible points give you the upper hand in all of it. ✈️ Real-Life Trip Breakdown (The Part Listeners LOVE) I’ll explain: Which resort I almost bookedAnd how having access to multiple point currencies gave me control over the entire process.This is literally the strategy my clients use to save $10,000+ a year. 🧠 Why This Matters for You If you’ve ever felt stuck because: Flights were too expensiveHyatt didn’t have availabilityMarriott wanted 80,000 points per nightCapital One’s portal pricing was too high…this episode is your permission slip to STOP locking yourself into one ecosystem. 💼 Ready to Build Your 2026 Flexible-Points Strategy? If you want to build your first points system, earn 100,000+ points easily, or get help choosing the right cards for your 2026 travel goals… 👉 Join Travel Points Academy — this is EXACTLY what we do inside the program. See Best Credit Card Offers HERE

    18 min

  5. 12/02/2025

    Deep Dive on the Chase Sapphire Preferred — and Why Everyone Needs This Card

    If you’ve ever wondered where to start with travel points… this is the episode for you. Today we’re doing a full deep dive on the Chase Sapphire Preferred — the #1 card I recommend to beginners, moms, families, small business owners, and anyone who wants to travel for (almost) free. This card is simple, powerful, beginner-friendly, and unlocks the fastest path to free flights and hotel stays — all with a low annual fee and perks that are actually useful. In this episode, we cover: ✨ What You’ll Learn • Why the Chase Sapphire Preferred is the ultimate starter card (and why it outperforms most “premium” cards for everyday travelers) • How the sign-up bonus alone can unlock $1,000–$2,000 in free travel Flights, Hyatt stays, Disney trips, Hawaiian vacations — all possible with ONE bonus. • How to earn points daily without changing your lifestyle 3x dining, 2x travel, and how broad Chase’s travel category actually is. • The perks people don’t talk about enough: $50 annual hotel creditPrimary rental car insurance (huge money saver!)No foreign transaction feesTrip delay, trip cancellation, and baggage coverage25% boost when booking through Chase Travel10% points bonus every yearDoorDash DashPass subscriptionInstacart+/Instacart statement credits• Why Ultimate Rewards points are some of the highest-value points on the market • When to redeem in the travel portal vs when to transfer to Hyatt, United, Air Canada, Southwest & more ✨ Why Everyone Needs This Card This episode makes the case for WHY the Chase Sapphire Preferred is the best “foundation card” for: Families planning Disney or spring breakMoms wanting to save money but travel moreBeginners wanting one simple card that does it allSmall business owners wanting flexible, high-value pointsAnyone wanting free flights + free hotel nights ASAP✨ Links & Resources If you’re ready to start using points the right way: 👉 Join Travel Points Academy The step-by-step program to earn your first 100,000 points and book your first free trip. Perfect for beginners or anyone with a trip goal in mind. 👉Best Credit Card Offers Want to grab this card or another one, here are the best offers right now 👉 Free Mini Course Check out this free mini course to get you started with points today!

    17 min

  6. 11/25/2025

    The Best Current Credit Cards Offers for Turning Everyday Spending into Free Travel

    📝 Episode Description In today’s episode, I’m breaking down the best current credit card offers for earning travel points fast — perfect for beginners, business owners, or anyone wanting to jumpstart their next almost-free trip. I’ll share why these cards are hot right now, who they work best for, and how to know which one fits your travel goals. If you’ve been thinking about opening a new card to maximize points, this episode will help you choose the right one with confidence. 💳 Cards Mentioned in This Episode Capital One Venture XCapital One Venture X BusinessChase Ink Business PreferredSouthwest Rapid Rewards PlusAmex Hilton Honors Aspire✨ In This Episode, You’ll Learn Why these current offers are worth paying attention toHow to pick a card based on your travel goals, not hypeHow business owners can turn everyday expenses into major travel winsThe mindset behind choosing one strategic card instead of chasing every offer🔔 Best Credit Card Offers List Ready to Level Up? If you want step-by-step guidance choosing the right card and turning your spending into free family travel, check out Travel Points Academy — my signature program that helps you earn and redeem points with confidence.

    14 min

  7. 11/18/2025

    Your 2026 Travel Starts NOW: Student Success Stories + Black Friday Tease

    This week’s episode is all about one thing: helping you dream bigger before my 5 Days of Black Friday Deals drop next week. I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing REAL student stories — moms, beginners, and busy women just like you — who learned how to use travel points and completely transformed how they vacation. These wins aren’t rare. They’re predictable. And next week, you’re going to have the chance to get the same tools, shortcuts, and support they did… for the only time this year. ✅ Inside This Episode, You’ll Hear: ✨ Real Travel Transformation Stories ✨ The Mindset Shift That Changes Everything ✨ Why These Successes Matter for YOU ✨ A Sneak Peek at My 5 Days of Black Friday Deals Every woman in these stories started: confusedoverwhelmedunsure which card to openor afraid to “do it wrong”And small steps led to massive wins. ✅ If You’re Ready to Change How You Travel in 2026… Make sure you're checking your email next week. Each morning, Monday through Friday, I’m dropping a brand-new Black Friday deal — and Day 1 is the one you do NOT want to miss. Grab a Sneak Peak of Next Week's Offers

    13 min

  8. 11/11/2025

    BILT + Rakuten: Why This New Combo Is a Total Game Changer

    🎙️ Episode Description: If you pay rent or shop online, this episode is your new superpower. Today, Megan breaks down the HUGE recent shift in the travel points world: the BILT program paired with Rakuten. You’ll learn how earning points on rent, mortgage + points on almost every online purchase can turn into free flights, luxury hotels, Disney vacations, and more — without changing your budget. ✅ What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What the BILT Rewards program is and why it’s the #1 card for rentersHow rent payments can translate into flights, Hyatt hotels, and luxury travelWhy the new Rakuten + BILT connection is a massive earning opportunityHow to stack points on rent AND all your online holiday shoppingHow this strategy can easily unlock free Hyatt nights, AA flights, and moreWhy this is the best time of year to maximize earning✅ Why This Matters: For the first time ever, you can combine: Points on rent + soon mortgagePoints on everyday online shoppingTransfer access to Hyatt, American Airlines, United, and premium partnersThis creates one of the fastest, easiest point-earning systems for beginners and advanced travelers. ✅ Resources: Rakuten Sign Up LinkBILTBlack Friday Sneak PeakFree $100 Vacation Mini-Series

    15 min
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Trailer

4.6
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

Welcome to Points Too Paradise, the podcast that shows you how to turn your everyday spending into unforgettable vacations—all using credit card points and travel rewards! Hosted by Megan Lanford, a travel points expert and mom who went from barely affording one vacation a year to taking six+ luxury trips annually—saving over $20,000 a year on travel. In each episode, you’ll get insider travel tips, credit card strategies, and real-life redemption hacks to help you: -Earn free flights and hotel stays with points & miles - Find the best travel credit cards for your lifestyle - Unlock first-class upgrades & VIP experiences - Plan bucket-list trips without breaking the bank Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned points pro, Points Too Paradise will teach you how to maximize your rewards, travel more, and spend less. Ready to start booking your dream vacations for (nearly) free? Subscribe now and let’s turn your points into paradise!

Information

  • Creator
    Megan Lanford
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    96
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Points Too Paradise 2024
  • Show Website
    Points Too Paradise

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