Points Too Paradise

Megan Lanford
  • 4.6 (13)
  • 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. 1D AGO

    Destination Day: Santa Fe, NM

    If you’re looking for a destination that blends culture, incredible food, outdoor adventure, and a totally unique vibe, Santa Fe should absolutely be on your list. In this Destination Day episode, we’re diving into Santa Fe, New Mexico — one of the most charming and distinctive cities in the Southwest. Known for its adobe architecture, world-class art scene, rich Native American and Spanish history, and amazing cuisine, Santa Fe is the kind of place that feels different from anywhere else in the U.S. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway, a relaxing spa trip, or adding it to a larger Southwest road trip, Santa Fe offers something for every kind of traveler. Today I’m sharing some of the best things to do, places to explore, and why this destination deserves a spot on your travel list. Things to Do in Santa Fe Explore the Historic Plaza The heart of the city is the Santa Fe Plaza, where you’ll find historic buildings, local vendors selling handmade jewelry and art, museums, and restaurants. It’s the perfect place to walk around, shop, and soak in the atmosphere. Visit Canyon Road Art lovers will want to spend time on Canyon Road, which is lined with over 100 art galleries showcasing everything from traditional Southwestern pieces to contemporary art. Experience Meow Wolf One of the most unique attractions in the country is Meow Wolf Santa Fe. This immersive art installation feels like stepping into another universe and is fun for both adults and kids. Visit Historic Churches Santa Fe is home to some incredible historic architecture, including the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi right near the plaza. Get Outside If you love the outdoors, you’re in the right place. Just outside the city you’ll find hiking, mountain biking, and incredible views in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Want to Travel More for Less? If you’re ready to learn how your everyday spending can help pay for trips like this, I’d love to help. Join our free workshop March 16th at 11 MST Start by following along on Instagram at @pointstooparadise for more tips on how to turn credit card points into incredible travel experiences. And if you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend who loves planning their next adventure.

    14 min

  2. MAR 3

    How I Went From 1 Vacation a Year to 7

    In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing the real story behind how I went from barely affording one vacation a year to taking seven trips annually using credit card points. If you’ve ever wondered how this is actually possible (without a huge income or overwhelm), this episode is for you. I’m walking you through where I started, what finally clicked for me, and the exact mindset shift that changed everything about how our family travels. Because the truth is… I’m not special, and this didn’t happen overnight. But once I understood how points really work, travel stopped feeling out of reach and started feeling strategic. If you’re tired of paying cash for flights and hotels, or you’ve been sitting on the sidelines thinking this feels too complicated, this conversation will open your eyes to what’s possible. What You’ll Learn in This Episode What my travel life looked like before I discovered pointsThe moment that completely shifted how I think about travelWhat our travel looks like now compared to beforeWhy you don’t need a huge income to make this workThe biggest belief shift that helped me go all inMy Hope for You If there’s one thing I want you to take away, it’s this: travel doesn’t have to feel financially out of reach. With the right strategy and a little intention, your normal, everyday expenses can start working for you instead of just passing through your bank account. You don’t have to do it perfectly. You just have to start. Ready to Take the Next Step? If you’re thinking, “Okay… I want this too,” here’s where to begin: ✨ Join my free workshop ✨ Explore Travel Points Academy ✨ Connect with me on Instagram

    23 min

  3. FEB 24

    Deep Dive: Capital One Venture & The Elevated Offer Right Now

    There’s a limited-time elevated offer on the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, and if you’ve been waiting for the right time to jump in… this might be it. In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly what the current bonus is, who it’s best for, how to maximize the miles, and the mistakes I see people make with this card. Because yes, the headline sounds good — but we’re getting into the real strategy behind it. If you want simple, flexible travel points that can unlock serious trips without overcomplicating your wallet, don’t skip this one. 🔥 What We Cover What the elevated Venture offer is right nowThe real value of the bonus Minimum spend breakdown How Capital One miles actually workMy favorite redemption strategiesWho this card is perfect forHow this fits into a bigger travel points strategy💳 Current Elevated Offer (at time of recording) Right now, new cardholders can earn: 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 in the first 3 monthsPLUS a $250 Capital One Travel credit in the first yearThat combo is worth roughly up to $1,000 toward travel, depending on how you redeem. 🧠 Why This Offer Stands Out In this episode I explain why this is considered “elevated” right now: The base 75k bonus is solidThe extra $250 travel credit is the temporary boostSimple earning structure (great for beginners)Flexible redemptions (huge win for busy families)Resources: Capital One Venture CardTravel Freely AppWebsiteTravel Points Academy

    13 min

  4. FEB 10

    How Real Women Are Using Points to Travel More (Not Just Me)

    You hear me talk a lot about how I use points to travel, but today I wanted to do something different. I’m sharing the stories of four real women inside the Travel Points Academy so you can see what this looks like in real life. These aren’t influencers or professional travelers. They’re moms, business owners, and everyday women with families, busy lives, and normal schedules who decided to do travel differently. In this episode, you’ll hear: What each woman does for a livingTheir family size and lifestyleWhen they joined the Travel Points AcademyWhat their travel looked like before pointsWhat they’ve been able to book since learning how to use themThis episode is about showing you what’s possible when you stop guessing and start using a real strategy. In this episode, we talk about: How different lifestyles use points differentlyWhy you don’t need to be wealthy or travel full-time to use pointsHow long it actually takes to start seeing resultsThe kinds of trips real women are booking with pointsWhat changes when you finally understand how the system worksIf you’ve ever thought: “This probably only works for her”“My family is too big”“I don’t spend enough”“I started too late”These stories will show you that there is no one “type” of person who succeeds with points. There are just people who have a plan and people who don’t. Why I’m sharing this I wanted you to hear voices besides mine. I want you to see how women with different incomes, families, and lifestyles are all using the same system to travel more without spending more. That’s what the Travel Points Academy is really about: not just teaching you which card to get, but giving you a way to turn your real life into real trips. Want to be one of these stories? If you’re ready to stop watching other people travel and start planning your own trips, you can join us inside Travel Points Academy.

    20 min

  5. FEB 3

    100 Episodes In: Your Top Travel Questions & What's in my Wallet

    We made it to episode 100 🎉 and I wanted to do something fun and personal to celebrate. So, I opened up my Instagram and let you ask me anything about travel points, credit cards, and the way I actually travel. In this episode, I’m answering some of the most common (and honest) questions I get, including: What card you should use for airport lounge access now that Capital One dropped free guestsWhat’s currently in my walletMy travel bucket listHow I personally decide which cards to keep, cancel, or upgrade and more!This episode is a mix of strategy, personal insight, and real-life travel talk so you can see how this all plays out beyond the spreadsheets and card comparisons. If listening to this made you think, “I have no idea what should be in my wallet,” I’ve got you. You can work with me inside: Travel Points Lounge for live coaching & personalized credit card recommendationsTravel Points Academy to learn the full systemOther Resources: Travel Freely AppBest Credit Card Offers

    19 min

  6. JAN 27

    Destination Day: Fort Myers, Florida

    In today’s Destination Day episode, I’m taking you to sunny Fort Myers, Florida and sharing all about the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point. This is one of those properties that is small but has a lot to do. We’re talking lazy river, multiple pools, private island beach, boat shuttle, on-site water slides, golf, spa, and so many dining options. It’s the kind of place that normally costs hundreds of dollars per night, but can be booked for free! In this episode, I’m breaking down: Why Fort Myers is such an underrated Florida destinationAll you need to know about the Hyatt Regency Coconut Point How many points it typically costs per nightAnd how I would personally strategize booking this trip for a familyWant to learn how to take trips like this for almost free? Here are the exact ways I help women start traveling for less: ✨ Vacations for Less Than $100 My beginner-friendly guide that shows you how to take your first nearly-free trip using travel points. Perfect if you’re brand new and want something simple and actionable. ✨ The Lounge My monthly membership where you get access to trainings, resources, and live support to help you actually use your points and plan real trips. ✨ Travel Points Academy My signature step-by-step program that teaches you how to pick the right cards, earn points fast, and book luxury trips for your family without wrecking your credit or budget.

    20 min

  7. JAN 20

    Bilt 2.0 Explained: What’s New, How It Works, & The New Credit Cards Coming

    Bilt just dropped a major overhaul to its credit card lineup and rewards program, and there’s a lot to unpack. In this episode we’re breaking down everything you need to know about Bilt 2.0, including the new card options launching February 7, 2026, changes to how you earn points on rent and mortgages, the new Bilt Cash system, and what this means for both new and existing cardholders. Whether you’re a current Bilt member, thinking about using Bilt to earn points on rent or mortgage, or just curious about how this impacts your travel credit card strategy, this episode will give you clarity. What You’ll Learn in This Episode What Bilt 2.0 actually is and why it’s such a big change from the old Bilt card system. A rundown of the three new Bilt credit cards being introduced and who each card is designed for:Bilt Blue — no annual fee, everyday earnings + Bilt Cash rewards. Bilt Obsidian — mid-tier card with bonus categories and travel credits. Bilt Palladium — premium option with generous welcome bonus, hotel credits, travel perks, and status. How the new Bilt Cash reward currency works Things you need to watch out for — like how earning points on rent and mortgage now depends on Bilt Cash earned from everyday spend.Why This Matters Bilt 2.0 isn’t just a refresh — it’s a complete overhaul of how the program works. Instead of automatically earning points on rent just for having the card, you now earn Bilt Cash on everyday purchases that unlocks points on your housing payments. It changes the math a lot, and it’s something every renter and homeowner thinking about rewards credit cards should understand before applying. Resources: Your First 150K Points GuideJoin the Travel Points Lounge MembershipFollow Megan over on IG

    19 min

  8. JAN 13

    This Marriott Card Comes With 5 Free Nights (Here’s How to Use Them Right)

    What if one credit card could cover five nights of hotel stays? In today’s episode, I’m breaking down the elevated offer on the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless card, which is currently offering 5 free night certificates when you spend $3,000 in the first 3 months. And no—this isn’t one of those offers you want to grab without a plan. In this episode, I cover: • What the 5 free night certificates actually are • How much they’re worth (and how people accidentally waste them) • Where you can use them for luxury stays • Real examples of trips you could book with this offer • The common mistakes I see people make with Marriott certificates • How to stack and stretch these nights for maximum value I’ll also walk you through how to think strategically about these certificates—because five free nights can mean: • A luxury beach resort • A European city stay • A family-friendly vacation with zero hotel costs • Or multiple shorter trips if you plan it right And here’s the key part most people miss: Getting the certificates is the easy part. Using them well is where people get stuck. That’s why I also share how women inside the Lounge get hands-on help using offers like this—so they don’t let certificates expire, book low-value stays, or feel overwhelmed trying to figure it out alone. Inside the Lounge, members can: • Ask questions anytime • Get help deciding where to use their free nights • See how others are booking real trips with points • Get support planning and booking their stays • Learn how to stack offers like this with other cards and points Resources: Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit CardJoin us Inside the Membership

    16 min
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Trailer

4.6
out of 5
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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 - 2026
  • Episodes
    104
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Points Too Paradise 2024
  • Show Website
    Points Too Paradise

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