The Points Guy (TPG) tells you everything you need to know about getting the most out of loyalty programs, credit card points or airline rewards. And The Points Guy’s name is actually Brian Kelly. He founded his company in 2010, motivated by his experiences traveling the globe and trying to maximize the vast array of reward points available from airlines, hotels and credit card companies. Now a travel and lifestyle media platform, The Points Guy covers everything from how to reach elite airline status to the best hotels for every type of traveler to the best cash-back offers for credit card holders.
One thing I try to do every day is…
spend one-on-one time with my son and take in each moment, since they grow so fast!
I describe my vibe as…
relaxed. I try not to get too stressed by things and always plan for the worst. (Like bringing snacks on airplanes for when you’re delayed!)
I feel most alive when…
I’m at home on my farm in New Hope, Pennsylvania, riding my incredible horses.
A travel destination that changed my life was…
South Africa. The country is so incredibly beautiful, from the Cape Winelands to Sabi Sands. It is a breathtaking country in so many senses.
To avoid distractions, I…
put my phone on “do not disturb.” (And usually forget to turn it back on!)
I handle negativity by…
not surrounding myself with chronically negative or toxic people. And online, I have zero issues blocking a troll who says something mean. No one deserves access to my time and energy (except my son), so if people want to be negative or bring me down for no reason, I will remove them from my sphere with no hesitation.
One thing that is difficult for me but I enjoy is…
reading. I have ADHD, so it can be challenging to get through a book, but once I get on a roll reading, I can’t get enough. I love historical novels and am currently reading The British Are Coming: The War for America, Lexington to Princeton, 1775-1777 (Volume 1 of The Revolution Trilogy).
When I need a creative spark, I…
travel! Nothing gets me going creatively more than being exposed to new environments, people and food.
The most surprising thing about me is…
I’m actually a homebody. I can spend weeks at my farm hanging with the animals and have no urge to travel. I still love traveling, but these days, as a new father, I am far more of a homebody enjoying a routine than a jetsetter.
The biggest risk I ever took was…
quitting my job at Morgan Stanley to pursue The Points Guy full-time in 2011. I’m glad I did, because TPG turned into a wild success and has taken me to so many incredible places.
I want people to know me for…
encouraging people to travel and experience the world.
In 10 years, I hope to…
have another kid and to be giving my children a global upbringing and making them well-rounded and compassionate global citizens.
I define success as…
being able to do what you want, when you want.
This article originally appeared in the May/June 2023 issue of SUCCESS magazine. Photo courtesy of Brian Kelly.
