In the News: DebtSmarts Provides Needed Insights

DebtSmarts is a trusted voice guiding Wisconsin's 700,000+ student loan borrowers.

Journalists and media outlets turn to us for expert insights, real-life stories, and actionable steps for borrowers.

Below, you’ll find highlights of our work featured in news stories, reports, and interviews—along with quick notes on how we contributed.


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We connect reporters with advocates, borrowers, and policy voices on deadline.

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INTERVIEWS

News 3 Now Live at Four: July 14, 2025

Watch For the Record: July 27, 2025

Student loan interest restarting for 8 million borrowers

DebtSmarts Executive Director Carole Trone provides tips for borrowers as interest charges for the SAVE plan are set to resume in August.

Navigating Student Debt: Insights from the Wisconsin Council

In this insightful interview, Carol Trone, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Council on Student Debt, discusses the evolving landscape of student loans, the impact of rising education and living costs, and the crucial resources available to borrowers. Learn how the Council is helping Wisconsin residents understand and manage their student debt through free helpline


NEWS STORIES


Republicans Cap Federal Student Loans
for Graduate Students

July 9, 2025

By: Charlotte Scott, Spectrum News 1, Washington, DC

Student Loan Scammers Take Advantage
as Collections Restart Nationwide

June 29, 2025

By: KFIZ News Talk Radio

Borrowers Feel Overwhelmed by Restart
and Unsure of Next Steps to Take

June 23, 2025

By: Royce Podeszwa – Wisconsin Public Radio


Borrowers Urged to Check Their Loans
and Consider Income-Driven Plans

June 5, 2025

By: Clara Strecker - The Daily Cardinal

Federal Government Resumes Collection
for Defaulted Student Loan Borrowers

May 5, 2025

By: Andrew Mertins - FOX11 News

Confusing Loan Changes Could Increase
Risk of Unintentional Default

April 23, 2025

By: Maddie Heimsch - Channel 3000 News


Policy Shifts & Forgiveness Debates
Create Confusion for Loan Borrowers

March 25, 2025

By: Richelle Wilson, Producer and Rob Ferrett, Host


Wisconsin Educators React to the
Elimination of the U.S. Education Dept.

March 20, 2025

By: Cody Taylor Wisconsin


Trump Order on Student Loan Forgiveness Sparks Confusion

March 12, 2025

By: Erin McGroarty


Video Interviews & Explainers 

Learn more about student loan forgiveness, repayment options, and updates affecting Wisconsin borrowers through our video features.

With Ascendium’s Hannah Achtor — new rules and key steps explained.

Covers current proposals, political context, and borrower impact.

What public service workers need to know to get forgiveness.

Outlines loan struggles and relief options unique to veterans.

How debt burdens fall harder on Black and Brown borrowers.

Supreme Court ruling, IDR updates, and default relief explained.

 

PODCAST INTERVIEWS


Episode 13: Interview with Benjamin Lee--Student Loan Expert

The Financial Findings Podcast: Where Financial Research, Policy, and Practice Meet

Financial Findings Podcast with Carole Trone

Episode 14: Interview with Dr. Carole Trone--What to Know About Paying for College

The Financial Findings Podcast: Where Financial Research, Policy, and Practice Meet