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.
Need a source or expert quote?
We connect reporters with advocates, borrowers, and policy voices on deadline.
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
Student Loan Scammers Take Advantage
as Collections Restart Nationwide
June 29, 2025
Borrowers Feel Overwhelmed by Restart
and Unsure of Next Steps to Take
June 23, 2025
Borrowers Urged to Check Their Loans
and Consider Income-Driven Plans
June 5, 2025
Federal Government Resumes Collection
for Defaulted Student Loan Borrowers
May 5, 2025
Confusing Loan Changes Could Increase
Risk of Unintentional Default
April 23, 2025
Policy Shifts & Forgiveness Debates
Create Confusion for Loan Borrowers
March 25, 2025
Wisconsin Educators React to the
Elimination of the U.S. Education Dept.
March 20, 2025
Trump Order on Student Loan Forgiveness Sparks Confusion
March 12, 2025
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
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