Episode Highlights
The U.S. Department of Education has resumed collecting on defaulted student loans after a three-year pause. This development affects one in five borrowers who are seriously delinquent on their payments. Hilary Pham, executive director of the Wisconsin Coalition on Student Debt, joins the show to discuss the current landscape of student loan debt in Wisconsin and the options available to debt holders.
In other news, the Wisconsin Technology Council recently announced the winners of the 2025 Governor’s Business Plan Contest. The show features interviews with the winning start-ups, including Ashwinraj Karthikeyan, who shares insights into their innovative projects that are set to impact the state.
The episode also takes a cultural dive into Door County’s vibrant arts scene. Reporter Anna Marie Yanny visited the Peninsula Players theater company, which is celebrating its 90th season performing on the shores of Green Bay. The company’s artistic director, Linda Fortunato, and actor Ryan Hallahan discuss the unique aspects of performing in a natural setting and the significance of this milestone season.
Featured Stories
Student Loan Debt
The resumption of student loan collections has significant implications for Wisconsinites. With one in five borrowers seriously delinquent, the need for guidance on managing debt is critical. Hilary Pham explains the various options available to those struggling with debt, from repayment plans to potential forgiveness programs.
Business Innovation
The 2025 Governor’s Business Plan Contest winners bring fresh ideas to various sectors in Wisconsin. Ashwinraj Karthikeyan and Royce Podeszwa, representing some of the winning start-ups, discuss their projects and the potential impact on the state’s economy and technological advancement.
Peninsula Players’ 90th Season
As summer arrives in Wisconsin, the Peninsula Players theater company is set to enchant audiences with its performances under the stars. Located in Door County, the company benefits from its picturesque setting on the shores of Green Bay. Linda Fortunato and Ryan Hallahan share what makes this theater company special and preview the highlights of their 90th season.
Episode Credits
- Hosts: Rob Ferrett, Kate Archer Kent
- Guests: Hilary Pham, Ashwinraj Karthikeyan, Linda Fortunato, Ryan Hallahan, Royce Podeszwa
- Producers: Beatrice Lawrence, Richelle Wilson, Lee Rayburn
- Technical Directors: Tyler Ditter, Dean Knetter
- Executive Producer: Tim Peterson
- Managing Producer: Not mentioned
- Copyright: Wisconsin Public Radio, Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System, and Wisconsin Educational Communications Board, 2025.
