Matter of Life and Debt

Matter of Life and Debt announces a temporary hiatus for January, during which the podcast is regrouping to redefine its broader goals. We invite listeners to share their ideas and feedback via email at Matter of Life and Debt@gmail.com or by leaving a voicemail at 510-479-0323. The podcast aims to return soon with updates.

This episode of the Matter of Life and Debt podcast features a follow-up interview with Bri Franklin, founder of The Prosp(a)rity Project, a non-profit focused on eliminating student debt for Black women. Bri discusses the organization’s growth over the past 3 years, including new initiatives around financial literacy and policy advocacy. She also opens up about the personal toll of student debt on her life, relationships, and plans for the future. While still carrying student loans herself, Bri remains committed to expanding the organization’s impact through avenues like a new podcast, conference events, a financial literacy app for kids, and more. Despite ongoing challenges, she aims to help millions of debt-burdened individuals and drive systemic change in predatory lending practices. Trigger warning: we briefly discuss suicide, sexual assault, and sexual violence References  The Prosp(a)rity Project UnDEBTfeated Episode 12: The Prosp(A)rity Project Alex Kearns

Co-host Shanna and Talia are joined by Nikki as they celebrate the 3-year anniversary of Matter of Life and Debt! In this special episode, they look back on how the podcast has created community and helped destigmatize student debt over the years. For the spotlight section, Nikki interviews Sarah Thibault, an artist, writer, and podcaster who was one of the earliest guests on the podcast. Sarah reflects on how her views on her student loans have changed, especially now that the art school she attended has declared bankruptcy. She discusses taking a more spiritual approach to considering what she actually owes. After the insightful interview, Talia, Shanna, and Nikki discuss how Sarah’s perspective uniquely highlights the complexity of people’s relationships with student debt. To close out the celebratory episode, the hosts share what brings them joy right now - improved health, upcoming events, fall weather, and the community built over the podcast’s 3-year journey. Join them for a thoughtful and uplifting conversation! References: Education Department punishes student loan servicer for billing mistakes Theatre Activism Troupe: Art Activism Festival Overview Debt Collective Events Sarah's Instagram Sarah's Podcast The Side Woo Art Date with Sarah Thibault (Substack) Panel Talk on Unblocking Creativity with The Side Woo Live @ the ICA SF November 5, 3-5pm PT  Student Debt Release Tool

In this podcast episode, Talia and Nikki discuss The Debt Collective Zine -In The Red: Out of the Darkness. In our spotlight section, Talia chats with Eleni Schirmer and Thomas Gokey about the Debt Collective’s student debt release tool. The conversation also touches on the significance of building collective power to address the student debt crisis effectively. References The Debt Collective Zine -In The Red: Out of the Darkness Thousands of Borrowers File Appeals as Student Loan Payments Loom How the Government Cancelled Betty Ann’s Debts The Aging Student Debtors of America B**** Better Have Our Money

We kick off this episode by discussing the Debt Collectives, “B**** Better Have Our Money” tool, which leverages the legal authority of the 1965 Higher Education Act to demand the Department of Education to cancel student debt and create a more equitable system for all. In our Spotlight section Talia talks with Stephanie Marcotte, Joanna Goncalves, and Ian Rodewald, three incredible individuals united by a common cause – promoting accessibility and affordability in higher education. Join us for an engaging conversation that takes you deep into their journey and the inspiring work of the Higher Ed For All Coalition in Massachusetts. Discover how this coalition is advocating for debt-free public higher education, aiming to make a transformative impact on students, faculty, and the community as a whole. You’ll gain insights into the passion and dedication fueling this movement. Learn how their initiatives are not only shaping the future of education in Massachusetts but also paving the way for a more equitable and inclusive system across the country. References How the Government Cancelled Betty Ann’s Debts The Aging Student Debtors of America B**** Better Have Our Money The Fair Share Amendment Is Working (Budget) Community College in MA now free for 25 and older MA residents Elizabeth Warren and Ayanna Pressley’s letter along with close to 90 other Congressional Dems to Biden calling for swift and broader action on student debt relief The Western Mass Area Labor Federation’s rally last weekend calling for full student debt relief

🎙️ Update: The world of student debt is buzzing, and we can't wait to share what's in store after the Supreme Court decision. Your support means the world to us! Get ready for new episodes coming soon, featuring a chat with the Debt Collective. They have some crucial plans for student debt relief, and we'll share them later in July. Stay tuned! While we take a short break, catch up on our previous episodes. Find us on your favorite streaming platforms or visit our website for the full archive. We're here to provide valuable information, empowering stories, and actionable steps to navigate the complex landscape of student debt. We'll be back to continue our journey towards a future where student debt is no longer a barrier to a fulfilling life. Thank you for listening! 

We’re thrilled to announce the release of a bonus episode featuring special guests Thomas Gokey and Luke Herrine, co-founders of the Debt Collective. Join us as we discuss the broken student loan system. In this episode, we delve deep into the impending crisis, exposing the flaws within the Department of Education. From incorrect loan balances to bureaucratic hurdles, we uncover the challenges millions face as payments resume. But that’s not all! Discover how Thomas, Luke, and the Debt Collective are fighting against this injustice. Learn about their strategies, successes, and how you can get involved. Let’s unite, reach out to local politicians, and join the movement for debt cancellation. Together, we can pave the way for an equitable education system. Don’t miss out on this eye-opening episode with our incredible guests! SCHOLARS FOR A NEW DEAL FOR HIGHER EDUCATION Luke Herrine Student Debt Update Call Jun 15, 2023 8:30 pm - 9:30 pm EDT Debt Collective Events

In this episode, host Nikki Nolan welcomes back Thomas Gokey, co-founder of the Debt Collective, to discuss the challenges and effects of reinstating the student loan payment system. Thomas believes it is impractical to resume payments and urges for an extension instead. He criticizes the Department of Education’s inability to implement the restart due to broken systems and incorrect payment information. The Republicans are attempting to kill the payment pause and cancellation through the Congressional Review Act, which could also increase account balances and revoke public service loan forgiveness. Thomas emphasizes the need for continued advocacy and urges listeners to contact their representatives and the White House to express concerns. The Department of Education’s proposed restart date of June 30th is seen as confusing and raises questions about political-strategic motives. Thomas also discusses a 14-page report that challenges the legal standing of the lawsuit against student debt relief, highlighting flawed claims made by MOHELA, a student loan servicer. The report questions the lack of verification and basic levels of discovery in the lawsuit’s progression. References: The Willow Project Promises a Worse Future for Alaska—And for Earth House votes to repeal Biden’s student debt relief plan The Suit Against Student Debt Relief Doesn’t Add Up: Flawed Claims of Legal Standing in Biden v. Nebraska Join the Debt Collective Debt Collective Events

During this episode, our focus is on the latest updates related to student debt. In our spotlight section, we feature Christina Hammond, the creator of the ITT Tech Warriors Facebook group. Our conversation with her revolves around the impact of attending ITT Tech on her mental health and finances. She shares how she has made herself financially invisible to avoid losing her hard-earned money. Furthermore, we discuss the positive changes she has experienced since becoming debt-free, including waking up with a smile on her face. Lastly, we highlight upcoming events for listeners to participate in and share some of our current sources of joy. References  Maryland SmartBuy Program Supreme Court Won’t Block Student Loan Class-Action Settlement  Letters to the Editor: Tuition-free college used to be common in the U.S. It can be again  How ITT Tech Screwed Students and Made Millions Education Department approves $3.9 billion group discharge for 208,000 borrowers who attended ITT Technical Institute 2012 Senate Investigation into ITT Technical Institute. This gives details into the recruiting tactics and how ITT Technical Institute cheated people to make a profit and please Wall Street.  Diane Feinstein Senator From California connection into for profit college ITT Technical Institute Senate Floor Speech on For-Profit Colleges and Universities - YouTube Closed School Corinthian 15 activists fought for debt forgiveness for student loan borrowers and won HELP Committee Investigation Into For-Profit Schools - YouTube ITT Tech Warriors | Facebook Restore GI Bill for Veterans | Facebook Twitter - US Veteran (@restore_GI_Bill) | Twitter Events April 30th Community Gathering 3-6pm ET May 3rd, 12 – 1pm EDT - Higher Ed for All: Speak Out Location: Massachusetts State House 24 Beacon St Boston, MA 02133  May 3rd, 7-9pm ET Freedom to Learn National Day of Action  May Every other Monday - 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm EDT Theater Activism Troupe- We the Liberated People of the Debt Collective are a Theater Troupe

Today's episode features Shanna, Talia, and Nikki delving into the latest student debt news. Our spotlight segment features Alicia Davis and Theresa Sweet, the named plaintiffs in the Sweet v. Cardona case (previously known as Sweet v. DeVos), who provide us with an update on the proceedings. Additionally, we highlight upcoming events for April and share what brings us joy at the moment. Don't miss out on this informative and enjoyable episode. Tune in now! News: Conservative Author Totally Freezes Up When Pressed to Define ‘Woke’ (Daily Beast) Florida House Bill 999 won’t ban historically Black fraternities and sororities from state universities New College of Florida Is DeSantis’s Launchpad for Attack on Higher Education As Supreme Court Considers Student Loan Forgiveness, States May Expand Their Programs (PEW) Q&A: The New Student Loan Income-Driven Repayment Waiver (Nerd Wallet) SoFi Bank sues to block Biden’s student loan payment pause (AP) References: Apply for Borrower Defense Reddit: r/BorrowerDefense Borrower Defense- Student Loan Discharge (Facebook group) Loan Discharge: Corinthian Colleges/ Heald/Wyotech/Everest (Facebook group) Borrower Defense – Sweet v. Cardona (Facebook group) Restore GI Bill for Veterans (Facebook group) A.I. Confidential (Facebook group) Debt Collective events Corinthian 15 BIDEN JUBILEE 100 Harvard Law – Predatory Lending and Consumer Protection Clinic What happened to Florida Metropolitan University Understanding Master Promissory Notes Before Taking a Federal Student Loan Revised Master Promissory Notes for Direct Subsidized Loans, Direct Unsubsidized Loans, and Direct PLUS Loans How College Enrollment Contracts Limit Students’ Rights Case – SWEET V CARDONA Case – PRATT V. CARDONA Documentary –FAIL STATE Betsy DeVos is giving defrauded student debtors the back of her hand SCARED TO DEBT SERIES Events: Theater Activism Troupe, April 10, 17 & 24th. 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm EDT New Member Call Apr 17, 2023 8:30 PM ET / 7:30 PM CT / 6:30 PM MT / 5:30 PM PT Jubilee School Carceral Debt Series: Cars, Poverty, & Incarceration Apr 20, 2023 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm PDT

In this episode, we discuss the current news surrounding student debt. Our new spotlight section explores theater activism in-depth with Talia Molé, Dr. Shamell Bell, Alÿcia Bacon, and Todd Squitieri. They delve into the planning and execution of a March 1st day of action that is both in person and virtual. And that’s not all: we’ll also take a closer look at the various events occurring throughout the end of February and March and share what’s bringing us joy in these challenging times. You can call (510) 479-0323 and leave a voicemail with your story or ideas. They may be featured on our show. News and References Information on the Sweet v. Cardona Settlement Apply for Borrower Defense Loan Discharge The Debt Collective Instagram Post Episode 58: Sweet v. Cardona Victory Episode 34: The Whistleblower Joe Biden’s Student Loan Forgiveness Hopes Receive Supreme Court Blow (Newsweek) Republican Senators File Bill To End Student Loan Pause, Stop Loan Forgiveness (Forbes) Events Black Women DreamSpace – Feb 26, 2023, 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm Eastern – ADD TO CALENDAR Protest at the Supreme Court to defend student debt cancellation Feb 28, 2023, 8am – 12 pm Eastern Theatre Activism: Wednesday, March 1, 2023, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Eastern Theatre Activism Workshop (Virtual): Wednesday, March 1, 2023, 1:00 PM –  5:00 PM Eastern BLACK PRAXIS PROJECT – BOOK CLUB – THE NATION ON NO MAP. BLACK ANARCHISM AND ABOLITION Sundays March 5th – April 16th 2pm Eastern/11am Pacific New Member Call – Mar 20, 2023, 8:30 pm – 9:30 pm Eastern- ADD TO CALENDAR Tell Big Banks to Stop Funding Fossil Fuels!! –  March 21, 2023 –  RSVP Jubilee School Series: Hidden Costs, Shedding a light on the impact of carceral debt on women & mothers – Mar 28, 2023, 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm Eastern – ADD TO CALENDAR Books Love After The End: An Anthology of Two-Spirit & Indigiqueer Speculative Fiction, Edited by Joshua Whitehead Theatre of the Oppressed: Theatre of the Oppressed by Augusto Boal Games for Actors and Non-Actors by Augusto Boal Transcript 

Exciting news, we will experiment with the podcast in 2023! And we want your input! Call (510) 479-0323 and leave a voicemail with your story or ideas. They may be featured on our show. Our next episode drops on Feb 23rd. Can't wait to hear from you! References:  Protest at the Supreme Court to defend student debt cancellation (Feb 28th)

We are excited to have Maddy MADlines Clifford back on the show to share her journey as the Deputy Press Secretary for the Debt Collective. She discusses how her art informs her activism and provides helpful tips for managing activist burnout. Tune in for an enlightening conversation with the accomplished Maddy! References:  Biden Can Still Cancel Student Debt — Not Just Up to $20,000, But All of It Freedom Dreams: Black Women and the Student Debt Crisis (short film) Protest at the Supreme Court to defend student debt cancellation (Feb 28th) Tarot for Change Using the Cards for Self-Care Acceptance & Growth Episode 37: Economic Chasm (Maddy's first episode) Maddy “MADlines” Clifford (website) Maddy “MADlines” Clifford (Tiktok) Black Women DreamSpace Feb 26, 2023 Transcript 

In this week’s episode, we sit with some of the Debt Collective’s 50 Over 50 Strikers, along with Nick Marcil (organizer for the Debt Collective), to challenge the misconception that student debt solely affects society’s youth. Listen on as Laura Hill, Dave Kalmikoff, and Susan Laws share their heartfelt experiences regarding the genuine struggle of living with student debt burden well into their elder years. References:  New Member Call - January 16, 2023 Legal Lay of the Land - January 19, 2023 State of the Debtors’ Union - January 25, 2023 Debt Collective Debt Collective Twitter Debt Collective Instagram

This week producer Talia Molé and host Shanna Bennett speak with Abigail Acheson, an organizer with Rethinking Economics USA. They discuss new approaches to higher education and economics that prioritize the well-being of people and the planet.  References Rethinking Economics Rethinking Economics on Instagram Rethinking Economics Twitter Economics is Failing US College Students Center for Economic Democracy Ha-Joon Chang Video I quoted The Powell Memorandum is something Ferguson talks about in his book, but here is an interview about We Demand that might be of interest to listeners.

This week’s guests, Alicia Davis and Theresa Sweet are named plaintiffs in the case titled Sweet v. Cardona (formerly Sweet v DeVos). They celebrate the lawsuit victory that affects 264,000 borrowers who had pending borrower defense applications as of June 22, 2022. They discuss their activism, the support groups they have started, and what this victory means for them. References Apply for Borrower Defense Reddit: r/BorrowerDefense Borrower Defense- Student Loan Discharge (Facebook group) Loan Discharge: Corinthian Colleges/ Heald/Wyotech/Everest (Facebook group) Borrower Defense – Sweet v. Cardona (Facebook group) Restore GI Bill for Veterans (Facebook group) A.I. Confidential (Facebook group) Debt Collective events Corinthian 15 BIDEN JUBILEE 100 Harvard Law – Predatory Lending and Consumer Protection Clinic What happened to Florida Metropolitan University Understanding Master Promissory Notes Before Taking a Federal Student Loan Revised Master Promissory Notes for Direct Subsidized Loans, Direct Unsubsidized Loans, and Direct PLUS Loans How College Enrollment Contracts Limit Students’ Rights Case – SWEET V CARDONA Case – PRATT V. CARDONA Documentary –FAIL STATE Betsy DeVos is giving defrauded student debtors the back of her hand SCARED TO DEBT SERIES

Kelly Danvers, a member of Local 2110 UAW and the HarperCollins Union, joins Emma and Shanna to discuss the current HarperCollins strike happening in NYC. She shares what it’s like to strike as a student debtor and the financial considerations of participating in a strike. Kelly also details the objectives of the strike and why she believes in the strength of collective bargaining.  References Local 2110 UAW HarperCollins Workers Strike for Better Pay and Benefits

Extend the Pause, Joe! In a re-release episode Matter of Life and Debt producers Emma and Nikki, and host Shanna are on the scene at the Debt Collective’s April 4th Day of Action in Washington, D.C. Protestors from all over the country turned out to demand that Joe Biden sign an Executive Order to cancel student debt. Hear from student debt cancellation advocates Nina Turner, Marianne Williamson, Briahna Joy Gray, Astra Taylor, and other Debt Collective members. [3:01] Nina Turner‘s end of the speech [12:35] Briahna Joy Gray‘s interview starts [20:46] Marianne Williamson‘s interview starts [25:43] Astra Taylor‘s interview starts [36:25] Tiffany Dina Loftin‘s short chat [36:56] Annie Wilson‘s chat [38:38] Braxton Brewington‘s end speech Reference  I refuse to pay a debt the President promised to cancel. Debt Collective Nina Turner Marianne Williamson Briahna Joy Gray (Host of Bad Faith) Examined Life, by Astra Taylor Transcript 

What’s happening with Biden’s Student Debt Cancellation Plan? Shanna Bennett and Talia Molé check in with Sparky Abraham, Legal Strategist for the Debt Collective to find out what’s holding up relief and how we can support each other in the continued push for full cancellation.  References Debt Collective Twitter Sparky Abraham Twitter Debt Collective  All the Legal Threats to Student Loan Debt Relief: Could They Stop Biden's Plan?

This week producer Emma Klauber solo hosts with guest Ryan Connelly, a former opera singer, and current Navy musician. Ryan shares the impact of student loans on his music career and his unique intersection of the arts, the Navy, and student loan forgiveness.  References Ryan C. Connelly The Navy Band Ryan on Instagram