Student loans aren’t one big bucket.

Confusing federal and private loans is where many borrowers get into trouble. In this episode of the Default to Durable Podcast, Dan, Andy, and Norman break down how federal loans are supposed to work, why private loans are filling a growing gap, and what new federal limits and policy shifts mean for students, families, and schools. They explore how rising tuition, tighter federal caps, and high‑interest private lending are reshaping who can afford education, which programs survive, and how much risk borrowers really carry over a lifetime.

They’ll also discuss growing delinquency, financial literacy gaps and the cultural shift around paying back debt. The conversation also stems into practical ways students have used to better evaluate schools, compare loan options, and protect their future  ...