16 Consumer Debt Champions Transforming Financial Justice

By Talk About Debt Team
Reviewed by Ben Jackson
Last Updated: February 17, 2026
4 min read
The Bottom Line

These 16 consumer advocates are revolutionizing how Americans handle debt through legal innovation, policy reform, and direct assistance. You don't have to navigate debt collection, lawsuits, or bankruptcy alone. Take action today with proven resources that these champions have created to level the playing field.

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We’re celebrating 16 leaders who are changing the debt landscape for consumers. These experts provide access to justice and empower people to resolve their debts.

From innovative legal work to consumer advocacy and financial education, these champions transform lives across America. They embody principles that guide real change.

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The Principles Behind These Champions

We selected these individuals based on three core values:

  • Continuous Improvement: Each champion commits to growth and innovation. They create better systems for consumers to address debts and build financial futures.
  • Excellence is Authority: These experts lead their fields. Their ideas and practices, grounded in reality, create profound impacts.
  • Discover Reality: Through research, advocacy, and direct support, they understand consumer struggles. They implement solutions that work in the real world.

These 16 leaders guide consumers through overwhelming debt challenges. They help people stand up for their rights and access justice.

Meet the 16 Consumer Debt Champions

Tiffany Aliche – Credit Repair and Budgeting Expert

Known as “The Budgetnista,” Tiffany teaches millions how to repair credit and master budgeting. Her practical advice helps consumers escape debt cycles and build wealth.

Jon Bonnesen – Director of Litigation, Johnson Mark LLC

Jon leads litigation efforts that protect consumer rights. His work at Johnson Mark LLC holds debt collectors accountable for illegal practices.

Andrea Bopp Stark – Senior Attorney, National Consumer Law Center

Andrea fights predatory lending and abusive debt collection practices. Her legal expertise shapes consumer protection policies nationwide.

Seth Frotman – General Counsel & Senior Advisor, CFPB

Seth advises on critical consumer financial protection policies. His work at the CFPB shields Americans from unfair debt collection tactics.

Janneen Jackson – Debt Relief and Settlement Consultant

Janneen helps consumers negotiate and settle with debt collectors. Her consultations provide clear paths to debt resolution.

Paul Kiel – Journalist, ProPublica

Paul exposes predatory practices in the debt collection industry. His investigative journalism brings accountability to powerful financial institutions.

April Kuehnhoff – Senior Attorney, National Consumer Law Center

April defends consumers against illegal debt collection. Her litigation victories set precedents that protect millions of Americans.

Ruth Landé – VP Provider Relations, Undue Medical Debt

Ruth eliminates medical debt for families across America. Her work with Undue Medical Debt provides fresh starts to those crushed by healthcare costs.

Yale R. Levy – Attorney and Head of Business Development, SoloSuit

Yale expands access to justice for debt lawsuit defendants. His work with our partner Solo helps consumers respond to lawsuits and protect their rights.

Tobin Van Ostern – Co-founder, Savi

Tobin simplifies student loan forgiveness through Savi. His platform helps borrowers access programs that reduce or eliminate student debt.

Jonathan Petts – Co-founder & CEO, Upsolve

Jonathan makes bankruptcy accessible to low-income Americans. His work helps thousands discharge debt and start fresh without expensive attorney fees.

Erika Rickard – Director of Courts and Communities, The Pew Charitable Trusts

Erika reforms court systems to better serve debt defendants. Her research drives policy changes that create fairer debt collection processes.

Ohad Samet – Founder & CEO, TrueAccord

Ohad revolutionizes debt collection with ethical, consumer-friendly practices. His company proves collectors can recover debt while respecting consumer dignity.

Benjamin Schieken – Founder & CEO, Fincast

Benjamin provides financial education through innovative digital platforms. Fincast helps consumers understand debt and build financial literacy.

Susan fights economic injustice in underserved communities. Her legal advocacy protects vulnerable consumers from predatory debt practices.

John Skiba – Bankruptcy & Consumer Rights Attorney

John educates consumers about bankruptcy options and consumer rights. His practice helps people understand when bankruptcy offers the best path forward.

Why These Champions Matter

The debt collection industry often overwhelms consumers with complexity and intimidation. These 16 leaders level the playing field.

They provide education, legal representation, policy reform, and direct assistance. Their work creates real change for families drowning in debt.

Whether through journalism, litigation, technology, or advocacy, each champion expands access to justice. They prove consumers can fight back and win.

How You Can Follow Their Lead

You don’t need to face debt alone. These champions have created resources and systems to help you.

If you’re being sued by a debt collector, our partner Solo can help you respond. You have rights in court, and responding is your first step to defending yourself.

Medical debt crushing your budget? Organizations like Undue Medical Debt work to eliminate these burdens.

Considering bankruptcy? Speak with qualified attorneys who can explain your options. Many offer free consultations to assess your situation.

Student loans overwhelming your finances? Platforms like Savi help you find forgiveness programs you qualify for.

The key is taking action. These champions succeeded because they refused to accept broken systems. You can take control of your debt too.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do consumer debt champions do?

Consumer debt champions work in law, advocacy, journalism, and technology to protect consumers from predatory debt practices. They provide legal representation, policy reform, financial education, and direct assistance to people struggling with debt.

How can I get help if I'm being sued by a debt collector?

You can respond to a debt collection lawsuit with help from legal resources like our partner Solo. Responding is your legal right and the first step in defending yourself. Many of the champions on this list have created tools and systems to help you fight back.

Can these experts help with medical debt?

Yes, several champions focus on medical debt relief. Organizations like Undue Medical Debt work to eliminate medical bills for qualifying families. Consumer attorneys also fight illegal medical debt collection practices.

What if I'm considering bankruptcy?

Bankruptcy experts like John Skiba and organizations founded by champions like Jonathan Petts provide resources to understand your options. Many bankruptcy attorneys offer free consultations to assess whether Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy fits your situation.

How do I know if I qualify for debt relief programs?

Each debt relief program has specific qualifications based on income, debt type, and circumstances. Consultants like Janneen Jackson help assess your options. Student loan borrowers can use platforms like Savi to check forgiveness program eligibility.