About Student Loan Coach
The Student Loan Coach
Approach
Most people with student loan debt aren’t making a bad decision.
They’re making a decision without seeing the full picture.
Student loans don’t work like credit cards or mortgages. They’re governed by decades of federal law, multiple repayment systems, forgiveness programs, and tax implications — yet most borrowers were never taught how any of this works.
That’s where we come in.
We help borrowers understand their student loan options clearly and choose the least expensive path forward — before small assumptions turn into costly long-term mistakes.
What We Do
Our work is not about quick fixes or generic advice. It’s about strategy
What we do:
• Analyze federal student loan types and repayment plans
• Model long-term repayment vs forgiveness outcomes
• Explain trade-offs, timelines, and tax considerations
• Create clear, personalized student loan strategy reports
What we don’t do:
• Push one-size-fits-all solutions
• Shame borrowers for past choices
• Provide investment, tax, or legal advice
Meet the Team
Navigating student loans can feel overwhelming — but you don’t have to do it alone. Our team combines financial expertise, strategic thinking, and genuine care to guide you through every step with clarity and confidence.
Founder and CEO
Renee Earwood, MS, AFC®
Renée Earwood is an AFCPE® Accredited Financial Counselor and nationally recognized student loan strategist who has specialized in federal student loan strategy since 2016. Through personalized financial coaching and education, she helps professionals understand their repayment and forgiveness options and integrate their student loan debt into a comprehensive financial plan.
With more than 15 years of experience in the financial services industry, Renée began her career in retirement and investment planning before transitioning into financial counseling and education. She was the 14th professional nationwide to earn the Certified Student Loan Debt Counselor® designation through the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC). Since then, she has guided thousands of clients through one-on-one strategy sessions and educational workshops.
In 2024, Renée served on the Forbes Advisor Loan Advisory Board as a Student Loan Expert. She has also been featured in major media outlets including Forbes Advisor, NerdWallet, and The Associated Press.
Renée holds a Master of Science in Personal Financial Planning from Kansas State University, along with a Graduate Certificate in Financial Therapy.
Founder and CFO
Alexander Liberato
Alex Liberato, an FCAA certified student loan counselor, handles the operational side of Student Loan Coach, including the SLC media network and content platforms.
A recent graduate of Marquette University in 2021 with a Bachelor’s degree in Finance and Entrepreneurship, Alex understands student loan debt and how it is negatively impacting his generation’s ability to ‘adult’ towards achieving the quintessential American Dream.
With a passion for politics, Alex keeps himself up to date on matters of public policy which may impact federal student loan debt. In his spare time, he enjoys being a ‘foodie’ sampling the local fare of Milwaukee while cheering on his favorite sports teams.
Student Loan Coach
Jason Buening
Jason is an experienced leader with more than 15 years of management, operations, and business ownership experience, including running a successful insurance agency. His background in insurance strengthened his financial literacy, risk assessment expertise, and ability to translate complex financial concepts into clear, practical guidance.
With a degree in Business Management from Kansas State University, Jason brings a strong foundation in finance, strategic planning, and client service. His analytical mindset and client-centered approach make him well-equipped to guide borrowers through student loan repayment options, forgiveness strategies, and long-term financial decision-making with clarity and confidence.
Why We Exist
Student loan debt affects millions of Americans — but confusion shouldn’t.
Student Loan Coach LLC was founded to bring clarity and structure to a complex and often overwhelming system. Through personalized Student Loan Strategy Reports and one-on-one guidance, we help borrowers understand their repayment and forgiveness options and integrate those decisions into their broader financial picture.
The federal and private student loan landscape is layered with evolving rules, income-driven repayment plans, forgiveness programs, tax implications, and serious consequences for missteps. Even experienced financial professionals often find the system difficult to navigate. For borrowers, uncertainty can lead to unnecessary financial strain — from missed opportunities and excess interest to default, wage garnishment, and long-term setbacks.
Our role is not to make decisions for you. Our role is to provide education, analysis, and strategic clarity so you can move forward with confidence.
We do not provide financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. Clients are encouraged to consult with a certified financial planner, registered investment advisor, tax professional, or attorney for guidance in those specialized areas.
Contact Us