My Journey: From Lender’s Desk to Your Credit Education Advocate

Hi, I’m Lisa Burkhardt, the founder of Scars to Stars Pathway to Success. My path to becoming a credit educator wasn’t one I planned—it was built from years of experience, personal challenges, and a deep understanding of how credit shapes opportunities. 

For over 20 years, I worked as a lender, where I sat across the table from people who were overwhelmed by their credit challenges. I saw the same patterns time and again: honest, hardworking individuals caught in a cycle of misinformation, confusion, and uncertainty about how to improve their financial standing. It became clear to me that the problem wasn’t just their credit scores—it was the lack of accessible, accurate education about how credit works.

Then life threw me a curveball. Due to health struggles, I had to step back from a profession I loved deeply. It was a hard transition, but it also opened the door to something new. I realized I could still make an impact—by sharing the knowledge I’d gained over the years to help others navigate their own challenges. Scars to Stars Pathway to Success was born out of this realization: a way to channel my experience and passion for helping others while honoring my journey of resilience.

The name itself reflects this transformation—turning challenges into strength and scars into stars. Just as I’ve learned to adapt and overcome obstacles in my life, I want to help you take control of your credit journey, one informed step at a time.

 

What I Offer and Why

Unlike traditional programs or quick-fix solutions, my approach is informed by what I’ve seen behind the lender’s desk. My resources are built to demystify credit—explaining how it works, how it impacts your financial opportunities, and what steps you can take to improve it.

For example, in my Ultimate Credit Playbook, I walk readers through actionable strategies to address common challenges, like understanding their credit reports, identifying errors, and managing debt in ways that actually make sense. This isn’t about fluff or promises of overnight results—it’s about creating a foundation of knowledge that empowers you to make informed decisions.

 

Why It Matters

I know how overwhelming it can feel when your credit score limits the opportunities available to you. But I also know how much of a difference it can make when someone takes the time to break down the process in a way that’s easy to follow and tailored to your needs.

That’s why I’m here—to offer the guidance and tools I wish more people had access to when I worked in lending. Whether it’s through my step-by-step guides, my quick-start resources, or even one-on-one coaching, I want to give you the knowledge and confidence to navigate your credit journey with clarity.

 

A Bit More About Me

When I’m not developing resources or connecting with others on their credit journey, you’ll often find me outdoors walking my favorite boardwalks or diving into a challenging puzzle. Living in the countryside of Wales, NY, I cherish the quiet moments spent with family, whether it’s exploring new places, camping under the stars, or enjoying laughter-filled moments with my kids. While I’m not able to join in some of their favorite outdoor activities like snowmobiling, ATV riding, and hunting, I love hearing their stories when they return. One of my personal passions is attending country concerts, a love I happily share with my daughter. These personal experiences remind me why I’m so passionate about financial education—it’s not just about numbers; it’s about building a life where you can pursue the goals that matter most to you.

I invite you to explore the resources I’ve created and take that first step toward understanding your credit better. This isn’t about chasing perfection—it’s about giving yourself the tools to make progress on your own terms.

Take the first step in transforming your credit! Get my free ‘5 Steps to Boost Your Credit Score’ guide today and learn actionable steps you can take right away. Get the Free Checklist