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Current Affairs Unfiltered
Welcome to Current Affairs Unfiltered, the podcast that cuts through the noise to deliver the political stories that matter most. Hosted by Paige, a researcher and analyst with a strong academic background in political science and international affairs, this show dives into the latest developments in domestic and international politics, unraveling the complexities behind the headlines to make them as accessible and digestible as possible. In a world where news can often feel overwhelming and convoluted, Current Affairs Unfiltered offers clear, thoughtful analysis and uncovers the “why” and the BS behind the stories shaping our world. Along the way, Paige is joined by expert guests—from journalists and academics to former diplomats and activists—who bring unique insights and real-world experience to the conversations. Ask questions, get engaged, and join us for discussions that truly make sense of the news.
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About Paige
Paige is a Chicago native with a background in communications, nonprofit and government work. She holds an M.A. in U.S. foreign policy and national security and a B.A. in sociology. She is passionate about breaking down complex political issues in a way that’s accessible and engaging. With a sharp eye for global affairs and a deep no nonsense commitment to public discourse, she brings a fresh and witty perspective to today’s most pressing topics.
My Story
I started Current Affairs Unfiltered because I was tired of feeling like political discussions were either oversimplified soundbites or inaccessible deep dives meant for policy wonks. After graduating with my master’s in U.S. foreign policy and national security, I struggled to find a job and tried to make sure that people in my own circle were well informed on the issues of the hour. In the aftermath of the 2024 election I was deeply disturbed by the way political discourse often leaves people feeling overwhelmed, more confused and powerless. Instead of waiting for someone else to give me permission to create change, I decided to start a podcast that breaks down complex political issues in a way that’s engaging, honest, and unfiltered. My goal is to help people understand what’s happening, why it matters, and how they can actually do something about it. Politics isn’t just about Washington—it’s about all of us, and it’s time we start talking about it that way.
Episodes
4 days ago
4 days ago
In this episode, Paige sits down with Sam Polan, who is running for Congress in Illinois’ 9th District, to unpack why the United States is at a defining crossroads and why the stakes for competent, steady leadership have never been higher. Together, they break down how we ended up in a moment where common sense feels scarce, expertise is undervalued, and political theatrics routinely drown out real governance.
The conversation explores what it actually means to put qualified, serious people back in charge, why professionalism matters in every decision made on behalf of the public, and how restoring basic competence can rebuild trust in our institutions. This episode is a call for adults to be back in the room, for rational thinking to outweigh chaos, and for all of us to stay engaged so that the people making decisions are the ones equipped to do the job.
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Monday Jan 26, 2026
Monday Jan 26, 2026
In this conversation, Denise Powell, candidate for Nebraska's 2nd district, discusses her transition from a corporate career to community advocacy, driven by political frustrations following the 2016 election. She founded 'Women Who Run Nebraska' to support women candidates and emphasizes the importance of community engagement in politics. Denise highlights the challenges facing Nebraskans, including rising living costs, rural healthcare struggles, and the impact of tariffs on agriculture. She advocates for clean energy solutions and the strengthening of public education as vital components of a thriving democracy. Throughout the discussion, Denise expresses hope in the resilience of Nebraskans and their willingness to support one another, urging active participation in the political process to ensure a better future for all.
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Monday Jan 19, 2026
Monday Jan 19, 2026
In this conversation, Matt. Maasdam, a former Navy SEAL and current congressional candidate for Michigan's 7th district, shares his journey from military service to politics. He discusses the importance of leadership, integrity, and compassion in both high-pressure situations and political environments. Matt emphasizes the need for affordable healthcare, the significance of collective bargaining for workers, and the role of trust in government. Plus, let's address young men abandoning the democratic party. He expresses hope for the future of America, highlighting the resilience of its citizens and the importance of community involvement in governance.
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Monday Jan 12, 2026
Monday Jan 12, 2026
Care for the entire being, be a man or woman for others. In this conversation, Matt Conroy, candidate for Illinois’s 5th Congressional District, breaks down why the United States is falling behind countries like China when it comes to infrastructure, clean energy, and long-term economic planning. He argues that America’s biggest threat isn’t another nation, but our own refusal to update aging systems and political mindsets that no longer meet the moment.
Matt talks about what he’s seeing on the ground in IL-05, from affordability pressures to outdated transit and energy grids that hurt both families and businesses.
Throughout the conversation, Matt discusses why he chose to run against an entrenched incumbent, how corporate money shapes congressional priorities, and why younger, working-class voices are essential in shaping the country’s future. He closes with a hopeful vision of a more responsive, modern, people-centered government, one capable of meeting the challenges of this century rather than the last.
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Saturday Jan 10, 2026
Saturday Jan 10, 2026
Anthony David Vernon is back! This time to unpack the escalating situation in Venezuela and what it reveals about U.S. power abroad. Together, they trace the historical roots of American intervention in Latin America through the Monroe Doctrine, examine the real-world consequences of economic sanctions, and break down how U.S. rhetoric around oil and democracy shapes public understanding. Anthony argues that when these developments are viewed together, the dots increasingly point toward the United States moving in the direction of effectively colonizing Venezuela.
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Check out some of Anthony’s articles:
https://academeblog.org/2025/04/17/double-booking-against-higher-education/
https://www.jerryjazzmusician.com/are-jazz-hop-instrumentals-jazz-an-observation-and-playlist-by-anthony-david-vernon/
https://www.bardicsanonymous.com/nonfiction/optimistic-absurdism