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.
Want To Get Involved?
If you are interested in coming on to be a guest, please reach out via email, currentaffairsunfilteredpod@gmail.com, and let me know what you're thinking!
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
Jun 2, 2025
Jun 2, 2025
45 min
In this episode, Paige is joined by professor, philosopher and writer Anthony David Vernon for a wide-ranging conversation on the quiet evolution of fascism in contemporary culture. They explore how fascist ideologies are increasingly "disguised". Co-opting everything from AI and internet aesthetics to nostalgic pop culture and traditional values. Vernon breaks down how nationalism remains the central thread of fascist movements, and why it’s important to distinguish between reactionary figures and true authoritarian ideologues.
The conversation also delves into the rise of the “repairman economy”. Paige and Anthony reflect on how cultural and economic narratives intertwine—and what resistance looks like when fascism wears softer, subtler faces.
Together, they imagine a future rooted in social democracy, where progress is incremental but real, and where reclaiming empathy is key to confronting political dehumanization.
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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
May 26, 2025
May 26, 2025
37 min
In this episode of Current Affairs Unfiltered, Paige unpacks a whirlwind of political headlines, starting with President Biden’s recent cancer diagnosis and the media frenzy that followed. She dives into Trump’s ongoing assault on regulation and accountability, the chaos surrounding the latest budget bill, and the high-stakes debate over birthright citizenship. Also on the docket: a disturbing bombing at a fertility clinic, the latest flashpoints in reproductive rights, and Jake Tapper’s new book that’s already stirring the pot on Biden’s legacy.
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Trump says no rules!:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2025/05/18/trump-enforcement-halt-regulations-laws/
SCOTUS birthright citizenship arguments:
https://www.npr.org/2025/05/15/nx-s1-5398025/supreme-court-birthright-citizenship
May 19, 2025
May 19, 2025
50 min
In this episode of Current Affairs Unfiltered, Paige and Brittany Rastsmith, founder of Bloom Remote, unpack the politics of remote work—how it became a cultural battleground, what it says about worker autonomy, and why the debate goes far beyond productivity. From the historical roots of labor control to the modern media narratives fueling office nostalgia, they explore the tension between flexibility and surveillance, the impact on caregivers, and how “busyness” became a status symbol. It’s a conversation about rethinking work, redefining management, and refusing to let the future of labor be dictated by outdated power structures.
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Check out Brittany’s website: bloomremote.com
Connect with Brittany on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brittanyrastsmith.
May 12, 2025
May 12, 2025
44 min
Paige dives into the latest swirl of political absurdity and serious concern. From Karoline Leavitt’s meltdown over price transparency at checkout to Trump’s partisan purge of the Holocaust Memorial Council. Paige breaks down Canada’s surprising election swing, a new U.S. - Ukraine minerals deal, and the bizarre proposal to reopen Alcatraz. She also digs into Trump’s recent interview blunders (dodging questions about due process and the Constitution) and the legal pushback on his misuse of the Alien Enemies Act. Finally, the episode examines a revealing New York Magazine piece on John Fetterman, raising tough questions about health, leadership, and the limits of political accountability.
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John Fetterman Article (paywall): https://nymag.com/intelligencer/article/john-fetterman-struggle-mental-health-clinical-depression.html
No paywall!: https://archive.ph/zzQyE
May 5, 2025
May 5, 2025
47 min
Let's talk money... In this conversation, Paige chats with Dan McMillan, the founder of Save Democracy in America, and discusses the urgent need for campaign finance reform in the United States, emphasizing the failure of the current political system and the overwhelming influence of money in politics. He introduces the concept of 'voter dollars' as a potential solution to empower citizens and reclaim democracy. McMillan highlights the bipartisan support for reform and the challenges posed by dark money and campaign finance. He reflects on the historical context of political dysfunction and the need for systemic change to ensure government accountability to the people. He believes that the true enemy is not the voters but the money that corrupts the political system, and expresses optimism for a future where Americans can unite against this common adversary. Follow me on Instagram! Get involved with Save Democracy in AmericaFollow SDIA on Instagram This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paigefullman.substack.com