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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
Monday Jan 05, 2026
Monday Jan 05, 2026
In this episode, Paige sits down with Cait Conley, a veteran, national security expert, and candidate for New York’s 17th congressional district, currently represented by Mike Lawler. Cait discusses the urgent need for government to deliver real results for everyday Americans, focusing on economic stability, family well-being, and restoring trust in public service. Drawing on her leadership experience in high-pressure national security roles, she makes the case for pragmatic, people-centered solutions that put American families first.
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Cait's website: https://caitconley.com/
Donate to Cait: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/conley-web
Cait's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caitconley
Cait's Twitter: https://x.com/CaitforNewYork
Cait's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaitConleyforNY/
Thursday Jan 01, 2026
Thursday Jan 01, 2026
In this episode, social workers Chelsea Laliberte Barnes and Chante Gamby unpack the realities of the fentanyl crisis, exploring how public health, politics, and human impact collide. They discuss the ways the current administration has leveraged the crisis for political gain, often at the expense of evidence-based solutions and the families most affected. Drawing on their frontline experiences, Chelsea and Chante highlight how social workers shoulder the consequences of policy failures and why lived experience, advocacy, and honest storytelling are essential for shaping compassionate and effective drug policy. They also reflect on what real support for people struggling with substance use disorders should look like and what it means to fight for a system that prioritizes care over headlines.
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Monday Dec 29, 2025
Monday Dec 29, 2025
This episode features Adriano Kalin, a Chicago-based social justice photographer whose work has become a living record of protest movements, community resilience, and the voices too often pushed to the margins. The conversation traces his path into photography, the evolution of his style, and the ethical considerations of documenting people in vulnerable and high-stakes moments.
Adriano discusses Chicago’s unique political climate, the growing pressures of censorship, and the complicated role AI now plays in shaping (and sometimes distorting) photographic truth. The episode explores the tension between creating art and preserving evidence, and why historical context is essential for responsible visual storytelling.
Through personal stories from the streets, Adriano illustrates the power of images to amplify community voices and the responsibility photographers carry to witness with honesty, dignity, and respect.
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Monday Dec 22, 2025
Monday Dec 22, 2025
Happy final solo episode of the year!! In this episode Paige reflects on the past year (thank you all!!!) before diving in. She delves into the recent masss shootings at Brown University and Bondi Beach, the implications of Rob Reiner's death and the political discourse surrounding it, as well as a lawsuit against Instacart for alleged political discrimination. The episode also covers ICE operations in Minneapolis, escalating tensions with Venezuela, and insights from a Vanity Fair article about Trump's inner circle. Paige concludes with Trump's affordability tour, and the political landscape as the year comes to a close.
Washington Post Instacart article: https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2025/12/15/instacart-congress-campaign-democrat/
Vanity Fair article: https://www.vanityfair.com/news/story/trump-susie-wiles-interview-exclusive-part-1?srsltid=AfmBOoqi9-2IaWl7Poc3j40bqAuFA84KgMuLfWHaCSbLLwwD0lfs4LKN
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Monday Dec 15, 2025
Monday Dec 15, 2025
In this episode, Paige sits down with Hot Takes to unpack his journey from lifelong Republican to political independent, tracing how the rise of Trump and a shift in GOP rhetoric pushed them to reevaluate their values. Together, they explore how Trump’s messaging reshaped the party, and the national conversation, while examining what’s been lost in the era of outrage politics. The conversation dives into the grievances driving the MAGA movement, the challenges Democrats face in reaching disillusioned moderates, and where real common ground might still exist in a deeply divided America.
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