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.

Listen on:

  • Apple Podcasts
  • YouTube
  • Podbean App
  • Spotify
  • Amazon Music
  • iHeartRadio
  • PlayerFM
  • Listen Notes
  • Podchaser
  • BoomPlay

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! 

Image

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 Dec 08, 2025

In this episode of Current Affairs Unfiltered, Paige breaks down a whirlwind month in politics, from Kash Patel’s eyebrow raising private jet habits to Trump’s bulldozing of the East Wing for his own personal ballroom and the wave of pardons that followed. She digs into escalating military activity off the coast of Venezuela, what the latest Election Day results signal about the political landscape, and the real fallout from the most recent government shutdown. Paige also unpacks new Department of Education rules that could reshape access to professional degrees. She closes the episode with some personal reflections and a look ahead at what’s coming next for the podcast...
 
Articles:
Tatiana Schlossberg article: https://www.newyorker.com/culture/the-weekend-essay/a-battle-with-my-blood
WaPo second strike article: https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2025/11/28/hegseth-kill-them-all-survivors-boat-strike/
 
 
Follow me on Instagram!
Subscribe to my Substack (launching January 1st, 2026)
Learn more about Paige
 

Monday Dec 01, 2025

In this episode, Paige and Abby (Political Psych with Abby) unpack the growing intersection of technology, psychology, and politics through the lens of dehumanization. They explore what happens when we start labeling others as “NPCs,” the dangers of the Liar’s Dividend in an AI-saturated world, and how artificial intelligence is reshaping both political discourse and human perception. At its core, the conversation is a call to preserve empathy, connection, and community in an era increasingly defined by algorithms and automation.
 
Follow my on Instagram!
 
Check out Abby's Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/politicalpsychwithabby
Check out Abby’s dehumanization and AI video
 

Monday Nov 24, 2025


In this episode, Paige sits down with Phil Andrew, a gun violence survivor and former FBI agent turned candidate for Illinois’s 9th District, to talk about leadership rooted in trust, accountability, and collaboration. Phil reflects on how his life experiences shaped his commitment to public safety and democracy, emphasizing that thriving communities begin with people who feel secure and heard. He discusses how negotiation and empathy can bridge divides in Congress, the urgency of restoring faith in government, and why he believes the next generation’s engagement will determine the future of American democracy.
 
Follow me on Instagram!
 
Follow Phil on Instagram
Learn more about Phil on his campaign website
Donate to Phil Andrew's campaign!
 
Relevant articles:
"Illinois community and leaders react as Israel and Hamas exchange hostages and prisoners" (Phil is foreign policy expert interviewed)
Wilmette’s Phil Andrew — a mass-shooting survivor and former FBI agent — gets in race for Schakowsky’s seat

Monday Nov 17, 2025

In this episode, Dylan Blaha, Congressional candidate for Illinois' 13th district, joins Paige to talk about his leap from military service to politics and why he thinks Washington needs fewer career politicians and more public servants. They dig into the realities of running against an incumbent, how money distorts democracy, and what it actually takes to connect with voters who’ve tuned out.
Blaha lays out his vision for a government that serves people, not donors, from healthcare reform and humane immigration policy to a more balanced foreign policy approach in Israel and Palestine. He also touches on the dangers of misinformation, the need to rebuild trust in institutions, and what an anti-oligarchy, anti-authoritarian future could look like.
 
Follow me on Instagram!
 
Check out Dylans Campaign Website
Donate to Dylan's Campaign
Follow Dylan on Instagram
Follow Dylan on TikTok
 

Monday Nov 10, 2025

Meet Patrick Hanley. Northbrook native, community organizer, and newly minted target of Chaya Raichik’s online outrage machine. In this conversation, Patrick discusses his background growing up in Northbrook, Illinois, and how it shaped his vision for public service. He emphasizes the importance of state politics, grassroots organizing, and community engagement. Patrick shares his experiences running for office, the challenges he faces, and his commitment to environmental sustainability. He also addresses federal overreach, the significance of the 10th Amendment in the fight of government overreach, and the need for accountability in federal enforcement. Throughout the discussion, he expresses hope for democracy and the resilience of communities in the face of challenges.
 
Follow me on Instagram!
 
Follow Patrick on Instagram
Donate to Patrick
Read more about Patrick on his campaign website
 

Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.

Podcast Powered By Podbean

Version: 20241125