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
Nov 17, 2025
Nov 17, 2025
56 min
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.
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Nov 10, 2025
Nov 10, 2025
45 min
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.
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Nov 3, 2025
Nov 3, 2025
36 min
Paige sits down with Bushra Amiwala, congressional candidate for Illinois' 9th district as she shares her journey as a young political leader, discussing her experiences running for office, the importance of integrity in campaigning, and her commitment to community-driven policies. She emphasizes the need for educational reform through her 'Books Not Bombs' initiative, the challenges posed by AI in the job market, and her approach to immigration reform. Throughout the discussion, Bushra highlights the power of community and collective action in driving change.
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Relevant articles:
Chicago Tribune: Texas House Democrats accept Skokie official’s invite to north suburban mosque
Chicago Magazine: This Gen Z Congressional Candidate Is Actually From Here
Evanston Now: Amiwala hosts Texas Dems for prayer service
HerCampus Media: Bushra Amiwala was the First Gen Zer Elected into Office. Now, She's Running for Congress
Journal Topics: Bushra Amiwala Of Skokie Announces Run For 9th Congressional District
Oct 27, 2025
Oct 27, 2025
25 min
In this episode of Current Affairs Unfiltered, host Paige shares her firsthand experience at the nationwide No Kings protest on October 18th, 2025, a day that reignited hope and solidarity across millions of Americans. Paige reflects on the power of collective action and what it felt like to stand shoulder to shoulder with people who refuse to accept creeping authoritarianism. She breaks down the right-wing panic that surrounded the protests, debunking the fearmongering and absurd narratives that followed. Through humor, insight, and honesty, Paige explores why peaceful protest still matters and how movements like No Kings can spark lasting civic engagement long after the signs come down. Learn how to get involved and act on it!
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Oct 20, 2025
Oct 20, 2025
57 min
Paige sits down with Karen Boyd, the director of research at the Policy & Innovation Center, for a conversation about the rise of artificial intelligence: what it is, what it isn’t, and why it’s reshaping the way we live and work. Together, they unpack AI’s basic principles and cut through common misconceptions that fuel both hype and fear. The discussion moves beyond the buzzwords to explore how automation and machine learning are transforming the job market, demanding new skills, and redefining professional responsibility.
Paige and Karen also examine the ethical and legal questions surrounding AI’s use across sectors from Silicon Valley’s profit-driven innovations to nonprofit and humanitarian applications that aim to serve the public good. Along the way, they highlight the enormous promise of AI in fields like healthcare, research, and personal growth, while confronting the real risks of bias, misuse, and the growing gap between technology and human understanding.
This conversation challenges listeners to think critically about what “responsible AI” really means — and how we can ensure that progress serves people, not the other way around.
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Check out more about Karen and her work:
Drkarenboyd.com
Ouraifutureslab.com
Link to Sustainability article by Dr. Karen Boyd