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.   Follow me on Instagram!   Follow Bushra on Instagram Learn more about Bushra on her campaign website Donate to Bushra's campaign!   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     

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!   Follow me on Instagram! Be a keyboard warrior in my TikTok comments    

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.   Follow me on Instagram!   Connect with Karen on LinkedIn Check out more about Karen and her work: Drkarenboyd.com Ouraifutureslab.com Link to Sustainability article by Dr. Karen Boyd

Lets get messy! (literally).   In this episode of Current Affairs Unfiltered Paige tries to hold together her own thoughts while everything unravels. First: a government shutdown but maybe not the typical gridlock story. Then: Trump has deployed Texas National Guard troops into Illinois, and attempted to do the same in Portland injecting the military into domestic politics in a move that should make every American uneasy. Not to mention, ICE terrorizing anyone it can find in and around Chicago. And finally: in Broadview, Illinois, federal enforcement and local protests collide, pushing civil liberties to their breaking points. This isn’t a neat analysis episode. It’s frantic and emotional. Because I don’t have all the answers but I know this is a moment where we have to see what’s happening before it’s too late.   Follow me on Instagram!   Helpful articles: Democrats win Momentum over GOP in Shutdown Fight Opinion Piece by IL-4 Representative Lilian Jiménez Chicago Pastor Shot with Pepper Bullet Immigration Agents Become Increasingly Aggressive in Chicago Broadview Mayor Limits Protest Time

In this conversation, Kevin Ryan, candidate for one of Illinois' Senate seats, discusses his motivations for running for the U.S. Senate, emphasizing the need for a hard reset in the Democratic Party following Trump's presidency. He highlights the challenges faced by outsiders in politics, the importance of campaign finance reform, and the need for a humane immigration policy. Ryan critiques the influence of money in politics and advocates for term limits and age limits for politicians. He also addresses the complexities of U.S. support for Israel and the necessity of a two-state solution. Ultimately, Ryan envisions a future where campaign finance reform is achieved, allowing for a more representative democracy.   Follow me on Instagram!   Learn More About Kevin Follow Kevin on Instagram

In this episode, Paige discusses the assassination of Charlie Kirk, exploring the political and social ramifications of the event. Make no mistake, we are on the precipice of something scary, and it's okay to admit that. She delves into the reactions from both sides of the political spectrum, the role of social media in amplifying extremist views, and the implications of cancel culture in the aftermath of Kirk's death. The conversation highlights the dangers of political violence, the erosion of civil discourse, and the need for a nuanced understanding of free speech in today's polarized environment.   Now is the time to use your first amendment rights. Stand up, use your voice, do not let anyone silence you.    Follow me on Instagram!   Ta-Nehisi Coates Vanity Fair Article: https://www.vanityfair.com/news/story/charlie-kirk-ezra-klein-tanehisi-coates?srsltid=AfmBOoqVDkAWDjCDZzlvKppEwBvEttK-Y8OLlL5xnLPiU2aAvBbxc9bl CATO Institute article on extremism: https://www.cato.org/blog/politically-motivated-violence-rare-united-states    

In this conversation, Matthew Adams, Democratic candidate for California's 9th assembly district, shares his journey into politics, discussing his motivations for running for the California Assembly and the challenges he faces as a candidate. He emphasizes the importance of community engagement, the complexities of navigating local and national political issues, and the impact of California's new redistricting plan on representation. Matthew also offers insights into the opportunities for reform, particularly in campaign finance, and encourages aspiring politicians to overcome their fears and get involved. The discussion highlights the evolving political landscape in California and the hope for a more engaged electorate.   Follow me on Instagram!   Matthew's Campaign Website:  sites.google.com/view/adams4assembly/home Follow Matthew's Campaign on Instagram!

In this episode of Current Affairs Unfiltered, Paige discusses the recent deployment of the National Guard in (potentially) Chicago and Washington D.C., the beating of a dead horse surrounding Trump's obsession with voter ID and mail-in voting policies, and significant changes in CDC leadership affecting vaccine policies. The conversation highlights the normalization of federal intervention in local matters, the political motivations behind these actions, and the implications for public health and safety. Paige also touches on legal challenges to Trump's tariffs and the broader political landscape as the midterms approach.

In this conversation, former Turning Point USA Staffer Caroline sits down with Paige and shares her journey from growing up in a conservative household in Texas and working for TPUSA to becoming a progressive. She discusses the early influences that shaped her political beliefs, her experiences with Turning Point USA, and the ideological crisis she faced during Trump's campaign. Caroline emphasizes the importance of questioning one's beliefs and finding community after leaving a tightly-knit ideological group. She expresses hope for the future and the power of civic engagement in creating change.   Follow Me On Instagram!   Check out Caroline's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@babyblue.tx

This episode of Current Affairs Unfiltered dives deep into the topic of gerrymandering, exploring its historical roots, techniques, and modern implications. Paige discusses the ongoing political battles surrounding redistricting, particularly in Texas and California as Greg/Trump and Gavin Newsome duke it out, and highlights the consequences of gerrymandering on democracy and voter engagement. Are there potential solutions to combat gerrymandering? Maybe.    Follow Me On Instagram! Links: https://blogs.loc.gov/loc/2024/07/gerrymandering-the-origin-story/ https://www.newamerica.org/political-reform/reports/what-we-know-about-redistricting-and-redistricting-reform/where-we-have-been-the-history-of-gerrymandering-in-america/  

In this conversation, Danielle Reiff, a retired US diplomat, shares her extensive experience in democracy promotion and peacebuilding. She discusses misconceptions about USAID, the impact of its work on global stability, and the importance of development diplomacy. Reiff emphasizes the need for better communication about USAID's role and the long-term benefits of its initiatives, particularly in mitigating conflict and promoting democratic governance. She also draws parallels between her international experiences and the current divisions within the U.S., advocating for inclusive governance as a means to heal societal rifts.   Follow Me On Instagram! Pre Order Danielle's Book: Overcoming Information Chaos https://share.google/MCb9Khv6CGndLCM1a Checkout Danielle's Website: https://peacebuildersunite.com 

In this episode of Current Affairs Unfiltered, Paige delves into the complex and troubling story of Jeffrey Epstein, exploring his rise from humble beginnings to becoming a powerful figure entangled in a web of sexual abuse and political connections. The conversation covers Epstein's early life, his financial empire, the allegations against him, the challenges faced by law enforcement, and the implications of his connections to high-profile individuals, including Donald Trump. The episode also discusses the ongoing impact of the Epstein case and the recent developments surrounding Ghislaine Maxwell.   Follow me on Instagram!

In this episode of Current Affairs Unfiltered, Paige sits down with Adam, founder of Just Future Fund, a progressive super PAC with an unconventional mission: to flip the political system on its head by using its own tools against it. Together, they unpack the murky world of campaign finance—explaining the difference between PACs, super PACs, and dark money groups—and why the Citizens United decision changed everything. Adam shares what drove him, a political outsider, to launch a super PAC instead of a nonprofit, and how Just Future Fund aims to punch above its weight by investing in smarter, more authentic political messaging. They discuss voter distrust, donor fatigue, the power of influencer-driven campaigning, and the fine (and legally fuzzy) line between coordination and plausible deniability. With insights into how political money moves, where it actually goes, and why transparency is so hard to find, this episode is a mustlisten for anyone curious (or skeptical) about where politics meets money. Follow me on Instagram!   Follow Just Future Fund on Instagram Donate to Support Just Future Fund    

In this episode of Current Affairs Unfiltered, Paige discusses a range of topics including the devastating floods in Texas and the tragedy at Camp Mystic, the complexities of US-Iran relations and military actions, the implications of the recent One Big Beautiful Bill, significant Supreme Court decisions affecting federal workforce policies, and controversial antisemitic comments made by Donald Trump. The episode provides a critical analysis of these events and their broader implications on society and politics. Buckle up!   Follow me on Instagram!

In this conversation, Paige and Sam Smeaton, a public school teacher and host of his own podcast ‘All The Things That Matter’, discuss the multifaceted challenges facing public education today, particularly in the wake of COVID-19. They explore the struggles teachers face, including workload, compensation, and the need for support staff. The discussion also touches on the political pressures affecting education, the importance of community support, and the future of public schools. Sam emphasizes the need for educational reform and the critical role public schools play in fostering democracy and community engagement.   Follow me on Instagram!   Check out 'All The Things That Matter' https://youtube.com/@cygnus290?si=wE7ZuU4aVKNn5RP6   https://open.spotify.com/show/0EtAwhkbQjv7fFHPyqXxKg?si=e2ikeYNXS-GOuBj9vRSpAQ

Oh boy... In this episode of Current Affairs Unfiltered, Paige discusses a range of pressing political issues, including Donald Trump's military parade, public protests against presidential power grabs, the alarming rise in political violence, and the implications for civil liberties. She also addresses the youth unemployment crisis and Trump's controversial plans to dismantle FEMA, alongside Tucker Carlson's recent critiques of Fox News (and the worlds funniest clip of him beefing with Ted Cruz).    Follow me on Instagram!  

In this episode of Current Affairs Unfiltered, Paige sits down with journalist and author Jenny Abamu to unpack the tangled mess that is truth in today’s media landscape. They dig into how journalism shapes national memory, why misinformation spreads like wildfire, and what happens when headlines chase clicks instead of facts. From the pressures of the 24-hour news cycle to the slow erosion of public trust, Jenny breaks down the forces warping our collective understanding of reality. They also explore the role of media literacy, civic education, and Jenny’s own dystopian novel The Herd, in helping us reimagine how we engage with truth. It’s a conversation about rebuilding trust, one accurate sentence at a time. Follow me on Instagram! Purchase Jenny's Book: The Herd: When Democracy Falls Follow Jenny on: Substack: www.jennyabamu.com Instagram: @jenny.abamu Bluesky: @jennyabamu.bsky.social Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennyabamu/

In this episode of Current Affairs Unfiltered, Paige returns from Europe with fresh perspective. She dives into the so-called “One Big Beautiful Bill,” unpacking the backlash from Elon Musk, the chaos it’s stirred on the Hill, and Marjorie Taylor Greene’s proud refusal to read it. Paige also breaks down Senator Joni Ernst’s grim take on Medicaid cuts (“we’re all going to die”), the FEMA directors' head-scratching ignorance about hurricane season, and the quiet but serious return of Kilmar Abrego-Garcia to face federal charges.  Follow me on Instagram! WSJ Article on Abrego-Garcia: https://www.wsj.com/us-news/u-s-brings-abrego-garcia-back-from-el-salvador-to-face-criminal-charges-bc6d8ad5?st=8o5Mek&reflink=article_imessage_share Reuters Article on FEMA Director: https://www.reuters.com/world/us/fema-staff-confused-after-head-said-he-was-unaware-us-hurricane-season-sources-2025-06-02/  

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.   Follow me on Instagram! 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

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.    Follow me on Instagram!   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