Two Across – A Transatlantic Crossword Pod

Rob and Theo are back in the same timezone, with Rob returning to his family abode in Herne Bay, Kent, a coastline that famously inspired Turner. On the other side of the crossword, they also consider the merits of chair designer Herman Miller's landmark Aeron, which Theo has recently become mildly obsessed with. There is also, inevitably, some world cup chatter, with England preparing to face Mexico in the Azteca.And seeing as this is the penultimate episode of season 3, be prepared for plentiful plugs of the finale/100th LIVE EPISODE next Sunday (12th July) at 3pm. Zoom link: ZOOM LINKAdd to your calendar: CALENDAR LINKPlay along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17520Contact us:[email protected] to Enthusiasts:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2

The boys are back in (their respective) town(s), and get their teeth into a typically diverse range of topics from the naked commerciality of the World Cup to the importance of conquering shame in one's creative endeavours. On which note, listen out for some poetry at the end of the show.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17506Contact us:[email protected] to Enthusiasts:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2

Theo and Rob reunite in their new regular (UK) evening slot to discuss events both recent and more historic - like the time Theo slept through an entire day at university. And listen out for an unusually abrupt ending, as the technical gremlins decided they weren't enjoying an anecdote about Rafa Nadal.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17501Contact us:[email protected] to Enthusiasts:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2

Theo and Rob get unexpectedly fixated on the jawless fish who swam in the seas of the prehistoric world, prompted by Theo's mention of his recent trip to Devon. There's also some chat regarding the red arrows, Paul Simon's recent gig at the Royal Albert Hall, and the etymology of knapsacks.Play along: https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17495Contact us:[email protected] to Enthusiasts:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2

Rob takes time out of a conference in Quebec City to check in with Theo, who has some news from London. They consider the pressing matters of the age, from the crisis in journalism to the latest UK failure in Eurovision and the fortunes of the Montreal Canadiens.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17484Contact us:[email protected] to Enthusiasts:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2

With Prime Minister Keir Starmer facing revolt, the guys reflect on the now near-annual tradition of UK leadership change, how it compares to the situation in Canada, and the parallels with the recent fortunes of Chelsea FC. Other discussion topics include the etymology of 'hanky panky' and its near-neighbour 'sanky panky'. Can they also increase their lead in the crossword scores?Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17477 Contact us:[email protected] to Enthusiasts:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2

Theo and Rob discuss their offspring's formative experiences as sports fans and Zeus's recent appearance at the Brockwell Bark dog show, and mark another circuit of the sun for Rob. They also attempt to end their poor run of crosswording form with a real nail-biter.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17472Contact us:[email protected] to Enthusiasts:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2

Theo and Rob discuss a topic that's central to their lives, parenting, with particular reference to a longheld British institution, the boarding school. They also tackle a crossword which boils down to an agonising finale.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17465Contact us:[email protected] to Enthusiasts:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2

The guys reunite for another crossword, in a bid to further their lead of 16-11. They also discuss topics including scout and guide founder Robert Baden-Powell, a famous episode of Star Trek, and Rob's recent run in with a credit card scammer. Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17460Contact us:[email protected] to Enthusiasts:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2

The guys reflect on a brief Easter hiatus, which brought their reliance on smarthphone-based entertainment into focus. They also discuss the latest story in the world of AI-generated madness, namely the president's reimagining of himself as the Messiah. There is also the comparatively sensible matter of a crossword to complete.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17453Contact us:[email protected]

Rob and Theo are joined by Rob's sister Jacky Blisson, a Master of Wine and a huge advocate for an industry that's currently facing myriad challenges. She tells them about her journey into wine and why she recently launched her YouTube channel The Wine Resistance (link below), as well as giving some fascinating insights into what the young Rob was really like... There's also, as ever, the small matter of a crossword to complete.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17442Jacky's website:https://jackyblisson.com/Watch The Wine Resistance:https://www.youtube.com/@thewineresistance

Theo and Rob discuss the much-publicised Louis Theroux documentary on the manosphere, alongside topics ranging from the state of touring theatre to the romantic poets. They also get their teeth into the latest Guardian quick crossword, which turns out to be another head-scratcher. And listen out to some hot off the press guest news!Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17436Contact us:[email protected] to Enthusiasts:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2

Theo and Rob contemplate something that has been a big part of their lives: the school run, and how despite sometimes feeling like a grind, it shouldn't be wished away. They also celebrate the fact they've both reached an important moment with their respective creative projects. And, of course, tackle a crossword.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17429Contact us:[email protected] to Enthusiasts:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2

As Rob braces for an incoming ice storm, he and Theo get on their soapboxes to pontificate on the mission creep of American cultural influence. They also tackle a crossword that is festooned in question marked clues, which is never a good sign. Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17424Contact us:[email protected]

Rob takes a break from his family holiday in Bordeaux - and ominous world events - to join Theo in tackling a crossword which turns out to have an interesting surprise in store.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17420 Contact us:[email protected] to Enthusiasts:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2

After a brief hiatus Theo and Rob reunite to catch up over another crossword, and discuss a characteristically wide array of topics ranging from the challenges of reading Wuthering Heights on holiday to a viral avant garde Canadian band. Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17412Watch Angine de Poitrine on KEXP:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Ssi-9wS1soContact us:[email protected]

Theo and Rob are back on their respective sides of the Atlantic and get their teeth into some meaty - and admittedly somewhat depressing - conversation topics, either side of a pleasingly distracting crossword. They also hail Bad Bunny's continent-salving appearance at the Super Bowl halftime show, and the Canadian women's hockey team.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17399Contact us:[email protected]

Together again, this time in London, Theo and Rob discuss their creative projects, which they've been working on using the popular 'pomodoro', or tomato timer method. They also tackle another crossword while keeping one eye on the Australian Open tennis, and (finally) go through their list of 'pod fod'.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17390Contact us:[email protected]

Reunited in Herne Bay, England, and having already caught up on personal matters, Theo and Rob tackle some of the pressing issues of the day, from the Canadian PM's speech at the Davos summit to the intrafamilial war that has broken out among the Beckhams. They also attempt to tackle a crossword at speed so they can collect their takeaway in time.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17385Contact us:[email protected] Jacky (Rob's sister) and her wine resistance:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAkGdKb8bVI

A day after Theo finishes being 42 (ie, his 43rd birthday), he and Rob - with a little help from Douglas Adams - muse over the biggest question of them all. So, listen on to discover the true meaning of life and - more importantly - whether or not they can conquer the latest crossword.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17381 Contact us: [email protected]

Theo and Rob reunite from opposite sides of the pond to discuss topics including the propensity of humans to ignore broken things, the etymology of cobwebs and the comedy of Sacha Baron Cohen. They also tackle a crossword with a particularly nasty surprise up its sleeve...Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17375 Contact us:[email protected] to Enthusiasts:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2

Rob and Theo check in following 'festivus', discussing how they spent the season and looking ahead to some plans for 2026, not least finally finding an answer to the meaning of life (watch this space on that one). They also return to their usual Guardian quick crossword stomping ground in a bid to kick off the year with a win.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17369Contact us:[email protected] to Enthusiasts:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2

Welcome to the third annual Christmas special. Theo and Rob have a special treat lined up for listeners, namely a dedicated festive crossword which, with 50 clues, will test their timekeeping to the limit. They also discuss a much-loved film, reminisce over Christmases past, and Rob discusses a not-so-happy memory from his time as a backpacker (see link below). Wherever you are in the world, we wish you a very merry Two Across-mas!Play along:https://www.sightsavers.org/christmas-crossword/Contact us:[email protected] Rob's article:https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2002/sep/01/bangkok.thailand.observerescapesectionAnd a special thank you to Rob for his festive musical contributions. Listen to his solo project, Enthusiasts, here:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2

Theo is on his travels and, despite a croaky voice and dodgy microphone, manages to tackle a crossword mid-wedding celebrations in Colombo. Rob meanwhile has returned to Montreal, where the temperatures are far from equatorial. Play along: https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17350Contact us:[email protected] to Enthusiasts:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2

Rob has returned to the Himalayan foothills for work purposes (international development or spying, you decide...), while Theo is contemplating a long haul trip of his own. They also ponder the passing of Tom Stoppard, Spotify's AI-authored spoilers and their combined career malaise. But, more importantly, will the jetsetting duo manage to crack the crossword?Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17341Contact us:[email protected] to Enthusiasts:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2

Theo and Rob muse the theme of 'enshittification' and whether our culture is doomed to become an AI-infested swamp forever more (a theme that regular listeners will know they are fond of), and what we can do about it. They also tackle an especially fiendish crossword.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17334Contact us:[email protected] to Enthusiasts:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2The Guardian podcast referenced:https://www.theguardian.com/news/audio/2025/nov/24/enshittification-how-we-got-the-internet-no-one-asked-for-podcast

Rob and Theo get into some juicy insurance-based chat in the wake of the latter's latest technical problem. They also discuss topics ranging in scope from tinnitus to Hitler's allegedly small appendage. But, most importantly, can they also further their crosswording lead for the series? There's only one way to find out.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17328Contact us:[email protected] to Enthusiasts:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2

Rob introduces Theo (and Zeus) to his new furry companion, a shih-poo named Snoopy. Which prompts them to ponder whether the podcast should henceforth be called Shih-Tzu across... They also have a crossword to tackle, of course, which is another one of those with a twist in the tail.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17321 Contact us:[email protected] to Enthusiasts:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2

Rob and Theo discuss the loss of the Blue Jays to the LA Dodgers in baseball, and what it tells us about the nature of failure. They also contemplate themes ranging from ice cream to careers, whilst trying to continue their crossword winning streak.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17317Contact us:[email protected] to Enthusiasts:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2

With Rob back on terra canadia, the guys catch up on their respective weeks, which have encompassed sailing, sumo wrestling, and trying to work out how to have a 'growth mindset'. They also tackle a crossword in a bid to extend their frankly embarrassingly handsome lead.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17303Contact us:[email protected] highlights of sumo at the Royal Albert Hall:https://www.royalalberthall.com/about-the-hall/news/the-grand-sumo-tournament-in-pictures Enjoy the spectacle of periodical cicadas (narrated by Sir David Attenborough):https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EWr8fzUz-Yw

In his latest roving report, Rob is in Guadelope enjoying some time on his father-in-law's boat*. Will this week's crossword prove plain sailing, or leave them all at sea?*with apologies for occasional wind noisePlay along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17297Contact us:[email protected]

Theo and Rob discuss the implications of AI generated performer Tilly Norwood, and what she could herald for the future of human-generated creativity (among many other topics). They also tackle a crossword, which has a particularly sharp twist at the end...Incidentally, we are trying out a new headline format, so do not adjust your set.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17292 Contact us:[email protected]: https://tinyurl.com/Thusiast

Theo and Rob reunite in the wake of their recent successes to try and keep their winning streak going. They also discuss myriad topics ranging from a renowned Canadian cinema/cat museum (see links below) to the Ryder Cup, apple varieties and celebrities congratulating themselves for putting their family life first.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17285 Contact us: [email protected] Highlands Cinema/documentary:https://www.highlandscinemas.com/gallery/https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=oSJuWVYmT8oTheo's wine-tasting cinema:https://www.aucklandnz.com/explore/matakana-cinemas

Theo is feeling the chill of autumn while Rob is turning his focus to the hockey season. They also speculate on the true story behind the creation of the sandwich, and returning again to 'shame corner', Theo shares a tale of sporting embarrassment. But can they at least salvage some dignity by triumphing over the crossword setter?Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17280Get in touch:[email protected]

Theo and Rob reflect on the varying anxieties, stresses and occasional joys of the freelance life, alongside other topics including transatlantic differences in the nomenclature of heating applicances, and the 1990s wrestler Giant Haystacks. They also attempt to make up for their disappointing season opening crossword defeat last time out.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17276Contact us:[email protected]

The boys are back for season three – and they’re kicking things off with a big announcement. Also, a bit of chat about dog breeds, some wild speculation on the life of the Bunsen burner’s inventor, and a debate on the virtues of slow sports. And, of course, there’s the small matter of a crossword to complete. Can they start the season with a win? There's only one way to find out.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17267Contact us:[email protected]

In what could be the final episode of season two, Rob and Theo discuss the stresses of summer holidays, the existential angst of a prominent golfer, and which Churchill quote is perfect for the last day of term. Can they prevail over this week's crossword to bring the season to a close? There's only one way to find out...Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17221 Contact us:[email protected] to Enthusiasts:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2

Theo reports on his wine-tasting sojourn to France, while Rob has been on a work trip to Saudi Arabia. But more importantly, with the scores tied at 17-17, they tackle a crucial crossword that could result in them regaining the lead as series 2 nears its climax. Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17214Contact us:[email protected] to Enthusiasts:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2

Having finally regained the lead, at 17-16, Theo and Rob nobly endeavour to extend their streak. But will there be a twist in the crosswording tale? Meanwhile they discuss topics ranging from their upcoming hot weather expeditions to skulls, strange global delicacies, and the fascinating art of sumo wrestling. Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17203Contact us:[email protected] on the real skull in RSC's Hamlet:https://www.theguardian.com/stage/2008/nov/23/hamlet-rsc-david-tennant-theatre

Theo and Rob discuss heatwaves, Live Aid and linguistic gaps (for which, as so often, the Germans have the best word) as they knuckle down to try and gain the lead for the first time in a long time. Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17197Contact us:[email protected]'s review of Just for One Day:https://www.londontheatre.co.uk/reviews/just-for-one-day-review-shaftesbury-theatre

Rob reflects on his annual street party, and the complications caused by a picnic table, while Theo reports back on seeing the landmark 'Abbatar' show Abba Voyage. They also tackle another knotty crossword in a bid to level the scores for the series at 16-16. It's nail-biting stuff!Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17190Contact us:[email protected]

Theo has been enjoying a slice of 'la dolce vita' in Italy, while Rob has been manning the home front in Montreal. As they grapple with another crossword, discussion topics include golden ages, the propensity of Theo to over-indulge himself in new locations, and a splendid pin from Rob on the etymology of Waffle.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17184 Contact us:[email protected] to Enthusiasts:https://open.spotify.com/album/6zFs57voxIwizZemOZwwiu

While shih-tzu Zeus heads for his bi-monthly clip, Theo and Rob tackle a key crossword in their bid to retain some hope of winning series two. It throws up some intriguing clues, including one on the inspiration for Rastafari, Haile Selassie. Other topics of note range from the weather (of course) to the controversial Brockwell Park festivals and what we can glean from the mating habits of seabirds.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17173Contact us:[email protected]'s lovely groomer:https://brockwellpups.com/

Theo and Rob, back once again on opposite sides of the Atlantic, reflect on the parallels between parenting and trench warfare, the struggles of the UK water infrastructure, and a stage adaptation of David Mamet's 1987 film House of Games. There's also a crossword to complete, which throws up some curveballs and a nail-biting finale. The guys would also love to hear your views on the pod, so do get in touch using the email below.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17166Contact us:[email protected]

Rob and Theo talk IRL in London, contemplating recent events including the Trump/Carney meeting at the White House, Star Wars day and their return to a much-loved location to mark Rob's birthday. They also tackle a fiendishly tricksy quick crossword; will it break their winning streak? Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17161 Contact us:[email protected]

Rob reports on the immediate aftermath of the Canadian election, which has taken on an unusual level of global significance. Meantime Theo is still worrying about his tadpoles, and reflecting on the comforting familiarity of snooker. Can they also gain further ground in their attempt to level the crossword scores?Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17154 Contact us:[email protected]

In London, Theo has been the victim of a fraudster, while in Montreal, Rob is reflecting on the fortunes of his local hockey heroes. And in classic Two Across style, they also dip into topics ranging in scale from tadpole keeping to the death of the Pope. Can they also make further progress on their crossword scorecard after last week's triumph?Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17150 Contact us:[email protected] to Enthusiasts on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2

Theo reports back on his journey to Northumberland for Easter by electric car. Rob meanwhile is in Montreal contemplating fast-moving political events, and has had a harrowing encounter with a turkey. There's also a crossword to complete, which throws up contemplations ranging from motorbikes to the Sultan of Brunei's standing in the wealth charts.Play along: https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17141 Contact us:[email protected] to Enthusiasts on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2

Like Dylan, Theo has gone electric (at least on the car front). Meanwhile Rob is dealing with his ongoing renovation work as well as a heavy cold. Other topics covered this week include April Fool's Day, and further ruminations on the Netflix series Adolescence. Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17130Contact us:[email protected]

Theo and Rob mark their 50th episode, while also reflecting on a(nother) big week for Canadian politics, the merits of Airfix, and a zeitgeist-defining new series on Netflix. They also tackle Guardian quick crossword 17,124, in a bid to continue their winning streak.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17124Contact us:[email protected]