Two Across

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:twoacrosspod@gmail.com

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:twoacrosspod@gmail.com

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:twoacrosspod@gmail.comFollow 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: twoacrosspod@gmail.com

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:twoacrosspod@gmail.comListen 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:twoacrosspod@gmail.comListen 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:twoacrosspod@gmail.comRead 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:twoacrosspod@gmail.comListen to Enthusiasts:https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2

Such is his commitment to Two Across, Rob hunkers down near the coffee machine at Kathmandu airport to record this latest episode, which is soundtracked by regular whistlings of steam. This week's crossword meanwhile seems to be plain sailing... Until it isn't. Can they crack an especially fiendish clue?Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17345Contact us:twoacrosspod@gmail.com

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:twoacrosspod@gmail.comListen 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:twoacrosspod@gmail.comListen 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:twoacrosspod@gmail.comListen 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:twoacrosspod@gmail.comListen 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:twoacrosspod@gmail.comListen 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:twoacrosspod@gmail.comSome 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:twoacrosspod@gmail.com

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:twoacrosspod@gmail.comEnthusiasts: 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: twoacrosspod@gmail.comThe 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:twoacrosspod@gmail.com

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:twoacrosspod@gmail.com

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:twoacrosspod@gmail.com

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:twoacrosspod@gmail.comListen 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:twoacrosspod@gmail.comListen 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:twoacrosspod@gmail.comInfo 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:twoacrosspod@gmail.comTheo'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:twoacrosspod@gmail.com

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:twoacrosspod@gmail.comListen 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:twoacrosspod@gmail.comZeus'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:twoacrosspod@gmail.com

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:twoacrosspod@gmail.com

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:twoacrosspod@gmail.com

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:twoacrosspod@gmail.comListen 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:twoacrosspod@gmail.comListen 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:twoacrosspod@gmail.com

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:twoacrosspod@gmail.com

Rob is still in Nepal, specifically Kathmandu, while Theo has been enjoying a rare trophy for his beloved football team Newcastle United. They also reflect on the merits of fame, 90s chart toppers House of Pain, and the singular time zone in China. Can they keep up the momentum after last week's victory?Play along:http://theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17117Guy Lafleur's disco foray:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xSCJfl0H708Contact us:twoacrosspod@gmail.com

Rob is in Nepal for work, while back home Canada has got itself a new, global-facing Prime Minister at an opportune moment. Theo meanwhile, inspired by the last episode, has been studying the differences between male and female giraffes, and the etymology of ship's toilets. They've also been heartened by some encouraging fan mail; will it inspire them back to winning ways?Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17113Read Kent Parkstreet's poetry:https://parkstreetpoetry.blogspot.com/Theo's review of The Habits:https://www.whatsonstage.com/news/the-habits-at-hampstead-theatre-review_1668725/Contact us:twoacrosspod@gmail.com Please note we are no longer on the platform formerly known as Twitter!

Theo and Rob are joined by award-winning wildlife artist Martin Aveling to discuss his pioneering work in artivism, collaborations with his young daughter, and why he will never lose faith in the cause of conservation. Check out links to his website and social channels below.They also, of course, tackle a (particularly fiendish) Guardian quick crossword, which does at least contain a few animal-related clues.Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17106Learn more about Mart's amazing work:https://avelingartworks.com/ https://www.facebook.com/MartinAvelingArt/ https://www.instagram.com/avelingartworks/ Follow us:https://x.com/twoacrossPod/ Contact us:twoacrosspod@gmail.com

Rob has been on meditation retreat, while Theo has had a very different experience travelling to France by Eurostar in the company of a hen party. They also discuss Montreal's recent deluge of snow, the history of chocolate, and share exciting news of an upcoming guest. Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17100Rob's meditation retreat:https://www.dharma.org Follow us:https://x.com/twoacrossPod/Contact us:twoacrosspod@gmail.com

The guys discuss Quebec's distinctive approach to surnames, the etymology of mnemonics, and the impenetrability of American football, as they tackle another taxing crossword (which, unlike the Super Bowl, comes down to nail-biting finale). Can they overcome their Kansas City Chiefs-esque deficit in the overall scores?Play along:https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17087Follow us:https://x.com/twoacrossPod/Contact us:twoacrosspod@gmail.com

Rob reports on the Canadian reaction to Trump's tariffs tantrum, while Theo gives his verdict on Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown. There are also some honourable mentions for Columbo, Police Academy and Chesney Hawkes, as they endeavour to conquer Guardian quick crossword no.17,082. Play along: https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17082 Enjoy Alex Clinton Egan's artwork (as featured on the cover of Aviary): http://instagram.com/alexmdegan Follow us: https://x.com/twoacrossPod/ Contact us: twoacrosspod@gmail.com

Theo and Rob discuss topics including the background of the podcast theme tune, the world's largest haggis, dinosaurs, and the identity crisis of Canada. They also tackle this week's crossword with a renewed determination not to fall further back in the scores. Listen out for the full version of the theme, Emissary II, from Enthusiasts album Aviary. Listen to Aviary: https://open.spotify.com/album/6zFs57voxIwizZemOZwwiu Play along: https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17076 Follow us: https://x.com/twoacrossPod/ Contact us: twoacrosspod@gmail.com

Rob has travelled back to Montreal, and Theo has marked a 40-something birthday in London, a day that coincided with an inauspicious inauguration. They also discuss whether humans are the worst species, raise a glass to Theo's grandma Eva Ibbotson on her 100th anniversary, and tackle a particularly challenging crossword. Play along: https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17070 Follow us: https://x.com/twoacrossPod/ Get in touch: twoacrosspod@gmail.com

Theo has begun the year dog-sitting, while Rob has had a slightly more intrepid time visiting Andalusia with his family. They also reflect on recent events including Trump's threats to Canadian sovereignty and the resignation of Justin Trudeau. Can they also overcome a cleverly constructed juxtapositional crossword?

Drinks in hand, santa hats on heads, Theo and Rob attempt to spread some festive cheer. Rob shares his Christmas single, Theo reflects on a recent carol-based embarrassment, and they make some new year's resolutions (which, characteristically, range from the trivial to the profound). They also attempt to round out the year with a win, in a nail-biting tussle with the Guardian quick crossword setter. Thanks for your company in 2024 – may your festive seasons be merry and we'll see you on the other side. Our closing music comes from Spinning Jenny, with their fabulous cover of Sia's 'Santa's Coming for Us'. Watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BR9JRMKf0aI Follow them here: https://www.instagram.com/spinningjenny4/?hl=en Follow us here: https://x.com/twoacrossPod/ Play along with the crossword: https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/16422 Get in touch: twoacrosspod@gmail.com

Rob shares an innovative way to overcome a pre-Christmas turkey shortage, while Theo has watched all 2h40mins of the Wicked movie (part one). Other topics of discussion this week include screen addiction, choose-your-own-adventure novels, and the Apple v Android debate. Play along: https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17034 Follow us: https://x.com/twoacrossPod/ Contact us: twoacrosspod@gmail.com

Theo and Rob break their promise to avoid politics by reflecting on the UK's recent debate on assisted dying. But they do manage some lighter musings on subjects including Rob's backyard sauna club. Trickier clues this week include Caveat (13) - can they crack it in time? Play along: https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17028 Follow us: https://x.com/twoacrossPod/ Contact us: twoacrosspod@gmail.com

Rob and Theo ruminate on the ups and downs of freelance life, Trudeau's new tax bribe and the growing wealth gap, either side of Guardian quick crossword 17,022. Can they consolidate their lead? Play along: https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17022 Follow us: https://x.com/twoacrossPod/ Contact us: twoacrosspod@gmail.com

Theo and Rob oscillate as ever between the bigger and smaller subjects. Examples of the former this week range from the guilt of the left to the current farmers' protests in the UK, while the latter include the merits of tridents and the correct pronunciation of aluminium. All while tackling Guardian quick crossword 17,009. Play along: https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17009 Follow us: https://x.com/twoacrossPod Contact us: twoacrosspod@gmail.com

Theo and Rob contemplate leaving the platform formally known as Twitter, the merits of leaf blowers, and the cultural implications of Jamie Oliver's botched entry into children's publishing. They also tackle Guardian quick crossword 17,011. Play along: https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17011 Follow us (while we're still there!): https://x.com/twoacrossPod/

Theo and Rob come to terms with another sanity-bending election result from the US of A in the only way they know how: by doing a crossword. Play along: https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17006 Listen to Rob's song: https://open.spotify.com/track/6t4xPYt4byvFknmpciCjjn?si=O2HPlOnRS7KMs7ULGCE3wA&context=spotify%3Aartist%3A6MKBguyT8gomAofVmDFWY0 Song video: https://youtu.be/6SJMvSkZUx0 Follow us: https://x.com/twoacrossPod/