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/17334

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[email protected]

Listen to Enthusiasts:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p10AAj4tXDtkxfAop3lj2

The 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/17328

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Listen 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

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[email protected]

Listen 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/17317

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Listen 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/17303

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Some 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 noise

Play along:

https://www.theguardian.com/crosswords/quick/17297

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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]

Enthusiasts: 

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]

The Highlands Cinema/documentary:

https://www.highlandscinemas.com/gallery/

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=oSJuWVYmT8o

Theo'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/17280

Get 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/17276

Contact us:

[email protected]