Crosstalk - A Crossword Construction Podcast
Episodes
Episode 8: Kareem Ayas
27 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Daniel and constructor Kareem Ayas discuss the first theme Kareem ever attempted, constructing as a non-native speaker, the overlaps between puzzles a...
Episode 7: Will Nediger
03 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Daniel and constructor Will Nediger discuss topics including solving the ship of Theseus paradox, the qualities of a good crossword editor, training f...
Episode 6: Aimee Lucido
10 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Daniel talks to renowned author and constructor Aimee Lucido about her new crossword-themed book, the risks and rewards of getting in the comments, ou...
Episode 5: Shannon Rapp
28 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Daniel talks to Shannon Rapp about topics such as how to create fresh theme ideas, the power of theme queries, the secrets to a successful collaborati...
Episode 4: Kameron Austin Collins
09 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Daniel talks to Kameron Austin Collins about topics such as the visual design of themelesses, getting a “villain edit,” his intentional jumbling o...
Episode 3: Sid Sivakumar
16 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Sid and I discuss topics such as the connections between construction and science and engineering, crosswords as an art form, the inc...
Episode 2: Rachel Fabi
10 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Daniel talks to Rachel Fabi about how she started constructing, getting mentored and being a mentor, what makes a good theme, cryptic crosswords, fund...
Episode 1: Rafael Musa
05 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In the debut episode of Crosstalk, host Daniel Grinberg chats with crossword constructor Rafael Musa to explore the intricate, exciting world of cross...