Luke expresses his frustration for AI generated email replies to human reviews of AI generated plugins. We talk through the last episode’s description evolution—first with AI, now without—and unpack what happens in a world where appreciation seems to be going extinct, right alongside Luke’s sanity.

We’re back with a new season, new website (not on WordPress?!), and two new sponsors. We catch up on news from over the break, including WordPress 6.8, Gravatar, and the Jubilee. Jonathan feels some nerves and Luke complains about AI.

This season finale is the first episode of Crossword to be recorded in person. Jonathan and Luke are recording from CloudFest in Germany. They discuss the highlights of the conference itself, including how Luke jumped up on stage unannounced, meeting Mary Hubbard, and what is coming next.

Matt Mullenweg’s latest actions have Jonathan confused. They discuss Matt’s proposals to slow down releases, his ominous warnings about the future of WordPress, and the unsettling disconnect between his words and actions. Is this a calculated tactic, or a sign of deeper trouble?

Jonathan and Luke celebrate the 100th episode of Crossword! Join them as they reminisce about the past five years, revisit some of their favorite moments and biggest disagreements, and reflect on how much has changed in the WordPress world – and in their own lives.

Luke and Jonathan discuss the latest news from WordCamp Asia, particularly the absence of any significant controversy at the event. They also talk about the importance of community contributions, the need for clear guidelines for sponsorships and explain what hard yakka means for anyone not from Australia.

In this episode Luke and Jonathan talk about the intersection of politics and WordPress including the recent dismantling of 18F. They also discuss the WordPress Sentiment Analysis Report and the WordPress alternatives that they have been dabbling with.

In the wake of the current uncertainty in the WordPress community, the repository has become a valuable source of objective reporting that is not found elsewhere. Jonathan and Luke discuss the importance of independent journalism, the challenges of covering a complex and emotionally charged conflict, and the vital role the repository plays in holding powerful figures accountable.