December 11, 2023

- Listen to Ron's Interview with Michelle Arnot -  

A Crossword Master Reveals a Trove of Tips, Tricks and Stories

   

Episode Description

Since the launch of the New York Times Crossword in 1942, crossword puzzles have captivated problem solvers with engaging word games.

For an estimated 50 million people, crossword puzzles are part of daily life, and for many, it is a lifelong passion. In today’s episode, Michelle Arnot, talks about her life as an “acrossionado,” a compulsive crossword puzzle constructor and solver who began this career in 1977 when she sold her first puzzle to the Times for $20.  A renowned expert in crossword history and strategies, Michelle is the author of  several popular books about crossword puzzles, including “Four-Letter Words & Other Secrets of a Crossword Insider,” “Crossword Puzzles for Dummies,” and “What’s Gnu, a History of the Crossword.” She’ll explain how the colorful world of crosswords has continually evolved, as well as reveal some inside tips, tricks and strategies for puzzle constructors, young and old. And Michelle will describe how she has blended her unique journey as a crossword connoisseur with her wide-flung career in  publishing and nonprofit organizations around the world.

Guest Description:

Michelle Arnot is a Master puzzle solver and designer and a leading expert in crossword history and strategies. She is a longtime reviewer for Publishers Weekly and the author of  several popular books about crossword puzzles, including “Four-Letter Words & Other Secrets of a Crossword Insider,” “Crossword Puzzles for Dummies,” and “What's Gnu, a History of the Crossword. Michelle also has held numerous professional positions in the publishing field and has conducted community outreach and produced conferences, webinars and workshops for more than a dozen nonprofit organizations around the world.

Michelle Arnot with New York Times Crossword Puzzle Editor Will Shortz.

She is currently Vice President of Gray Panthers NYC and Co-chair of the organization’s webinar series, “Unity for Long-Term Care.” Past roles include president of the Kensington Chelsea Women’s Club, London; and vice president of the Japan America Women’s Club, Tokyo. Currently, Michelle sits on the board of the West Side Interagency Council on Aging and Voices 60+ with the Hospital for Special Surgery, Manhattan. She received her college degree from Beloit College and pursued graduate studies at Columbia University.

Host:

Facebook:www.facebook.com/Roel-Resources-LLC

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/ron-roel

X: @roelresources

Guest:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/crosswordexpert/

Contact:  Michelle@graypanthersnyc.org

              

crossword, puzzle, Arnot, Will Shortz, crostics

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