Theme hint:

Interesting theme today.  A very “long-winded” answer comprising 5 long acrosses (see 29-Across for which they are) in sequence, summed up in a (very common) phrase going down the center of the puzzle at 24-down.   There’s no indication in the clues of what either the long or short version is going to be, so the approach to the puzzle is pretty straight forward:  Solve as many of the crossing clues and the long answers will gradually take shape.

10 Specific hints (of answers that cross the long theme clues):

First a few that cross the “simply put” phrase:

27-Across Swearing:  Though the clue is a gerund (-ing) the answer is a noun.

36-Across Validates: Letters, not a word as such

53-Across Shoes without heels:  Well, sandals won’t fit.   CLOGS would, but these are  a little more likely to be found in a workplace.

85-Across 180s:  As in turns drivers make.

90-Across Stout _____ :  Well, the clue gives with the blank after the word “stout,” though it could be considered an alternative to stout.  Don’t think fat, think pub.

And 5 Downs crossing the long acrosses:

4-Down Works the room:  Well, it isn’t GLAD HANDS, but that’s the idea and it’s also 2 words.

51-Down Not go beyond:  2 words.  Think of a time limit of an appointment

81-Down “Yeah, yeah”:  Only 4 letters, but 2 words

79-Down Nov. 11 Honoree:  And whose day is Nov. 11?  Not mom’s, though they could be mom’s.  4 letters, no words

76-Down Let someone else take over:  2 words.  Clue could be “Get out of my way, I’ve got to do the crossword puzzle before you!”