The Adult Improver Series of Perpetual Chess returns, as I am joined by Solveig Friberg, who streams on Twitch as “The Rookie Redhead.” Solveig is a relatively new chess player who discovered the game via a Norwegian national TV broadcast of one of Magnus Carlsen’s World Championship matches. A few years later, she has attained a rating of 1570 FIDE, built a large online audience, published her first Chessable course (Breaking 1000)  as a Twitch streamer, and has even had the opportunity to interview players like Hikaru Nakamura and Fabiano Caruana. We begin our conversation by discussing the unique popularity of chess in Norway- it is very popular as a spectator sport, but that has not translated into a thriving competitive chess scene. Why might that be? We also discuss Solveig’s own chess journey.  Solveig shares a lot of study recommendations and core beliefs based on her experience as a chess player and her professional background as an educator. Solveig is a particularly firm believer in the importance of finding a community, and did not see her chess take off until she found online “chess people.” Solveig is an inspiration for anyone who is coming to chess as a working adult with a busy life.  Thanks to our sponsors Chessable.com- in addition to Solveig’s course, be sure to check out GM Sam Shankland’s latest, and if you sign up for Chessable Pro, please use the link below. https://www.chessable.com/pro/?utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=benjohnson&utm_campaign=pro 2:00- Solveig got into chess by watching coverage of the Magnus-Nepo match on national TV in Norway. What is the coverage like in Norway? What is the OTB scene like there?  Mentioned:  Solveig on Chess Journeys, Episode 91: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2rwxKkso2M2IPITLOEt4hc?si=86bec8cf1aa34f5d Solveig on Sjakksnakk  https://open.spotify.com/episode/1c0FBix4q4OSvPdz6nbGSf?si=63cf7ec45f5f441d 9:00- How did Solveig find a chess community?  To find the “chess people” on X, make an account, send a message and conclude it with the #chesspunks https://x.com/hashtag/chesspunks?src=hashtag_click To apply or suggest someone to be a guest on the Adult Improver Series, use this google form: https://www.perpetualchesspod.com/adult 17:00- How did Solveig’s professional background impact her approach to chess improvement?  22:30- What was Solveig’s approach to studying chess?  27:00- We discuss chess pub nights and the Good Knight Chess Pub in Oslo, Norway 29:00- What would Solveig have done differently to improve at chess if she could start over? 32:00- Patreon mailbag question- what are some common mistakes that beginners make, and how can they avoid them? 36:00- Solveig’s resource recommendations Mentioned: Hanging Pawns YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@HangingPawns Build Up Your Chess Series https://www.chessable.com/the-fundamentals-1-build-up-your-chess/course/19145/ Chess Tactics from Scratch  https://www.chessable.com/chess-tactics-from-scratch-understanding-chess-tactics/course/27821/ Also available as a book- https://www.amazon.com/Chess-Tactics-Scratch-Understanding/dp/1907982027 37:00- What was it like for Solveig to interview Hikaru Nakamura about gender issues in chess?  Mentioned: Watch the interview here: https://x.com/RookieRedhead/status/1801228262170882212 46:30- What is theme of Solveig’s Chessable course, Breaking 1000? 52:00- What are Solveig’s streaming goals? Does she ever stream in Norwegian? 1:00:00- Thanks to Solveig for joining me, here is how to keep up with her: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rookie_redhead/?hl=en X: https://x.com/RookieRedhead And her Chessable Course: https://www.chessable.com/breaking-1000/course/237622/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week’s guest is 21-year old former youth champion, GM Awonder Liang. As a scholastic player, Awonder broke many records including becoming the youngest US player to reach a rating of 2000 (USCF), the youngest to beat an International Master, as well the youngest to beat  a Grandmaster. These days, Awonder is a student at University of Chicago and is more devoted to his studies than his chess. Nonetheless, Awonder’s love for the game is evident, and he recently played in two strong tournaments even though he did not prepare as rigorously as he once would have. In our conversation, Awonder was able to contextualize his remarkable chess success and discuss both what made him great, and what may have led to  contemporaries of his like GM Alireza Firouzja and Arjun Erigaisi surpassing him in rating ( for now at least.) It was fun to hear Awonder reflect on his career as if he were an old man, and I look forward to seeing how his bright future unfolds.  0:00-  You can subscribe to my free newsletter here- ” https://benjohnson.substack.com Thanks to our sponsor, Chessable.com! If you sign up for Chessable Pro in order to unlock discounts and additional features, be sure to use the following link: https://www.chessable.com/pro/?utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=benjohnson&utm_campaign=pro Find out more about the Create Your Own Course Contest here: https://t.co/wUQCi0gqaC 0:03- Awonder joins the pod! Awonder has mostly been taking a break from chess while at the University of Chicago. How did it feel to play two high level tournaments recently? 0:06- Did Awonder consider pursuing chess rather than university?  0:08- Does Awonder prefer classical or online blitz? 11:00- We discuss Awonder’s Chicago Open performance 15:00- How did Awonder prepare for the Summer Chess Classic, where he finished shared 2nd?  19:00- Awonder’s thoughts on the Chicago Open cheating scandal  23:00- What makes Awonder so good at chess?  33- What does it mean to have a good chess memory?  36:00- Did Awonder read a lot of chess books?  38:00- How does Awonder use engines?  42:00- What is the story behind Awonder’s famous 2022 Scotch Gambit win over GM Levon Aronian? Mentioned: https://www.chess.com/events/2022-us-chess-championship/05/Liang_Awonder-Aronian_Levon 45:00- What are Awonder’s other favorite games of his?  Mentioned: Liang-Caruana 2022 50:00- Awonder’s summer plan 52:00- Awonder’s post graduation plans   1:06:00- Awonder’s favorite chess memories  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Recorded June 8, 2024 at the National Open in Las Vegas  Chess Books Recaptured returns to revisit an old book which now has a modern twist. My System by Aron Nimzowitsch is one of the best-selling and most recommended chess books of all time, but the original version has not aged well in some respects. In Book Recap #18, IM Christof Sielecki and I highlighted some of the classic book’s shortcomings as viewed through a modern lens. Luckily, GM Alex Fishbein decided to update the book for a 21st-century audience. The result is My System: Fast Track Edition, from Russell Enterprises (also available via Forward Chess). During my recent trip to the National Open in Las Vegas, Alex joined me to discuss My System’s legacy, his personal history with the book,  and why he decided that the chess world needed a better version. Following our chat, Alex took some questions from the audience, and briefly shared his thoughts on my book, Perpetual Chess Improvement. Timestamps of topics discussed are below.  You can hear my discussion of prior editions of My System with IM Christof Sieleki in Book Recap #18- https://open.spotify.com/episode/1lkGXPkegq9flj5zEoGAxi?si=f82aa751388a4476 0:02- GM Alex FIshbein joins! How does My System compare to Nimzo’s other classic, Chess Praxis?  3:30- What was the genesis of Alex deciding to edit/create the fast-track edition of My System? 12:00 - What were the challenges of translating the book? 27:00- What did Alex do with variations that modern engines say were incorrect? Mentioned: Simple Chess by GM Michael Stean  35:00- Audience question- “Would Alex consider editing a “fast track edition” of any other classic books?’ Mentioned: Alekhine 1924 39:00- Audience question- “Did Alex include other concepts to the book in addition to those that were written about in the original?”  41:00- Audience question: “What foundational chess concepts are excluded from this book?” 43:00- Audience questions:  “Is Alex familiar with the book by Raymond Keene, Nimowitsch: A Reappraisal?”  “What about The Blockade?” 44:00- Audience question:  “How much shorter is the fast track edition compared to the regular?” 44:00- Audience question; “Would he do a fast track edition of “Praxis” by Nimzowitsch?” 46:00- Audience question: “Do older books still matter as learning tools, as compared to playing games?”  49:00- Audience question:  ‘What is the best way to read a chess book?’  Mentioned: The Life and Games of Mikhail Tal  53:00- Alex shares his thoughts on my book, Perpetual Chess Improvement.  Thanks to GM Alex Fishbein for joining me in Las Vegas!  You can check out the new edition of My System, as well as his other books on Amazon, Forward Chess and other booksellers.  https://www.amazon.com/stores/Alex-Fishbein/author/B075N1DG4Z?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true https://forwardchess.com/product/my-system-fast-track-edition Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week’s pod is a special edition featuring 10 different short interviews from the 2024 National Open in Las Vegas. We feature stories and perspectives from GM Ben Finegold, adult improver return guests, other chess podcasters, and even two different Grandmasters named Daniel Fernandez! Big tournaments like the National Open are great opportunities to bond over a shared love of chess, and I hope this episode helps encapsulate the many ways that chess can touch our lives,  teach us lessons, and bring us together. Timestamps and a brief description of each interview and guest can be found below.  GM Ben Finegold- 6:45  (recorded Wednesday, June 5) -Ben discusses his personal history at the National Open, the Nimzo-Indian defense, and dispenses some chess advice  Glenn Panner- 17:30-   (recorded Friday, June 7) The tournament co-organizer discusses the tournament history , the recent cheating story from the Chicago Open, and the cheat detection methods being used at the National Open.   GM Daniel Fernandez (US) 31:00-  (recorded Friday, June 7) The first of our GM Danil Fernandez guests, a Houston based player and trainer discusses how the stresses of playing compare to the stresses of coaching, and the advice he gives to his students who are competing in the tournament.  Kamryn Hellman 40:15  -  (recorded Saturday June 8) The popular streamer and YouTuber reflects on her first big tournament and the recent chess lessons that she has learned. You can hear more from Kamryn in Episode 314.  And check our her YouTube Channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@kamrynheidi Kevin Scull-  -49:50  (recorded Saturday June 8) - The host of the Chess Journeys podcast reflects on the highs and lows of an ongoing tournament and discusses why he is trying to read fewer chess books!  Be sure to sub to the Chess Journeys podcast! Lennart Ootes- 59:30- (recorded Saturday June 8) - The renowned chess photographer and multimedia maestro compares photographing amateurs to photographing his usual subjects, the top pros of chess. Check out Lennart’s beautiful photos here: Lennart Ootes And his National Open photos here: https://www.chessphotoshop.com/National-Open-2024-Las-Vegas Kyle Boddy-  1:10:00 (recorded Saturday June 8) -I am rejoined by the founder of Driveline Baseball to discuss why he makes time for the National Open in the middle of the baseball season,and to share the lessons he has learned from IM Calvin Blocker, IM Marc Esserman and others. You can hear more of Kyle’s chess story in Episode 303.  GM Daniel Fernandez (UK)- 1:21:00 -(recorded Sunday, June 9) The U.K. based player, author and trainer discusses what he is doing in an effort to push through mental barriers and the importance of physical training at the GM level.  GM Kayden Troff- 1:31:15 (recorded Tuesday June 11)- Kayden’s primary role at the National Open was to provide free post-mortem analysis of amateur games. What type of mistakes did he see recur after reviewing dozens of games over a long weekend?  Check out Kayden’s epic game here: https://www.chessgames.com/perl/chessgame?gid=1753125 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ETcq8kmlMic You can find the Chesssharkz Twitch stream with Tony Padron here: https://www.twitch.tv/chesssharkz ElaynahTV - 1:46:30-  (recorded Friday,  June 14) The popular chess streamer and newly minted podcaster discusses how the women’s tournament compared to the Open event, and the challenges of streaming a tournament.  Check out Elaynah’s Twitch stream here: https://www.twitch.tv/elaynah And her new podcast with Dylan Quercia here: https://chesslounge.podbean.com/  Photo in thumbnail of ElaynahTV by Lennart Ootes- https://www.chessphotoshop.com/National-Open-2024-Las-Vegas And thanks to our sponsors, Chessable.com. If you sign up for Chessable pro, please use this link to help support the pod: https://www.chessable.com/pro/?utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=benjohnson&utm_campaign=pro Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week I am pleased to be joined by 4-time Latvian champion, GM Arturs Neiksans. In addition to his accomplished, (and ongoing)  competitive career, Arturs is a respected coach, commentator, Twitch streamer,  and Chessable Author. Arturs recently added a new line to his resume as he became the trainer of IM Levy Rozman! As Levy trains for the GM title, he has been posting instructive excerpts of his frequent lessons with Arturs. In our conversation, we hear Arturs’ perspective on the origins of their collaboration and what Levy needs to work on in order to potentially ascend to the next level. Arturs also reflects on his own bumpy journey to the GM title and shares plenty of general improvement advice and . Lastly, as chess cheating has (again) been in the news, Arturs provides his personal perspective on the unfortunate fall from grace of his fellow Latvian player, GM Igors Rausis (who later changed his name to Isa Kasimi, and is now deceased). It was a pleasure to talk chess with Arturs, and I look forward to learning more from him both on his own channels, and on that of Gotham Chess!   Thanks to our sponsor, Chessable.com! If you sign up for Chessable Pro in order to unlock discounts and additional features, be sure to use the following link: https://www.chessable.com/pro/?utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=benjohnson&utm_campaign=pro 0:02- How did GM Arturs Neiksans become Levy Rozman’s coach? What does Levy need to work on to become a GM? 17:00- Arturs quit chess at 18 and came back at 27. What drove him away and what brought him back?  23:00- How will Arturs balance responsibilities like playing on the Latvian national team with coaching Levy? 28:00- How challenging was it for Arturs to become a GM in his late 20s? 35:00- It was Arturs who saw GM Igors Rausis (who was caught cheating during an OTB tournament) attempting to compete under a new identity. What was the story behind that? 44:00- What was Arturs approach to chess study as a kid?  48:00- Does Arturs play a narrow or broad opening repertoire? 51:00- Thanks to Arturs for joining me!  Here is how to keep up with him: Chess.com https://www.chess.com/member/gmneiksans YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChrqQ5BlmmGkaVmraYQw-IQ Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gmneiksans Chessable courses: https://www.chessable.com/author/GMNeiksans/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week I got the chance to catch up with author, trainer and Chessable author, GM Eugene Perelshteyn. We begin by discussing a recent online cheating controversy. An anonymous account was banned from Chess.com after beating GM Daniel Naroditsky in an online bullet match using only the “Meadow Hay” Gambit. Is this gambit so bad that it makes cheating likely? This controversy served as a springboard to discuss both online cheating and dodgy gambits. Eugene has recently released a course “Every Gambit Refuted” so he also shared general advice on how to react when you face an unknown gambit. These days, gambits can be particularly dangerous, as creators like IM Eric Rosen and GothamChess teach their audiences tricky openings. Finally, Eugene and I discuss some issues from the world of professional chess, including a lack of affordable opportunities to compete for the non-elite, the FIDE Candidates (which Eugene attended) and “the great eval bar debate.” Eugene is always insightful and it was great to catch up with him!  ERROR CORRECTION- In the podcast, I said that the online match that led to the Viih_Sou account getting banned was a bullet match, but it was 3 0 time control. My apologies for the mistake- Ben Thanks to our sponsor, Chessable.com! If you sign up for Chessable Pro in order to unlock discounts and additional features, be sure to use the following link: https://www.chessable.com/pro/?utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=benjohnson&utm_campaign=pro 0:01- Eugene Perelshteyn joins me! We begin by discussing recent cheating controversies. This includes a recent controversy involving an account being banned after winning a bullet match against GM Daniel Naroditsky. GM Brandon Jacobson was playing the Meadow Hay Gambit. Is this gambit any good?  More info on Chess Reddit:  https://www.reddit.com/r/chess/comments/1claxsm/its_me_viih_sou/ https://www.reddit.com/r/chess/comments/1ctu6qc/question_what_happened_in_full_with_brandon/ Mentioned: Jospem on Chess.com, Episode 368 with Erik Allebest  18:00- How have creators like IM Eric Rosen changed the paradigm when it comes to gambits? Mentioned: Fight Like Magnus, Lifetime Repertoires: Hyper Accelerated Dragon  22:00- Patreon mailbag question: What is Eugene’s advice for how to approach playing against gambits you don’t know?  Mentioned: Eugene’s Chess.com Lesson plan on Gambits is here: https://www.chess.com/lessons/every-gambit-refuted 32:00- What is different about how a player like Pragganandhaa uses surprise openings compared to club players? 37:00- Eugene shares his own perspective on attending the FIDE Candidates in Toronto.  42:00- Does Eugene think evaluation bars should be used during chess broadcasts? 48:00- Has Eugene been pleased with the reception of his collaboration with FM Nate Solon Evaluate like a Grandmaster?  51:00- What else is Eugene working on? Mentioned: Chess Openings for Black explained,GM Lev Alburt, GM Roman Dzindzichashvilli  55:00- What does Eugene think of recent discussion about a lack of financial opportunities for “middle-class” Grandmasters?  Mentioned: GM Jorden van Forreest tweet here: https://x.com/jordenvforeest/status/1790333612874666440  1:08:00- Thanks to Eugene for joining me!  Check out his Chessable courses here: https://www.chessable.com/author/EugenePerel/ Contact him via Twitter https://x.com/EugenePerel?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor Or Chess.com https://www.chess.com/member/eugeneperelshteyn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Perpetual Chess Book Review series, Chess Books Recaptured is finally back! I am honored to be joined by renowned author and chess journalist Dirk Jan ten Geuzendam to discuss GM Jan Hein Donner’s The King: Chess Pieces. The book is widely considered a 20th century classic and has been recommended by the likes of GMs Peter Svidler and Jan Gustafsson. It is a compilation of chess columns from a 3-time Dutch national champion, who spanned the chess generations between Max Euwe and Jan Timman. Donner is a brilliant, prescient and provocative writer who chronicles his own career, and also opines as the careers of Fischer, Spassky, Tal and others unfold in his proximity. Reading The King is a fun way to retrace 20th-century chess history, and the life and career of Donner. But, in my opinion, the book is not without its flaws. Donner’s writing is sometimes offensive, particularly when he bombastically shares his views about women in chess. I was grateful to have Dirk Jan help me discern whether Donner was being sarcastic in some of his more scathing columns. After we finish discussing the book, I chat with Dirk Jan a bit about his current projects, and his work on New in Chess’ excellent new podcast. Timestamps of topics discussed are below.  0:00- Thanks to our sponsor, Chessable.com! If you sign up for Chessable Pro in order to unlock discounts and additional features, be sure to use the following link: https://www.chessable.com/pro/?utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=benjohnson&utm_campaign=pro 0:02- What is Dirk Jan ten Geuzendam’s personal history with The King and with its author, GM Jan Hein Donner?  Mentioned: Dutch novelist Harry Mulisch 0:09- How is the English edition of The King, connected to the history of New in Chess publishing? Mentioned: Allard Hoogland, Taylor Kingston’s review of the 1997 edition of The King: https://www.chesscafe.com/text/donner.txt 12:00- We discuss Donner’s personal life, including the one, short-lived, real job that he had at IBM.  Mentioned:  Hein Donner: The Biography by Alexander Munninghoff  18:00- Some of Donner’s most famous writing is very sexist- how was it viewed at the time?  Mentioned: GM Jan Gustafsson  23:00- Did Dirk Jan work directly with Richard de Weger, the book’s translator?  24:00- Likes and dislikes from the book, starting with his acquaintance with Donner’s beautiful reflections on Fischer and Spassky.  Mentioned: Richard James’ review of Hein Donner, The Biography: https://britishchessnews.com/2020/08/07/hein-donner-the-biography/ 42:00- What was Donner’s opinion of legendary Dutch World Champion, Dr. Max Euwe?  43:00- What did Donner mean by his famous quote “Chess is a game of chance?” We also discuss a few other memorable quotes.  48:00- Was Donner being sarcastic when he wrote at length that “women cannot play chess”?  54:00- Why is Donner’s rivalry and demeaning writing about Dutch champion Lodewijk Prins, such a famous part of Dutch chess history?  Mentioned: GM Ben FInegold’s video on Donner: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GXqpyLUt6mM 59:00- Closing thoughts on The King 1:03:00- Dirk’s thoughts on the Candidates and his other current big project Mentioned: The Real Paul Morphy by FM Charles Hertan, Games and Goals  1:08:00- How is Dirk Jan enjoying podcasting? Mentioned: New in Chess Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2Mj990NfwvaOh4GCKWLMJ7?si=2ec5f58435f44686 Episode 207 with Dirk Jan ten Geuzendam  Thanks to Dirk Jan for sharing his knowledge and experiences with this book! Be sure to sub to the New in Chess Podcast!  https://open.spotify.com/show/2Mj990NfwvaOh4GCKWLMJ7?si=eb1eca7173d44ae2 If you would like to help support Perpetual Chess via Patreon, you can do so here:  https://www.patreon.com/perpetualchess Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week IM Levy Rozman (Gotham Chess) makes his annual return to Perpetual Chess to discuss what is new with him. I was particularly excited to chat with Levy as he recently announced his renewed pursuit of the GM title. Levy has been sharing lesson snippets and discussing his tournament plans on his channel, but I wanted many more details. What did he learn from his first norm-chasing experience? What will he do differently this time? Does he think he will be able to stick with it? Although most of us will never make GM, Levy’s quest to make it to the next level is relatable for me and for many other chess players. Aside from his OTB comeback, we discussed the swift rating-rise of popular gamer, Tyler 1, and the successes and lessons learned from Levy’s book.   Levy shared a few stories from meeting celebrities in recent months. It's always fun catching up with Levy, and I am especially excited to follow his renewed pursuit of the GM title! Timestamps of topics discussed can be found below. Thanks to our sponsor, Chessable.com! If you sign up for Chessable Pro in order to unlock discounts and additional features, be sure to use the following link: https://www.chessable.com/pro/?utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=benjohnson&utm_campaign=pro 0:00- What will be different about levy’s second public quest for GM? Will his mental health be ok? What will he do differently?  Mentioned: Road to GM Episode 3 with GM Arturs Neiksans  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iFILafuQgPg&t=1704s 11:00- What will Levy do to address the weaknesses that GM Neiksans highlighted?  Mentioned: IM Alex Ostrovskiy  15:00- Levy discusses his upcoming tournament in Spain.  17:30- Will Levy stream his tournament games? What tournaments is he planning to play?  26:00- Patreon mailbag question: “What can Levy’s fans do to support his renewed GM quest?”  29:00- Will Levy hire a sports psychologist?  31:00- Does Levy have a timeframe in mind for this GM pursuit?  34:00- Levy has been covering popular Twitch streamer and gamer Tyler1’s unusual chess progress. What interests him about this story?  Mentioned:  Tyler1 is a ChessGM! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gler9fDuhRY 41:00- What led Levy to work on his fitness?  43:00- Has Levy been pleased with the reception to his book? Mentioned: Rey Enigma, Blitzstream  49:00- What was the story behind meeting NBA superstar Luka Donkic?  53:00- What was it like to finally meet Magnus Carlsen IRL?  55:00- Patreon mailbag question: “Can Levy tease any upcoming collaborations?” Mentioned: More info in an article from Tarjei Svensen here: https://www.chess.com/news/view/4-million-buy-in-tournament-wadim-rosenstein-abdusattorov-caruana-nepomniachtchi-niemann 58:00- Patreon mailbag question: “How will Levy work on positional evaluation in his renewed GM quest?”  Mentioned: GM Jacob Aagard’s books  https://www.amazon.com/Books-Jacob-Aagaard/s?rh=n%3A283155%2Cp_27%3AJacob+Aagaard 1:00:00- Thanks, as always to Levy for joining me!  In addition to the usual channels, you can get inside access to his GM quest via his Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/gothamchessofficial If you would like to help support Perpetual Chess via Patreon, you can do so here: https://www.patreon.com/perpetualchess Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week the Adult Improver Series returns with an extremely insightful guest. Dan Bock is a North Carolina-based software engineer and dad, who finally got serious about chess improvement in 2021. At this time, Dan began to compete frequently, utilize digital flashcards, and make a conscious effort to make friends in the chess world in order to help make his hobby more fulfilling. Dan’s results have been rare and inspiring, as he has seen USCF rating rise from the high 1500s to the high 1900s (USCF) in the last 3 years. As Dan explains, while he is very directed in his decisions of how to approach chess study, he does not put in outlandish an number of hours of study per day. He is very focused on what actually decides the outcomes of his own games, and has made constant progress by keeping that as his North Star. I find Dan’s story very inspiring and am excited to see his continued progress!  You can find the Adult Improver Spotify Playlist here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/75Uoqz2BoRt2IiTCeOfuky?si=29035838af4d4345 0:00- You can find more information about the National Open here: https://www.vegaschessfestival.com/national-open/ The live “My System” podcast with GM Alex Fishbein will be on Saturday, June 8, at 7:30 PM.  Thanks to our sponsor, Chessable.com! If you sign up for Chessable Pro in order to unlock discounts and additional features, be sure to use the following link: https://www.chessable.com/pro/?utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=benjohnson&utm_campaign=pro 0:02- When did Dan decide to get serious about chess improvement? How did he know how to approach studying?  Mentioned: Chess Journeys Episode 93 with Dan: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5Xg3JotQTg4NoThsn9pPhw?si=14bfea1e50df4df5 Mentioned: Dan’s post 11 Things I did to Take my USCF Rating from 1547 to 1976  https://chessimprovementlab.substack.com/p/11-things-i-did-to-take-my-uscf-rating 09:00- Why did he decide to emphasize OTB chess for improvement?  10:45- How does Dan use checklists to help his thinking processes? Mentioned: Dr. Nick Vasquez’s post discussing checklists: https://nickvasquezmd.substack.com/p/simpler-chess-ask-questions 16:00- Patreon mailbag question: How does Dan suggest spending one hour per day on chess? Mentioned: Anki flashcard app: https://apps.ankiweb.net/ 23:00- Aside from using digital flashcards, what else would Dan recommend?  Mentioned: Dan’s Post: “What Really Decides Games at the 1900 Level?”  https://chessimprovementlab.substack.com/p/what-really-decides-games-at-the 28:00- How did Dan cure his time-trouble addiction? 33:00- What is Dan’s approach to openings, and especially the Dubov Italian? Mentioned: Chessbook.com, CM Han Schut and GM Jan Gustaffson’s Chessable courses on the Dubov Italian  https://www.chessable.com/dubovs-explosive-italian/course/80152/ https://www.chessable.com/gustafssons-aggressive-1e4-part-1/course/207313/ 41:00- Does Dan still work without a coach?  42:00- Dan and Ben’s improvement takeaways from the FIDE Candidates 45:00- We discuss Dan’s approach to the Italian Opening Mentioned: TheOnoZone’s Blog: https://lichess.org/@/TheOnoZone/blog/learning-to-learn/Xg3xJ4qX Ono’s HowtoChess interview: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0fKVmwuQZkWV9orWqnnchF?si=090bccbf5a284f85 52:00- What does Dan look for when choosing a chess tournament?  Mentioned: My Two Favorite Chess Tournament https://chessimprovementlab.substack.com/p/my-two-favorite-chess-tournaments 56:00- How does Dan balance socialization with chess study at tournaments? Does Dan exercise during tournaments?  58:00- Closing thoughts! Mentioned: How to Reassess Your Chess  1:00:00-  Subscribe to Dan’s blog here: https://chessimprovementlab.substack.com/ Follow him on X here: https://x.com/boldmovebydan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week I am excited to be joined by the popular chess streamer, YouTuber, commentator, and champion player, WIM Anna-Maja Kazarian. Anna-Maja joined me from her home in the Netherlands after concluding a busy few months of competitive chess. Although she had her share of setbacks, these tournaments were largely successful, as Anna-Maja recently earned her first WGM Norm!  Our conversation gave Anna-Maja the chance to reflect on the recent lessons she has learned as well as her goals both as a chess player and content creator. As she told me, Anna graduated from university somewhat recently and feels that this gives her an opportunity to devote all of her energy to chess improvement. She reflected on what aspects of the game she needs to work on, and also shared recommendations and advice for listeners. Last, and possibly least, we reflected on “Shoegate” the bizarre scandal where Anna-Maja somewhat unexpectedly made global headlines for her choice of footwear during the FIDE World Rapid & Blitz tournament. I am excited to see Anna-Maja’s continued norm pursuit and really enjoyed chatting with her. Timestamps of topics discussed can be found below.  Thanks to our sponsor, Chessable.com! If you sign up for Chessable Pro in order to unlock discounts and additional features, be sure to use the following link: https://www.chessable.com/pro/?utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=benjohnson&utm_campaign=pro 02:00- What is the status of Anna-Maja’s quest to earn the WGM title?  Mentioned: Anna-Maja’s The Chess Experience Podcast Interview  Anna-Maja’s game recap of earning her norm: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HVm2KeXwzds 09:00- Is it challenging for Anna-Maja to focus on her tournament games when she is streaming them?  Mentioned: Episode 326 with Dina Belenkaya  18:00- What is Anna-Maja’s approach to openings?  20:00- Does Anna-Maja have a study plan? What books is she studying?  Mentioned: Zurich 1953, 100 Endgames You Must Know, Van Perlov’s Endgame Tactics, GM Jacob Aagaard’s Attacking Manual, The Steps Method  25:00- What are Anna-Maja’s upcoming tournaments?  Mentioned: Sharjah Masters  26:00-Anna discusses her professional plans after finishing university last year.  27:00- How is it received when Anna-Maja studies chess on stream?  Mentioned: StudyTime Twitch  https://www.twitch.tv/studytme 33:00- What are Anna-Maja’s reflections on “shoegate”?  Mentioned: NY Times- “Chess Federation Fines Player over her Sports Shoes”  40:00- What other tournaments does Anna-Maja have coming up?  44:00- Anna-Maja describes her work with the Chessqueens Foundation  49:00- What are Anna-Maja’s favorite open tournaments? Does she do a lot of socialzing during rounds?  52:00- Is Anna-Maja working with a coach?  55:00 Anna-Maja’s closing thoughts.  Mentioned: Alliance E-Sports  Thanks to Anna-Maja for joining me! Here is how to keep up with her: Instagram https://www.instagram.com/amkazarian/ Twitch https://www.twitch.tv/annamaja YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIKOoBA2bTAVj_MaPHzMSdg X/Twitter- https://twitter.com/AMKazarian?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Azel Chua is a 21-year-old Singapore-based self-taught Candidate Master who has built his own chess skills from the ground up. As Azel explains, he began working on his visualization skills as he sought a way to study chess during high school classes that did not especially interest him.. From there, Azel has developed a unique framework for calculating in chess that he calls “The Burger Technique,” as covered in his popular Chessable courses on Calculation.  In our interview, we discuss this technique, as well as hearing Azel’s thoughts and experiences with utilizing resources such as YouTube, and Dvoretsky’s Endgame Manual. Azel also shares some helpful tips on ways to improve one’s chess intuition, and he delves into his background and the chess scene in Singapore. As always, timestamps of topics discussed can be found below.  Thanks to our sponsor, Chessable.com! If you sign up for Chessable Pro in order to unlock additional features, be sure to use the following link: https://www.chessable.com/pro/?utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=benjohnson&utm_campaign=pro 03:00- What did Azel learn from studying the classic book Dvoretsky’s Endgame Manual during high school classes?  Mentioned: Calculation Masterclass with Chessgoals 7:00- What was Azel’s approach to chess improvement?  10:00- Why does Azel think that the common tactic-solving advice of looking for “checks, captures and threats” might be bad advice?  12:15- What is”the Burger technique?”  17:30- Where did he come up with the name for “the Burger technique?”  21:00- What was Azel’s mix of studying vs. competing as a tournament player?  22:00- How does Azel describe the chess culture of Singapore? 25:00- What were the biggest contributors to Azel’s improvement? 27:30- What can we do to improve our chess intuition? 32:00- What was Azel’s approach to openings? 36:00- Does Azel follow professional chess? Or read about chess history? 37:00- How does Azel find teaching material?  39:00- What is reciprocal thinking?  Mentioned: IM John Bartholomew‘s Video: The Power of Reciprocal Thinking  45:00- Thanks to Azel Chua for joining me! You can check out his Chessable courses here: https://www.chessable.com/author/AzelChua/ If you would like to help support Perpetual Chess via Patreon, you can do so here: https://www.patreon.com/perpetualchess Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are back for one more 2024 FIDE Candidates reflection as we start to take stock of a historic tournament. Joining me (again) to discuss it is renowned trainer, opening theoretician, Chessable author, and 2022 Dutch National Champion, GM Erwin Lami. Erwin has frequently collaborated with GM Anish Giri, and he was on the World Championship preparation team for GM Veselin Toplov. Erwin shares his thoughts on GM Gukesh’s impressive ascendance, Fabiano and Nepo’s disappointment, and what this result does and does not mean for the trajectory of professional chess. We also discuss the performance of the other players, the Women’s Candidates, and Erwin’s plans for 2024. I always love to hear Erwin’s perspective, and discussing this tournament was not an exception. Timestamps of topics discussed are below.  Thanks to our sponsors Chessable.com! Check out what they have to offer, and if you sign up for Chessable Pro (as you should), use this link to help support Perpeutal Chess: https://www.chessable.com/pro/?utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=benjohnson&utm_campaign=pro 0;00- Upcoming events and info: Chess in the Schools Poker Fundraiser; https://secure.givelively.org/event/chess-in-the-schools-inc/chess-in-the-schools-poker-night-fundraiser National Open/Las Vegas Chess Festival Info: https://www.vegaschessfestival.com/national-open/ 4:30- GM Erwin L’Ami joins me! What does he think made this tournament was so compelling?  10:00- How surprised was Erwin by Gukesh’s performance? What should we expect from him from here?  18;30- Patreon mailbag quesiton: “How can Caruana recover from his devastaiting loss to Nepo? “  .27:00- What did Erwin think of Nepo's performance? 29:30- Where does Nakamura go from here? Will this be his last Candidates?  38:00- What went wrong for GM Alireza Firouzja?  43:00 What are Erwin’s thoughts on Pragganandhaa’s performance?  46:00- What were Erwin’s thoughts on the Women’s Candidates?  49:00- Where might the World Championship be held? Would it help or hurt Gukesh if it were in India?  53:00- Who does Erwin think would be the favorite in Gukesh vs. Ding? Mentioned: Gotham City Podcast with GM Gukesh  57:00 Does the format for the Candidates or Candidates qualification need to be changed?  Mentioned: IM Greg Shahade’s blog post  1:08:00- What are Erwin’s remaining 2024 plans?  Thanks as always to GM Erwin L’ami for providing his perspective!  If you would like to help support Perpetual Chess, you can do so here: https://www.patreon.com/perpetualchess Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

41-year-old IM Renier Castellanos had all but given up on earning the Grandmaster title. His life was getting busier, and after 2 potential GM norms were not ratified by FIDE, he felt like it just wasn’t meant to be. But his friends and Killer Chess Training co-workers, GM Jacob Aagaard and Kallia Kleisarchaki, convinced him to keep trying. It turned out that was all it took! Two weeks ago, Renier got his final GM norm, to earn the title of Grandmaster at age 41. In our interview, Renier reflects on the lessons he has learned, and why he thinks he was still able to earn the title in this challenging era, despite not working on chess as much as he did in his 20s. Renier also shares his own advice on chess improvement, some book recommendations, and discusses what he observed from facing Super GM level players like GM Vladimir Fedoseev. This interview was conducted while the Candidates was still ongoing, but you can even hear Renier’s Candidates prediction to see how it played out. Timestamps of topics discussed are below.  0:00- Thanks to our sponsors, Chessable.com  New courses include - Michael Roiz’s Fighting the Grunfeld and King’s Indian   If you use the link below to sign up for a Chessable pro membership, it helps to support the pod!  https://www.chessable.com/pro/?utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=benjohnson&utm_campaign=pro 0:01- Renier discusses why he had given up on the GM title  Mentioned: GM Jacob Aagaard of Killer Chess Training, Killer Chess Training Review of Renier’s Game: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qeI0AazBw1I 0:08- What shortcoming in his game did Renier need to overcome in order to earn the title? 9:45- How did he think about the expense of pursuing the GM title? 16:00- What is Renier’s approach to the opening? What else did he do to train? Mentioned; KillerChessTraining.com 22:00- How did Renier’s wife, WGM Raluca Sgircea, help him with his daily habits?  25:00- Renier discusses his early years growing up in Cuba, moving to Chile and then to Spain in his teens and 20s  Mentioned: GM Lazaro Bruzon Batista, Chess Reddit thread about Renier’s GM title   31:00- We discuss the congratulatory notes Renier has gotten, including this tweet from GM Kevin Goh Wei Ming  Mentioned: Episode 184 with GM Kevin Goh Wei Ming  34:00- Did an emphasis on physical fitness help his chess? What about community? 43:00- What is the best way to spend one’s chess improvement time? 46:00- Renier’s recommended open tournaments, based on his time on as a traveling chess professional: Mentioned: Benasque, Spain Chess Open, Menoraca, Sitges  51:00- Renier’s favorite chess books Mentioned: Perfect Your Chess, Dynamic Chess Strategy by GM Mihai Suba  54:00- What did Renier learn from playing Fedoseev and other super GM-level players?  1:03:00- Renier’s most memorable game Mentioned: Video of his World Bitz victory vs. GM Peter Svidler  1:10:00- Thanks to Renier for sharing his inspiring story!  You can reach him via his Lichess coaches page or find his classes at KillerChessTraining: https://lichess.org/coach/RenierChess KillerChessTraining.com If you would like to help support Perpetual Chess via Patreon, you can do so here: https://www.patreon.com/perpetualchess Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

For the final FIDE Candidates bonus pod, award-winning Chess.com journalist, FM Mike Klein joins me from Toronto. We cover topics including the atmosphere in the playing hall, the presence of seconds and family members of the players, what to expect in rounds 13 and 14, and Mike provides his perspective on the controversy surrounding GM Alireza Firouzja's father. Thanks, as always, to Mike for providing so many behind-the-scenes details. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As we enter the final rest day, The FIDE Candidates tournament is set up for maximum drama with a three-way tie for first place and two rounds remaining. Joining me from Toronto to discuss it is FM Dalton Perrine. We highlight the continued trend of surprising opening choices and results, as well as the increased tension in the room as the tournament builds to a climax. In the women's section, we are down to two contenders for the Candidates title, as Tan Zhongyi and Lei Tingjie are separated by a half a point.Dalton and I discuss all of the key matchups and surprises we have seen, as we look forward to the final chapter of an entertaining tournament. I will be back with one more bonus pod later on Friday, as Chess.com’s FM Mike Klein joins me from Toronto.  Mentioned in pod: @ponysunrise photos: https://twitter.com/sunrise_pony @chessnumbers tweet - https://x.com/ChessNumbers/status/1781113720212742568 Calib Wetheralll's Tournament Simulations- https://www.reddit.com/r/chess/comments/1c7iy1g/fide_candidates_tournament_updated_predictions/ Thanks to FM Dalton Perrine for joining me! Here is how to reach him:  Chessable Author page: https://www.chessable.com/author/mattydperrine/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIzuOx_63p9AIVkElyCh0z-A53EAAYASAAEgJY5vD_BwE Chess.com https://www.chess.com/member/mattydperrine  His Coaching Services: https://nextlevelchesscoaching.com/fm-dalton-perrine/ If you would like to help support Perpetual Chess via Patreon, you can do so here: https://www.patreon.com/PerpetualChess Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It is always an honor to hear 9-time Dutch Champion and former “best of the west” standout, GM Jan Timman discuss elite chess. In this interview he shares his thoughts on the 2024 FIDE Candidates. Topics include:  Who he favored going in Who he favors now Why the opening surprises?  His thoughts on Firouzja’s disappointing performance His next book 0:00- Thanks to our sponsor, Chessable.com. Check out GM Oliksiyenko’s course for Chessable pro members on the Candidates here: https://www.chessable.com/chess-candidates-2024/course/243222/  If you use the link below to sign up for a Chessable pro membership, it helps to support the pod!  https://www.chessable.com/pro/?utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=benjohnson&utm_campaign=pro Its always a pleasure to speak with GM Timman! 0:03- GM Timman joins me!  If you would like to help support Perpetual Chess, you can do so here: https://www.patreon.com/perpetualchess Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

For this week’s (non-Candidates) podcast I am honored to be joined by Lou Hays. Lou Hays is a businessman, accomplished chess author, and the founder of Hays Publishing, which published many popular books beginning in the 1990s. Lou also is an accomplished amateur player, who began tournament chess in his 20s and made it up to near master level. Lou has had the opportunity to meet some of the true legends of the game, and shares some amazing stories about his time spent with Bobby Fischer, Boris Spassky and David Bronstein. We also discuss how chess improvement has, and has not changed over the decades, as well as Hays Publishing’s most successful books, and how the chess publishing industry has changed. I greatly enjoyed hearing Lou’s stories, and I am confident that you will as well.  0:00-  Thanks to our sponsor, Chessable.com. New courses include GM Romain Eduoard’s Lifetime Repertoires: King’s Indian Attack.   If you use the link below to sign up for a Chessable pro membership, it helps to support the pod!  https://www.chessable.com/pro/?utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=benjohnson&utm_campaign=pro Mentioned: Winning Chess for Juniors   https://www.amazon.com/Winning-Chess-Tactics-Juniors-Hays/dp/1880673932 0:03- In 1992, Lou got to spend the weekend with Bobby Fischer. How did that come about, and what was the experience like? Mentioned: Bobby Fischer, Complete Games of the World Champion, Zita Rajcsanyi, Ken Smith (founder of Chess Digest and the Smith-Morra Gambit), Fischer voicemail is on YouTube here: https://youtube.com/shorts/CCa15k61MLY?si=igrs2WYVuyYHbltj 25:00- Lou shares his own chess story, including how chess improvement has, and has not changed  Mentioned: Hastings 1895 (Out of print), NM John Jacobs, Hal Bogner, IM Anatoly Lein  37:00- What was it like to spend a weekend with Boris Spassky? 46:00- Lou tells the story of playing legendary blitz player Israel Zelber.  49:00- How did Lou get into the chess publishing business?  Mentioned: My System: 21st Century Edition, Winning Chess Tactics for Juniors, Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess, Stuart Margulies, Yasser Seirawan  55:30- Patreon mailbag question: Would Lou consider putting Winning Chess Tactics for Juniors on Chessable?  Mentioned: James Stallings  1:00:00- Lou is also an accomplished improver at golf! Are there any parallels to chess improvement? Mentioned:Lou’s book Make Your Golf Dream a Reality ,  1:01:00- What was it like to spend time with legendary GM David Bronstein? Mentioned: The Rise and Fall of David Bronstein by Genna Sosonko, Mikanes Bronstein 1965  If you would like to help support Perpetual Chess via Patreon, you can do so here: https://www.patreon.com/perpetualchess Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Heading into the penultimate rest day, I provide a quick rundown of the standings and key stories of a closely contested and entertaining FIDE Candidates. Plus I briefly share my thoughts on the drama surrounding GM Alireza Firouzja's noisy shoes. Watch this feed for part 2, which will feature an interview about the Candidates with legendary former Dutch Champion, GM Jan Timman. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are back for with an in-depth breakdown of the first half of the FIDE Candidates. I am honored to be joined by commentator, author, Chessable author and Excellent YouTuber, GM Daniel King to discuss all that has transpired so far. What makes Nepo so good in these tournaments? Does Fabi have another gear? What has surprised Daniel the most? Tune in for this, plus player-by-player analysis. Timestamps of topics discussed below as always!  0:00- Brief big picture thoughts on the tournament 0:05- Nepo! What stands out about his performance? Mentioned: The Chess Mind’s Blog Post: https://thechessmind.substack.com/p/candidates-round-7 22:00- Fabiano  Mentioned: Anthony Levin’s Round 7 Recap: https://www.chess.com/news/view/2024-fide-candidates-tournament-round-7 30:00- Gukesh Final moments of Firouzja-Gukesh: https://www.reddit.com/r/chess/comments/1c1sxzb/final_moments_of_gukesh_vs_firouzja/ 37:00- Firouzja  41:00- Pragganandha 48:00- Nakamura  53:00- Vidit 57:00- Abasov  59:00- Final thoughts on Open Section  1:00:00- Women’s sections  1:05:00- Viewer Q & A- Daniel’s next projects, Genna Sosonko, Collusion  Mentioned: Daniel’s Anti-Sicilian Chessable Course (forthcoming to New in Chess as a book) , The Essential Sosonko If you would like to help support Perpetual Chess via Patreon you can do so here: https://www.patreon.com/perpetualchess Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are at the halfway point of a wildly entertaining 2024 FIDE Candidates! Ian Nepomniathchi continues to lead the Open Section, while Tan Zhongyi is in front in the Women’s Candidates This is the first part of what will be 2 podcasts discussing the tournament through 7 rounds. In this solo pod, I briefly run through the standings, upcoming pairings and share a few thoughts on the tournament. For part 2 (coming soon to this feed), I will be interviewing GM Daniel King of the Powerplay Chess YouTube Channel.  Links Mentioned: Live stream of my chat with GM Daniel King Friday at 9AM EDT/1PM GMT on the Powerplay Chess YouTube Chess  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DiOR9OnXOEk (and later to this feed) Mentioned:  Final moments of Firouzja-Gukesh: https://www.reddit.com/r/chess/comments/1c1sxzb/final_moments_of_gukesh_vs_firouzja/ Be sure to tune in for tomorrow Candidates interview with GM Daniel King, as well as our regular Tuesday weekly pod.  If you would like to help support Perpetual Chess via Patreon you can do so here: https://www.patreon.com/perpetualchess Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices