Ep. 150: The Jobava London System: A Chess Opening for Busy Adults
The Jobava London (1. d4, 2. Nc3, 3. Bf4) is an opening system that is easy to learn, yet still has a lot of sting, especially against ...g6 set-ups by Black. It can easily throw off an opponent who's...
27 Apr 202540min
Ep. 149: Build Your Technique, Build Your Rating: The Game-Changer You Need
This episode is a review of the chess.com course "Build Your Technique" by FM Thomas Wolski. This is a highly recommended training module for adult players looking to improve. We also share some chess...
20 Apr 202538min
Ep. 148: Can An Adult Beginner Reach 1600?
This week we discuss ratings and improvement for busy adults. You may wish to check out the Reddit post referenced in this episode. 📧 If you have a question, comment, or topic idea for a future epis...
13 Apr 202538min
Ep. 147: Bird's Opening (1. f4), When to Sac a Piece (and when not to) at the Amateur Level, Material vs. Initiative & More (Game Analysis #13)
This episode is a thematic analysis of an amateur game with takeaways that are instruction rich. Topics covered: Bird's Opening (1. f4) Unnecessary defensive moves Sacrificing pieces Material vs. Ini...
6 Apr 202540min
Ep. 146: Better Tournaments, Better Chess: Creating Ideal Playing Conditions
This episode is a response to FM Nate Solon's excellent blog posts I Don't Like Chess Tournaments and What Would a Fun Chess Tournament Look Like? Neal reacts and shares his thoughts on weekend events...
30 Mar 202536min
Ep. 145: Correspondence Chess Success feat. NM Andy Ansel
In this conversation, Neal and return guest NM Andy Ansel dive into the world of correspondence chess, exploring its nuances, challenges, and Andy's pursuit of the International Master (IM) norm. They...
23 Mar 202546min
Ep. 144: Speed Chess Secrets: How 5-0 Blitz Can Supercharge Your Skills
5-0 blitz games can be an excellent chess improvement tool when used properly and judiciously. In this episode, we offer tips, tricks, and best practices. Referenced: Ep. 122: Online Blitz Chess and ...
16 Mar 202539min
Ep. 143: Formal Chess Study Plans: Essential or Overhyped?
This week we discuss whether highly structured study plans are practical for busy amateurs. Neal concludes by sharing his own plan (HINT: it's not complicated). Referenced: Ep. 61: Do Chess Training ...
9 Mar 202543min
