This week on Perpetual Chess we catch up with GM Cristian Chirila. A former Romanian youth champion, GM Chirila is now based in Missouri and has many roles in the chess world including commentator for the Grand Chess Tour, coach of the St. Louis University  Chess Team, and co-host, with GM Fabiano Caruana, of the C-Squared podcast. On C Squared, GM’s Chirila and Caruana are often joined by prominent guests to discuss top-level chess news. The podcast is highlighted by its excellent production and has quickly found a large audience. In our interview, we discuss the origins of and future plans for C Squared.  We also touch  on World Championships, past and present, Cristian’s OTB game and lots more. We also briefly talk about  the sexual assault allegations against GM Alejandro Ramirez although, to hear Cristian and Fabiano’s full thoughts, one should listen to the latest episode of C Squared. The notes to topics discussed can be found below. 

Episode recorded February 28, 2023

0:00- Brief addendum regarding the allegations against GM Alejandro Ramirez (Recorded March 9, 2023)

04:00- Thanks to our presenting chess education sponsor, Chessable.com! Check out their latest courses here: 

https://www.chessable.com/courses/#!/new

05:00- Cristian joins! What lessons has Cristian learned from launching the C Squared Podcast? 

Mentioned: Episode 47 with GM Cristian Chirila

15:00- Patreon mailbag question:” Do Chirila and Caruana have a long-term vision for C Squared?” 

Ben Johnson | creating Perpetual Chess Podcast | Patreon

18:00- Is Cristian surprised by how forthcoming Fabiano has been on the podcast? 

20:00- Patreon mailbag question: Does Cristian worry that professionally collaborating with Fabiano could impact their friendship? 

24:00- Cristian discusses C-Squared’s plans for the World Championship and his own thoughts on the Ding-Nepo match

29:00- Cristian discusses his experience of working as one of Fabiano’s seconds during the World Championship match. 

34:00- Patreon mailbag question: “Were there moments in the 2018 World Championship where Cristian thought Fabiano would take the lead in the match?” 

41:00- What was your day-to-day life like as a second during the match in London? 

46:00- Patreon mailbag question:” Does Cristian think we will continue to see Rapid and Blitz elevated over classical chess?” 

51:00- Cristian discusses his recent OTB tournament and upcoming plans. 

57:00- Patreon mailbag question: “What is Cristian’s role as head coach of the University of Missouri?” 

1:03:00- We discuss the allegations against GM Alejandro Ramirez (recorded February 28) 

1:08:00- Cristian discusses his upcoming tournament plans 

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