A podcast dedicated to the journey of adult chess improvement. Each week a guest will join me to discuss what has worked for them, what hasn't worked as well, and the status of their journey.
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Ep 82 Aiden (1500)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Aiden. He’s an adult improver who has been able to create a business geared towards chess improvement. We talked about his journey as a chess player. Aiden talked about his initial struggles and then his rapid acceleration after focusing on visualization. The interview got quite personal as I discussed my own brain and aphantasia. I really appreciate Aiden’s approach of leaning into how your brain works to help your improvement. I think you will find it to be an enlightening episode! Be sure to check out Aiden’s free materials on: https://dontmoveuntilyousee.it/ Be sure the check out the Chess Journeys Merch Store! You can support the show and look amazing in the process. https://chess-journeys.creator-spring.com/ I’ve been streaming somewhat regularly on https://www.twitch.tv/drskull_tinygrimes If you would like to be a guest on Chess Journeys, contact me on Twitter or fill out the following Google Form: https://forms.gle/gSnvmUnvpykkgT1y5 As always you can support the show at https://www.patreon.com/ChessJourneys. Also, be sure to check out my Chessable page at www.chessable.com/chessjourneys If you are considering using Aimchess, please use the code drscull30.
Ep. 81 Tanner (650 USCF - 1500 Lichess)
This week on Chess Journeys, Tanner stopped by to talk about his journey and experiences at his first tournament. Tanner came back to chess more seriously with the Queen’s Gambit boom and just played in his first tournament. He played a lot of kids and got a rating of 623. We talked about his goals, process, and why Michigan is such a hotbed for chess. Be sure the check out the Chess Journeys Merch Store! You can support the show and look amazing in the process. https://chess-journeys.creator-spring.com/ I’ve been streaming somewhat regularly on https://www.twitch.tv/drskull_tinygrimes If you would like to be a guest on Chess Journeys, contact me on Twitter or fill out the following Google Form: https://forms.gle/gSnvmUnvpykkgT1y5 As always you can support the show at https://www.patreon.com/ChessJourneys. Also, be sure to check out my Chessable page at www.chessable.com/chessjourneys If you are considering using Aimchess, please use the code drscull30.
Ep 80 FM Peter Giannatos
This week owner of the Charlotte Chess Center, Peter Giannatos stopped by Chess Journeys. We talked about his own journey, the ALTO tournaments, and how to improve as adults. Peter provided many helpful tips such as don’t do the same puzzle twice. He also gave some book recommendations. We also talked about a wide variety of topics such as how good at chess 1500 level players are and the importance of celebrating the reaching of goals. If you are interested in a beginner tactics book be sure to check out: Everyone’s First Chess Workbook Be sure the check out the Chess Journeys Merch Store! You can support the show and look amazing in the process. https://chess-journeys.creator-spring.com/ I’ve been streaming somewhat regularly on https://www.twitch.tv/drskull_tinygrimes If you would like to be a guest on Chess Journeys, contact me on Twitter or fill out the following Google Form: https://forms.gle/gSnvmUnvpykkgT1y5 As always you can support the show at https://www.patreon.com/ChessJourneys. Also, be sure to check out my Chessable page at www.chessable.com/chessjourneys If you are considering using Aimchess, please use the code drscull30.
Ep. 79 FM Nate Solon (2400 USCF / 2600 blitz) - Year in Review
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Nate Solon. We had a lengthy chat about our chess experiences in 2022. I reflected on my progress, tournaments, ratings gains, and why I was successful after a year of plateauing. Nate reflected on his many chess projects and life changes that had him re-evaluating what chess success was in 2022. We also talked about our goals for 2023. Be sure to check out Nate’s newsletter: https://zwischenzug.substack.com/ Also, Nate’s book is amazing: https://www.amazon.com/Evaluate-Like-Grandmaster-Eugene-Perelshteyn/dp/B0BHNF5CWB/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2N0UILGEJM6WQ&keywords=evaluate+like+a+grandmaster&qid=1673931161&sprefix=evaluate+li%2Caps%2C255&sr=8-1 Be sure the check out the Chess Journeys Merch Store! You can support the show and look amazing in the process. https://chess-journeys.creator-spring.com/ I’ve been streaming somewhat regularly on https://www.twitch.tv/drskull_tinygrimes If you would like to be a guest on Chess Journeys, contact me on Twitter or fill out the following Google Form: https://forms.gle/gSnvmUnvpykkgT1y5 As always you can support the show at https://www.patreon.com/ChessJourneys. Also, be sure to check out my Chessable page at www.chessable.com/chessjourneys If you are considering using Aimchess, please use the code drscull30.
Ep 78 Matthew (1850 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Matthew. He’s a dedicated chess improver who picked up the game at 48. He initially struggled greatly, but with dedication and focused study, he has lifted his rating as high as 1900 USCF. Matthew spent a lot of time talking about the adult brain, its limitations, and how he has sought to overcome them. It was a wonderful interview for us older adult improvers that face the reality of slower data acquisition and processing power. Brain Resource: https://www.scotthyoung.com/blog/2020/02/24/age-learning/ Be sure the check out the Chess Journeys Merch Store! You can support the show and look amazing in the process. https://chess-journeys.creator-spring.com/ I’ve been streaming somewhat regularly on https://www.twitch.tv/drskull_tinygrimes If you would like to be a guest on Chess Journeys, contact me on Twitter or fill out the following Google Form: https://forms.gle/gSnvmUnvpykkgT1y5 As always you can support the show at https://www.patreon.com/ChessJourneys. Also, be sure to check out my Chessable page at www.chessable.com/chessjourneys If you are considering using Aimchess, please use the code drscull30.
Ep. 77 James (1000 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with James. He’s a busy lawyer and family man that makes time for chess nearly every day. We talked about having bare minimum goals such as the Chesscom daily puzzle. We discussed his emphasis on tactics training and move by move game collections. We spent the majority of our time discussing the North American Open. We talked about preparation, hotels, and our lessons learned. I posted about my lessons learned here: https://www.patreon.com/posts/north-american-76669414 Be sure the check out the Chess Journeys Merch Store! You can support the show and look amazing in the process. https://chess-journeys.creator-spring.com/ I’ve been streaming somewhat regularly on https://www.twitch.tv/drskull_tinygrimes If you would like to be a guest on Chess Journeys, contact me on Twitter or fill out the following Google Form: https://forms.gle/gSnvmUnvpykkgT1y5 As always you can support the show at https://www.patreon.com/ChessJourneys. Also, be sure to check out my Chessable page at www.chessable.com/chessjourneys If you are considering using Aimchess, please use the code drscull30.
Ep. 76 Omar Returns Again Pt. 2 (1200 Rapid, 850 USCF)
In part 2 of my conversation with Omar, we focused on preparing for your first chess tournament. We covered 3 categories, pre-tournament, during the tournament, and tournament etiquette. This spanned a wide range of topics such as taking notation, eating food, when to resign, and playing 3D games before a tournament. I posted a video covering this topic in more depth for anyone interested: Tips for Your First Chess Tournament: https://youtu.be/OYn-nCl8pak Be sure the check out the Chess Journeys Merch Store! You can support the show and look amazing in the process. https://chess-journeys.creator-spring.com/ I’ve been streaming somewhat regularly on https://www.twitch.tv/drskull_tinygrimes If you would like to be a guest on Chess Journeys, contact me on Twitter or fill out the following Google Form: https://forms.gle/gSnvmUnvpykkgT1y5 As always you can support the show at https://www.patreon.com/ChessJourneys. Also, be sure to check out my Chessable page at www.chessable.com/chessjourneys If you are considering using Aimchess, please use the code drscull30.
Ep. 75 Omar Returns Again Pt. 1 (1200 Rapid, 850 USCF)
This week I spoke with Omar. We had an amazing almost 2 hour conversation. It seems best to split it over two episodes. In part 1, we focused on the last year of Omar’s journey. We spoke in detail about his approach to chess improvement diving into his obsession / addiction. We discussed his current approach of playing games rather than studying. We also talked about whether or not his chess obsession has become an addiction that has a negative impact on his life. Omar’s honesty and openness are always refreshing and enjoyable! Be sure the check out the Chess Journeys Merch Store! You can support the show and look amazing in the process. https://chess-journeys.creator-spring.com/ I’ve been streaming somewhat regularly on https://www.twitch.tv/drskull_tinygrimes If you would like to be a guest on Chess Journeys, contact me on Twitter or fill out the following Google Form: https://forms.gle/gSnvmUnvpykkgT1y5 As always you can support the show at https://www.patreon.com/ChessJourneys. Also, be sure to check out my Chessable page at www.chessable.com/chessjourneys If you are considering using Aimchess, please use the code drscull30.
Ep. 74 Jesse (900 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke to Jesse. He’s a dedicated improver who joined during the Queen’s Gambit craze. We talked about his journey from strictly online blitz player to his current status as only playing OTB. Jesse carves out about an hour per day for study including mostly tactics and endgame work. He talked extensively about first OTB experiences and the importance of working with a coach. Jesse also discussed the value of endgame work even at lower rating bands. Be sure the check out the Chess Journeys Merch Store! You can support the show and look amazing in the process. https://chess-journeys.creator-spring.com/ I’ve been streaming somewhat regularly on https://www.twitch.tv/drskull_tinygrimes If you would like to be a guest on Chess Journeys, contact me on Twitter or fill out the following Google Form: https://forms.gle/gSnvmUnvpykkgT1y5 As always you can support the show at https://www.patreon.com/ChessJourneys. Also, be sure to check out my Chessable page at www.chessable.com/chessjourneys If you are considering using Aimchess, please use the code drscull30.
Ep. 73 Kamryn - (1300 USCF, 1850 Rapid)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Kamryn. She’s a recent college grad, who dedicates several hours a day to chess. She’s had a remarkable journey so far, climbing from about 700 - 1900 Rapid on Chesscom. We discussed her journey, plateaus, and goals. Kamryn referenced many resources (Best Lessons of a Chess Coach, 100 Endgames You Must Know) that assisted her journey. She also highlighted the importance of OTB play, community, coaching children, and cementing basic tactics through puzzle rush. Kamryn’s story is an inspiring one for sure!
Ep. 72 Joel (CFC 1530 - 1800 rapid)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Joel about his chess experiences. Joel has been a chess book aficionado for much of his life. Joel talked about some unique approaches to chess learning. He uses history and stories to cement knowledge. Joel uses deep prep for online tournament opponents to solidify openings. Joel also has strong opinions on the importance of long games. Finally, Joel ended the show with a pile of book suggestions. Be sure the check out the Chess Journeys Merch Store! You can support the show and look amazing in the process. https://chess-journeys.creator-spring.com/ I’ve been streaming somewhat regularly on https://www.twitch.tv/drskull_tinygrimes If you would like to be a guest on Chess Journeys, contact me on Twitter or fill out the following Google Form: https://forms.gle/gSnvmUnvpykkgT1y5 As always you can support the show at https://www.patreon.com/ChessJourneys. Also, be sure to check out my Chessable page at www.chessable.com/chessjourneys If you are considering using Aimchess, please use the code drscull30.
Ep. 71 Noah
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Noah. Noah and I discussed his chess journey, which includes a lot of OTB chess lately with the Texas Tech team. We discussed his method of improvement, which has been mostly tactics and videos. Noah also talked about the importance of coaching for his chess development. Be sure the check out the Chess Journeys Merch Store! You can support the show and look amazing in the process. https://chess-journeys.creator-spring.com/ I’ve been streaming somewhat regularly on https://www.twitch.tv/drskull_tinygrimes If you would like to be a guest on Chess Journeys, contact me on Twitter or fill out the following Google Form: https://forms.gle/gSnvmUnvpykkgT1y5 As always you can support the show at https://www.patreon.com/ChessJourneys. Also, be sure to check out my Chessable page at www.chessable.com/chessjourneys If you are considering using Aimchess, please use the code drscull30.
Ep. 70 Zach (1800 rapid)
This week on Chess Journeys, Zach from episode 22 makes his return. He talks extensively about his quick climb to 1800 and then devastating fall back to 1480! We talked about how he dealt with adversity and worked his way back to a new high of 1850. Zach recommended a number of resources such as Susan Polgar’s defensive book Learn Chess the Right Way, Book 3 and Survive and Thrive. It was a fascinating conversation, and I’m impressed that Zach didn’t walk away when at his peak adversity. Be sure the check out the Chess Journeys Merch Store! You can support the show and look amazing in the process. https://chess-journeys.creator-spring.com/ I’ve been streaming somewhat regularly on https://www.twitch.tv/drskull_tinygrimes If you would like to be a guest on Chess Journeys, contact me on Twitter or fill out the following Google Form: https://forms.gle/gSnvmUnvpykkgT1y5 As always you can support the show at https://www.patreon.com/ChessJourneys. Also, be sure to check out my Chessable page at www.chessable.com/chessjourneys If you are considering using Aimchess, please use the code drscull30.
Ep. 69 Jay (1850 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I'm joined by Jay. He's a returning improver. Both Jay and I have seen rating gain in the last few months. We took the opportunity to celebrate our gains together and share our thoughts on what helped us break through. We both provided a bunch of thoughts on playing high stakes games, the value of coaching, and fixing our holes (raising floors). We also talked about what we are doing now to try to break through the next plateau. Be sure the check out the Chess Journeys Merch Store! You can support the show and look amazing in the process. https://chess-journeys.creator-spring.com/ I’ve been streaming somewhat regularly on https://www.twitch.tv/drskull_tinygrimes If you would like to be a guest on Chess Journeys, contact me on Twitter or fill out the following Google Form: https://forms.gle/gSnvmUnvpykkgT1y5 As always you can support the show at https://www.patreon.com/ChessJourneys. Also, be sure to check out my Chessable page at www.chessable.com/chessjourneys If you are considering using Aimchess, please use the code drscull30.
Ep. 68 Martin Justesen (Say Chess) - 1800
This week on Chess Journeys, I had the pleasure of talking to Martin Justesen of the Say Chess enterprise. We covered a wide range of topics such as how he has time for so many amazing projects! We discussed his chess journey, including a lengthy plateau at 1600. We discussed his books and his newest enterprise, the Chess Training Accountability Group. Overall, a great chat with a founder of the Chess Punks community. https://saychess.substack.com/ https://chesstrainingaccountabilitygroup.substack.com/ Be sure the check out the Chess Journeys Merch Store! You can support the show and look amazing in the process. https://chess-journeys.creator-spring.com/ I’ve been streaming somewhat regularly on https://www.twitch.tv/drskull_tinygrimes If you would like to be a guest on Chess Journeys, contact me on Twitter or fill out the following Google Form: https://forms.gle/gSnvmUnvpykkgT1y5 As always you can support the show at https://www.patreon.com/ChessJourneys. Also, be sure to check out my Chessable page at www.chessable.com/chessjourneys If you are considering using Aimchess, please use the code drscull30.