Best Chess.com Podcasts (2025)

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Ep. 174: Lichess vs. Chess.com, and the Busy Adult Club Player (Online Chess Cleanup Plan, Part 3, feat. Austin Olson) 56:38

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4d ago56:38

56:38

In this episode, Neal is joined by fellow amateur and LI Chess Club regular Austin Olson, a 25-year-old merchandising specialist, to break down the long-standing Lichess vs. Chess.com debate from the perspective of the busy adult club player. We compare features, training tools, community, and overall value, and also offer practical tips for gettin…

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Ep. 236 Kamryn - Youtuber (2200 Chesscom) 1:06:41

20d ago1:06:41

1:06:41

This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Kamryn. We talked about her busy life, and how she carves out time for chess. We discussed her recent successes moving to 2200 on Chesscom and 1750 USCF. We talked about her path to improvement and her future goals. We also discussed a variety of topics such as making a Chessable course, girls in chess, coa…

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Ep. 242 J.J. Lang (2100 USCF) 1:09:08

3h ago1:09:08

1:09:08

This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with J.J. Lang. J.J. is a chess professional, writing and editing articles for USCF. We discussed a wide range of topics such as his own chess journey chasing 2200 and adult chess improvement. We also chatted about coaching, chess journalism, and podcasting. As always, J.J. brought a lot of interesting and helpf…

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Ep. 241 Dr. Scull Reflecting on Reaching 1800 / Thanksgiving - Bonus Episode 22:51

4d ago22:51

22:51

This week I celebrated reaching 1800 USCF and the American holiday of Thanksgiving. In this episode, I reflect on the different aspects of my life that helped me reach 1800. It was a fun episode for me as I reflected on my chess communities, coaches, family, friends, patience, health, and consistency. Hopefully, some of these thoughts will help you…

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Ep. 240 FM Nate Solon Returns! 1:35:55

2h ago1:35:55

1:35:55

Ep. 240 FM Nate Solon (But beginning and word shitload) This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with FM Nate Solon. We talked about so many interesting topics. We discussed training plans, ratings in life outside of chess, Twitter hot takes, Nate’s substack, and Nate’s new course on the English. We also discussed the importance of health in chess, Cha…

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Episode 69: Ratings Are Great (Only our interpretation not) 13:00

6d ago13:00

13:00

Subscribe to my free Newsletter: https://nextlevelchess.blog/newsletter Learn what and how to train and stop wasting time on things that don't matter: https://courses.nextlevelchess.blog/courses/simplified-chess-improvement-system Reach 1200 Chess.com (1400 Lichess) thanks to my all-in-one course: https://courses.nextlevelchess.blog/courses/beginne…

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How AI Will Change Hollywood Forever: Tye Sheridan & Nikola Todorovic on AI, VFX, and the Future of Filmmaking 1:03:35

10d ago1:03:35

1:03:35

A Note from James: Tye Sheridan is one of my favorite actors. You might know him as Cyclops in the X-Men movies (Apocalypse, etc.) or as the lead in Ready Player One—which is not only a great movie but also one of my favorite sci-fi books. One of his first films was Mud with Matthew McConaughey. What I didn’t realize: since 2016, while still acting…

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Ep. 239 Flashback: GM Jesse Kraai Ep. 108 27:46

2h ago27:46

27:46

This week’s flashback episode features Jesse Kraai from episode 108. Jesse is of course one of the coaches at the Chess Dojo. In this excerpt, Jesse discusses the importance of game analysis, and he provides resource recommendations.Jesse also addresses whether or not getting a coach needed, and how to deal with setbacks. My Chessable Course! https…

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Ep. 173: Blitz vs. Rapid (Online Chess Cleanup Plan, Part 2) 42:57

12d ago42:57

42:57

This week, we continue our conversation about best practices for online chess and riff about blitz vs. rapid for the amateur player. 📧 If you have a question, comment, or topic idea for a future episode, e-mail us at [email protected]. 🎯 Our Links: Website Twitter (X) Buy Me a CoffeeBy Long Island Chess Club

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AI That Helps, Schools That Don’t, and How Not to Go Crazy with Prof. Brian Keating 1:41:08

12d ago1:41:08

1:41:08

Episode Description: James sits down with astrophysicist Brian Keating for a candid, useful tour through three hot zones: how to think about AI (and where it actually helps), what’s broken in higher ed and admissions right now, and why outsourcing your mood to politics is a losing strategy. You’ll hear first-hand stories (from UC San Diego classroo…

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Kent Heckenlively on Catastrophic Disclosure: UFO Whistleblowers, Government Spin, and James’s 85% Rule 1:01:38

13d ago1:01:38

1:01:38

A Note from James: Are UFOs real or not? For 80 years there have been credible whistleblowers saying the government recovered craft—and even bodies. That’s why I wanted Kent Heckenlively on, the author of Catastrophic Disclosure: The Deep State, Aliens, and the Truth. I’m not here to decide for you. I want to hear the best evidence, ask the obvious…

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Ep. 238 NM Forest (2200 USCF) 57:36

9d ago57:36

57:36

This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Forest. I’ve known Forest since he was rated 1000 and just recently he crossed 2200 achieving NM! I brought him back on the show to talk about how he did it. He talked about breaking out of plateaus and the study changes and mental changes it took to get there. We talked about his busy life, the important r…

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Episode 68: How much can you improve in 6 months? 15:04

14d ago15:04

15:04

Subscribe to my free Newsletter: https://nextlevelchess.blog/newsletter Learn what and how to train and stop wasting time on things that don't matter: https://courses.nextlevelchess.blog/courses/simplified-chess-improvement-system Reach 1200 Chess.com (1400 Lichess) thanks to my all-in-one course: https://courses.nextlevelchess.blog/courses/beginne…

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Ep. 237 Endgame Improvement - Bonus Episode 21:30

16d ago21:30

21:30

This week on Chess Journeys, I talk about why you should care about endgames and resources to get better. I cover books, Chessable courses, and Youtube videos. I recommend learning some theoretical endings, practical endgame play, and sparring with friends to cement the knowledge. Even if you “don’t get endgame” in your games, trust me this episode…

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Ep. 172: Your Online Chess Cleanup Plan 31:52

10d ago31:52

31:52

In this episode, we discuss how to play online chess in a way that actually helps your over-the-board results. Neal shares his simple, practical method for structuring online sessions so you train with intention instead of just clicking moves. If you've ever felt like your online grind isn't translating to real improvement, this one's for you. 📧 If…

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Transforming IBM: Phil Gilbert on Leadership, Culture Change, and the Power of Design Thinking 1:35:04

22d ago1:35:04

1:35:04

Mike Sarraille sits down with Phil Gilbert, the former General Manager of IBM Design and author of the new book "Irresistible: Blueprint for Earning Buy-In and Breakout Success." Phil Gilbert shares his fascinating journey from leading a startup in Austin, Texas to spearheading a radical culture shift at IBM—transforming not just how teams worked, …

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Episode 67: Sequential Learning 25:11

13d ago25:11

25:11

Subscribe to my free Newsletter: https://nextlevelchess.blog/newsletter Learn what and how to train and stop wasting time on things that don't matter: https://courses.nextlevelchess.blog/courses/simplified-chess-improvement-system Reach 1200 Chess.com (1400 Lichess) thanks to my all-in-one course: https://courses.nextlevelchess.blog/courses/beginne…

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Wisdom Takes Work: Ryan Holiday on What AI Can’t Teach You 1:02:08

24d ago1:02:08

1:02:08

A Note from James: Wisdom Takes Work is Ryan Holiday’s fourth book exploring the Stoic virtues, and this time he’s taking on the big one — wisdom. His earlier books on courage, temperance, and justice were all great conversations, but this one hit me personally. I’ve often thought I had wisdom, only to realize later that I didn’t — or at least not …

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Ep. 235 Flashback: GM Noel Studer Ep. 95 26:00

17d ago26:00

26:00

This week’s flashback episode features friend of the show Noel Studer. He regularly appears to provide updates on my chess and chess improvement generally. Today’s excerpt comes from his first appearance, episode 95. In the snippet he discusses sticking to a training plan, puzzle book recommendations such The Steps Method books, a puzzle conversati…

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Ep. 171: Adult Chess Improvement Q & A 37:09

18d ago37:09

37:09

It's another listener mailbag episode! We answer your questions about adult chess improvement, balancing study with real life, and everything in between. Plus, we share a few listener comments that hit close to home for the club player grind. 📧 If you have a question, comment, or topic idea for a future episode, e-mail us at [email protected].…

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Ep. 234 Ryan (1850 USCF) 1:01:46

27d ago1:01:46

1:01:46

This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Ryan. He’s trying to balance college, sports, and chess improvement. Ryan has had periods of explosive ratings gain, and he dove into the secrets of his success. He attributes much of his success to playing rapid games, learning his openings, and more recently focusing on endgames. He highlighted Practical …

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Episode 66: Just Do It - And Thank Me Later 17:19

30d ago17:19

17:19

Subscribe to my free Newsletter: https://nextlevelchess.blog/newsletter Learn what and how to train and stop wasting time on things that don't matter: https://courses.nextlevelchess.blog/courses/simplified-chess-improvement-system Reach 1200 Chess.com (1400 Lichess) thanks to my all-in-one course: https://courses.nextlevelchess.blog/courses/beginne…

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Jeff Pearlman on Tupac Shakur: The Myths, the Music, and the Man Behind the Legend 52:26

30d ago52:26

52:26

A Note from James Tupac Shakur—one of the greatest rap artists ever—was shot and killed almost two decades ago. What else is there left to say about him? What new things can be said? Well, Jeff Pearlman’s new book, Only God Can Judge Me: The Many Lives of Tupac Shakur, takes on that challenge. In our conversation, we talk about what Jeff uncovered …

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Ep. 233 Dr Scull's San Diego Open Recap - Bonus Episode 28:46

1M ago28:46

28:46

This week on Chess Journeys, I recap the San Diego Open. I went 1 win and 3 draws against all higher rated players. It was a good performance and I learned a lot from it. My Chessable Course! https://www.chessable.com/chess-journeys-tactics-workbook-turning-knowledge-into-skill/course/268850/ Chessnut Link/Code: Code - KEVINSCULL https://www.chessn…

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Ep. 170: The Colle System (The Working Adult's Opening) 40:51

1M ago40:51

40:51

Between work, family, and everything else, who has time to learn 20 moves of opening theory? The Colle System offers a solid, low-maintenance way to get a good game every time. Learn the basic plans, the Colle–Zukertort twist, and why this simple setup still scores at the club level. Referenced: Colle System: Complete Guide for both Colors, with Pl…

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Ep. 232 Maddie (1950 USCF) 1:11:34

1M ago1:11:34

1:11:34

This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Maddie Maddie’s been playing chess since she was a young child. We talked a lot about the kid experience and training. She emphasized that her biggest times of growth occurred when she combined dedication with motivation. Maddie likes to have fun with chess and emphasizes doing what you enjoy. But … it turn…

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Former FBI Agent, Eric O’Neill on Spies, Lies, and the Cyber Wars We’re Already Losing 57:47

1M ago57:47

57:47

A Note from James Oh my gosh—I was scared after this one. In this episode, I learned about what’s really on the dark web… and the even scarier stuff on what’s called the deep web. Eric O’Neill—who, by the way, is the former FBI agent who brought down Robert Hanssen, the biggest double agent in U.S. history—joined me for this conversation. Hanssen w…

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Unlocking Human Limits: Nick Thompson’s Journey Through Running, Family, and Journalism 1:14:35

1M ago1:14:35

1:14:35

In today’s episode, host Mike Sarraille sits down with Nick Thompson, CEO of The Atlantic, accomplished marathon runner, and author of the new book, Running: A Father, a Son, and the Simplest of Sports. Nick opens up about his extraordinary journey – from growing up in Boston and attending Stanford, to tackling the challenges of competitive running…

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Ep. 169: The Nimzo-Indian Defense, Junior Opponents, & More (Game Analysis #15) 41:39

1M ago41:39

41:39

In this episode, we tackle two very different challenges for club players: the Nimzo-Indian Defense and facing those fearless, fast-moving, and sometimes poorly behaved junior opponents at tournaments. Game Referenced: 1. d4 Nf6 2. c4 e6 3. Nc3 Bb4 4. Bd2 Bxc3 5. Bxc3 Ne4 6. Bb4 d6 7. Qc2 f5 8. e3 b6 9. f3 Nf6 10. Bd3 Nc6 11. Bc3 O-O 12. Nh3 Bb7 13…

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I Know that She Knows that I Know that She Knows: Steven Pinker on the Mysteries of Money, Power, and Everyday Life 1:07:50

1M ago1:07:50

1:07:50

A Note from James I first got really impressed with Steven Pinker when he wrote The Better Angels of Our Nature: Why Violence Has Declined. He basically shows that over the past 10,000 years, every single century has been less violent than the one before it. You might think, “That can’t include the 20th century,” right? We had World War I, World Wa…

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Ep. 231 Evan - Chess Lobster (2150 USCF) 1:11:23

1M ago1:11:23

1:11:23

This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Evan, the Chess Lobster. This is his third appearance on the show. You can check out his previous appearances on episodes 48 and 161. We talked about his continual pursuit of the master title. He talked about making simple moves, removing creativity, and focusing on calculation in regular positions. Evan al…

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Episode 65: The Four Stages of Chess Improvement 23:59

1M ago23:59

23:59

"Mastery", by George Leonard: https://www.amazon.com/Mastery-Keys-Success-Long-Term-Fulfillment/dp/0452267560 Subscribe to my free Newsletter: https://nextlevelchess.blog/newsletter Learn what and how to train and stop wasting time on things that don't matter: https://courses.nextlevelchess.blog/courses/simplified-chess-improvement-system Reach 120…

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Building Greatness: Lessons from Bodybuilding Champion Branch Warren 57:32

1M ago57:32

57:32

Mike Sarraille sits down with legendary bodybuilder Branch Warren. From humble beginnings on a Texas cattle ranch to becoming a two-time Arnold Classic champion and runner-up at Mr. Olympia, Branch shares his remarkable journey of grit, discipline, and unyielding work ethic. Follow Branch Warren: www.thebranchwarren.com www.instagram.com/thebranchw…

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Ep. 230 Flashback: Chris Wainscott (1800 USCF) Ep. 29 22:35

1M ago22:35

22:35

This episode of Chess Journeys is an excerpt from Episode 29 featuring Chris Wainscott. Chris is a founding member of the chess punk community with lofty improvement goals. We had a wide ranging conversation covering topics such as chess tactics and resources, why he is studying positional books right now, fighting against the pull of laziness, the…

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Ep. 168: How "Find a Better Move" Ruined My Chess 44:26

2M ago44:26

44:26

You've heard the quote: "When you see a good move, look for a better one." Sounds smart - until it makes you overthink every position. In this episode, we talk about why perfectionism hurts amateur chess improvement and how to play more practical, confident moves. Referenced: When You See a Good Move, Look for a Better One (chesscom blog) 📧 If you …

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Obsession, Secrets, and Sleight of Hand: Inside the Hidden World of Modern Magicians with Ian Frisch 1:26:14

2M ago1:26:14

1:26:14

A Note from James I’ve always loved books where a journalist gets so deep into a subculture that they become part of it. Magic Is Dead by Ian Frisch is one of those. He starts out covering a secret society of magicians—“The 52,” named for the cards in a deck—and ends up becoming one of them. It reminded me of other favorites like Word Freak (Scrabb…

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Ep. 229 Gabby (1950 USCF) 57:29

2M ago57:29

57:29

This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Gabby. We had a fun chat reminiscing about playing chess together 20 years ago, her progress in the 2010’s, and her recent chess journey in France. Gabby discussed her mentality regarding rating, and her joy of chess. She talked about the many roles she’s had in the chess world from studying with dad, playi…

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Episode 64: Annoyed by Clickbait Videos? Do this. 9:25

2M ago9:25

9:25

Subscribe to my free Newsletter: https://nextlevelchess.blog/newsletter Learn what and how to train and stop wasting time on things that don't matter: https://courses.nextlevelchess.blog/courses/simplified-chess-improvement-system Reach 1200 Chess.com (1400 Lichess) thanks to my all-in-one course: https://courses.nextlevelchess.blog/courses/beginne…

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Ep. 228 Flashback: Neal Bruce (1800 USCF) Ep. 20 24:49

2M ago24:49

24:49

This episode of Chess Journeys is an excerpt from Episode 20 featuring Neal Bruce, the father of adult chess improvement. It was my first conversation with Neal, and it was wide ranging. In the following excerpt we discussed what it takes to reach 1600, building a strong chess foundation, the importance of tactics, using flashcards to improve tacti…

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Ep. 167: The Casuals Strike Back: How to Beat Chess Diehards 34:21

2M ago34:21

34:21

They study eight hours a day - you study between work meetings and bedtime. They've memorized the entire Najdorf - you've memorized your kids' soccer schedule. In this episode, we talk about how to take on the true chess diehards with solid fundamentals, smart preparation, and the right mindset. Referenced: Did chesscom recently make puzzles easier…

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Morgan Housel on The Art of Spending Money and Why Independence Is the Real Luxury 1:06:30

2M ago1:06:30

1:06:30

A Note from James I’m such a fan of this guy. I loved The Psychology of Money — it felt like he was writing directly about me. I’ve made a lot of money, lost it all, made it again, lost it again. Over and over. And Morgan gets it. His new book, The Art of Spending Money, hits even deeper. It’s not just about being rich; it’s about freedom, simplici…