Dojo Talks: A Chess Podcast

In this Dojo Talks episode, we explore blitz chess with NM Jeremy Kane—what it takes to improve, how time management and openings matter, and whether blitz actually helps your classical game. Featuring insights from his work at Chess.com, plus real lessons from blitz rating climbs and practical training advice. If you want to get better at blitz (and understand its limits), this one’s for you. Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 00:00 What Makes Someone Good at Blitz 00:40 Jeremy Kane’s Blitz Journey 03:00 Climbing from 2400 to 2800+ 06:00 Blitz Quests & Rating Volatility 09:15 Using the Clock as a Weapon 13:30 Openings and Simplifying for Blitz 18:00 Does Blitz Improve Classical Chess?

The 2026 Candidates Tournament is right around the corner, and this field might be one of the most competitive we’ve ever seen. In this episode of Dojo Talks, we break down every player’s chances, compare our picks to the betting odds, and debate who’s truly a contender. From rising young stars to established elite players, we dig into form, consistency, and what it actually takes to win a Candidates. Who do you think will come out on top? We’re running a 2026 Candidates Fantasy Contest—and this is your chance to prove you actually know what you’re talking about. Pick your players, lock in your rankings, and compete against the Dojo community to see who can best predict how the tournament unfolds. With such a wide-open field, this might be the hardest (and most fun) Candidates to call in years. 🏆 Prizes: 1st Place: Free Dojo membership + exclusive coaching session 2nd Place: Free Dojo membership 3rd Place: Dojo merch bundle Make your picks here: https://tinyurl.com/2026Candidates Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 0:00 Intro & Candidates overview 1:30 Why this field is so competitive 3:00 Early picks & lowest seeds 10:30 Breaking down the bottom contenders 19:45 Giri & Wei Yi chances 32:10 Nakamura discussion 38:15 Prague’s form & upside 46:15 Young players & Sindarov 53:30 Top contenders debate 1:01:25 Final thoughts & betting vs reality

In this episode of Dojo Talks, we explore how having children impacts chess performance, from real examples of world champions to personal experiences as chess dads. With Hikaru Nakamura entering the Candidates as a new father, the question is more relevant than ever. We break down the short-term dip (sleep, focus, hormones) vs long-term recovery—and what it could mean for top players like Magnus Carlsen. Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 00:00 Do Kids Hurt Your Chess? 00:25 Why Hikaru’s new baby matters 02:35 World champions and parenthood 06:13 Naka, Magnus, and motivation 10:26 How kids changed their own chess 17:51 The science: sleep, hormones, and focus 28:54 Can top players avoid the dip? 33:02 Long-term benefits of parenting? 42:50 The dip is real, but varies 51:22 Final verdict on kids and chess

FM James Canty III joins Dojo Talks to talk about becoming the World Chessboxing Champion, how he got into boxing, and what it was like competing with Team USA in Serbia. The conversation also covers training, the connection between chess and combat sports, nootropics and performance, and Canty’s current push for IM and GM norms. Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 0:00 Chessboxing World Champion James Canty 1:26 Creator, Streamer, Coach, or Competitor? 4:19 The Quests James Is Chasing Right Now 5:29 How James Got Into Boxing 10:33 Team USA and Winning Gold in Serbia 12:28 How Strong Is James as a Boxer? 18:35 Why He Might Retire From Chessboxing 22:00 Is Chessboxing Actually Growing? 35:46 PEDs, Nootropics, and Chess Performance 48:25 Fatherhood, Motivation, and the IM/GM Push

A lively Dojo Talks debate on whether draw offers should be banned in chess. The episode covers the history of draw offers, the role of tournament culture and incentives, the Dubov–Nepo controversy, and whether changing draw rules would actually improve fighting chess. Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 0:05 Should Draw Offers Be Banned? 1:04 History of the Draw Offer in Chess 2:58 Grandmaster Draws and Fear in Elite Play 5:54 Professional vs Amateur Events and Draw Rules 9:26 Chess Culture vs Rule Changes 15:13 Tournament Incentives and Fighting Chess 33:39 Dubov–Nepo Blitz Draw Controversy 38:46 The Case for Keeping Draw Offers in Chess

GM Felix Blohberger discusses the realities of being a modern chess professional, including balancing playing, coaching, content creation, and course development while pursuing a long-term goal of reaching 2600. The conversation explores training methods, opening preparation, tournament economics, and the broader challenges of building a sustainable career in chess. Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 00:05 Introduction 01:08 Chess career path 04:31 Goal of 2600 07:08 Making a living in chess 10:15 Chess money and prizes 12:30 Training routine 17:23 Opening preparation 22:03 Game recap videos 32:14 Playing style 37:25 Chess courses 48:27 Sponsorship and opportunities

In this episode of Dojo Talks, the Sensei review the Netflix documentary 'Queen of Chess' and discuss Judit Polgar’s rise to the top of the chess world. They break down what the film gets right, what it leaves out about the Polgar training experiment, and what her legacy means for future generations of players. Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 00:05 Intro to the documentary 04:30 Family movie night reactions 08:50 Chess stories on Netflix 13:30 Underdog appeal in chess 19:40 What the film leaves out 27:00 Polgar’s rise explained 36:30 Polgar vs Kasparov debate 1:00:20 Lessons from the film

John Donaldson joins Dojo Talks to discuss his new book "Inside the Mind of Bobby Fischer", a collection of Fischer’s lesser-known writings and annotations. The conversation explores why Fischer’s games are still highly instructive for modern players, how his practical decision-making shows up in systems like the King’s Indian Attack, and what his approach reveals about classic chess ideas like overprotection and restraint. They also dive into Fischer’s obsession with analytical accuracy, the origins of “the Rat” opening, and the importance of regularly playing tournament games if you actually want your study to translate into better results over the board. Pick up a copy here: https://amzn.to/3Op81Aw Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 00:05 New Fischer book and why Donaldson studies him 03:02 What’s inside the book 06:51 Why Fischer games still teach well 10:29 A key pawn move in the Kings Indian Attack 15:32 Fischer using classic chess ideas 24:02 Fischer arguing analysis and loving accuracy 39:20 What “the Rat” opening means 47:54 How many games to play each year and when Fischer became GM level

In this episode, Jesse and Kostya are joined again by TheChessNerd where they rank various digital-era training tools—from Puzzle Rush to AI bots—to determine which modern methods actually improve your game versus those that are just "mid." They debate the merits of fast-paced online play and new technologies, weighing their convenience against the "demons" of distraction and cheating. Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 04:10 Puzzle Rush 08:00 Blitz 13:31 Online Play 20:44 E-boards 24:35 Blindfold Training 29:05 Playing Against Bots

In this episode of Dojo Talks, we rank and debate the 10 greatest chess tournaments of all time — from historic classics like London 1851, Hastings 1895, and St. Petersburg 1914 to legendary modern events featuring Kasparov, Fischer, Tal, Topalov, and more. Joined by ChessNerd, the Dojo team breaks down: Kasparov’s breakout at the Soviet Championship 1981 The birth of international chess tournaments at London 1851 Pillsbury’s stunning win at Hastings 1895 The controversial 1948 World Championship tournament Steinitz and the rise of positional chess in Vienna 1873 Topalov’s dominant run at San Luis 2005 Fischer’s emergence at the Portorož Interzonal Tal’s shocking victory in the 1959 Candidates Tournament From early romantic-era events to brutal Soviet-era candidates and modern super tournaments, we debate what truly makes a tournament great: strength of field, historical impact, legendary games, and cultural significance. Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 00:05 – Ranking format and guest intro 01:25 – Kasparov breakout at Soviet Championship 1981 04:13 – London 1851 and early tournament history 07:16 – Hastings 1895 and Pillsbury’s rise 10:10 – World Championship tournament 1948 debate 12:26 – Steinitz and positional chess in Vienna 1873 15:41 – Topalov’s run at San Luis 2005 18:10 – Fischer emerges at Portorož Interzonal 23:29 – Candidates 1959 and Tal’s ascent

GM Artur Yusupov joins the podcast to discuss his work with the Women in Chess Foundation. Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips

This episode follows IM Gauri Shankar’s long, stop-and-start path to finally earning the IM title—balancing full-time teaching and content creation, struggling with USCF–FIDE rating disparities and nerves, reflecting on modern chess improvement and work–life balance, and discussing with Jesse and Kostya what it would really take to push on toward GM. Check out the game between Gauri and Jesse mentioned in the episode here: https://www.chessdojo.club/games/2300-2400/2024.09.26_01343cb4-e508-44fe-8b82-9046cc189d79 Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 00:00 – Live classes announcement 00:28 – Gauri’s early chess story 02:50 – Growing up in Chicago chess scene 04:50 – First norms and long break from chess 09:30 – Rating struggles and USCF–FIDE disparity 13:20 – Life as coach, streamer, creator 18:40 – Identity as player vs teacher 40:00 – Crossing 2400 and emotional breakthrough

The episode recaps the 2025 World Cup and argues that the knockout + rapid-tiebreak format is too random for awarding three Candidates spots, even though Sindarov, Wei Yi, and Esipenko were deserving stories in different ways. The sensei preview how this unpredictability shapes the upcoming Candidates, discuss favorites (Fabi, Prag, Naka), and explain why Dojo still prefers a more merit-based qualification system. Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 00:00 Dojo in Charlotte and live classes 03:30 World Cup recap and qualifiers 07:30 Rapid tiebreaks and fatigue 12:30 Why the World Cup feels random 19:00 Final four paths and upsets 28:00 Sindarov and Wei Yi trajectories 41:00 Candidates preview and favorites

The sensei discuss Danny Rensch’s memoir, Dark Squares, exploring how a traumatizing cult upbringing and early chess success shaped his life, career, and the wider evolution of the chess world. Check out Dark Squares and pick up a copy here: https://amzn.to/4pyW2yt Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 00:03 – Book overview 03:22 – Ear injury & setbacks 12:24 – Shelby School & cult 24:55 – Trance & hierarchy 36:34 – Separation & trauma 55:34 – Chess world’s shift 1:13:24 – Media angle & Hans

A wide-ranging recap finds US chess robust—shaped by Caruana’s four-peat and sharp prep, Woodward’s surge and Mishra’s uneven form, a stronger women’s field led by Carissa Yip’s GM push, players coping with the Naroditsky tragedy, India vs. USA depth debates, and the St. Louis Chess Club’s expansion cementing a national hub. Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 00:55 Impact of Naroditsky news on players 03:57 Caruana’s sustained edge and title streak 10:21 Mishra’s stall after breakthrough 11:30 Woodward’s rise and dynamic style 20:02 Caruana’s fresh opening ideas and defense 25:05 U.S. depth with seven 2700s and India comparison 31:06 Carissa Yip’s GM trajectory and tougher women’s field 48:00 St. Louis Chess Club reopening and U.S. chess hubs

Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips

Jesse and Sam dive into how legal, common nootropics might boost chess performance by improving focus, stress-resilience, and brain health, and question where the line lies between smart optimization and unfair advantage. Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 00:03 — Why nootropics in chess 02:06 — Common nootropics people already use 06:05 — Sam’s experience with brain supplements 11:36 — How nootropics support brain function 17:19 — Stress, alcohol, and brain decline 20:05 — Different thinking demands in chess 23:48 — Stronger focus boosters 31:50 — Cheating or smart advantage? 48:17 — Key brain-health ingredients 56:30 — Growth of nootropics industry

David, Kostya, and Jesse share their memories of Danya, reflecting on his early talent, kindness, intelligence, humor, and lasting impact on the chess community. Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 00:06 Remembering Danya and why this talk matters 01:20 Early years in Bay Area chess and family support 05:37 First games, world title, and early talent 13:33 His humor, kindness, and impact on others 33:05 Closing thoughts

The Dojo crew debates Norway Chess’s new “Total Chess World Championship Tour,” comparing it to past innovations, Magnus Carlsen’s influence, FIDE’s involvement, and the growing clash between classical, freestyle, and online chess circuits. Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 00:00 Introduction to the Total Chess World Championship Tour 03:20 Norway Chess vs. St. Louis Chess Club 07:10 Format Innovations and Fast Classical Debate 17:00 Magnus, Freestyle Chess, and Competing Circuits 23:30 FIDE, Chess.com, and the Future of World Titles

The sensei recap last year’s junior-draft results and rating swings, then run a snake draft to add three new juniors and two girls each—keeping graduated players for tracking, debating drops and Christopher Yoo’s suspension/return, and highlighting prospects like world junior champion Pranav V, Lu Miaoyi, and even a risky 10-year-old. Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 00:00 — Intro & format 02:18 — Rating swings & scouting 06:01 — Team breakdowns 10:42 — Draft rules & order 13:19 — Round 1 picks 19:42 — Round 2 picks 25:24 — Round 3 picks 35:44 — Girls’ draft (Round 1) 42:08 — Girls’ draft (Round 2) 49:23 — Closing thoughts

The 2025 FIDE Grand Swiss thrilled fans with Anish Giri’s win, Matthias Blubaum’s surprise Candidates spot, and dramatic clashes between rising juniors and veterans, sparking debate on how to create more high-stakes events like it. Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 00:06 – First impressions of the Grand Swiss 01:34 – Why this tournament felt special 03:02 – Calls for more events tied to the World Championship 06:12 – Stakes and qualification systems in chess 09:26 – How FIDE co-opted the Isle of Man tournament 14:06 – Tournament winners: Giri and Bluebaum 20:00 – Evaluating Bluebaum’s chances in the Candidates 28:34 – Giri’s ambitions and old-school endgame play 33:45 – The gap between 2600s and 2700s 42:26 – Who might miss the Candidates and future prospects

In this DojoTalks, the sensei argue that 3700 Elo engines are so far beyond humans that they beat elite GMs even while spotting queen/rook/knight odds. They discuss that this gap reframes odds chess, preparation, and training, showing how much headroom remains in human understanding. Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 00:05 Humans compared to machines in chess strength 01:14 Purist view of chess vs. odds traditions 02:06 GMs losing to Leela even with material odds 03:37 Notable results Naka Fabi Nepo against Leela 10:35 Odds games as a learning tool vs. engines 17:18 What an 800-point gap from Magnus really means 28:47 Computers proving drawish positions still hold winning chances 39:09 Engine Elo progress and the question of a plateau

In this Dojo Talks, Kostya recaps his trip to Portugal for the Maia Open with three chess streamers—Matthew, Rachel, and Anushka—along with David, discussing their experiences with tournament preparation and their performance. They highlight how sparring and collective training were crucial to their success, helping them feel more confident and prepared for their games, and they share their different feelings about the pressure of a big tournament. Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 00:00 Introduction to the Maya Open tournament recap 01:19 Players share how they feel after the tournament 02:28 Player backgrounds and chess experience 04:19 The role of sparring in their training 13:04 The players' approach to pre-game preparation 20:16 How tournament goals changed their training

The Dojo (GM Jesse Kraai, IM David Pruess, IM Kostya Kavutskiy) discuss Hikaru Nakamura's path to the candidates, along with who they'd like to see qualify for the 2026 FIDE Candidates tournament. Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 00:00 – Intro & Setup 01:31 – Is Hikaru the Exception? 08:36 – Balancing Streaming, Training, and Competition 09:23 – The Busy Chess Calendar 10:55 – Strength of the Tournament 14:39 – Ethics of Rating Manipulation 17:39 – Die-Hard Rules vs. Fair Play 22:27 – Mathematical Loopholes in Ratings 27:15 – Impact on Future Candidates 31:20 – Who Deserves to Be in the Candidates? 55:00 – Alternative Qualification Systems 58:33 – Broader Trends in Chess Ratings 1:00:12 – Closing Thoughts & Wrap-Up

This Dojo Talks explores what makes some players stronger at blitz than others, contrasting calculation-based vs. intuitive styles, online vs. over-the-board skills, and the role of premoves, time management, and tricky opening repertoires. The sensei also discuss the rise of a “blitz generation,” handling tilt, and David’s quest to reach a 2600 blitz rating. Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 00:01 – David’s blitz struggles 02:46 – Blitz as a different game 07:05 – Calculator vs. intuitive players 15:16 – The premove problem 20:05 – Online vs. OTB blitz 25:18 – Blitz repertoires and system openings 32:07 – Queen’s Gambit generation 58:15 – Tilt and the 2600 quest

GM Alexander Fishbein shares how he won the 2025 U.S. Senior Championship by relying on stamina, heavy tournament practice, and deep training methods such as solitary chess and analyzing old annotated games. This Talks also highlights generational contrasts in chess culture, from preparation styles to the evolving rules on draw offers. Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 0:15 – Introduction 2:34 – Becoming a Real Contender 6:00 – Finding an Edge Against More Talented Rivals 8:13 – Taking Time Off Work to Chase Chess Goals 10:52 – Training Stamina & Playing 100 Games a Year 18:20 – Why Rating Doesn’t Matter 21:11 – Core Training: Annotating Games & Using Engines 36:33 – Solitaire Chess & Personalized Training 51:06 – The “Post-Postmortem” Method (Old Book Analysis) 59:39 – Final Insights

In this episode of Dojo Talks, Jesse, David, and Kostya each reveal and debate their top 10 chess countries of all time—based on world champions, cultural contributions, and historic achievements—before combining their lists into a final ranking. Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 04:57 – Jesse’s #10 pick 09:44 – David’s #10 pick 13:01 – Kostya’s #10 pick 14:04 – Kostya’s #9 pick 15:24 – David’s #9 pick 18:51 – Jesse’s #9 pick 20:33 – Jesse’s #8 pick 21:37 – David’s #8 pick 25:16 – Kostya’s #8 pick 27:12 – Kostya’s #7 pick 28:31 – David’s #7 pick 30:13 – Jesse’s #7 pick 32:19 – Jesse’s #6 pick 33:54 – David’s #6 pick 36:28 – Kostya’s #6 pick 37:39 – Kostya’s #5 pick 38:34 – David’s #5 pick 42:12 – Jesse’s #5 pick 44:51 – Jesse’s #4 pick 46:24 – David’s #4 pick 49:04 – Kostya’s #4 pick 50:26 – Kostya’s #3 pick 52:43 – David’s #3 pick 59:29 – Jesse’s #3 pick 1:02:48 – Jesse’s #2 pick 1:05:50 – David’s #2 pick 1:09:45 – Kostya’s #2 pick 1:10:37 – Kostya’s #1 pick 1:11:41 – David’s #1 pick 1:12:42 – Jesse’s #1 pick

Jesse questions the usual way of learning chess, suggesting that copying moves can be as useful as deep strategy. The sensei discuss if playing blitz and checking with a computer can help players improve quickly. Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 00:00 – Jesse’s heresy revealed 01:26 – Hendriks: chess is learned by copying 04:17 – Copying in openings is valid 06:06 – Blitz + engine as a training method 08:56 – How kids get strong fast today 13:38 – Comparing blitz to Dojo sparring 21:29 – Words vs instinct in learning chess 27:14 – Chess960 and the limits of imitation 38:08 – Engines changed how we see tactics 46:50 – Ideas help memory and understanding

Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Check out GM Mykhaylo Oleksiyenko at https://www.oleksiyenko.com Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips

In this DojoTalks, the sensei explore whether chess and philosophy intersect, discussing three levels of chess philosophy, how personal beliefs shape play, and how computers challenge traditional ideas, while also examining deeper questions about why people are drawn to chess and what the game represents in human life. Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 00:00 – Introduction: Is Philosophy in Chess Possible? 01:08 – Three Levels of Chess Philosophy 02:56 – Chess Values and Philosophical Frameworks 14:25 – Computers, Truth, and Modern Chess Philosophy 22:28 – What is Chess? Exploring Deeper Meanings 33:42 – Chess as Wellness, Culture, and Ego 42:42 – Blitz, Escapism, and Personal Motivations

Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 00:00– Introduction 02:02 – Hans’s World Champion Goal 03:10 – Chances and Predictions 06:06 – Tough Competition 08:32 – Top 10 Players Discussion 14:10 – Paths to Candidates 16:41 – Hans’s Rating Plateau 21:17 – Coaching and Support 33:50 – Qualities of a Champion 46:02 – Future Possibilities

Episode note: the recording froze around the 31 minute mark, so you may hear a short piece cut out. Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo In this episode, the sensei review their previous top 10 predictions for June 2025, evaluating their accuracy against the actual FIDE rankings. They also make new predictions for June 2026, highlighting rising stars like Gukesh and Arjun while debating the future potential of players like Firouzja, Niemann, and Nakamura. Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 00:00 – Introduction 01:17 – June 2025 FIDE Top 10 03:09 – Firouzja Correctly Predicted to Enter Top 10 04:20 – Decline of Nepomniachtchi, So, and Anand 06:43 – Misses on Abdusattorov and Other Juniors 07:50 – Firouzja’s Struggles and Unfulfilled Potential 12:38 – Start of 2026 Top 10 Predictions 14:41 – Controversial Pick at #10 25:04 – Will Magnus Stay Ranked with Minimal Games? 33:32 – Debating the Top 5: Naka, Gukesh, Arjun, Fabi 46:59 – Final Dojo Composite Top 10 List for 2026 53:03 – Wrap-Up & Patreon Support Appeal

Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips

Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Use Code DOJO before June 15th 2025 to get 40% off your first month at the Dojo! IM Kostya Kavutskiy, IM David Pruess and GM Jesse Kraai question if chess is an E-Sport. What do you think? Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips 00:03 – Chess joins Esports World Cup 00:52 – Event format & prize money 01:39 – Impact on Magnus Tour 02:55 – Saudi Arabia controversy 03:55 – Top 12 participants listed 05:00 – Wildcard qualifiers 07:07 – Ethics vs esport debate 17:09 – Magnus’s business motives 30:20 – Is chess a video game? 37:08 – Audience split: old vs new 43:14 – Support for freestyle chess 48:08 – FIDE’s relevance at risk 53:25 – Ambassadorship ethics 59:46 – LGBTQ & inclusivity issues 1:04:24 – Final thoughts & viewer poll

Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo 0:00 Intro 1:51 How to improve your positional play 6:05 Book recommendations 8:18 Recognizing weaknesses in positional play 12:22 How to work with a coach 15:48 Killer Chess Training Camp 20:15 How Aagaard learned positional play 24:12 Certainty of action vs. certainty of outcome 26:06 Working with Sam -Shankland 29:58 Improving specific aspects of positional play 31:52 Certainty of action vs. certainty of outcome 35:16 How much should adult improvers play classical? 39:35 Micro-pains 45:46 How Renier Castellanos made GM 50:11 What's the best process for reviewing your games? 56:10 Solving simple tactics vs. difficult problems 57:28 What is calculation 1:05:17 Simple tactics vs. difficult problems 1:11:56 The #1 rule of training 1:14:00 The cycle of improvement 1:19:08 Whats next for Killer Chess Training Check out GM Aagaard at https://killerchesstraining.com! Ready to join the Dojo? Use code DOJO to get 40% off your first month, valid until June 15 https://chessdojo.club Thumbnail photo: Eric Rosen Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips

Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo IM David Pruess has long been famous for reaching a high level in chess while having aphantasia. We talk about how this could be and what it says about visualization in chess. Visualization test - https://aphantasia.com/study/vviq/ Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/GhKsJtjpFw Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips

Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop GM Jesse Kraai, IM David Pruess, and IM Kostya Kavutskiy are joined by NM Matan Prilletensky to discuss the details of how to teach chess to children, and what people should know when they're considering teaching chess to kids. Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/7Uq2f5JAWb Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips #chess #chesscoach

Join the Dojo - https://chessdojo.club Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop IM Kostya Kavutskiy, IM David Pruess, and GM Jesse Kraai celebrate 5 years of ChessDojo with episode 150! ChessDojo's first video launched on March 14, 2020. The sensei talk about how the Dojo started, how it's evolved, and what's coming next in today's episode of Dojo Talks, the ChessDojo podcast. Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. 0:00 Intro 0:30 Origin Story 23:39 What's Next For Dojo Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/7Uq2f5JAWb Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips #chess #chesspodcast

Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Join the Training Program - https://chessdojo.club Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop IM Kostya Kavutskiy, IM David Pruess, and GM Jesse Kraai talk about the book The Chess Revolution with guest journalist Peter Doggers on today's episode of Dojo Talks, the ChessDojo podcast! Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/sUUh8HD Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips #chess #chessbook

Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Join the Training Program - https://chessdojo.club Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop The ChessDojo sensei GM Jesse Kraai and IM David Pruess sit down with WFM Elizabeth Speigel and talk about the state of scholastic chess in today's episode of Dojo Talks, the ChessDojo podcast. Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/sUUh8HD Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips #chess #chessmaster CHAPTERS 0:00 Scholastic Chess with WFM Elizabeth Spiegel 15:33 Pedagogical Goals 22:20 Chess as School Subject 26:10 Brooklyn Castle and Bringing Chess Into Schools 32:00 Chess and Deep Thinking 39:13 The Impact of Chess on Children 44:16 Do More Girls Play Chess Than Before? 46:46 Strongest Players from WFM Spiegel's Program

Join the Dojo! https://www.chessdojo.club The Dojo talks with Dr. Kenneth Regan, who provides an analysis of FIDE ratings since the March 2024 rating boost. Also discussed is the topic of cheating -- how often it comes up and what it takes to catch one. Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/sUUh8HD Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips #chess CHAPTERS 0:00 FIDE Rating Change with Dr. Kenneth Regan 11:43 Rating Distortion and Performance Ratings 47:50 Detecting Chess Cheating

Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Join the Training Program - https://chessdojo.club Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop GM Jesse Kraai, IM David Pruess, and IM Kostya Kavutskiy talk about chess tactics and whether chess is really 99% tactics in today's episode of Dojo Talks, the ChessDojo podcast. Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/sUUh8HD Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips #chesstactics #chessstrategy CHAPTERS 0:00 Is Chess 99% Tactics? 14:22 Calculation vs Evaluation 31:10 Strategy and Story 40:52 Strategy vs Positional Play 49:31 100 Tactical Patterns You Must Know 51:37 What's Most Important for Under 1250 Elo? 54:47 Chess and Go

GM Jesse Kraai, IM David Pruess, and IM Kostya Kavutskiy discuss the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour, and recent and ongoing issues between FIDE and Freestyle Chess in today's episode of Dojo Talks, the ChessDojo podcast! Get ChessDojo's first book, How to Analyze Your Games, here: https://amzn.to/3Ds5r78 Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Join the Training Program - https://chessdojo.club Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/sUUh8HD Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips #chess #chesstraining Chapters: CHAPTERS 0:00 Freestlye Chess, FIDE, and Magnus 2:40 Do Fans Like Freestyle Chess? 8:36 Will Kids Get Into Freestyle Chess? 16:54 Looking at the Data 26:18 Magnus Carlsen and Freestyle Chess 54:40 Wrap-Up

GM Jesse Kraai, IM David Pruess, and IM Kostya Kavutskiy discuss the differences and pros vs cons between Online Chess and Over the Board (OTB) Chess in today's episode of Dojo Talks, the ChessDojo podcast! Get ChessDojo's first book, How to Analyze Your Games, here: https://amzn.to/3Ds5r78 Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Join the Training Program - https://chessdojo.club Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/sUUh8HD Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips #chess #chesstraining Chapters: 0:00 Online vs OTB Chess 15:50 Anecdotes 25:21 Using Boards for Online Chess 29:17 Blitz Chess 32:08 Thinking Online vs OTB 42:37 Being Too Online 46:09 Discrepancies Between Online and OTB Chess

GM Jesse Kraai, IM David Pruess, and IM Kostya Kavutskiy discuss who will qualify for the 2026 FIDE Candidates cycle in today's episode of Dojo Talks, the ChessDojo podcast! Get ChessDojo's first book, How to Analyze Your Games, here: https://amzn.to/3Ds5r78 Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Join the Training Program - https://chessdojo.club Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/sUUh8HD Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips #chess #chesstraining Chapters: 0:00 Who Will Qualify for the 2026 FIDE Candidates Cycle? 1:12 FIDE Candidate Cycle Rating Spot Changes 8:50 FIDE Cycle Results 14:37 Points and Tie-Breaks 18:11 Jesse's List 19:20 Top 6 from the 2024 FIDE Circuit 31:44 This Coming Year in Chess

The sensei debate Kostya’s controversial claim that all major chess tournaments should switch to rapid, exploring its potential impact on classical chess, player improvement, tournament structure, and fan engagement, ultimately leaving Jesse and David unconvinced. Get ChessDojo's first book, How to Analyze Your Games, here: https://amzn.to/3Ds5r78 Watch Live - https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Join the Training Program - https://chessdojo.club Play Chess - https://go.chess.com/chessdojo Merch - https://www.chessdojo.club/shop Want to support the channel? Patreon - https://patreon.com/chessdojo Donate - https://streamelements.com/chessdojo/tip Find all of our chess book & supplies recommendations (& more!) on our Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/chessdojo Shopping through our link is a great way to support the Dojo. We earn a small affiliate % but at no cost to you. Website: https://chessdojo.club Twitch: https://twitch.tv/chessdojo Discord: https://discord.gg/sUUh8HD Twitter: https://twitter.com/chessdojo Patreon: https://patreon.com/chessdojo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chessdojo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chessdojo Podcast: https://chessdojotalks.podbean.com TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@/chessdojoclips #chess #chesstraining Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction – Discussion on Kostya’s controversial quote about switching major tournaments to rapid. 01:16 – Context of the Quote – Explanation that it was a short Q&A answer, not a detailed proposal. 03:18 – Future of Classical Chess – Kostya argues that classical chess may become obsolete over time. 04:06 – Online Growth vs. OTB Decline – Discussion on why rapid and Blitz are growing online but not in classical tournaments. 06:06 – Opening Preparation Issues – Classical chess demands extensive opening prep, making it less enjoyable for some players. 10:25 – Classical for Beginners, Rapid for Pros? – Kostya suggests longer time controls are useful for improvement but not ideal for elite events. 12:07 – Rapid Chess Popularity – Historical attempts to promote rapid chess and why it hasn’t taken over. 22:49 – World Championship & Classical Chess – Arguments for why classical chess remains the gold standard for top-level competition. 30:55 – Quality of Games in Different Formats – Whether faster time controls lead to better or worse chess quality. 41:23 – Closing Thoughts – Debate recap with Jesse and David still unconvinced by Kostya’s stance on rapid chess.