The Chess Angle
The Chess Angle is the official podcast of the Long Island Chess Club in New York. It covers chess topics including tournament play and improvement at the amateur and club level. Featured guests include titled players and dedicated amateurs. New episodes are released on Sundays.
Episodes
Ep. 195: Why Your Chess Rating Swings So Much
Your chess rating can easily swing 100 points or more, but it doesn't necessarily mean you've become a better or worse player. In this episode, we react to a fascinating article on rating variance and discuss why amateur players often experience even bigger swings than they realize. Referenced: Why Your Rating Swings More Than You Think 📧 If you have a question, comment, or topic idea for a futu
Ep. 194: Are You a Chess Improver... or a Course Collector?
In engineering, a single point of failure is the one weak component capable of bringing down an entire system. Chess improvement often works the same way. In this episode, we explore why your rating may be determined less by your average skill level and more by the one recurring weakness that keeps showing up in your games - and why identifying and fixing that weakness may be the highest ROI work
Ep. 193: The Yellow Zone: Where Adult Chess Improvement Actually Happens
If you're holding off until you're fully rested, completely focused, and free from distractions before playing or studying chess, you may be waiting a very long time. Most adult improvers live in the "yellow zone" - not at their absolute best, but far from their worst. In this episode, we explore what I'm calling the "Perfect Time Fallacy" and why consistency in imperfect conditions often beats wa
Ep. 192: Zapp Chess: The One App That Hooked Me
I break my long-standing rule about not playing chess on my phone to talk about Zapp Chess, a listener-recommended app that surprised me. It blends fast, gamified play with real competitive chess decisions in a way that actually kept me engaged. I walk through my experience and why, despite my usual skepticism, this one feels different. 📧 If you have a question, comment, or topic idea for a future
Ep. 191 (Midseason Finale): Is YouTube Actually Better For Adult Chess Improvement Than Chessable? feat. Steve Rosenblatt
In this midseason finale episode, Neal talks with Long Island Chess Club regular Steve Rosenblatt for a wide-ranging conversation on adult chess improvement. The two debate whether YouTube videos or Chessable courses are more effective for gaining rating points, while also diving into tournament psychology, study habits, content overload, and the realities of balancing chess with a demanding caree
Ep. 190: Boost Your Chess Rating by Checking Your Ego
Most adult chess players are not held back primarily by calculation or opening knowledge. They are held back by ego: the need to look smart, play "real chess," attack beautifully, avoid embarrassment, prove their strength, or force results. The paradox is that the less emotionally attached you are to proving something over the board, the better your decisions become. This episode adapts ideas from
Ep. 189: The Amateur's Mind (Chessable Version) - Still the Most Important Chess Book for Adult Players
This week, we revisit The Amateur's Mind by IM Jeremy Silman, this time through the Chessable edition. We've long argued this is the most important book for adult improvers, not because it hands you lines to memorize, but because it rewires how you think. The Chessable version preserves Silman's voice and structure while adding a layer of engine-checked accuracy that quietly cleans up a few rough
Ep. 188: Why Study Beats Play for Chess Improvement
Most adult players default to playing more games when they want to improve, but that instinct is often backwards. In this episode, we argue that structured study is the real driver of progress for club players, and explain why playing alone tends to reinforce bad habits. If you've been stuck at the same rating for a while, this might be the shift you need. 📧 If you have a question, comment, or top
Ep. 187: The 2200 Myth: Why Most Adult Chess Players Won't Make Master
Most adult amateurs quietly carry the same goal: reach Master. In this episode, we take an honest look at why that milestone is so elusive: time constraints, training demands, a competitive player pool, and the realities of adult learning. More importantly, we talk about what is achievable, and how to pursue improvement in a way that's both realistic and rewarding. 📧 If you have a question, commen
Ep. 186: GM Daniel Gormally on "Untold: Chess Mates," the Netflix Special About the Magnus/Hans Cheating Controversy
GM Daniel Gormally returns to the pod to unpack Netflix's Untold: Chess Mates, the documentary covering the Magnus Carlsen - Hans Niemann controversy. We separate the signal from the noise, offering a candid, player-level perspective on one of chess's most bizarre modern sagas. Links for GM Daniel Gormally: YouTube channel Chessable 3-Part Series: Sharp Middlegames 📧 If you have a question, comm
Ep. 185: The Adult Amateur's Guide to Defeating Chess Prodigies
In this episode, we react to a recent article on how to beat chess prodigies and what adult amateurs tend to get wrong when facing underrated kids. We break down practical strategies like avoiding tactical chaos and forcing long, patient games. If you've ever sat down across from a 10-year-old and immediately felt in trouble, this one's for you. Referenced: How to Beat A Chess Prodigy 📧 If you ha
Ep. 184: Real Talk on Chess Improvement for Adults feat. Nick Visel
Fellow chess amateur and blogger Nick Visel returns to the pod to talk about the nuts and bolts of improving as an adult player. We cover endgames, openings, and the psychological habits that separate steady improvers from those stuck in place. Think of this as a reality check - with a roadmap. Referenced: Nick's Substack: Nick Plays Chess 📧 If you have a question, comment, or topic idea for a f
Ep. 183: Online Chess Has a Clock Problem
Time delay or an increment has become the norm in over-the-board tournaments, but online chess still largely ignores it. In this episode, we break down why using an increment leads to better games, fairer outcomes, and more instructive endgames, and why the current no-increment culture misses the mark. We also react to a lively Reddit debate on why no-increment chess still dominates online play. R
Ep. 182: Chess Ratings and the Luck Factor
We like to think chess is pure skill, but at the amateur level, luck plays a bigger role than most players realize. In this episode, we break down how blunders, pairings, time pressure, and your opponent's mood can all influence your results and rating. More importantly, we talk about how to think about luck the right way so you don't misjudge your own progress. 📧 If you have a question, comment,
Ep. 181: Why "Just Playing a Lot" is a Chess Improvement Myth
Many adult chess improvers start with the same plan: just play a lot of games and the rating will climb. At first, that actually works - until it doesn't. In this episode, we talk about why the "just play more games" philosophy causes most amateurs to eventually hit a plateau and why deliberate study is the key to breaking through it. Referenced: Research Study (2005): The Role of Deliberate Prac
Ep. 180: My Complete Switch to Lichess
This week, Neal discusses why he recently made a full switch to lichess.org for playing his online games and why the platform works better for his day-to-day chess routine. He still uses chesscom, but only for news, articles, and their lesson library. 📧 If you have a question, comment, or topic idea for a future episode, e-mail us at info@thechessangle.com. 🎯 Our Links: Website Twitter (X) Buy
Ep. 179: When to Sac a Piece in Amateur Chess Games
In this episode, we tackle one of the most tempting (and dangerous) questions in amateur chess: when should you sacrifice a piece? Instead of carelessly chasing "!!" moves, we break down when your sac might be sound and when it's likely to fail. Referenced: Netflix Documentary On Carlsen-Niemann Scandal Gets 2026 Release Date Why Masters Crush Lower-Rated Players (and You Struggle) by FM Dalton P
Ep. 178: The Most Dangerous Player in the Room: "Unrated"
In this episode, Neal confesses a hard truth: his most dreaded opponents aren't Masters - they're "unrated" and "lower-rated" opponents who absolutely do not play like their numbers suggest. We talk about underrated players, rating lag, adult improvers on the rise, and why underestimating your opponent is the fastest way to donate a point. If you've ever sat down thinking "this should be fine" and
Ep. 177 (S11 Premiere): Your 2026 Chess Improvement Blueprint (Busy Adult Edition)
A new year means a fresh chance to improve, but only if you have a plan that actually fits your real life. In this Season 11 premiere, Neal dives into the Listener Mailbag and then shares a practical, no-nonsense framework for building a 2026 chess improvement plan that works for busy adult players. Whether you're aiming to gain rating points, play more confidently, or just stop spinning your whee
Ep. 176 (S10 Finale): Chess Improvement Mailbag Special
It's the Season 10 finale, so we're emptying the mailbag and tackling your chess improvement questions head-on, from study habits and rating plateaus to tournament nerves and adult time constraints. Season 11 coming soon... 📧 If you have a question, comment, or topic idea for a future episode, e-mail us at info@thechessangle.com. 🎯 Our Links: Website Twitter (X) Buy Me a Coffee
Ep. 175: The Butterfly Effect and Chess Improvement
In this episode, we explore how small, almost trivial adjustments can quietly transform your chess over time. From simple blunder checks to minor mindset shifts, these micro-tweaks often deliver more improvement than major overhauls, especially for busy adult players. We give examples of small changes that create lasting, compounding results in your game. Referenced: The Czech Pirc Defense (YouTu
Ep. 174: Lichess vs. Chess.com, and the Busy Adult Club Player (Online Chess Cleanup Plan, Part 3, feat. Austin Olson)
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 getting the most out of both sites, minus the online dra
Ep. 173: Blitz vs. Rapid (Online Chess Cleanup Plan, Part 2)
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 info@thechessangle.com. 🎯 Our Links: Website Twitter (X) Buy Me a Coffee
Ep. 172: Your Online Chess Cleanup Plan
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 you have a question, comment, or topic idea for a
Ep. 171: Adult Chess Improvement Q & A
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 info@thechessangle.com. 🎯 Our Links: Website Twitter (X) Buy Me a Coffe
Ep. 170: The Colle System (The Working Adult's Opening)
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 Plans, Moves, and Ideas Colle-Zukertort System: Com
Ep. 169: The Nimzo-Indian Defense, Junior Opponents, & More (Game Analysis #15)
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. Ng5 Qd7 14. e4 fxe4 15. fxe4 e5 16. dxe5 Nxe5 1
Ep. 168: How "Find a Better Move" Ruined My Chess
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 have a question, comment, or topic idea for a fu
Ep. 167: The Casuals Strike Back: How to Beat Chess Diehards
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? Or did I just crack chess? (Reddit) New Puzzles
Ep. 166: The Busy Adult's Guide to Chess Success
Early release! This week we share some thoughts on chess improvement while "adulting." Referenced: Ep. 25: Chess Club Stories (First segment: LICC origin story) Ep. 76: Decision Fatigue and Brain Fog at the Chessboard (Game Analysis #6) (Mailbag Segment: starting a chess club) Guide to a Successful Chess Club 📧 If you have a question, comment, or topic idea for a future episode, e-mail us at inf
Ep. 165: Why I (Probably) Will Never Play in a Weekend Tournament Ever Again
This week we discuss the dark side of weekend chess tournaments in the US. 📧 If you have a question, comment, or topic idea for a future episode, e-mail us at info@thechessangle.com. 🎯 Our Links: Website Twitter (X) YouTube Buy Me a Coffee
Ep. 164: Why Is My 900-Rated Opponent Playing Like a Master?
So your opponent is rated "only" 900 or "only" 1200 but is playing extremely well. He's not hanging anything or falling victim to tactical traps and is also demonstrating a working knowledge of positional and strategic ideas. Welcome to modern tournament chess! This episode is a response to this Reddit post. 📧 If you have a question, comment, or topic idea for a future episode, e-mail us at info@t
Ep. 163: Adult Chess Improvement & Content Creation From a Gen-Z Perspective feat. Anthony Arena
This week's episode features Anthony Arena, a 27-year-old data analyst, amateur player, content creator, and Long Island Chess Club regular. Our conversation focused on chess improvement in the digital era, tournament play, and more. Links for Anthony Arena: TikTok YouTube Instagram Chess Masters 📧 If you have a question, comment, or topic idea for a future episode, e-mail us at info@thechessan
Ep. 162: Chess Burnout, Defending Against the London, Flagging Your Opponent & More (Listener Mailbag Exclusive)
Our summer hiatus is over and the pod is back! In this Listener Mailbag exclusive we dive into a number of chess improvement topics. 📧 If you have a question, comment, or topic idea for a future episode, e-mail us at info@thechessangle.com. 🎯 Our Links: Website Twitter (X) YouTube Buy Me a Coffee
Ep. 161: Resetting the Board (Back in the Fall)
The Chess Angle will be taking a break for the remainder of the summer. I realized I needed more time to recharge after Season 9, and this pause will allow me to refocus and come back stronger. Thanks for your support - see you in the fall! ♟️🎙️ 📧 If you have a question, comment, or topic idea for a future episode, e-mail us at info@thechessangle.com. 🎯 Our Links: Website Twitter (X) YouTube Buy
Ep. 160: "Old Man" Chess: The Slow, Boring Way to Win More Games
This week's show begins with some Listener Mailbag questions about opening choices. We then discuss the concept of "Old Man" Chess, which emphasizes a safe, ultra-solid, and risk-averse playing style that is often very effective at the club level. The conversation also explores the balance between tactical and positional play, the advantages and disadvantages of "Old Man" Chess, and insights from
Ep. 159: Chess Opening Systems for White & More
In this episode, Neal shares his experience from a recent night at the LI Chess Club, discussing the challenges of tournament conditions and the nature of 'ugly wins.' The conversation transitions into listener questions, covering topics such as the value of attending chess clubs, the etiquette surrounding draw offers, and the effectiveness of coaching for improvement. Neal also discusses various
Ep. 158: Why Your Fancy Chess Study Plan and Four-Year Book Hierarchy Aren't Working
Many club-level players follow a highly structured study plan but have poor tournament results. We explore this phenomenon and offer some possible solutions. Referenced: Reset: How to Change What's Not Working (Amazon) Chess for Tigers (Amazon) 📧 If you have a question, comment, or topic idea for a future episode, e-mail us at info@thechessangle.com. 🎯 Our Links: Website Twitter (X) YouTube (C
Ep. 157 (S10 Premiere): 1...e6 vs. EVERYTHING, Does Blitz Mess Up Your Thought Process?, & More
Welcome to Season 10! This week we discuss 1...e6, blitz chess, using the King in the endgame, and more. Referenced: Blitz is Screwing Up Your Thought Process Ep. 100: The Hippopotamus Defense and Other Chess Opening Systems for Black 📧 If you have a question, comment, or topic idea for a future episode, e-mail us at info@thechessangle.com. 🎯 Our Links: Website Twitter (X) YouTube (Chess Angle
Ep. 156 (S9 Finale): The THREE Things You Need to Know to Beat 1. d4, Common Beginner Mistakes, Spite Checks, and Stalemate Fantasies
This is the S9 Finale. S10 Premiere coming soon. In the meantime, check out the Long Island Chess Club YouTube Channel which has instructional videos for busy adult players. We're looking to get the channel fully off the ground and add more content on a consistent basis. Game Referenced: 1. d4 d5 2. Bf4 e6 3. e3 Nf6 4. Nf3 Nc6 5. c3 Be7 6. h3 O-O 7. Bd3 Ne4 8. Bxe4 dxe4 9. Ne5 Nxe5 10. Bxe5 Bd6 1
Ep. 155: Why Many Adults Give Up on Chess, and How You Can Be the Exception
In this episode, we dive into the hidden challenges adult players face when returning to chess after a long break, and the powerful mindset shifts that separate those who thrive from those who quit. Whether you're battling self-doubt, time constraints, or rating plateaus, this episode offers real talk and practical strategies to help you stay motivated, set realistic goals, and rediscover the joy
Ep. 154: Wasted Prep? Why Your Opponent-Specific Prep Might Be Useless Below 2000
In this Listener Mailbag exclusive, we discuss whether prepping for specific opponents is worth it at the amateur level, and a bunch of other stuff too... 📧 If you have a question, comment, or topic idea for a future episode, e-mail us at info@thechessangle.com. 🎯 Our Links: Website Twitter (X) YouTube (Chess Angle Podcast) YouTube (LI Chess Club) Buy Me a Coffee
Ep. 153: There is NO Advantage to Having the White Pieces at the Amateur Level
This week is all about chess opening philosophy. We discuss a number of ideas about opening prep and argue that having the White pieces does not provide any meaningful advantage at the club level since most amateur games are littered with mistakes, thus negating any possible benefit of moving first. The basis of this episode is a response to the excellent article Chess Openings In The Engine Era b
Ep. 152: Grinding Out Endgame Wins at the Club Level (Game Analysis #14)
This week we discuss endgame strategy for club players and some other stuff as well. Grinding out a win in an "even" endgame is a mixture of patience, stubbornness, and luck. A .pgn for the game we analyze is below. We reference the highly recommended book The Survival Guide to Competitive Chess (Amazon) by GM John Emms, who was a previous guest on the pod (Episode #40). 1. Nf3 b6 2. g3 Bb7 3. Bg2
Ep. 151: You Have 8 Years to Improve, Then It's Game Over: A Discussion & Debate About Adult Chess Improvement feat. NM Tim Mirabile
A number of years ago, GM Andy Soltis claimed that once a chess player becomes serious about the game, there is an 8-year window during which he achieves 90% of his maximum chess potential. Anything beyond that time frame is just squeezing out the remaining 10%. NM Tim Mirabile returns to the podcast to discuss this theory and a bunch of other chess improvement topics. In this episode we reference
Ep. 150: The Jobava London System: A Chess Opening for Busy Adults
The Jobava London (1. d4, 2. Nc3, 3. Bf4) is an opening system that is easy to learn, yet still has a lot of sting, especially against ...g6 set-ups by Black. It can easily throw off an opponent who's expecting to face a standard London formation. The theory and ideas are fairly simple, making it a great choice for those with limited study time. Much of the info in this episode is referenced from
Ep. 149: Build Your Technique, Build Your Rating: The Game-Changer You Need
This episode is a review of the chess.com course "Build Your Technique" by FM Thomas Wolski. This is a highly recommended training module for adult players looking to improve. We also share some chess club stories, dive into the Listener Mailbag, and react to a chess.com article about common online time controls. 📧 If you have a question, comment, or topic idea for a future episode, e-mail us at
Ep. 148: Can An Adult Beginner Reach 1600?
This week we discuss ratings and improvement for busy adults. You may wish to check out the Reddit post referenced in this episode. 📧 If you have a question, comment, or topic idea for a future episode, e-mail us at info@thechessangle.com. 🎯 Our Links: Website Twitter (X) YouTube (Chess Angle Podcast) YouTube (LI Chess Club) Buy Me a Coffee
Ep. 147: Bird's Opening (1. f4), When to Sac a Piece (and when not to) at the Amateur Level, Material vs. Initiative & More (Game Analysis #13)
This episode is a thematic analysis of an amateur game with takeaways that are instruction rich. Topics covered: Bird's Opening (1. f4) Unnecessary defensive moves Sacrificing pieces Material vs. Initiative Calculation Central Control Referenced: Guide to a Successful Chess Club Game analyzed (G/90;d10): 1. f4 b6 2. Nf3 Bb7 3. e3 Nf6 4. b3 e6 5. Bb2 Be7 6. Be2 O-O 7. O-O d6 8. c4 Nbd7 9. Nc3
Ep. 146: Better Tournaments, Better Chess: Creating Ideal Playing Conditions
This episode is a response to FM Nate Solon's excellent blog posts I Don't Like Chess Tournaments and What Would a Fun Chess Tournament Look Like? Neal reacts and shares his thoughts on weekend events including the following: The ideal time control & round times Delay vs. increment Club events vs. weekend tourneys Practical matters 📧 If you have a question, comment, or topic idea for a future e
Ep. 145: Correspondence Chess Success feat. NM Andy Ansel
In this conversation, Neal and return guest NM Andy Ansel dive into the world of correspondence chess, exploring its nuances, challenges, and Andy's pursuit of the International Master (IM) norm. They discuss the differences between over-the-board and correspondence chess, the importance of openings, tips for those new to correspondence play, and the impact of technology on the game. Andy explains
Ep. 144: Speed Chess Secrets: How 5-0 Blitz Can Supercharge Your Skills
5-0 blitz games can be an excellent chess improvement tool when used properly and judiciously. In this episode, we offer tips, tricks, and best practices. Referenced: Ep. 122: Online Blitz Chess and Adult Improvement 📧 If you have a question, comment, or topic idea for a future episode, e-mail us at info@thechessangle.com. 🎯 Our Links: Website Twitter (X) YouTube (Chess Angle Podcast) YouTube
Ep. 143: Formal Chess Study Plans: Essential or Overhyped?
This week we discuss whether highly structured study plans are practical for busy amateurs. Neal concludes by sharing his own plan (HINT: it's not complicated). Referenced: Ep. 61: Do Chess Training Programs Work? Ep. 105 (S7 Premiere): Declutter Your Chess Study Plan Build Your Technique by FM Thomas Wolski 📧 If you have a question, comment, or topic idea for a future episode, e-mail us at info
Ep. 142: The Tactics vs. Imbalances Debate
This week's pod is a dedicated Listener Mailbag episode. We challenge some of the pushback that's out there about IM Jeremy Silman's system of imbalances and discuss some other topics as well. Referenced: Ep. 83 (S6 Premiere): Mastering the Middlegame for Club Players: The Legacy of IM Jeremy Silman Ep. 84: Mastering the Middlegame, Part 2: Are There Flaws With Silman's Imbalances? The Amateur's
Ep. 141: What Actually Wins Chess Tournaments (And What's Just Noise)
This week we dive into what separates winning amateur chess players from the rest - and what's often just noise and distraction. We break down the skills, habits, and strategies that lead to consistent tournament success and explore common misconceptions that don't actually impact performance as much as people think. Referenced: Ep. 65: Your First Chess Tournament - Tips & Tricks 📧 If you have
Ep. 140: Chess Tournament Trickery & Shenanigans
You guys asked for more tournament stories, so this week Neal goes into full TD mode to discuss recent antics and shenanigans from the Long Island Chess Club. You can't make this stuff up! This is followed by an extended Listener Mailbag segment. Referenced: Ep. 45: The Truth About Chess Engines for Club Players Ep. 95: How to Use a Chess Engine as a Developing Player 📧 If you have a question,
Ep. 139: The "Black Box" Method of Chess Improvement
This week we discuss a chess improvement philosophy based on the book Black Box Thinking: Why Most People Never Learn from Their Mistakes--But Some Do (Amazon) by Matthew Syed. We also cover some additional topics from our Listener Mailbag. Chapters: Intro & Listener Mailbag Playing Unrated Games & Bots Online Facing the London System The "Black Box" Theory of Chess Improvement Open vs. Closed An
Ep. 138: "Hand Hovering" at Chess Tournaments, Why We Lose Games, & More
This week, Neal discusses the infamous "hand hover" at OTB events and other topics related to chess improvement and tournament strategy. Chapters: Intro & Listener Mailbag Thoughts on Chess Coaching How to Handle Fatigue Taking Byes Dealing with Nerves and Composure Hand-Hovering at Tournaments Know Your Basic Mates! Consistency Identifying and Addressing Weaknesses Referenced: Practical Chess E
Ep. 137: Chess Improvement Over Age 50
VIDEO VERSION is available on our YouTube Channel. In this episode we discuss chess improvement and tournament strategies for players over 50 with some additional topics from our Listener Mailbag. Chapters: Intro and Listener Mailbag Winning Won Positions Spectator Interference Online Chess Etiquette Chess Improvement Strategies for Players Over 50 📧 If you have a question or topic idea for a fu
Ep. 136: The Truth About Rook and Pawn Endings
VIDEO VERSION is available on our YouTube Channel. First, Neal engages with listener feedback, discussing their chess improvement journeys and suggestions for future episodes. The conversation then transitions into an exploration of rook and pawn endings, emphasizing their complexity and the mental challenges players face. Neal also shares resources for improving endgame skills, highlighting the i
Ep. 135: Hidden Chess Mistakes No One's Talking About
VIDEO VERSION is available on our YouTube Channel. This week we discuss the importance of calculation, the choice between rapid and blitz games, and ten common hidden mistakes that players of all levels make. These mistakes range from erroneous pawn grabs to thoughtless bishop moves, providing valuable insights for beginners and reminders for experienced tournament players. Referenced: Ep. 99: Ho
Ep. 134 (S9 Premiere): Is the London System for Lazy Players? and other Chess Hot Takes
VIDEO VERSION is available on our YouTube Channel. Welcome to Season 9! This episode is a response to the Reddit post What is Your Personal Chess Hot Take? Neal discusses various topics, including the importance of analyzing both wins and losses, the debate surrounding the London System, and the significance of openings in chess strategy. He also shares hot takes about rating deflation, clock etiq
Ep. 133 (Bonus Episode!): Stop Obsessing & Start Winning at Chess
VIDEO VERSION is available on our YouTube Channel. This episode is a pre-season bonus pod. Season 9 of the podcast begins on Sunday, January 5, 2025. Moving forward, all episodes will have a full video version on our YouTube Channel, so whether you prefer to watch or listen, we've got you covered. A big THANK YOU to Brian Karen who helped prepare this episode. Topics this week include: Playing ag
Ep. 132 (S8 Finale): Chess Teaching, Part 2: Materials, Resources, & Essential Concepts
This episode is our Season 8 Finale! Neal will be taking an extended end-of-year break and will return with Season 9 in January 2025. This week, we continue our discussion on chess teaching with a focus on materials, resources, and essential concepts for developing players. Referenced Resources and Materials: Chess.com Chessable Practical Chess Exercises The Amateur's Mind Winning Chess Tactics W
Ep. 131: Thoughts on Chess Teaching, Part 1: Philosophy & Structure
What are the qualities of a good chess coach? How can one become a chess teacher? How should lessons be organized and scheduled? This episode is Part One of Two about chess teaching from both the teacher and student point of view. This week we focus more on the former. We also cover the following topics: Annotating your own games Is there a "rating ceiling" no matter how hard one works to improve
Ep. 130: Online Chess Cheating
This week, we share our thoughts about online chess cheating. We believe it is rampant, while the online servers seem to downplay the amount of cheating taking place. We hypothesize that cheaters are using specific methods in an attempt to avoid detection, and we created nicknames for these players. We discuss the following cheating personalities and more: Larry "Long Pause" Sal "Smooth Moves" Ol
Ep. 129: Seven Attacking Tips for Club-Level Chess Players
This week, Neal discusses attacking play for the amateur player. Arguably, club players should approach attacks differently than titled players. This episode is divided into three segments: Listener Mailbag (elderly advice, withdrawing from tourneys, improvement realities) Does US Chess appreciate its local tournament directors? (opinion piece) 7 attacking tips for the club player Referenced: T
Ep. 128: Boosting Your Chess Rating & Higher-Rated Opponents (Game Analysis #12)
Beating or drawing higher-rated opponents stems from winning the psychological game, since attempting to outplay them based solely on chess skill usually fails. We also discuss the following: Stop doing THIS and your rating will increase Opening choices Queenside castling: many forget to follow up with THIS move Why the Queen's Indian Defense is so powerful at the club level The "correct" time to
Ep. 127: Chess Study Plans & Formulas, the Club-Level Thought Process, Tournament Strategy & More feat. James Nidds
James Nidds is a 58-year-old amateur player and LI Chess Club regular rated 1808 (US Chess) at the time of this recording. He offers a great deal of advice and perspective on chess improvement as an adult. Talking points include the following & more: Beginners should focus on these THREE things The FOUR characteristics all good players possess How to handle opponents who play aggressively Why the
Ep. 126: Should You Ever Withdraw From a Chess Tournament?
🎯 Please SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Channel! After much planning and preparation, you're excited to play in a 6-round weekend event, but find yourself 0-3 heading into round 4 and feeling frustrated and dejected. Should you finish out the tournament or withdraw? We take a look at this and more. Topics covered: Weekend vs. club events Why tournament conditions favor stronger players Should you play
Ep. 125: Are Adult Improvers "Good" at Chess?
🎯 Please SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Channel! What are the qualifications to be a "good" chess player? This week's episode is a reaction to the Reddit post When Can You Tell Someone You Are Good at Chess? We cover the following and more: Should you tell your opponent he forgot to press his clock? How to play against kids The dangers of "coffee house" chess Is it the hours you put in or what you put
Ep. 124: Are Amateur Players Qualified to Coach Chess?
This week's offering is a dedicated Listener Mailbag episode. We cover the following and more: Using "inflection points" to improve Does using a chess engine "turn off your brain?" Should you study with an amateur chess coach? Is rating deflation real? Leave a voicemail message! 🎙 📧 If you have a question or topic idea for a future episode, e-mail us at info@thechessangle.com. 🎯 Our Links: Web
Ep. 123: The Most Confusing Chess Concepts for Developing Players
This week's episode is a response to the Reddit post What are some of the most advanced and incomprehensible concepts in chess? At the time of this recording, there were over 150 responses. The following concepts, among others, were frequently cited as being difficult to understand: Pawn play En passant Rook and pawn endings K & Q vs. K & R Initiative vs. material Piece coordination When to fianc
Ep. 122: Online Blitz Chess and Adult Improvement
Most players agree that slower time controls are beneficial for chess growth, but what about blitz chess? Can online blitz chess help you improve? Are certain blitz time controls better than others? Should you always play with an increment? What about bullet chess? In this episode, Neal shares the results of an informal online chess experiment where he played several blitz games at various time co
Ep. 121: Avoiding "Panic Moves" in Chess (Game Analysis #11)
Your opponent has a better position or plays a move that catches you by surprise. Rather than keep your composure while patiently analyzing, you become frustrated, despondent, and convince yourself your position and/or your opponent's apparent threat is worse than it is. As a result, you bang out an unnecessary (and weakening) defensive move. Sound familiar? You just played a "panic move." This we
Ep. 120: Fix Your Chess Mistakes! (Review of "The World's Most Instructive Amateur Game Book")
For club-level chess players and adult improvers, an argument can be made that amateur games are significantly more instructive than Grandmaster games. Amateur games feature themes, ideas, mistakes, and erroneous thought processes that are highly instructive, while the ideas in Grandmaster games are often esoteric and difficult to process. Simply put, amateur games are ripe with instructional valu
Ep. 119: Ineffective Chess Study Habits
Developing tournament players are often told the following: study tons of Master games, drill tactics, review mate-in-one puzzles, and do not spend more than 10% of your study time on openings. Is this advice accurate, somewhat accurate, or misguided? This week, we take a look at the pros and cons of common chess study activities. We cover: Offense-only exercises Playing vs. studying: What's the
Ep. 118 (S8 Premiere): Chess Improvement Realities (Also, The King's Indian Attack Opening System)
Welcome to Season 8! Neal begins by discussing the state of the podcast and some harsh truths about chess improvement that are arguably not mentioned enough. The final segment is a discussion of the King's Indian Attack, an easy-to-learn, theoretically sound system-opening for White after 1. Nf3 or 1. e4. It can be played against any Black defense, but is particularly effective against the French,
Ep. 117 (S7 Finale): Online Chess "Doomsday Feature" to Stop Your Losing Streak
This week's episode is our Season 7 Finale (Season 8 coming soon...). In this light, laid-back, rapid-fire episode, Neal reacts to the enjoyable chess.com article 7 Hot Takes That Are Just True by Pedro Pinhata, a Sr. Digital Content Writer for chess.com. Mr. Pinhata's 7 Hot Takes: Stalemate Being A Draw Is Awesome Chess.com Should Come With A Doomsday Device Online Chess Is Better Than Over-The-
Ep. 116: The Truth About Bishops & Knights for the Club-Level Chess Player (Game Analysis #10)
This week, Neal discusses another instructive tournament game. We cover the following and more: "Frustration" moves Attacking the fianchetto pawn structure When those h3/h6 pawn moves are good (or bad) Moving the same piece twice early on Useless one-move attacks Bishop vs. Knight Game Referenced: Neal vs. 1697 (G/90;d10) 1. d4 Nf6 2. Bf4 e6 3. e3 b6 4. h3 Bb7 5. Nf3 d6 6. Be2 Be7 7. O-O O-O 8.
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