Chess Journeys: Tales of Adult Improvement
A podcast dedicated to the journey of adult chess improvement. Each week a guest joins to discuss what has worked for them, what hasn't worked as well, and the status of their journey.
Episodes
Ep. 288 Q’wayne (1780 Lichess)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Q’wayne. He talked about resources that have helped me along his journey. We discussed the Jamaican chess scene and the goal of creating another grandmaster. Q’wayne talked about his improvement plans including tactics and rapid games. We had a fun chat about online titles, especially the fide arena titles.
Chessbook: chessbook.com/?ref=kevin
chess-journ
Ep. 287 Bonus Episode: Pacific Coast Open Recap
This week, I'm recapping the Pacific Coast Open. It took place in early August 2026. It was one of my few great tournament successes. Hopefully, you enjoy the positivity of this one.
Chessbook: chessbook.com/?ref=kevin
chess-journeys.com - The podcast has a website!
Chessiverse Code: DrSCULL20
Check out my new Substack: https://substack.com/@drscull
My Chessable Course!
https://www.chessab
Ep. 286 Jess (1771 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Jess about her journey from 1500 to nearly 1800 in just this summer alone. We discussed her training, which includes mostly studying and OTB chess. Jess talked about the challenges and benefits of improving at chess with autism. She detailed her new thought process and corralling her brain. We also discussed why she enjoys chess coaching so much. Jess is a
Ep. 285 Summer of Chess with Jay Garrison (1900 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with friend of the show Jay Garrison about our chess summers. Jay’s was full of interesting activities like the Naroditsky Memorial Tournament and the Charlotte Chess Center elite camp. He played a lot of blitz, did tactics, and worked on calculation. Jay played in two classical events that weren’t the success stories that he hoped they would be. My summer was
Ep. 284 Bonus Episode: Happiness, Ratings, and Titles
In this bonus episode, I discuss ratings, their, role and how we deal with them. I suggested some proposals to adjust the current system. I also discussed titles, and my ideas for adding new titles. I'd love to hear what you all think about my ideas.
Chessbook: chessbook.com/?ref=kevin
Chessiverse Code: DrSCULL20
Check out my new Substack: https://substack.com/@drscull
My Chessable Course!
Ep. 283 Joel Returns (1800 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Joel. He is a returning guest from episode 23 (4.5 years ago). We talked about where he was then, rated about 1600, and what he was doing to improve. We spent most of the episode talking about his current training program, running a chess club, and helping his children enjoy chess. Joel has adopted a more simplistic approach to training, which has netted h
Ep. 282 Mark (1796 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Mark. We talked about the challenge of balancing family and chess improvement. We discussed his concise training plan. Mark talked about confidence and momentum, how it helped him to recent success. Mark uses Chesstempo for calculation and credits it for much of his improvement. We also discussed the role of blitz in chess improvement for addressing the re
Ep. 281 Diego (1700 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Diego. He had a quick rise from 1200-1700 in two years of OTB play. However, lately his career is making chess improvement and playing OTB more challenging. We talked about resources that he used for his rise. Diego discussed solving his time trouble issues. We chatted about balancing work, chess, and improvement.
Chessbook: chessbook.com/?ref=kevin
Ches
Ep. 280 Bonus Episode: Pacific Southwest Open Tournament Recap
This week on Chess Journeys, I recap my time at the Pacific Southwest Open. I went 2/5 against tough competition. Good times were had. Calculations errors happened. Attacks were not well defended.
Chessbook: chessbook.com/?ref=kevin
Chessiverse Code: DrSCULL20
Check out my new Substack: https://substack.com/@drscull
My Chessable Course!
https://www.chessable.com/chess-journeys-tactics-workboo
Ep. 279 Luca Returns (2000 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Luca. He is returning to the podcast after a successful year of improvement. Since we last spike, he has gained over 100 points and crossed 2000! We discussed the value of identifying your errors in games and correcting them. We talked about the importance of regular calculation work. We discussed his working with coaches. Luca had a lot to say about adult
Ep. 278 Flashback: IM Tatev Abrahmamyan Ep. 41
I talked to Tatev Abrahmamyan back in April of 2022 episode 41. This conversation was fascinating as she was trying to juggle the realities of having a full time job and trying to be a chess professional. She expressed many doubts about she recent progress and trying to find time for chess improvement. In August of 2025, Tatev broke through with an amazing tournament scoring a GM norm and crossing
Ep. 277 Kirsten (1400 Chesscom)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Kirsten. We spoke about her love of chess and trying to find the time for improvement. Kirsten went from 400-1400 in two years, but recently has hit a plateau. She provided several resources suggestions including books and videos. We discussed finding OTB opportunities, and we spoke a bit about the LA and Santa Monica chess scene. Kirsten discussed teachin
Ep. 276 Bonus Episode: Senior Open 2026 Tournament Recap
This week on Chess Journeys, I provide a tournament recap of my recent 2026 Senior Open in Chicago, Illinois. It was my best event in a while. This is a rare positive tournament recap.
Chessbook: chessbook.com/?ref=kevin
Chessiverse Code: DrSCULL20
Check out my new Substack: https://substack.com/@drscull
My Chessable Course!
https://www.chessable.com/chess-journeys-tactics-workbook-turning-kn
Ep. 275 Gene (1800 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Gene. He has recently returned to chess yet again after a hiatus. We talked about what he is doing differently this time around such as goals, openings, coaching, and thought process. He gave several book recommendations such as the Amateur’s Mind and Kasparov’s Successors. Gene talked about the importance of tactics and his recent use of CT-Art. We spent
Ep. 274 Bonus Episode: How I Learned to Stop Fearing the IQP
In this week's bonus episode I discuss the dreaded IQP. I talk about my fear of it and the problems it caused me. I discuss the process I took to overcome my fears. I conclude with what I now know about the IQP. Hopefully this episode will help you address any of your chess fears.
Chessbook: chessbook.com/?ref=kevin
Chessiverse Code: DrSCULL20
Check out my new Substack: https://substack.com/@
Ep. 273 IM Junta Ikeda
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with IM Junta Ikeda. We had a conversation about his own chess journey and adult improvement. This episode is full of specific advice for improving your game. Junta offered several book recommendations. He talked about connecting your improvement to your own games. We also discussed some of his amazing Substack posts. This is a great interview full of advice fr
Ep. 272 Bonus Episode: Memorial Day 2026 Tournament Recap
This week I made a recap of my recent Memorial Day tournament. There are highs and lows and everything in between.
Chessbook: chessbook.com/?ref=kevin
Chessiverse Code: DrSCULL20
Check out my new Substack: https://substack.com/@drscull
My Chessable Course!
https://www.chessable.com/chess-journeys-tactics-workbook-turning-knowledge-into-skill/course/268850/
Chessnut Link/Code: Code - KEVINS
Ep. 271 Landyn (1400 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Landyn. He’s recently gained 300 points in a few months by playing a lot of tournaments and studying. We talked about the woodpecker method and checkmates pattern for improvement. We also discussed his attempts to reignite the eastern Kentucky tournament scene. Landyn laid out the path to becoming a tournament director and getting events going. We also tal
Ep. 270 Chuck (1900 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Chuck. He wears a lot of hats in the chess world. He runs the San Diego Chess Club, organizes many big events, and plays in over 200 rated games per year! We covered many topics such as his chess journey and books he likes. Chuck talked about the challenges and joys of organizing large events. We discussed the kid takeover of chess and some possible option
Ep. 269 Misha (1900 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Misha. He plays with me on Tuesday nights at the Santa Monica Bay Chess Club. We covered his improvement journey from 1000 to 1900. We covered many topics such as emotions in chess, the story of the game, and structured study. Misha provided book and tool recommendations. We talked about the value of ratings. We ended by discussing his expanded role at the
Ep. 268 GM Noel Studer
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with GM Noel Studer. As always, Noel came ready to share the good stuff. We talked about his newest project, real chess training. It’s a weekly set of calculation exercises. Noel gave extensive, actionable improvement advice. He focused on doing the critical stuff, calculation, tactics, and playing. It’s always such a great reminder for me to get feedback on my
Ep. 267 Carl (1800 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Carl. We covered a lot of ground such as taking breaks, the value of tactics, OTB play, and ratings. We had an extended conversation about Chessbook, and how Carl uses it and Chessable. Carl did a deep dive into rating improvement for adults, which we discussed. Spoiler, it’s not as dire as you might think. Overall, this was a wide ranging positive look at
Ep. 266 Bill (2000 Chesscom)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Bill. We talked about his climb from 1000-2000 on Chesscom. We discussed his tendency to go too deep and then take breaks from chess. Bill spoke passionately about coaching children, and the success of his chess team. It was a fun chat about enjoying chess improvement despite many demands on Bill’s time.
Chessiverse Code: DrSCULL20
Check out my new Subst
Ep. 265 Martin (2000 FIDE)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Martin. He played OTB chess as a child and young adult. Then as life got busy, he moved to correspondence chess, where he achieved the IM title. He came back to OTB chess in 2016. He’s also a programmer and his current project is Chesspuzzle.net. The site focuses on chess improvement and training through tactics, calculation, evaluation, and endgames.
Be
Ep. 264 Steve ( 2200 ICCF, 1700 Lichess)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Steve. He’s trying to juggle a demanding career with chess improvement. We talked about his improvement journey, tournament success, and move to correspondence chess. Steve shared how correspondence chess works and helps his in live chess. He gave a lot of useful suggestions for how he improved, recent success, and the role correspondence chess can have in
Ep. 263 Sangeeta (2000 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Sangeeta. She was the Washington State Champion as a girl, returned to chess as an adult, and has begun directing scholastic tournaments. We talked about the pain of losing and her improvement journey. Sangeeta talked about reaching her goal of 2000. We discussed her time as a kid, kids today, and how she handles them at tournaments.
Chessiverse Code: Dr
Ep. 262 Ev (1800 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Ev. He’s gained over 700 points in the last few years. We talked about book recommendations, Youtube channels, and coaching. Ev extolled the benefits of taking breaks from tournament chess, despite his love for it. Some of Ev’s favorite books are Simple Chess and Learn Chess Tactics. We discussed our experiences with the Woodpecker Method. This was a fun c
Ep. 261 Bonus Episode: Virginia Adult Only Tournament Recap
This week on Chess Journeys, I bring you the recap of my recent trip to Virginia to play in the DMV Adult Only tournament. I had a great time and met a bunch of wonderful people. Let’s support adult tournament, they are a great time!
Chessiverse Code: DrSCULL20
Check out my new Substack: https://substack.com/@drscull
My Chessable Course!
https://www.chessable.com/chess-journeys-tactics-workboo
Ep. 260 Glenn (2000 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Glenn. He’s done it all in chess as a player, parent, coach, and tournament director. We spent a lot of time talking about tournament directing and his stories. We also discussed his improvement journey and his strategies for maintaining his rating in a world of rating deflation. We ended the interview with a great conversation about being a chess parent.
Ep. 259 Ono (1800 Dutch)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Ono. Since I last spoke with him on episode 12, he’s become a chess professional. We spoke about what he’s learned from chess coaching, and he provided many useful resources for learning. We talked about adults and the challenges they face learning chess. One extolled the virtues of focusing on openings to better understand middle games. It was a great cha
Ep. 258 GM Mauricio Flores
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with GM Mauricio Flores. We had a great conversation about his journey and adult improvement. We discussed the difference between prodigies and adults, useful resources, and many tips for improvement. GM Flores talked about his new tool ChessmindAI. Of course, we covered his amazing book Chess Structures, which most of you already own. We discussed his claim th
Ep. 257 Lloyd - (1300 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Lloyd. He runs the Balanced Rook Chess Club in Colorado Springs. We talked extensively about developing a healthier interaction with chess that goes beyond ratings. The Balanced Rook is a social chess club that sees players many ages and ratings having fun in a less anxious environment. We discussed his success as a child playing chess, his retirement, and
Ep. 256 Owen - Blunder Man (1550 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Owen, otherwise known as Blunder Man on Youtube. He’s made remarkable improvement both online and OTB in the last few years. We talked about books he’s used and the importance of openings. We discussed the adjustment to OTB play. Blunder Man talked about his strategies for content creation.
Be sure to check out his Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.co
Ep. 255 Ian (1700 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Ian. We discussed his journey from new player to 1700. Ian provided a number of useful resources including books and videos. Ian is an advocate of the Woodpecker method, attributing his big gains to it. We also discussed a range of topics such as tournament snacks, goals, and the value of specific checklists.
Chessiverse Code: DrSCULL20
Check out my new
Ep. 254 Wade (1700 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Wade. We discussed his journey which saw him rise from 1150 - 1700 in 3 years. We discussed his favorite resources, which include Chess Tempo mix. We focused quite a bit on tournament play, and Wade’s anxieties surrounding these events. Wade provided a number of resources for improvement, as well as bringing a great attitude towards learning and chess in g
Ep. 253 Jeff (1745 ECF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Jeff. We discussed his chess journey and favorite resources. He spoke about the benefits of a weekly chess club and chess meetups with a friend. Jeff shared a strategy of testing himself with similar positions out of the opening. We also talked about sharing chess with his child. Of course, Jeff plays in the amazing UK chess leagues. Lots of good advice an
Ep. 252 Georgios (1550 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with George. We talked about his time playing chess in Greece as a child. We discussed his sporadic returns to chess and his recent comeback in 2022. George shared his approach and favorite resources. We discussed the challenge of getting to tournaments and their meditative role in our lives.
Chessiverse Code: DrSCULL20
Check out my new Substack: https://subs
Ep. 251 Michael (1175 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Michael. He’s been playing tournament chess for almost 2 years. Recently, he won the U1100 section of the Dreaming King Open and played his immortal game in the process. We talked about chess coaches, videos, books, and other tools for learning. Michael talked about the joys of playing OTB in tournaments, bars, and coffee shops. It was great to hear a lowe
Ep. 250 Nathan (1900 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Nathan. He’s had quite a journey from 1000 to 1996 in four years. Nathan brought a lot of enthusiasm to the conversation and talked about his study approach, playing OTB games, and his journey. Nathan made his biggest gains during summers as a college student. He played 50 OTB games during these summers and gained piles of points. He credited game reviews,
Ep. 249 Mike (1000 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Mike. We talked about his journey, starting from the bottom. He talked about starting at 600 and working his way up by doing tactics, openings, and playing games. Mike discussed his improvement plan, which includes flashcards, Chessbook, and tactics books like Polgar’s Chess Tactics for Champions. He also talked about lessons from his career as a pilot, le
Ep. 248 James (1494 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with James about his chess journey. He’s gained 350 points in the last 6 months. We talked about his beginnings in chess going through the lessons on Chesscom. He talked about attending a chess club and preparing to play OTB tournaments. James spoke about different books and resources that have helped him improve. The last six months, James has played a lot of
Ep. 247 Dr. Scull 2025 Recap - Bonus Episode
This week on Chess Journeys, I reflect on 2025. I reflect on the business of the year, my achievements, and the work that I did. I conclude by outlining my hopes for 2026.
Chessiverse Code: DrSCULL20
Check out my new Substack: https://substack.com/@drscull
My Chessable Course!
https://www.chessable.com/chess-journeys-tactics-workbook-turning-knowledge-into-skill/course/268850/
Chessnut Lin
Ep. 246 Taja (2083 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Taja about his recent tournament win at the North American Open. We talked about his journey, starting in 5th grade to his recent transition to adulthood. Taja spoke about his process of taking games one at a time. He talked about the benefits of playing in your own section. We talked about resources that helped him on his journey, and how to break through
Ep. 245 Nick (1650 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Nick. He’s a prolific chess writer on Substack, and a is making his 3rd appearance on Chess Journeys. We discussed his lengthy fall from 1730 to 1511. It was a true pit of despair. Nick talked about losing confidence in his intuition, which caused extensive time trouble. He spoke about working out of the funk, how to use Chessable better, and his analysis
Ep. 244 Kevin - Angry Iceberg (750 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Kevin, the Angry Iceberg. Kevin picked up chess in May. It was great to chat with someone so close to the beginning of their journey. We talked about resources that he used, and his emphasis on enjoying the journey. Kevin recently attended his first tournament winning 3 out of 5 games.
Chessiverse Code: DrSCULL20
Check out my new Substack: https://subst
Ep. 243 Drew (1500 Chesscom Rapid)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Drew. He’s trying to balance family, work, running a chess club, and chess improvement. We talked about his start with chess, OTB tournaments, and coaching. We talked about his recent turn to studying tactics and which resources have been working for him. Drew especially recommends the amazing Chess Tactics From Scratch.
Chessiverse Code: DrSCULL20
Check
Ep. 242 J.J. Lang (2100 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with J.J. Lang. J.J. is a chess professional, writing and editing articles for USCF. We discussed a wide range of topics such as his own chess journey chasing 2200 and adult chess improvement. We also chatted about coaching, chess journalism, and podcasting. As always, J.J. brought a lot of interesting and helpful improvement suggestions.
Chessfeels podcast
J
Ep. 241 Dr. Scull Reflecting on Reaching 1800 / Thanksgiving - Bonus Episode
This week I celebrated reaching 1800 USCF and the American holiday of Thanksgiving. In this episode, I reflect on the different aspects of my life that helped me reach 1800. It was a fun episode for me as I reflected on my chess communities, coaches, family, friends, patience, health, and consistency. Hopefully, some of these thoughts will help you with your chess improvement process.
My Chessabl
Ep. 240 FM Nate Solon Returns!
Ep. 240 FM Nate Solon (But beginning and word shitload)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with FM Nate Solon. We talked about so many interesting topics. We discussed training plans, ratings in life outside of chess, Twitter hot takes, Nate’s substack, and Nate’s new course on the English. We also discussed the importance of health in chess, ChatGPT and chess, and how I can get to 1800. It fe
Ep. 239 Flashback: GM Jesse Kraai Ep. 108
This week’s flashback episode features Jesse Kraai from episode 108. Jesse is of course one of the coaches at the Chess Dojo. In this excerpt, Jesse discusses the importance of game analysis, and he provides resource recommendations.Jesse also addresses whether or not getting a coach needed, and how to deal with setbacks.
My Chessable Course!
https://www.chessable.com/chess-journeys-tactics-wo
Ep. 238 NM Forest (2200 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Forest. I’ve known Forest since he was rated 1000 and just recently he crossed 2200 achieving NM! I brought him back on the show to talk about how he did it. He talked about breaking out of plateaus and the study changes and mental changes it took to get there. We talked about his busy life, the important role of parents, and the fun experiences that he’s
Ep. 237 Endgame Improvement - Bonus Episode
This week on Chess Journeys, I talk about why you should care about endgames and resources to get better. I cover books, Chessable courses, and Youtube videos. I recommend learning some theoretical endings, practical endgame play, and sparring with friends to cement the knowledge. Even if you “don’t get endgame” in your games, trust me this episode is especially for you!
My Chessable Course!
htt
Ep. 236 Kamryn - Youtuber (2200 Chesscom)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Kamryn. We talked about her busy life, and how she carves out time for chess. We discussed her recent successes moving to 2200 on Chesscom and 1750 USCF. We talked about her path to improvement and her future goals. We also discussed a variety of topics such as making a Chessable course, girls in chess, coaching, and chess improvement.
Kamryn's Youtube -
Ep. 235 Flashback: GM Noel Studer Ep. 95
This week’s flashback episode features friend of the show Noel Studer. He regularly appears to provide updates on my chess and chess improvement generally. Today’s excerpt comes from his first appearance, episode 95. In the snippet he discusses sticking to a training plan,
puzzle book recommendations such The Steps Method books, a puzzle conversation and how many you should get right, and does ag
Ep. 234 Ryan (1850 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Ryan. He’s trying to balance college, sports, and chess improvement. Ryan has had periods of explosive ratings gain, and he dove into the secrets of his success. He attributes much of his success to playing rapid games, learning his openings, and more recently focusing on endgames. He highlighted Practical Chess Endings by Paul Keres.
My Chessable Course
Ep. 233 Dr Scull's San Diego Open Recap - Bonus Episode
This week on Chess Journeys, I recap the San Diego Open. I went 1 win and 3 draws against all higher rated players. It was a good performance and I learned a lot from it.
My Chessable Course!
https://www.chessable.com/chess-journeys-tactics-workbook-turning-knowledge-into-skill/course/268850/
Chessnut Link/Code: Code - KEVINSCULL
https://www.chessnutech.com?sca_ref=7643464.HueBIKWTYE
Get 20%
Ep. 232 Maddie (1950 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Maddie Maddie’s been playing chess since she was a young child. We talked a lot about the kid experience and training. She emphasized that her biggest times of growth occurred when she combined dedication with motivation. Maddie likes to have fun with chess and emphasizes doing what you enjoy. But … it turns out Maddie enjoys working on endgames. We also t
Ep. 231 Evan - Chess Lobster (2150 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Evan, the Chess Lobster. This is his third appearance on the show. You can check out his previous appearances on episodes 48 and 161. We talked about his continual pursuit of the master title. He talked about making simple moves, removing creativity, and focusing on calculation in regular positions. Evan also supplied advice on defeating kids at chess. Hi
Ep. 230 Flashback: Chris Wainscott (1800 USCF) Ep. 29
This episode of Chess Journeys is an excerpt from Episode 29 featuring Chris Wainscott. Chris is a founding member of the chess punk community with lofty improvement goals. We had a wide ranging conversation covering topics such as chess tactics and resources, why he is studying positional books right now, fighting against the pull of laziness, the importance of playing rather than only studying,
Ep. 229 Gabby (1950 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Gabby. We had a fun chat reminiscing about playing chess together 20 years ago, her progress in the 2010’s, and her recent chess journey in France. Gabby discussed her mentality regarding rating, and her joy of chess. She talked about the many roles she’s had in the chess world from studying with dad, playing in tournaments, teaching, and opening a chess c
Ep. 228 Flashback: Neal Bruce (1800 USCF) Ep. 20
This episode of Chess Journeys is an excerpt from Episode 20 featuring Neal Bruce, the father of adult chess improvement. It was my first conversation with Neal, and it was wide ranging. In the following excerpt we discussed what it takes to reach 1600, building a strong chess foundation, the importance of tactics, using flashcards to improve tactics, and the importance of having a plan. We covere
Ep. 227 Donovan (1200 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Donovan. He’s juggling being an involved parent, a full time career, and chess improvement. We spoke about his on again off again relationship with chess over 25 years. In the last few years, Donovan has been committed to improving his game and has started playing OTB events. We talked about his initial stress responses to chess and getting over them. We d
Ep. 226 Flashback: FM Nate Solon Ep. 11
In this week's flashback episode, I bring to you a snippet of my conversation with FM Nate Solon from episode 11. In this portion, we talked about the following. Spending too much time on Puzzles. The challenge of decision making in chess. Improving as an adult vs. as a child. Studying vs. playing. Making the studying you a part of your chess knowledge that you don't have to think about. Nate has
Ep. 225 Tristan (1600 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Tristan. He’s a dedicated chess improver that is also helping run the Phoenix chess scene. We talked about his chess journey from 1000-1600 in 2 years. He highlighted tactics work, endgames, and annotating games as keys to his improvement. Additionally, he discusses how the massive volume of games helped him improve. He plays regularly over the board and 3
Ep. 224 NM Solomon (Youtube - The Chess Giant)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Solomon, aka The Chess Giant). We covered a lot of topics such as his childhood chess journey, his pursuit of 2200, making chess content/courses, and his advice for adult improvers. Solomon reflected on the role of ratings, studying, and teaching. It was great to hear Solomon’s perspective as a child rapidly improving as an adult chasing the master title.
Ep. 223 Flashback: Stacia Pugh (1700 USCF) Ep. 31
This week's flashback episode comes from episode 31. Stacia Pugh has a great story quickly rising from 1000-1700 USCF before falling back to her floor of 1500. But after changing everything about her game, she returned to 1700 once more. In this clip Stacia talks about her rapid rise from 1000-1700 USCF, dealing with setbacks and plateaus, getting big rating gains from what feels like a lucky tour
Ep. 222 Daniel (2000 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Daniel. He shared his story and approach to chess improvement. I’ve never heard such a healthy relationship. Daniel’s goal is to improve regardless of rating. He talked about his emphasis on video learning, puzzle battle, and game analysis. Be sure to check this one out, especially, if you are struggling with rating anxiety!
My Chessable Course!
https://
Ep. 221 Flashback: Kamryn Heidi - (YouTube Sensation) Ep. 73
In this flashback episode from episode 73, Kamryn Heidi shares some of her secrets to chess improvement, including tactics training and tips for your first tournament. She also discusses engaging her local chess community. To hear the rest, be sure to check out episode 73.
My Chessable Course!
https://www.chessable.com/chess-journeys-tactics-workbook-turning-knowledge-into-skill/course/268850/
Ep. 220 Lara (1380 OTB Classical)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Lara. We had a fascinating conversation about chess improvement without direct chess studying. Lara discussed her improvement system which involves proxy learning from a wide range of areas such as speaking Latin, strategy video games, and books on war strategy. She made great points about how limiting chess study can be and how broadening one’s approach c
Ep. 219 Flashback: IM Andras Toth Ep. 13
In this flashback episode of I present IM Andras Toth. He appeared on episode 13 and helped launch this fledgling podcast. Coach Andras always bring the honest advice and his work isn't to be missed. Enjoy!
My Chessable Course!
https://www.chessable.com/chess-journeys-tactics-workbook-turning-knowledge-into-skill/course/268850/
Chessnut Link/Code: Code - KEVINSCULL
https://www.chessnutech.co
Ep. 218 IM John Bartholomew
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with IM John Bartholomew. We had a great discussion about his chess journeys, tips for adult improvers, and his time with Chessable and Chessiverse. John talked fondly about his time with Chessable and the best ways to use it. He discussed his Youtube channel. We discussed how different people might battle the bots on Chessiverse. We finished the interview with
Ep. 217 Chess Parents - Bonus Episode
In this extra short bonus episode, I provide some thoughts on chess parents both from a parent and player perspective. I provide some tips on how to be a chess parent and how to handle chess parents as a player.
My Chessable Course!
https://www.chessable.com/chess-journeys-tactics-workbook-turning-knowledge-into-skill/course/268850/
Chessnut Link/Code: Code - KEVINSCULL
https://www.chessnu
Ep. 216 Jay Garrison (1900 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Jay. We talked about our tournament summers. We both played more tournaments than usual over the last few months. We discussed the purpose, our goals, and our results.
My Chessable Course!
https://www.chessable.com/chess-journeys-tactics-workbook-turning-knowledge-into-skill/course/268850/
Chessnut Link/Code: Code - KEVINSCULL
https://www.chessnutech.
Episode 215: Flashback GM Jacob Aagaard Ep. 104
This week on Chess Journeys, I cut together a recap of episode 104 with GM Jacob Aagaard. In this snippet, Jacob covers calculation, can adults make master, and how to train intentionally. If you enjoy this recap, be sure to check out the episode in its entirety.
My Chessable Course!
https://www.chessable.com/chess-journeys-tactics-workbook-turning-knowledge-into-skill/course/268850/
Chessnut L
Ep. 214 Luca (1875 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Luca about his chess journey. Luca has a healthy relationship with chess improvement and ratings. He seems most interested in enjoying the game and the experience of putting away devices and fully immersing himself in tournament games. We talked about resources that have helped his journey such as Chess Tactics from Scratch, Drill Your Chess Strategy (the
Ep. 213 Dr Scull's Pacific Coast Open Recap - Bonus Episode
Last weekend I played in the Pacific Coast Open. It was my last tournament of the summer. Overall, I played well and gained 8 whole rating points! This episode contains a preview, round by round recap, and some final thoughts. Hope you enjoy it.
My Chessable Course!
https://www.chessable.com/chess-journeys-tactics-workbook-turning-knowledge-into-skill/course/268850/
Chessnut Link/Code: Code -
Ep. 212 Alex (1700 Lichess)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Alex about his chess journey. Alex is a teacher that picked up chess while running a chess club. His goal is 2000 Lichess and the arena grand master title. He uses daily games and tactics as the primary parts of his training. He finds that daily games help him learn openings in a more organic way than memorization. Alex will be attending his first tourname
Ep. 211 - Flashback Omar (ChessVonDoom) Ep. 10 - Bonus
In this bonus episode, I have edited episode 10 with Omar (ChessVonDoom) into a short 20 minute piece. If you like it be sure to check out the full episodes with Omar (10, 38, 75, 76, 150)
In this snippet, Omar talks about getting into chess, the challenges of his first tournament, nearly getting chess, and his desire to help other chess players.
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Ep. 210 Alexander (1700 USCF)
This week on Chess Journeys, I spoke with Alexander. We had a great chat about his massive rating improvement, 800 points in 8 months. Alexander talked about his organic approach to learning. He has taken in a lot of content on Youtube, played online chess, and played many training games. Alexander attributes some of his success to his “chess team” that crafts opening traps and plans to get an adv
Ep. 209 Dr Scull's Senior Open Journal - Bonus Episode
In this bonus episode I preview, round by round journal, and recap my experiences at the Senior Open in Chicago, July 2025. I hope you enjoy this bonus episode!
My Chessable Course!
https://www.chessable.com/chess-journeys-tactics-workbook-turning-knowledge-into-skill/course/268850/
Chessnut Link/Code: Code - KEVINSCULL
https://www.chessnutech.com?sca_ref=7643464.HueBIKWTYE
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