The Perpetual Chess Adult Improver Series returns to spotlight another amateur from the chess community. This week’s guest is Chris Duncan. Chris is a 24 year-old Army logistician and Psychology Graduate Student who shares a powerful story of the power of chess to bridge cultural gaps.In our interview, we discuss Chris’ background and “on/off” relationship with chess, but we primarily focus on the way that chess became a welcome distraction from the stresses of being stationed abroad in 2022. As Chris explains, a shared interest in chess among many military members culminated in a memorable chess tournament that brought together US and Polish military members. Chris also discusses some of his favorite chess- learning resources, and the role that he hopes chess will play in his life for the rest of his life. I really enjoyed hearing Chris’ unique story and thank him for sharing it with us. Timestamps for topics discussed and relevant links can be found below.
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0:03:00- What was Chris’ introduction to chess, and how did he get back into it?
0:05:00- What is the chess scene like within the US Armed War Forces?
10:00- What did Chris do to work on his game?
Mentioned: Bobby Fischer Teaches Chess, Seirawan Winning Chess Series, The Seirawan series is also available on Chessable, Episode 303 with Kyle Boddy
14:00- Chris tells the remarkable story of how he and other members of the US Armed Forces, stationed in Poland, played in a tournament with members of the Polish military.
28:00- Patreon mailbag question: Does chess improve Chris’ graduate school studies in psychology?
Mentioned: Logical Chess Move by Move
31:00- Would Chris ever try an OTB tournament?
35:00- How does Chris approach following chess content that is a bit complex for his chess level?
Mentioned: St. Louis Chess Club YouTube Channel
40:00- Thanks again to Chris for coming on to the podcast, and for his service in the US Military.