112 Would you move to a new city for chess? Few have that level of commitment to the game. But our guest this week did exactly that. Adult improver Sydney Strauss moved to New York City this past year to pursue her relatively new passion for chess.

After learning the game just two years ago, she fell in love with it and began studying and playing every day. The following year, Sydney knew she wanted to take her pursuit to the next level and be fully immersed in chess through clubs, tournaments, and friends.

New York City, with its venerated Marshall Chess Club and thriving chess scene, provided her with that experience.

In a brief time, Sydney has now reached an inspiring FIDE rating of 1581.

This episode explores her story, why chess has impacted her life so greatly, and what her future ambitions may be within the game.

Plus: will she get a chess tattoo?

Connect with Sydney Strauss:

How You Can Support the Pod:

Join this show’s Patreon called “Podcast Perks” and get benefits like:

Submitting questions to guests
A shout-out of your name on the pod
Vote on future topics/guests
Exclusive behind-the-scenes updates about the show
DM me any month for a brief chat on chess or episodes

Click here to join the Patreon for The Chess Experience.

Or you can…

>>Support this pod by grabbing a chess.com membership which will help you improve your chess & defeat your enemies. A small portion will fund this pod - and every bit helps! Just click this link.

>> Neither? How about checking out Daniel's chess.com profile? Witness his countless, embarrassing blitz losses. He even accepts some friend requests. (Ad)

Adult Improver Pod: Sydney Strauss - Moving to NYC to Chase Her Chess Dreams