Unsolicited Feedback Erik Allebest of Chess.com: Transforming a Niche Business into a Global Phenomenon
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Apr 9, 2024 
Erik Allebest, CEO of Chess.com, discusses how Chess.com leverages AI to revolutionize the game while confronting challenges like cheating. The podcast explores the intersection of technology, human behavior, and ethics in online chess, providing insights into innovation, user engagement, and growth strategy.
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Unconventional Growth of Chess.com
- Erik Allebest, CEO of Chess.com, shares the unconventional path of the company's growth.
- It was bootstrapped, remote-first, and focused on profitability from the start, defying Silicon Valley norms.
Chess.com's Exponential Growth
- Chess.com experienced steady growth for 12 years, then exploded in popularity due to several converging factors.
- These included the 2018 World Chess Championship, the Queen's Gambit, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
AI's Impact on Chess
- AI-powered chess engines have revolutionized the game by enhancing creativity and strategic depth.
- This shift has led to more dynamic and exciting gameplay, attracting a new generation of players.