GM Patrick Wolff is quite accomplished on and off the chess board. In the 1990’s he was a 2 time US Chess Champion and a member of GM Viswanathan Anand's prep team. Patrick is also the author of Learn to Play Chess Like a Boss, a book that is always one of my first recommendations for newer players. In more recent years, he has worked as a hedge fund analyst. This varied background gives Patrick unique insights into the intersections of the chess and the business worlds. In our conversation, Patrick shared his opinions on all of the recent controversies which have plagued the chess world. As Patrick explains, the recent flare-ups involving dress codes, prearranged draws and a chaotic qualification process for the FIDE Candidates are all connected. Patrick thinks that the chess world needs a new governing body, and that the game is poised for more explosive growth if this can occur. In addition to all of the news, we caught up on lessons Patrick learned from playing in the US Senior Championship, and his observations on the continued evolution of chess engines. There is always lots to learn from GM Wolff, and I appreciated hearing his perspective.

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03:00- Patrick shares his thoughts on prearranged draws in light of the Dubov-Nepomniachtchi prearranged draw.

Mentioned: Background info here, Video and discussing of it here

13:00- What did Patrick think of the controversy surrounding Anna Maja Kazarian’s footwear?

Mentioned: NY Times article

20:00- We discuss the chaotic FIDE Candidates qualification cycle, which culminated in GM Alireza Firouzja scrambling to gain a few rating points.

Mentioned: C Squared pod discussion of the issue

28:00- Patrick discusses the history of FIDE, as it has evolved during his career.

Mentioned: Florencio Campomanes

51:00- Why didn’t Kasparov’s PCA work?

55:00- Patrick shares his thoughts on the April 2024 FIDE Candidates.

57:00- Patrick reflects on his performance in the US Senior Championship.

Mentioned: GM Gregory Kaidanov, You can view the games discussed here:

https://www.chess.com/events/2023-us-senior-chess-championship/games

1:12:00- What age-related effects does Patrick notice, aside from struggling to remember opening lines?

1:15:00- Patrick discusses the way computers are effecting opening theory.

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