Dojo Talks: A Chess Podcast EP 176 | Gauri's Path to IM
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Dec 6, 2025 IM Gauri Shankar, a chess coach, streamer, and newly minted International Master, shares his inspiring journey of perseverance amid challenges. He discusses the impact of USCF-FIDE rating disparities, the mental roller coaster of nearing the 2400 mark, and the delicate balance between his coaching job and tournament play. Gauri explores modern chess dynamics, the rise of Indian chess, and the importance of sleep and mental health. He also reflects on embracing creativity over rigid theory and shares insights on what it takes to chase the elusive GM title.
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Long Hiatus Then Return
- IM Gauri Shankar stopped playing from ~2008 to 2014 to focus on school and later returned to chess in his early twenties.
- He earned his third IM norm in 2015 and balanced teaching and coaching while chasing the rating.
USCF vs FIDE Rating Trap
- USCF–FIDE rating disparity makes gaining FIDE points from US events mathematically very hard for US players.
- Gauri targeted invitational norm events like Charlotte to face title players and gain reliable FIDE rating opportunities.
Crossing 2400 In Charlotte
- Gauri crossed 2400 at a Charlotte GM Invitational after years of oscillating around 2380–2340.
- He described the emotional breakthrough and the long struggle balancing full-time teaching and chess.
