WCM Zara Majid shares a lesson from a recent tournament where she lost a pawn to a simple pin because she forgot to ask herself one crucial question: “What is my opponent’s threat?” Inspired by Anatoly Karpov’s habit of asking this before every move, Zara explains how this practice can help players avoid blunders. She breaks it down into practical steps — scanning for new threats each turn, asking why the opponent made their move, and checking for checks, captures, and threats. She ends by challenging listeners to use this habit in their own games to play stronger and avoid preventable mistakes.

In this inspiring episode, WCM Zara Majid shares the incredible true story of Phiona Mutesi, a girl from the slums of Uganda who rose to become a Woman Candidate Master — and the star of the Disney film Queen of Katwe. Zara reflects on how Phiona’s courage, resilience, and refusal to give up helped break gender barriers in chess and inspired movements like Queens United. Zara also shares her emotional reaction to the film and the impact it had on her own chess journey through mentors and coaches.

With powerful lessons about believing in yourself — even when others don’t — this episode is a tribute to every girl who’s ever been told she doesn’t belong at the board.

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Tune in to hear about Martha Fierro, a highly accomplished women’s grandmaster and international master. She won the American Continental Women's Chess Championship in 2009 and won silver at the Chess Olympiad held in Armenia. She is also Vice President of FIDE for eight years and Chairperson of the Women's FIDE Commission.

In this heartfelt episode, WCM Zara Majid shares the truth every chess player must face: losing is part of the journey. From her emotional experience at the Pan-American Youth Championships to practical tips on how to recover from tough games, Zara reminds us that every loss is a chance to grow. With real advice, personal reflection, and a powerful reminder that “you either win, draw, or learn,” this episode is perfect for young players who need a boost of encouragement after a defeat.

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This week, WCM Zara Majid shares exciting and accessible ways to stay involved with chess over the summer! From contacting your local federation to joining top-rated online camps like ChessKid, Chess Gaja, and Silver Knights Academy, there’s something for everyone — no matter where you live or what your level is. Plus, Queens United members can get free ChessKid Gold Memberships to level up their learning all summer long.

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In this episode, WCM Zara Majid breaks down the benefits of both fast and slow chess — and why training for both is key to becoming a complete player. From deep thinking in long classical games to sharpening instincts in blitz and bullet, you’ll learn how to balance your play and prepare for anything. Whether you're new to chess or leveling up for tournaments, this episode helps you build the mindset of a confident, adaptable competitor.

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In this episode, WCM Zara Majid shares a personal story from the 2024 Chess Olympiad — where a casual breakfast with a friendly stranger turned out to be a moment with one of America’s greatest female chess players: WGM Carissa Yip. From record-breaking titles to Olympic gold, learn how Carissa’s quiet confidence, sharp tactics, and humble spirit make her a true role model. This one’s a reminder that greatness can be both powerful and soft-spoken.

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In this episode, WCM Zara Majid breaks down a simple but powerful 3-step thinking process for beginner and intermediate players: checks, captures, and threats. Learn how to avoid blunders, spot tactics, and play with confidence — one move at a time.

New episodes every month on Queens United Chess!