Best Chess Podcasts for Improvers
Learn chess on your commute, during walks, or while doing chores. Podcasts bring chess education to your ears.
Published 2026-02-01 | Last verified 2026-02-12
Professor Archer says: Chess is a visual game, so you might wonder how a podcast can help. The answer is mindset. The best chess podcasts teach you how to think about improvement, how to structure your study, and how to stay motivated. Those lessons do not need a board.
Overview
Chess podcasts have carved out a valuable niche in chess education. While you cannot study tactical puzzles by ear, you can absorb improvement strategies, hear experienced players share their journeys, and stay connected to the chess community during time when looking at a screen is not practical.
The best chess podcasts focus on the thinking behind improvement rather than specific moves. They discuss study habits, tournament psychology, the emotional side of losses, and practical strategies for getting better. This makes them an excellent complement to board-based study.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Perpetual Chess | Chess.com Podcast | Climbing the Ladder |
|---|---|---|---|
| Focus | Improvement + interviews | News + events | Practical improvement |
| Episode Length | 60–90 minutes | 30–60 minutes | 30–45 minutes |
| Target Audience | All improvers | General chess fans | Club players |
| Frequency | Weekly | Regular | Periodic |
| Price | Free (Patreon optional) | Free | Free |
Detailed Review
Perpetual Chess Podcast, hosted by Ben Johnson, is widely regarded as the best chess podcast for improvers. Each episode features an in-depth conversation with a chess player — from amateurs who recently crossed a rating milestone to grandmasters sharing their teaching philosophy. The improvement-focused episodes are particularly valuable, offering practical advice on study methods, time management, and staying motivated.
The Chess.com Podcast provides professional coverage of the chess world. It is excellent for staying informed about tournaments, player news, and trends in the chess community. While less focused on personal improvement, it keeps you connected to the broader chess ecosystem.
Climbing the Rating Ladder focuses specifically on practical improvement for club players. The episodes tackle common problems like time trouble, opening preparation, and endgame technique with actionable advice.
Who Should Use What?
If you want one chess podcast, make it Perpetual Chess. Its blend of improvement advice and personal stories is both educational and inspiring.
If you follow competitive chess and want to stay current with tournaments and news, the Chess.com Podcast is well-produced and informative.
If you are a club player focused purely on practical improvement, Climbing the Rating Ladder speaks directly to your needs.
Remember that podcasts are supplements, not substitutes. They are best used alongside visual study, puzzle training, and actual games.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I actually improve at chess by listening to podcasts?
Podcasts improve your chess mindset and study habits, which indirectly leads to better results. For tactical and visual skills, you still need board-based practice. Think of podcasts as improving your approach to improvement.
When is the best time to listen to chess podcasts?
Anytime you cannot look at a board: commuting, walking, exercising, or doing household tasks. This turns otherwise non-chess time into learning time.
Are there chess podcasts specifically for beginners?
Most chess podcasts cater to intermediate and above. Perpetual Chess is the most accessible, with episodes that cover topics relevant to all levels. For pure beginner instruction, visual or coaching-based learning is more effective.
Professor Archer says: I listen to chess podcasts on my evening walks. Hearing other players talk about their struggles and breakthroughs reminds me that improvement is a shared human experience. We are all trying to get a little better, one game at a time.
Quick Quiz
What is the primary benefit of chess podcasts for improvers?
- They teach tactical patterns you can visualize - Tactical patterns are best learned visually. Podcasts are limited in their ability to teach specific positions and moves.
- They improve your study habits, mindset, and motivation (Correct) - Correct. The greatest value of chess podcasts is improving how you think about chess improvement — study strategies, mindset, and motivation from other players' experiences.
- They replace the need for playing actual games - Podcasts are supplements to active chess practice, not replacements. You still need to play games and study positions.
- They provide engine analysis of your games - Podcasts are audio content and cannot analyze your specific games. For game analysis, you need a platform with engine tools.