My Favorite Opening Is...

A Note from the CEO

I often get asked what my favorite chess opening is. Before I even get a chance to answer, someone will chime in—"Sicilian Defense? Four Knights? Ruy Lopez?”

Here’s the thing: studying openings is important. Just like in any sport, preparation matters. You need a strong foundation, a set of tools to help you navigate the early game. But the mistake many players make? They treat openings like a script—memorizing moves, expecting the game to unfold exactly as planned.

But chess, like life, doesn’t work that way.

What happens when your opponent throws you off course? When they play something unexpected? When the position forces you into unfamiliar territory?

That’s why I don’t see chess as just a game of strategy. I see it as a mindset.

A mindset in the pivot.

A mindset in adaptability.

A mindset in understanding that not everything will go your way—but knowing how to adjust when it doesn’t.

Because at the end of the day, openings are just the starting point. What really matters is what you do after the first few moves—how you respond, how you adapt, how you keep pushing forward. The best players aren’t just the ones who know every opening. They’re the ones who know how to respond when the board changes.

And that’s the kind of mindset that doesn’t just win games. It wins in life.

Quote of the Week

“Champions keep playing until they get it right.” — Billie Jean King, Tennis Champ and Probably Likes Chess

Coming Up in the Pod

Leading with Purpose: David Simas on Trust, Youth, and the Power of Connection

This interview features David Simas, former CEO of the Obama Foundation and current Managing Director of Research and Impact at Emerson Collective, discussing his career journey, the importance of relationships, leadership values, and the role of youth in decision-making. David shares personal anecdotes and insights on building connections, navigating leadership challenges, and fostering intergenerational collaboration.

Puzzle Solution:

It’s an opening!

Qxf6+ (a sacrifice), gxf6

Bh6+, Kg8

Kxf6# (that’s a mate, folks!)