Maurice Ashley Makes History on The Oprah Podcast
Renowned grandmaster Maurice Ashley recently fulfilled a lifelong dream by appearing on The Oprah Podcast, where he sat down virtually with Oprah Winfrey for a captivating conversation about chess, impact, and hidden potential.
As the first Black grandmaster in history, Ashley has been a prominent figure in the world of chess since making history in 1999. Beyond his exceptional chess skills, Ashley has become a celebrated commentator and a strong advocate for using chess as a tool for personal growth.
From Grandmaster to Author
In 2024, Ashley released his book “Move By Move: Life Lessons On and Off the Chessboard,” delving into the profound principles that chess has instilled in his life. This book has been praised for its insights into how chess can influence personal growth and development.
During his interview with Oprah Winfrey, Ashley discussed a new book by organizational psychologist Adam Grant, which highlighted Ashley’s work with young chess players in Harlem, New York. The book’s prologue shed light on the inspiring journey of the Raging Rooks, a group of underestimated Harlem children who, under Ashley’s mentorship, rose to become national champions.
Chess: A Magical Game
When asked by Oprah what initially drew him to chess, Ashley passionately expressed, “Chess is magical. It really just is.” He elaborated on the historic and mythical qualities of the game, emphasizing its complexity as a puzzle that is both challenging and captivating.
Ashley described chess as a game of metaphors, highlighting the lessons of growth, resilience, and character-building that one can glean from the board. He emphasized the importance of listening to one’s opponent, recognizing them as a valuable teacher in the journey of self-improvement.
Legacy and Impact
At 59, Ashley is now focused on leaving a lasting legacy through his work. In 2024, he launched a program aimed at nurturing young chess talent in underserved communities across the United States, inspired by the success of the Raging Rooks.
Reflecting on his experience with Winfrey, Ashley shared, “When I became a grandmaster in 1999, there was one person I wanted to talk to more than anyone, and that was Oprah Winfrey. Incredibly, 26 years later, it finally happened.”
One poignant moment during the interview for Ashley was seeing Oprah hold up his book, a surreal and validating experience that marked how far he has come in his career.
As a renowned grandmaster, commentator, author, and lecturer, Maurice Ashley continues to inspire and empower individuals through the game of chess, showcasing its transformative power both on and off the chessboard.
The Power of Chess in Education
One of the key aspects that Maurice Ashley discussed with Oprah Winfrey was the transformative impact of chess in education. Through his work with young chess players in Harlem and beyond, Ashley has witnessed firsthand how the game can instill valuable life skills in children from all backgrounds.
Chess has been shown to improve critical thinking, problem-solving, concentration, and decision-making abilities. By introducing chess into school curriculums, educators can provide students with a unique and engaging way to develop these essential skills while fostering a love for learning.
Ashley’s advocacy for integrating chess into education has gained momentum in recent years, with schools across the country implementing chess programs to help students excel academically and personally. The strategic thinking required in chess can help students excel in subjects like math and science, where logical reasoning and pattern recognition are key.
Diversity and Representation in Chess
As the first Black grandmaster in history, Maurice Ashley has been a trailblazer in the world of chess, breaking down barriers and paving the way for greater diversity and representation in the game. His presence in the chess community has inspired a new generation of players from underrepresented backgrounds to pursue their passion for chess.
Ashley’s work with young chess players in Harlem and his dedication to creating opportunities for disadvantaged communities to access chess resources have been instrumental in promoting inclusivity in the chess world. By championing diversity and representation, Ashley is helping to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all chess enthusiasts.
Through his appearance on The Oprah Podcast, Ashley has further amplified the importance of representation in chess and the need for greater visibility of diverse voices and perspectives in the game. By sharing his own journey and experiences, Ashley is empowering others to embrace their unique identities and make their mark on the chess world.
The Future of Chess
As a visionary in the world of chess, Maurice Ashley is constantly looking towards the future of the game and how it can continue to evolve and thrive. With the rise of online chess platforms and the increasing popularity of competitive chess events, the game is reaching new heights of accessibility and engagement.
Ashley’s efforts to promote chess as a tool for personal growth and development have positioned the game as not only a competitive sport but also a valuable educational and social tool. By harnessing the power of chess to teach valuable life skills and foster community connections, Ashley is shaping the future of chess in a meaningful and impactful way.
Through his advocacy, mentorship, and leadership, Maurice Ashley is ensuring that the legacy of chess continues to inspire and empower individuals of all ages and backgrounds for generations to come.
Enhancing education with chess, promoting diversity and representation, and shaping the future of the game are integral components of Maurice Ashley’s legacy, underscoring the enduring impact of his work in the world of chess.
