Jennifer Shahade

Jennifer Shahade is a Woman Grandmaster (WGM) and two-time U.S. Women's Chess Champion (2002, 2004). She is one of the most prominent figures in American chess, known for her work as a player, author, commentator, and advocate for women in chess.

Shahade is the author of several widely read books including Chess Bitch: Women in the Ultimate Intellectual Sport, Play Like a Girl, Chess Queens, and Thinking Sideways. Her books explore the intersection of chess, gender, and personal growth. She served as the Women's Program Director at US Chess from 2018 to 2023, working to grow female participation in the game.

Beyond chess, Shahade is an accomplished poker player and PokerStars Ambassador, having competed on the professional circuit and won two Global Poker Awards. She brings a unique crossover perspective to both games, often writing and speaking about strategy, risk, and decision-making. She hosts the Ladies Knight podcast, which won Best Podcast of the Year from the Chess Journalists of America, and the Poker Grid podcast. She remains active as a commentator for major chess events and continues to be a leading voice in chess culture.