In this episode of the Lucky Breaks Podcast, the host Sue interviews Rocky, a longtime friend and ardent tournament director known for her charity pool events. Rocky shares her journey from learning to play pool in Monterey to organizing community-driven tournaments in San Diego. She highlights her work raising money for good causes, such as Baja Rescue and Miracle Ear Foundation. Rocky discusses the logistical challenges of setting up these events, the community support she receives, and her motivations. Listen to how pool tournaments can serve the greater good and unite people for charitable ends.

00:00 Introduction to the Lucky Breaks Podcast

00:44 Rocky's Journey into Pool

03:15 Running Charity Tournaments

05:44 Fundraising and Community Support

07:38 Challenges and Future Plans

08:49 Ladies' Tournaments and New Ideas

09:20 Charity Focus and Tournament Rules

09:45 Organizing and Promoting Events

12:27 Advice for Starting Charity Tournaments

14:03 Magic Eight Ball Fun

14:55 Future Plans and Closing Remarks

Donate to Baja Rescue: https://bajadogrescue.org/donate/

Where you can find our guest:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/raquel.dickinson.50

Event - https://www.facebook.com/events/1244742861022941/

𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝘂𝘀: 

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/luckybreakspodcast

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/luckybreakspodcast

YouTube - www.youtube.com/@luckybreaks-podcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luckybreakspodcast/#

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luckybreakspodcast

📧Email - [email protected]

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#luckybreakspodcast #pool #billiards #podcast #poolpractice #amateurpool #poolplayers

In this week's episode of the Lucky Breaks Podcast, host Sue chats with elite pool player CJ Robinson about his journey in the sport, the importance of self-discipline, and the techniques he uses to stay calm under pressure. CJ shares his origin story, from playing pool with his father to captaining his first APA team. The conversation dives into the significance of a pre-shot routine, managing mental pressure, and using equipment effectively. CJ also discusses the psychological aspects of pool, both before and during matches, and the value of evaluating one's performance post-match. The episode wraps up with a discussion on the impact of equipment on performance, including the differences between various shafts and tips, and a fun segment where CJ consults a Magic 8-Ball about his future tournament prospects.

00:00 Introduction to CJ Robinson's Journey

01:00 Early Pool Memories and First Team Experience

02:09 Rising Through the Ranks and Memorable Matches

03:12 Mental Game and Handling Pressure

05:26 Pre-Shot Routine and Learning from Pros

06:59 Approaching Pool as a Sport

08:40 Psychological Aspects of Pool

10:05 Match Preparation and Observing Opponents

13:01 Dealing with Distractions and Pressure

18:37 Post-Match Reflections and Improvement

22:30 Cue Performance Insights

23:10 Comparing Pool to Golf

23:51 Equipment Tinkering and Tournament Experience

25:08 Understanding Low Deflection Shafts

29:27 Choosing the Right Pool Cue

35:24 Adjusting Cue Weight for Better Breaks

38:46 Magic 8 Ball Predictions

Cue Ball Deflection In Pool | Pool School

Where you can find our guest:

▶️Facebook - CJ Robinson - https://www.facebook.com/Poolaholic

𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝘂𝘀: 

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/luckybreakspodcast

YouTube - www.youtube.com/@luckybreaks-podcast

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/luckybreakspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luckybreakspodcast/#

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luckybreakspodcast

📧Email - [email protected]

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#luckybreakspodcast #pool #billiards #podcast #poolpractice #amateurpool #poolplayers

In this episode of the Lucky Breaks Podcast, a diverse panel of APA team captains gathers to share their personal journeys and experiences in captaining. The captains discuss their motivations, the mechanics of leading an APA team, and divulge their strategies for building and managing successful teams. Key topics include the importance of team chemistry, balancing competition with fun, strategies for lineups and coaching, and handling conflicts both within the team and with opponents. They also share their biggest pet peeves and offer valuable advice for aspiring captains. The episode concludes with the panel participating in the 'Magic 8-Ball' segment, seeking answers to their burning questions about future successes.

00:00 Welcome to the Lucky Breaks Podcast

01:08 Meet 6 APA Captains

01:29 Favorite Team Names

06:49 What It Means to Be an APA Captain

12:58 Balancing Fun and Competitiveness

14:40 Handling Losing Streaks18:45 Team Dynamics and Roles

22:53 Dealing with Difficult Team Members

28:33 Managing Conflicts with Opponents

34:48 Strategies for Matching Players

36:45 Balancing Lineups for League Night

37:08 Strategies for High-Level Tournaments

37:57 Adapting to Player Preferences

38:44 Matching Up Against Strong Opponents

44:39 Coaching Techniques and Challenges

01:03:34 Advice for Aspiring Captains

01:05:34 Magic 8-Ball PredictionsWhere you can find our guest:Please reach out to [email protected] if you want to contact any of this episode’s guests.𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝘂𝘀: YouTube - www.youtube.com/@luckybreaks-podcast

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/luckybreakspodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luckybreakspodcast/#

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luckybreakspodcast

📧Email - [email protected]

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/luckybreakspodcast

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In this episode of the Lucky Breaks Podcast, host Sue Lueder dives deep into the world of professional pool with Chris Reinhold, a former junior champion and Mosconi Cup player. Chris shares his journey from a young amateur to a top-level competitor, highlighting the importance of managing attitude, ego, and mental toughness. He provides valuable tips on playing and winning against elite opponents, emphasizing the significance of playing within one's abilities, practicing efficiently, and using strategic safeties. The episode concludes with live demos and practical advice on executing safeties and strokes from Chris.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

00:44 Chris Reinhold's Early Days in Pool

01:58 Journey to Professional Pool

03:02 College and Beyond

05:53 Mental Strategies for Competing

12:12 Coaching and Improving Skills

17:12 Tips When Playing Scotch Doubles

19:21 Dealing with Pressure and Self-Trust

20:20 Reflecting on Matches and Learning from Losses

21:15 Maintaining Focus and Motivation

24:12 Strategies for Lower Skill Levels

26:57 Magic Eight Ball Segment

27:43 Safety Demonstration and Techniques

34:11 Closing Remarks and Sponsor Shoutouts

https://www.youtube.com/live/OHGkSIQ_yrE?si=0wGQ-KM1g4xR7Rnr

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aVn73tIJJMY&t=435s

Where you can find our guest:

Website: Www.chrisreinhold.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisreinholdpool?igsh=b2JhZWlsYTZobGt1&utm_source=qr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16jXdNSupF/?mibextid=wwXIfr

𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝘂𝘀: 

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/luckybreakspodcast

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/luckybreakspodcast

YouTube - www.youtube.com/@luckybreaks-podcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luckybreakspodcast/#

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luckybreakspodcast

📧Email - [email protected]

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#luckybreakspodcast #pool #billiards #podcast #poolpractice #amateurpool #poolplayers

Thanks to our guests and host locations for season 2! We look forward to bringing you season 3 content in 2026. Send us your feedback and any guest or content ideas to [email protected]. Get notified when our merch store is up and running by filling out this form: https://forms.gle/QxdFQpPS2y5QNEMZA

𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝘂𝘀: 

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/luckybreakspodcast

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/luckybreakspodcast

YouTube - www.youtube.com/@luckybreaks-podcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luckybreakspodcast/#

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luckybreakspodcast

📧Email - [email protected]

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#luckybreakspodcast #pool #billiards #podcast #poolpractice #amateurpool #poolplayers

In this episode of the Lucky Breaks podcast, host Sue Lueder welcomes Nellie Del Rosario to discuss her impressive performance at the APA US Amateurs event in Las Vegas. Nellie delves deeply into the event's format, her strategies, and the highs and lows she experienced during her matches. The conversation covers the mental and physical aspects of competing, including the importance of maintaining focus, handling pressure, and making quick adjustments in the heat of competition. Nellie also shares anecdotes about her training, the support from her friends and fans, and her aspirations for future tournaments. The episode concludes with a hopeful message about increasing tournament participation among women in San Diego.In this episode of the Lucky Breaks Podcast, host Sue Lueder welcomes Nellie Del Rosario to discuss her impressive performance at the APA US Amateurs event in Las Vegas. Nellie delves deeply into the event's format, her strategies, and the highs and lows she experienced during her matches. The conversation covers the mental and physical aspects of competing, including the importance of maintaining focus, handling pressure, and making quick adjustments in the heat of competition. Nellie also shares anecdotes about her training, the support from her friends and fans, and her aspirations for future tournaments. The episode concludes with a hopeful message about increasing tournament participation among women in San Diego.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:30 Understanding the APA US Amateur Format01:00 Nellie's Strategy and Match Experiences01:50 Challenges and Key Moments02:43 Training and Performance Insights03:25 Journey to the Finals06:01 Final Matches and Reflections11:27 Pep Talks and Support12:30 Strategizing the Tournament13:38 San Diego's Support14:12 Future Plans and Qualifiers17:16 Handling Pressure in Tournaments19:13 Break and Run Achievements20:22 Looking Forward to Next YearNellie’s Hot Seat Match: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r6uSXsQFOyUNellie’s Semifinal Match: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l4wSPx1-PAwNellie’s Final Match: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BP7TSqu2ntsWhere you can find our guest:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/nelford

𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝘂𝘀: 

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/luckybreakspodcast

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/luckybreakspodcast

YouTube - www.youtube.com/@luckybreaks-podcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luckybreakspodcast/#

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luckybreakspodcast

📧Email - [email protected]

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#luckybreakspodcast #pool #billiards #podcast #poolpractice #amateurpool #poolplayers

In this episode of the Lucky Breaks Podcast, host Sue Lueder and guest Clint Palaci dive into the controversial topic of sandbagging in the pool. Clint shares his origins in the sport, learning to play at the age of eight, and his journey through various skill levels. The discussion covers the definition of sandbagging, its prevalence and impact on the sport, and measures taken by tournament directors to curb it. The episode wraps up with a practical session on banking strategies, where Clint teaches specific techniques to improve bank shots in pool.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:34 Clint's Pool Origin Story

02:53 Defining Sandbagging

03:51 The Prevalence of Sandbagging

04:44 Regional Sandbagging Trends

07:50 Impact on Tournaments

10:00 Combating Sandbagging

20:47 Personal Experiences and Reflections

26:47 Discussing Sandbagging in Tournaments

29:58 The Role of Tournament Directors

30:33 Preparing for Upcoming Tournaments

31:18 Magic Eight Ball Segment

32:22 Bank Shot Techniques and Tips

Diamond Method Bank System videos

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sUAtKQlRLoE

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1C1lBAtYGiU

Where you can find our guest:

Facebook - 

YouTube - 

𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝘂𝘀: 

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/luckybreakspodcast

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/luckybreakspodcast

YouTube - www.youtube.com/@luckybreaks-podcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luckybreakspodcast/#

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luckybreakspodcast

📧Email - [email protected]

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#luckybreakspodcast #pool #billiards

In this episode of the Lucky Breaks Podcast, host Sue Lueder sits down with PBIA master instructor Bob Jewett to explore the keys to improving at pool through practice, targeted drills, and feedback. Bob shares his journey from starting in 1964 to becoming a national champion and a respected coach. He discusses common mistakes, effective practices, and the importance of tailored instruction. Bob also introduces various drills, such as the wagon wheel drill, to enhance mechanics and accuracy. This episode is essential for pool enthusiasts at any level looking to refine their game.

00:00 Introduction to the Lucky Breaks Podcast

00:39 Bob Jewett's Journey into Pool

02:49 Teaching and Coaching Techniques

04:28 The PBIA Instructor Program

07:09 Common Mistakes and Tips for Beginners

21:39 Addressing Common Mechanics Issues

22:29 Breaking Bad Habits

24:40 The Importance of Consistent Practice

26:34 Effective Coaching Techniques

29:38 The Growing Popularity of Pool

33:12 Practical Drills and Exercises

Where you can find our guest:

https://playbetterbilliards.com/

PBIA Instructor Page: https://playbetterbilliards.com/instructors/23

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/bob.jewett.12

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@BobJewett

𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝘂𝘀: 

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/luckybreakspodcast

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/luckybreakspodcast

YouTube - www.youtube.com/@luckybreaks-podcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luckybreakspodcast/#

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luckybreakspodcast

📧Email - [email protected]

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#luckybreakspodcast #pool #billiards #podcast #poolpractice #amateurpool #poolplayers

This episode of the Lucky Breaks Podcast features an insightful conversation with Abraham Diaz, a renowned artistic pool champion known for his extraordinary trick shots and cue-making skills. Hosts Sue Lueder and Rich Nemcek explore Abraham's origin story, beginning with his self-taught practice inspired by an ESPN trick shot competition, and his progression to being mentored by champions Mike Massey and Stefano Pinga. Abraham dives into the specifics of artistic pool categories, shares his rigorous practice routines, and discusses the physical and mental challenges of the sport. Additionally, he sheds light on his craft as a custom cue maker, the physics behind complicated shots, and the essential qualities pool players can learn from artistic pool techniques. The episode wraps up with Abraham's aspirations and his preparation for future competitions, emphasizing the artistry and dedication required in both playing and cue making.

00:00 Introduction to Abraham Diaz and Artistic Pool

01:07 Abraham's Journey into Artistic Pool

02:14 Early Mentorship and Training

03:25 Practicing and Competing in Artistic Pool

06:18 Understanding Artistic Pool Categories

08:11 Challenges and Achievements in Artistic Pool

18:05 Future of Artistic Pool

23:47 Understanding tools of the Trick Shot artist

26:15 The Physics Behind Masse Shots

29:33 Practical Tips for Pool Players

34:13 The Journey of a Cue Maker

41:46 Magic 8-Ball Prediction and Conclusion

Where you can find our guest:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/abram.diaz.33

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/artistic_pool_player/

YouTube - www.youtube.com/@abdiaz66

𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝘂𝘀: 

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/luckybreakspodcast

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/luckybreakspodcast

YouTube - www.youtube.com/@luckybreaks-podcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luckybreakspodcast/#

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📧Email - [email protected]

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#luckybreakspodcast #pool #billiards #podcast #poolpractice #amateurpool #poolplayers

#artisticpool #trickshots #artistic

In this episode of the Lucky Breaks Podcast, host Sue introduces Hydred Goldberg, a two-time Heyball Parasport champion. Hydred shares her journey of getting into pool after a life-changing car accident, her ascent to semi-pro status, and balancing a career in special effects makeup. She elaborates on Parasport, touching on the unique challenges and different skill levels within the sport. Hydred also offers insights into the technical aspects of pool, including rail conditions and advanced techniques like using kick shots and mechanical bridges. The episode wraps up with Hydred discussing her camaraderie with other athletes, upcoming tournaments, and demonstrating advanced pool skills.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:49 Hydred Goldberg's Journey into Pool

01:54 Competitive Pool and Early Career

02:53 Makeup Career and Return to Pool

05:40 Parasport and Cue Sports

10:48 Challenges and Techniques in Parasport Pool

15:36 Team Dynamics and Mentorship

22:41 Upcoming Tournaments and Events

23:39 Magic Eight Ball Fun

24:29 Demo: Testing the Rails

25:31 Techniques for Using English

27:44 Kick Shots and Angles

34:56 Mechanical Bridge and Final Tips

Where you can find our guest:

Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/hydred_usa1  

Paralyzed Veterans of America Billiards https://pva.org/sports-recreation/billiards/

National Wheelchair Pool Players Association NWPA - https://www.facebook.com/p/National-Wheelchair-Poolplayers-Association-100068252264727/

𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝘂𝘀: 

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/luckybreakspodcast

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/luckybreakspodcast

YouTube - www.youtube.com/@luckybreaks-podcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luckybreakspodcast/#

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luckybreakspodcast

📧Email - [email protected]

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#luckybreakspodcast #pool #billiards #podcast #poolpractice #amateurpool #poolplayers #heyball #parasports