Lucky Breaks Podcast

Sue Lueder, Erin Shulman, Beth Jeung, Michelle Hughes

Every rack has a story! Passionate amateur pool players Sue, Erin, Beth, and Michelle explore pool stories with coaches, captains, teammates, and opponents to learn about the challenges of the game and how to build incredible mental toughness.

  1. FEB 13

    Pool for Good with Rocky

    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 - luckybreakspodcast@gmail.com ✅Guest Sign Up -  Apply To Be A Guest or Suggest A Topic  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeai_jCboxj2P-p1Qol3KjSaMqFbUvJLCBSql_5kPJOg0Y4Rw/viewform #luckybreakspodcast #pool #billiards #podcast #poolpractice #amateurpool #poolplayers

    17 min
  2. FEB 6

    Train Your Mind and Your Stroke with CJ Robinson

    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 - luckybreakspodcast@gmail.com ✅Guest Sign Up -  Apply To Be A Guest or Suggest A Topic  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeai_jCboxj2P-p1Qol3KjSaMqFbUvJLCBSql_5kPJOg0Y4Rw/viewform #luckybreakspodcast #pool #billiards #podcast #poolpractice #amateurpool #poolplayers

    41 min
  3. JAN 30

    Building a Winning APA Team

    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 luckybreakspodcast@gmail.com 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 - luckybreakspodcast@gmail.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/luckybreakspodcast ✅Guest Sign Up -  Apply To Be A Guest or Suggest A Topic  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeai_jCboxj2P-p1Qol3KjSaMqFbUvJLCBSql_5kPJOg0Y4Rw/viewform

    1h 8m
  4. JAN 23

    Stop Playing Their Game: Chris Reinhold’s Pro Tips to Beat Anyone

    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 - luckybreakspodcast@gmail.com ✅Guest Sign Up -  Apply To Be A Guest or Suggest A Topic  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeai_jCboxj2P-p1Qol3KjSaMqFbUvJLCBSql_5kPJOg0Y4Rw/viewform #luckybreakspodcast #pool #billiards #podcast #poolpractice #amateurpool #poolplayers

    29 min
  5. 12/05/2025

    S2:E26 Banks are Open at the APA US Amateurs

    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 - luckybreakspodcast@gmail.com ✅Guest Sign Up -  Apply To Be A Guest or Suggest A Topic  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeai_jCboxj2P-p1Qol3KjSaMqFbUvJLCBSql_5kPJOg0Y4Rw/viewform #luckybreakspodcast #pool #billiards #podcast #poolpractice #amateurpool #poolplayers

    22 min
  6. 11/21/2025

    S2:E25 Cheaters Prosper: The Ugly Truth Behind Sandbagging in Pool

    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 - luckybreakspodcast@gmail.com ✅Guest Sign Up -  Apply To Be A Guest or Suggest A Topic  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeai_jCboxj2P-p1Qol3KjSaMqFbUvJLCBSql_5kPJOg0Y4Rw/viewform #luckybreakspodcast #pool #billiards

    33 min
  7. 11/07/2025

    S2:E24 PBIA Coaching: Turn Practice into Results

    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 - luckybreakspodcast@gmail.com ✅Guest Sign Up -  Apply To Be A Guest or Suggest A Topic  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeai_jCboxj2P-p1Qol3KjSaMqFbUvJLCBSql_5kPJOg0Y4Rw/viewform #luckybreakspodcast #pool #billiards #podcast #poolpractice #amateurpool #poolplayers

    33 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Every rack has a story! Passionate amateur pool players Sue, Erin, Beth, and Michelle explore pool stories with coaches, captains, teammates, and opponents to learn about the challenges of the game and how to build incredible mental toughness.

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