Épisodes

  • Stop Playing Their Game: Chris Reinhold’s Pro Tips to Beat Anyone
    Jan 23 2026

    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

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    29 min
  • S2:E27 Season 2 Finale
    Dec 21 2025

    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 luckybreakspodcast@gmail.com. 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 - 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

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    2 min
  • S2:E26 Banks are Open at the APA US Amateurs
    Dec 5 2025

    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

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    https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeai_jCboxj2P-p1Qol3KjSaMqFbUvJLCBSql_5kPJOg0Y4Rw/viewform

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


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    22 min
  • S2:E25 Cheaters Prosper: The Ugly Truth Behind Sandbagging in Pool
    Nov 21 2025

    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

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    #luckybreakspodcast #pool #billiards

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    33 min
  • S2:E24 PBIA Coaching: Turn Practice into Results
    Nov 7 2025

    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

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    33 min
  • S2:E23 Art of the Shot
    Oct 31 2025

    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/#

    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

    #artisticpool #trickshots #artistic

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    41 min
  • S2:E22 Seeing All the Angles
    Oct 24 2025

    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 - 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 #heyball #parasports

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    24 min
  • S2:E21 A Hop Skip and a Jump to U.S. Amateurs
    Oct 17 2025
    In this episode of the Lucky Breaks Podcast, we are recording at On Cue Billiards in La Mesa, CA and are joined by three accomplished female pool players - Melinda, Yen, and Nellie. They share their experiences, preparation methods, and challenges leading up to the prestigious US Amateur Championship, hosted annually by the APA. Melinda delves into her relentless 20-year journey culminating in a 2017 victory. Nellie discusses how she battled her way to the finals in Las Vegas, while Yen talks about her continual resilience and qualification strategies. The episode also explores how the players handle competition against friends, what they have learned from each other, and their individual preparation routines for the upcoming event. The episode concludes with a special segment featuring Abram, a trick shot artist, who teaches the art of performing jump shots.00:00 Welcome to the Lucky Breaks Podcast00:56 Melinda's Journey to Victory03:49 Nellie's Road to the Finals05:31 Yen's Qualifying Experience06:15 The Pressure of Competition07:26 Celebrating Wins and Learning from Losses10:34 Friendship and Rivalry in Pool16:41 Lessons Learned from Each Other19:55 Understanding Generosity in Team Dynamics20:01 The Importance of Kindness20:17 Learning to Enjoy Pool21:48 Preparing for the Big Event22:08 Practice Strategies and Mindset26:18 The Magic 8-Ball Segment28:50 Jump Shot Techniques with Abramhttps://www.facebook.com/oncuefaceb/Where you can find our guest:Nellie’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ninja_nellieYen’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ambitious_failAbram’s Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/artistic_pool_player/Abram’s YouTube - m.youtube.com/user/abdiaz66𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝘂𝘀: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/luckybreakspodcastFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/luckybreakspodcastYouTube - www.youtube.com/@luckybreaks-podcastInstagram: 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
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    29 min