Shows
Lucky Breaks PodcastS1:E15 Season One Racked UpIn the season 1 finale of the Lucky Breaks Podcast, hosts Sue Lueder and Erin Shulman reflect on their journey of launching the show while recapping highlights from their pool careers. They share details about their recent tournament experiences and achievements, discuss the process of producing the podcast, and offer a glimpse into what's coming in Season 2. Stay tuned until the end for a special Magic 8 Ball segment and thank you to all of the guests from this season! Plus, find out how you can contribute to future episodes and what to expect as they expand their reach to new...2025-08-0822 minLucky Breaks PodcastS1:E14 Filling the San Diego CupIn this week's episode of the Lucky Breaks Podcast, we sit down with Steve Kwon, Michael Fernandez, and Josh Watson, the dedicated team behind the revitalized San Diego Cup Pool Tournament series. They discuss their journey from taking over the series from its previous owner, Clint, to envisioning a competitive and inclusive multi-day pool event for the San Diego community. Learn about the diverse tournament formats, exciting future plans, and the growing regional pool scene. The episode also covers insights from their most recent event and teases upcoming changes and surprises. Tune in to hear about the challenges they...2025-08-0142 minLucky Breaks PodcastS1:E13 The PrequelIn this episode of the Lucky Breaks Podcast, we take a journey back to the discussions that sparked the podcast idea at the BCA Nationals in February 2025, targeting amateur and entry-level professional pool players. The discussion includes strategies for playing in national events, tips on mental resilience, and insights on improving through standard questions. Key interviews from the 2025 BCA Nationals provide personal experiences and advice on handling the pressures of competitive play. The episode also highlights the importance of community, preparation, and the mental aspect of the game, featuring interviews with players like CJ Robinson, Josh Watson, and others.2025-07-2531 minLucky Breaks PodcastS1:E12 Dynamic DuoJoin Michael Fernandez as he guest hosts on this episode of the Lucky Breaks Podcast. We welcome Priscilla and Reuben Duffy, life partners and dedicated pool players. They share their unique origin stories in the game, how they became a dynamic doubles team, and the advantages and challenges of playing pool with someone you have a deep personal connection with. Tune in to hear about their recent tournament experiences, their strategies for maintaining fun and comfort under pressure, and their advice for other doubles teams. Don't miss their insights into maintaining trust and communication both on and off the...2025-07-1824 minLucky Breaks PodcastS1:E11 Dancing QueenJoin Sue Lueder and Erin Shulman from the Lucky Breaks Podcast as they chat with ๐ฒ๐๐ ๐ญ๐๐๐๐๐๐, an iconic figure in the San Diego APA, and ๐ซ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ฒ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐, an up and coming pool player eager to learn. Discover their unique coaching dynamics, Kai's journey from a recreational player to a key figure in the pool community, and Demetriosโ transformation under Kai's mentorship. Learn about their collaborative, pressure-free coaching style, and gain valuable insights into effective coaching methods. Plus, get a glimpse into Kai's exciting new venture, ๐๐ฎ๐ซ๐ฉ๐ฅ๐ ๐๐ฎ๐๐๐ง ๐๐๐ข. Don't miss this engaging conversation about pool, coaching, and personal growth!00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests00:49 Kai's Journey into Pool02:22 Demetrius' Background and Entry into the League04:07 Kai's...2025-07-1136 minLucky Breaks PodcastS1:E10 You're the Captain NowJoin us for an insightful episode of the Lucky Breaks Podcast, where host Sue Lueder sits down with Jesse Gallegos, a former bar pool player and intense athlete who has transitioned to being a laid-back APA pool team captain. Jesse shares his surprising journey into the pool world, the challenges he faced, and his philosophy of balancing competitive drive with a fun-first approach. Learn how he manages his team, from player attendance to aiming for Vegas, all while maintaining a jerk-free environment. Don't miss this engaging episode that highlights the trials and triumphs of being a team captain in...2025-07-0432 minLucky Breaks PodcastS1:E9 Unlucky BreaksJoin the Lucky Breaks Podcast as we follow the No Rolls Barred team on their thrilling journey at the APA World Qualifier, one of the biggest events of the year for the local APA teams. Despite pre-match nerves, challenging losses, and unexpected moments, witness their unwavering team chemistry and positive attitudes. Meet key players like Samantha, Brett, Richard, Gordon, Thea, and Steve as they share their experiences, strategies, and reflections on their matches. Don't miss the insights and behind-the-scenes moments from this high-stakes competition!00:00 Introduction to the Lucky Breaks Podcast00:23 Meet the Captain and Co-Captain...2025-06-2718 minLucky Breaks PodcastS1:E8 Streaming Local SuperstarsIn this episode of the Lucky Breaks Podcast, host Sue Lueder sits down with Mike Holt, a professional photographer, videographer, and avid pool player. Mike shares his fascinating journey from playing snooker in the UK to becoming an influential figure in the San Diego pool scene. They discuss Mike's transition from snooker to pool, his YouTube channel 'Mothlike TV,' which aims to bring broadcast-quality of amateur competitions to pool enthusiasts, and his innovative tournament formats designed to level the playing field. Mike also offers valuable advice on improving game play, recording techniques, and building a community through content...2025-06-2030 minLucky Breaks PodcastS1:E7 Heart of a ChampionJoin host Sue Lueder on the Lucky Breaks Podcast as she sits down with APA pool champion Edward Arciniega to discuss his riveting journey from playing pool at local bowling alleys to competing at the APA Poolplayer World Championship. Ed shares insights into the importance of self-care, mental fortitude, and the invaluable support of coaches, family, and friends. He delves into his early days, his experiences at regional qualifiers, his triumphant moments at Worlds, and overcoming personal health challenges. This episode offers a detailed look at the life of a dedicated billiard athlete. Don't miss out!00:00 Introduction2025-06-1326 minLucky Breaks PodcastS1:E6 Close CallsIn this episode of the Lucky Breaks Podcast, host Erin Shulman interviews Sean Ahlers, a respected pool referee from the San Diego community. Sean shares his journey into the world of pool, starting at a local rec center and refining his skills both in the U.S. and during his military service in Japan. The discussion delves into the intricacies of being a pool referee, including the importance of quick decision-making, impartiality, and effective communication. Sean explains the process of becoming a certified referee, the types of situations referees commonly face, and the qualities needed to excel in this...2025-06-0619 minLucky Breaks PodcastS1:E5 Haunted by Matches PastS1:E5 Haunted by Matches PastIn this episode of the Lucky Breaks Podcast, seasoned pool player Jared Pitts shares his journey into the world of pool, starting from his childhood interest cultivated in a pool hall to his participation in competitive tournaments. Jared recounts a challenging recent tournament in Vegas, emphasizing the mental strategies needed to cope with slow and defensive opponents. He discusses the importance of maintaining confidence, dealing with pressure, and overcoming mental blocks during games. Join us for insights into the mental game of pool and Jared's plans for improving his future tournament...2025-05-3025 minLucky Breaks PodcastS1:E4 Watch and LearnJoin us on the Lucky Breaks Podcast as we sit down with Michael Fernandez, creator of the Awesome San Diego Pool Player YouTube channel. Michael shares insights about his journey into pool, the impact of watching and analyzing your own gameplay, and how these methods have helped him reach new skill levels. Learn about the benefits of recording your matches, fostering a pool community, and making the most out of modern technology to improve your pool skills. This episode is a must-watch for all passionate pool players looking to elevate their game!00:00 Introduction to The Lucky Breaks...2025-05-2327 minLucky Breaks PodcastS1:E3 Leaps of Faith with Brandy and KeithS1:E3 Leaps of Faith In this episode of the Lucky Breaks Podcast, we sit down with Brandy Pamintuan and Keith Zeek, the new owners of San Diegoโs iconic pool bar, The Break Room. Brandy, a seasoned pool player, and Keith, a veteran bartender, share their passion for maintaining the bar's family atmosphere and welcoming players of all levels. They discuss their backgrounds, the inspiration behind purchasing The Break Room, and their plans for enhancing the community hotspot while preserving its essence. Tune in to discover their journey and future plans for engaging the local pool co...2025-05-1615 minLucky Breaks PodcastS1:E2 Get Ready, Get Lucky with Josh WatsonS1:E2 Get Ready, Get Lucky: Insights from semi-pro pool player Josh Watson | Lucky Breaks PodcastWelcome to the Lucky Breaks Podcast! In this episode we sit down with semi-pro pool player Josh Watson, fresh off his competition at the BCA Nationals in Las Vegas. Josh shares his experiences from the event, discusses the importance of team camaraderie, and gives us a sneak peek into how he's preparing for the upcoming APA World Pool Player Championship. Learn valuable tips and tricks on how to improve your game, handle high-pressure situations, and maintain a balanced routine both on...2025-05-1627 minLucky Breaks PodcastS1:E1 Pickup Games with Sue and ErinS1:E1 Pickup Games:ย Pool Player Stories with Sue Lueder & Erin Shulman | Lucky Breaks Podcastย In the inaugural episode of the Lucky Breaks Podcast, hosts Sue Lueder and Erin Shulman introduce themselves and share their personal journeys in the game of pool. From childhood memories and bar games to joining leagues and striving for improvement, they discuss their experiences and why they are passionate about pool. The episode also delves into their motivations for starting the podcast, the importance of team dynamics, and what listeners can look forward to in future episodes. Join Sue and Erin as th...2025-05-1616 min