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

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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 - luckybreakspodcast@gmail.com

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

In this episode of the Lucky Breaks Podcast, host Sue Lueder sits down with Nicolas Ha to discuss various aspects of the mental game and lifestyle elements crucial to excelling in pool. Nicolas shares his journey from picking up a pool cue at a local bowling alley to playing competitively in leagues and tournaments, including his collegiate experience at UC Davis. They explore the technical, mental, and personal sides of pool, emphasizing the importance of mental focus, sportsmanship, and dealing with distractions both in and outside of the pool hall. Nicolas also touches on techniques for maintaining composure under pressure and the significance of having a balanced lifestyle. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the mental strategies of playing pool at a high level and hear about Nicolas's plans for taking a break from competitive pool.

00:00 Welcome to The Lucky Breaks Podcast

00:44 Nicolas Ha's Journey into Pool

01:13 College Pool Days and Competitions

03:05 Balancing Pool and Life

05:02 The Three Sides of Pool

09:48 Handling Performance Anxiety

12:52 Practice, League, and Tournaments

18:56 Recovering from Setbacks

19:43 Mental Techniques for Staying Focused

20:39 Respect and Etiquette in Pool

23:36 Dealing with Distractions and Unsportsmanlike Behavior

32:35 Taking a Break and Exploring Other Interests

34:55 Final Thoughts and Magic 8-Ball Prediction

References:

https://www.amazon.com/Four-Agreements-Practical-Personal-Freedom/dp/1878424319

Where you can find our guest:

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ha.nicolas?mibextid=wwXIfr

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/salocinah321?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

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 #podcast #poolpractice #amateurpool #poolplayers

In this episode of the Lucky Breaks Podcast, Sue Lueder, Erin Shulman, Mike Holt, and Michael Fernandez discuss their recent successful Scotch Doubles match with unique twists, sharing insights into pool content creation. The conversation covers the importance of community support, the challenges and rewards of producing content, and their future goals for expanding their reach. They also provide a guide on organizing a 'Scotch with a Twist' event, adding creative twists to traditional pool games. Engaging and insightful, this episode provides a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to be a pool content creator and offers practical advice for enthusiasts.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests

00:53 Recap of the Scotch Doubles with A Twist Match

01:25 Discussing the Fun and Challenges of the Event

02:31 Transition to Pool Content Creation

04:41 Goals and Experiences of Content Creators

08:59 Branching Out Beyond San Diego

09:30 Expanding Perspectives and New Voices

11:25 San Diego Cup and Live Streaming

13:23 Future Plans and Collaborations

19:04 Handling Online Criticism

25:32 Engaging with the Community

26:49 Magic 8ball Questions

29:13 Scotch with a Twist Tournament Format

Scotch (Doubles) With A Twist - Billiard Game Template to Print Out: https://drive.google.com/file/d/13Oo5EVzVv4_2hscWSTQTREBGLunUlguz/view?usp=drive_link

Where you can find our guest:

Facebook - Awesome SD Pool Player - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558076536227#

YouTube - Awesome SD Pool Player - http://www.youtube.com/@AwesomeSDPoolPlayer

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573178579695

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

Website - https://www.mothlike.com/

Mothlike 9-Ball Series Tournament - Stop #6:

https://www.facebook.com/events/1082504260530574

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 #podcast #poolpractice #amateurpool #poolplayers #scotchdoubles

Ever wondered how to improve your game of pool? In this episode of The Lucky Breaks Podcast, host Sue Lueder sits down with sports vision expert and coach Jim Gorman. Jim shares his extensive experience from coaching various sports, including tennis, football, and racing, to provide insights on optimizing vision for better performance in pool and cue sports. From addressing common visual habits to offering practical drills, you'll learn the science and techniques behind effective sports vision. Jim's unique tips, like maintaining proper head position and adjusting your stance, can help elevate your game to new heights. Tune in and discover how to sharpen your focus and consistency on the pool table!

00:00 Introduction to Sports Vision in Pool

00:25 Meet Jim Gorman: From Tennis to Sports Vision Coach

02:40 Discovering Pool: A New Passion

04:21 The Science Behind Sports Vision

06:44 Practical Vision and Balancing Techniques for Pool

11:59 Advanced Vision Strategies and Drills

19:51 Eye Dominance and Vision in Pool

20:43 Head Position and Vision Alignment

21:05 Measuring and Adjusting Vision for Better Performance

22:45 Common Vision Problems in Pool Players

24:12 Improving Vision and Performance with Practice

29:54 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

30:45 Sports Vision Demos with Sue and Jim

Where you can find our guest:

Email: Jim Gorman - Opticjimg@comcast.net

Where you can find us:

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

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

📧Email - luckybreakspodcast@gmail.com

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

In this edition of the Lucky Breaks Podcast, we explore the experiences of the Cobra Kai pool team, captained by Abhilash and Shekhar, as they prepare for and participate in the APA 9-Ball World Championship event in Las Vegas. The episode delves into the origins of the team name, Cobra Kai, and the changes made to overcome past challenges. Key moments and strategies from their tournament journey are shared, highlighting both successes and setbacks. The episode also covers their preparation methods and team dynamics, emphasizing the importance of practice, mental fortitude, and team support. The hosts and guests discuss the competitive environment, the emotional highs and lows, and the camaraderie that helped shape their experience. The episode concludes with a hopeful look towards future competitions and the potential for another shot at APA World Championship.

00:00 Welcome to the Lucky Breaks Podcast

01:05 Meet the Team: Cobra Kai

05:13 The Journey to Las Vegas

05:59 Tips and Strategies for Success

10:19 Excitement and Concerns for the Tournament

18:37 Magic 8-Ball Predictions before APA Worlds

19:49 Team's Performance Recap

21:01 Vegas Tournament Experience

22:11 Highlights and Turning Points

24:45 Team Dynamics and Support

25:41 Captain's Tournament Insights

30:41 Preparation and Strategy

35:33 Magic 8-Ball Predictions and Looking Ahead to Next Year

36:58 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Where you can find our guest:

Instagram - Abhilash Gopinath, Shekhar Jindal

Where you can find us:

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

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

📧Email - luckybreakspodcast@gmail.com

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#luckybreakspodcast #pool #billiards

Join us in this captivating episode of the Lucky Breaks Podcast as host Sue Lueder delves into the fascinating world of pool hall family dynamics with Tan and TP Tran, a talented father-son duo. Learn about Tan's early addiction to pool strategizing and TP's late blooming interest in the sport. Discover how their different paths have converged, diving deep into their insights on strategy, pressure, and the unique dynamics of high-stakes matches. Plus, hear about their preparation for the US Amateur Tournament, the lessons learned from each other, and the impact of Lucky Shot Billiards on their relationship. Perfect for pool enthusiasts, this conversation is a blend of personal growth, competitive spirit, and family bonds. Don't miss it!

00:00 Introduction

01:13 Tan's Origin Story in Pool

02:51 TP's Journey into Pool

04:45 The Challenges and Skills in Pool

06:23 Engineering and Creativity in Pool

10:36 Upcoming US Amateurs Qualifier

17:08 Handling Pressure in Competitive Pool

18:15 Balancing Expectations and Practice

18:46 Preparing for the US Amateurs

19:17 Lessons from Teaching Pool

24:47 The Role of the Pool Hall

27:17 Memorable Pool Moments

32:49 Life Lessons from Pool

37:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Where you can find our guest:

Facebook - Lucky Shot Billiards - https://www.facebook.com/LuckyShotBilliards

Facebook - TP Tran - https://www.facebook.com/tp.tranthien.3

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