JRE #2034 - Jeremy Jones

13-Sep-23

Joe Rogan Experience #2034 – Jeremy Jones

This podcast is an engaging conversation with Jeremy Jones, a professional pool player, touching on his journey, the intricacies of pool, and the captivating culture surrounding it. The topics delve into the competitive world of pool, the thrill of gambling, and the unique personalities within the game.

1. Jeremy Jones’s Journey into Professional Pool

Jones started playing pool relatively late at age 17, driven by the desire to beat a friend who hustled him.
He quit his pizza restaurant job and got a job at a pool room to play for free, becoming immersed in the pool culture.
His early road trips were an adventurous experience of gambling on pool, traveling across the country, and learning the game on the fly.
His talent quickly developed, and he eventually transitioned to professional tournaments, leaving behind the “hustling” lifestyle.

2. The Compelling Culture of Pool

Pool halls are often vibrant with gambling, offering a unique blend of skill and luck, with action that can go on for days.
The atmosphere fosters camaraderie and rivalries, with players constantly engaged in competition and banter, creating a dynamic and exciting environment.
The podcast highlights the unique personalities of pool players, including “steak horses” who fund games, and the legendary characters who create a rich, sometimes wild, culture.
Rogan emphasizes the allure of the “pool hustler” archetype, a figure who defies conventional career paths, embodying the spirit of skill, risk, and unconventional living.

3. The Art of Pool

Pool is presented as a highly technical and strategic game, demanding precision and control, with a deep understanding of angles, spin, and ball behavior.
The podcast explores different approaches to the game, from the “steady gear” approach to the aggressive, “run out” style, illustrating the diverse strategies and techniques employed by players.
The discussion highlights the importance of fundamentals, emphasizing the need for a consistent, repeatable stroke, which can be learned through extensive practice and dedication.
The podcast emphasizes the beauty of the game, particularly the artistry of executing precise shots and watching the cue ball curve and navigate the table, creating moments of visual elegance.

4. The Mental and Physical Demands of Pool

The podcast reveals the immense mental and physical toll that professional pool playing can take, requiring hours of practice and a high level of focus and concentration.
Jones describes the intense pressure experienced during tournaments, especially the Mosconi Cup, where the competition is fierce and the stakes are high.
The podcast highlights the importance of mental stamina and the ability to shut out distractions, particularly in high-pressure situations.
The discussion also explores the physical demands of the game, noting the importance of proper technique and the potential impact of physical activities like weightlifting on stroke consistency.

5. The Future of Pool

The podcast highlights the recent resurgence in the popularity of pool, fueled by the internet, the pandemic, and the increasing accessibility of live streaming events.
Jones discusses the evolution of pool equipment, particularly the rise of carbon fiber cues and the ongoing debate about the benefits of wood versus carbon fiber shafts.
The podcast acknowledges the potential for a future resurgence in pool’s popularity through documentaries and other media, drawing inspiration from classic movies like “The Hustler” and “The Color of Money.”
Jones emphasizes the importance of showcasing the sport’s unique culture and personalities, particularly the gambling aspect, to attract new viewers and fans.

6. The Unique World of High Stakes Gambling in Pool

The podcast delves into the world of high-stakes gambling in pool, where games can involve tens of thousands, or even hundreds of thousands, of dollars.
Jones describes the thrill and pressure of playing for large sums, recounting instances where he’s been caught in intense games, often against opponents who are more experienced and less hesitant to gamble.
The podcast explores the different types of gambling games played, from straight-up matches to “gapper” games, where one player has a significant advantage.
The discussion also touches on the legal complexities of gambling in pool, particularly the distinction between side bets and organized events.

7. The Impact of Pool on Jeremy Jones’s Life

Jones shares his unique experiences traveling across the country as a hustler, highlighting the independence and wildness of that lifestyle, but also its challenges.
He describes the evolution of his relationship with gambling, acknowledging its risks but also its allure and excitement.
He reflects on the transition from gambling to professional pool, noting the different pressures and challenges associated with each path.
The podcast demonstrates how pool has shaped Jones’s personality, fostering a sharp intellect, a love for competition, and a resilience that has enabled him to navigate the world of professional pool.

8. The Role of Technology in Pool

The podcast acknowledges the role of technology in the development of the game, particularly the advancement of cue shafts, with the introduction of carbon fiber.
Jones discusses the pros and cons of different cue materials, highlighting the importance of feel and feedback for players, but also the potential for increased spin and consistency with carbon fiber shafts.
The podcast touches on the impact of technology on pool streaming, which has made the sport more accessible and popular, offering a platform for players to showcase their skills and attract new fans.
Jones emphasizes that despite technological advancements, the core principles of pool remain unchanged, requiring dedication, skill, and a deep understanding of the game’s intricacies.

9. The Legacy of Pool and Its Cultural Impact

The podcast explores the history of pool, highlighting the iconic movies that have captured the spirit and allure of the game, including “The Hustler” and “The Color of Money.”
Jones discusses the impact of these movies on the popularity of pool, noting the surge in players and the opening of pool halls after their release.
The podcast acknowledges the potential for similar media to reignite the game’s popularity, emphasizing the need for compelling storytelling and authentic representation of the sport’s culture.
The discussion suggests that the future of pool lies in a balance between its traditional roots and modern advancements, ensuring the game continues to captivate audiences and attract new generations of players.

10. The Importance of Practice and Dedication

The podcast emphasizes the crucial role of practice in achieving excellence in pool, with Jones sharing his own experiences and insights into developing his skills.
He highlights the importance of practicing with purpose, simulating tournament conditions, and focusing on quality over quantity in shot selection.
He underscores the commitment required to succeed, particularly the need to dedicate significant time and effort to honing technique and refining mental focus.
Jones believes that consistent practice is the foundation for success in pool, enabling players to overcome challenges, improve their skills, and reach their full potential.

11. The Mosconi Cup and International Competition

The podcast highlights the significance of the Mosconi Cup, a prestigious international team competition that pits Team USA against Team Europe.
Jones, who has represented Team USA on seven occasions, emphasizes the unique atmosphere of the event, with passionate crowds, intense rivalry, and a high level of competition.
The discussion explores the importance of team dynamics and the challenges of coaching and managing players under pressure.
Jones expresses his pride in representing Team USA and the camaraderie he shares with his teammates, highlighting the strong bonds formed through shared experiences and the pursuit of a common goal.

12. The Evolution of Pool Commentary

The podcast explores Jones’s transition from professional pool player to commentator, highlighting his ability to articulate the technical aspects of the game.
Jones credits his passion for the sport and his ability to analyze the game, drawing on his experiences as a player and coach.
He discusses the importance of conveying the complexities of pool to viewers, explaining the strategies, techniques, and potential mistakes that can occur during matches.
Jones believes that good commentary should be engaging, informative, and entertaining, enhancing the viewing experience for both casual and serious pool enthusiasts.

13. The Role of Mental Toughness in Pool

The podcast explores the psychological aspects of pool, emphasizing the importance of mental toughness and the ability to handle pressure and adversity.
Jones discusses how different players cope with pressure, highlighting the impact of personal life, relationships, and even physical activities on their mental state.
He acknowledges that mental toughness is a crucial component of success in pool, enabling players to maintain focus, overcome setbacks, and perform at their best under demanding conditions.
The discussion suggests that the mental game is just as important as the physical skills, requiring players to develop mental resilience, manage emotions, and stay focused on their goals.

14. The Power of Observation and Insight

The podcast emphasizes the value of observation and insight in pool, highlighting Jones’s ability to anticipate problems and recognize potential mistakes.
He discusses the importance of reading opponents, understanding their strengths and weaknesses, and predicting their likely moves.
Jones believes that the ability to analyze the game and identify patterns is a valuable asset, enabling players to make informed decisions and execute strategies effectively.
The discussion highlights the intellectual depth of pool, requiring players to combine technical skills with sharp observation and strategic thinking.

15. The Social Aspect of Pool

The podcast underscores the social aspects of pool, highlighting the camaraderie and relationships that develop within the community.
Jones describes the friendships he has forged with other players and the shared experiences that bind them together.
He notes the importance of social interaction in the game, acknowledging that pool halls provide a platform for players to connect, compete, and enjoy the sport together.
The discussion suggests that the social aspect of pool contributes to its enduring appeal, fostering a sense of community, shared passion, and enduring friendships.

5 Memorable Quotes:

“The people that are really good at pool are some of the fucking smartest people I’ve ever met in my life.”
“It’s almost like an art form that only the people that do it appreciate.”
“He’s not looking for that rhythm even though it’s there, I guess, a little bit, but he’s just a different machine. You know?”
“The luck aspect in 9 ball balls bounce all over the place. And when you’re down, and then all of a sudden, boom. The guy shits a nine ball in. You’re like, goddamn it.”
“It’s just a different nervousness than gambling. Gambling, I don’t recall ever starting off nervous.”

JRE #2034 – Jeremy Jones