In this first installment with American pool star Justin Bergman, we go all the way back to the beginning. Justin shares what it was like growing up in Fairview Heights, Illinois, just outside St. Louis, in a family where pool quickly became more than just a pastime. He talks about learning the game through his father and uncle, getting his first real table at home, and falling so deeply in love with pool that it soon crowded out baseball, basketball, and just about everything else.

This episode also shines a light on the early bond between Justin and Legends of the Cue co-host Mark Wilson, who first saw something rare in the young player at Teachers Billiards. Mark tells unforgettable stories from those days, including Justin running racks as a child, competing fearlessly against grown men, and showing the laser focus that would later earn him the nickname “Iceberg.” There are terrific laughs here too, including the story of Justin staying calm while his little sister rode circles around the table on a tricycle — and even tossed a Barbie doll onto the cloth — while he kept right on shooting.

You’ll also hear about the rich St. Louis-area pool culture that helped shape Justin’s game, the competitive spark he shared with Lars Vardaman, and a hilarious story involving Kathy, a tiny tournament, and the “major title” that supposedly forced Mark into marriage. This is a warm, funny, deeply personal opening chapter on one of America’s most naturally gifted cueists.

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Music by Lyrium.

About

"Legends of the Cue" is a cue sports history podcast featuring interviews with Hall of Fame members, world champions, and influential figures from across the world of cue sports—including pocket billiards, snooker, and carom disciplines such as three-cushion billiards. We highlight the people, places, and moments that have shaped the game—celebrating iconic players, memorable events, historic venues, and the brands that helped define generations of play. With a focus on the positive spirit of the sport, our goal is to create a rich, engaging, and timeless archive of stories that fans can enjoy now and for years to come.

Co-hosted by WPA and BCA Hall of Fame member Allison Fisher and Mosconi Cup player and captain Mark Wilson, Legends of the Cue brings these stories to life—told in the voices of the game’s greatest figures.

Join Allison, Mark and Mike Gonzalez for “Legends of the Cue.”