Part 2 follows Justin Bergman from gifted young player to feared road man, and it is packed with the kind of stories pool fans love. Justin talks about the pros and great players who passed through his orbit while he was still a kid, including Efren Reyes and other international stars who came through Mark Wilson’s room. He explains the way he really learned to practice — not through endless drills, but by throwing out all 15 balls and playing rotation, a method he still trusts today. The conversation also opens into a broader appreciation of cue-sport genius, with great discussion about Efren’s astonishing versatility and why certain players seem to see the game on a different level.

From there, the episode moves into the action side of Justin’s life. He recalls gambling as a teenager, keeping a ledger of players and places, flying to California for weekend scores, and taking a wild Reno road trip that turned into a marathon money match, near-disaster winter travel, and a four-year relationship that began in Utah. It is a vivid portrait of a disappearing pool culture — one built on backers, spot books, action rooms, and the constant search for the next game. Justin and Mark also talk about one pocket, the St. Louis gambling scene, and the late Mark O’Brien’s role in helping Justin develop into a more complete player.

The episode closes on Justin’s early competitive breakthroughs, including BEF Junior National success and overseas trips representing the United States, where he first saw just how high the international standard really was. It is a terrific chapter on education by experience, and on how talent becomes toughness.

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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.”