In the third installment of our five-part conversation with former Mosconi Cup Captain, professional pool player, teacher, and broadcaster Mark Wilson, we dive deep into the formative years that shaped his career — on and off the table.

Mark’s story picks up in the heat of fierce competition and colorful characters. From life on the road with the fiery Jeff "The Pool Monster" Carter — a player as polarizing as he was talented — to the lessons learned under the watchful (and often demanding) eye of legendary mentor Frank “Sailor” Stellman, Mark shares how these relationships forged both his skills and his mental toughness.

We hear how “Sailor’s” no-nonsense standards, like his exclusive 100-Ball Runners Club tables, inspired Mark to grind relentlessly until he earned his place among the game’s elite. Along the way, Mark recalls key moments: winning the Wisconsin State Championship with a perfect 100-ball run, the thrill (and humbling reality) of matching up with Hall of Famer Steve Mizerak, and the boom-time action in Houston during the oil-rich late ’70s.

Mark also reflects on detours in his career — from a short-lived business venture in Nashville to the lure of returning to the road — and the importance of staying true to his passion for playing rather than chasing money. His tales are peppered with insider glimpses of the pool world’s unwritten rules, its high-stakes action, and its larger-than-life personalities.

Whether you’re a student of pool history or simply love great storytelling, this episode offers a rare window into the grit, humor, and heart it takes to thrive in the golden era of American billiards.

Give Allison, Mark & Mike some feedback via Text.

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Music by Lyrium.

About

"Legends of the Cue" is a pool history podcast featuring interviews with Pool Hall of Fame members, winners of major championships and other people of influence in and around pocket billiards. We also plan to highlight memorable pool brands, events and venues. Focusing on the positive aspects of the sport, we aim to create and provide an engaging and timeless repository of content that listeners can enjoy now and forever. Co-hosted by WPA and BCA Hall of Fame member Allison Fisher, Mosconi Cup player and captain Mark Wilson, our podcast focuses on telling the life stories of pool's greatest, in their voices. Join Allison, Mark and Mike Gonzalez for “Legends of the Cue.”