John Schmidt - Part 1 (Breaking Barriers, Building Grit)

In this episode of Legends of the Cue, Allison Fisher, Mark Wilson, and Mike Gonzalez sit down with one of pool’s modern legends—John Schmidt, affectionately known as “Mr. 600.” Schmidt etched his name in billiards history by surpassing Willie Mosconi’s fabled 526-ball straight pool record, a mark that stood unchallenged for 65 years. But as listeners quickly learn, his story is far richer than a single number.

From his humble beginnings in Keokuk, Iowa—born on a bridge, no less—to a childhood shaped by blue-collar toughness and resilience, Schmidt’s path was anything but conventional. Growing up in small towns, delivering newspapers, dreaming of a BMX bike, and competing in youth sports, he eventually stumbled into pool almost by accident. What started as casual games with his younger brother in California soon lit a fire that would carry him into the heart of America’s pool halls.

Schmidt recalls the fascination of seeing a cue ball draw back for the first time, his early struggles as a self-described “walking ATM” for seasoned players, and how observation, grit, and money matches forged his competitive edge. With candid humor, he paints vivid scenes of smoky pool rooms, $10 sets that felt life-or-death, and the intoxicating blend of gambling and learning that shaped his formative years.

Throughout, Schmidt’s love for golf, respect for mentors like Bobby Hunter, and admiration for fellow champions add color to a narrative that is as much about character as it is about cueing balls. Listeners are given an intimate look at the roots of a man whose resilience, fearlessness, and relentless drive would eventually propel him onto the world stage.

This is the first of four conversations tracing Schmidt’s remarkable journey—equal parts grit, heart, and history.

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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.”