Peggy Mallen: Breaking Barriers and Preserving Legacy as CEO of Balabushka Cue Company

Peggy Mallen has been the CEO of the legendary billiards brand Balabushka Cue Company for over two decades. Passionate about preserving the legacy of founder George Balabushka, whose name and product is prominently featured in the Academy Award-winning film, The Color of Money, Mallen is moving the company in a new direction.
She recently partnered with the award-winning content creation company Just Do GOOD Entertainment to be featured in an upcoming episode of their latest episodic series, Finding Kindness.
But perhaps more newsworthy, the producers behind Just Do GOOD have entered into a merchandising agreement with Mallen and Balabushka to create products that reflect the integrity and nostalgia of the world-famous brand.
Just how did Peggy begin her journey with billiards?
Here is her story. “I’ve been intrigued by the game since I was a teenager,” Peggy recalls. “But back then, it wasn’t considered appropriate for women to be in pool halls.” It wasn’t until her twenties — in her brother’s basement — that she first picked up a cue. Her real start came later, when she and her husband joined a league. What began as weekend fun grew into a passion that reshaped her
career.
“It started with just playing in a league,” she says. “Then we bought the league. Then we opened our retail store. And in 2011, the opportunity to purchase the Balabushka Cue Company came to us.”

Like laying the foundation of a house, each step in Peggy’s journey built toward something greater. With the acquisition of the Balabushka brand, she stepped into a role few women had held — CEO of a legendary cue company with international recognition.
“Balabushka is more than a cue — it’s a story, a legacy. It’s recognized not just in the U.S. but around the world,” Peggy says. “I wear the responsibility like a badge of honor.” She remains closely connected with the Balabushka family and holds fast to the brand’s original commitment to craftsmanship and quality. Under her leadership, Balabushka cues continue to be revered not just for their playability, but also for their rich history and story. Over the past two decades, Peggy has witnessed the evolution of billiards — particularly in female participation. “Online videos and streaming have played a huge role in growing the sport. It’s more accessible than ever.”

As a leader in a male-heavy industry, Peggy’s focus has never wavered. “Customer service is everything. I want every customer to feel seen, heard, and respected.”
George Balabushka built cues with precision and personality. His innovations — from the famous Bushka rings to his veneer color combinations — are legendary. His proximity to the greats of his time helped him fine-tune his process.
But it was 1986’s The Color of Money that truly immortalized the name. “That film took Balabushka into the stratosphere,” Peggy notes. “No other cue brand has that level of cultural impact.”
For aspiring entrepreneurs, Peggy offers this: “Starting a business is rewarding, scary,frustrating, and liberating, often all in one day. But once you’ve tasted that freedom, it’s hard to go back.” Her guiding motto? “I have every right to ask questions and make the final decision.” It’s a message of confidence and clarity for any leader, especially women, as they carve their own space in legacy industries.
As Peggy Mallen continues her journey with Balabushka, it’s clear she’s not just maintaining a brand — she’s building a movement. A legacy in motion, steeped in authenticity, fueled by passion, and led by a woman who knows exactly where she stands.