Mahj Life Instructor Guild > Teaching FACE-TO-FACE and ONLINE, nationwide!

Michaelle Flynn is a passionate teacher, community builder, and lifelong learner who specializes in introducing players to the art, strategy, and joy of American mah jongg. Through her warm, encouraging teaching style, she transforms what can seem like a complex game into an accessible, engaging, and deeply rewarding experience for players of all levels.

As the founder of The Joyful Tiles of Mahjong, Michaelle has created a welcoming environment where beginners build confidence, returning players regain momentum, and experienced players deepen their strategic understanding. She goes beyond rule memorization, teaching students how to recognize patterns, think strategically, and understand the “why” behind each decision. This foundation helps players move naturally from uncertainty to confidence.

Michaelle is known for breaking American mah jongg into clear, manageable steps. She emphasizes confident card reading, pattern recognition, defensive awareness, and flexible thinking—skills that allow players to adapt as each hand unfolds. Her classes combine structure with interactivity, using guided play, real-time coaching, and practical strategy sessions to reinforce learning through experience.

She offers small-group instruction, multi-week beginner series, private lessons, and ongoing mentoring. In addition to teaching gameplay, Michaelle helps students organize tables, build community, and feel fully integrated into the broader mah jongg world.

What truly distinguishes Michaelle is the atmosphere she creates. Her sessions are positive, low-pressure, and joyful. Drawing from her background in mindfulness and creative practice, she encourages calm focus, curiosity, and adaptability—helping students reduce overwhelm while mastering increasingly sophisticated strategies.

Based in Southern Vermont, Michaelle teaches at community centers, art spaces, and private gatherings. She welcomes players of all backgrounds and is especially skilled at guiding those who may feel intimidated by the game. For Michaelle, mah jongg is more than tiles and rules—it is connection, mental engagement, and joyful community in action.

Student Skill Level: Beginner, Intermediate

In-Person Lesson and Guided Play Size: 8 players with an assistant

NMJL Card Collector

Proceeds donated to breast cancer awareness.

Microcredentials:

First Principles Promise: I promise to teach you the first principles of mah jongg using the official rules, giving you a strong foundation and the confidence to play with anyone, anywhere.

Variations Awareness Pledge: I pledge to distinguish house rules from the official rules and help you understand their impact so you can confidently adapt and enjoy the game anywhere.

Pride In Excellence Initiative