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

Michele Frizzell is the founder of Mahj Life and leader of the Mahj Life Instructor Guild, a global professional community dedicated to elevating standards in American mah jongg education. With nearly five decades of playing experience and more than 35 years of teaching, Michele is widely recognized for her ability to make complex concepts approachable, strategic, and actionable for players and instructors alike.

An instructor, author, speaker, and professional coach, Michele earned her coaching certification through a CPD Standards Office-accredited coaching program, bringing evidence-informed coaching principles to her work with players and instructors. She blends deep game knowledge with proven coaching techniques to help learners strengthen decision-making, build confidence, and refine performance under pressure. Her teaching emphasizes strategy, situational awareness, and practical application, enabling students to move beyond memorization toward intentional, adaptable play.

Michele is the author of the American Mah Jongg Primer series and creator of a growing library of educational resources, coaching tools, and professional development programs. Under her leadership, the Mahj Life Merit Program for Instructors (MPI) earned CPD Standards Office accreditation, reflecting Mahj Life’s commitment to competency-based education and high standards in instructor development.

Through Mahj Life and the Mahj Life Instructor Guild, Michele is committed to advancing instructor education through meaningful professional development. She helps instructors strengthen their knowledge, refine their teaching practices, and create exceptional learning experiences that build confidence, connection, and lasting enjoyment for their students.

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