Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Mahjong & Mics

When your hand isn’t coming together, do you stick it out or change course? In this episode, we’re talking all things pivoting in American Mahjong—from recognizing the signs that it’s time to switch hands to knowing when to hold your ground. We explore strategy, timing, exposures, backup plans, and the very real struggle of breaking up with a hand you’ve fallen in love with. Because sometimes the smartest move isn’t chasing the hand you wanted—it’s knowing when to let it go!

We sit down with Avery Burns of Rocky Mountain Mahjong to talk about the journey that made her the player, teacher, community builder, and Mahjong personality she is today. Avery shares her perspective on resilience, the power of kindness, and her passion for creating welcoming Mahjong communities through teaching and philanthropy. We also get into her serious side as a tournament player—including strategy, competition, and what it takes to play at the highest level—while having plenty of fun with the playful, over-the-top personality that makes Avery so much fun to watch and listen to. It’s a conversation about resilience, kindness, competition, community…and, of course, Mahjong!

In this episode, we’re Playing It Forward! We dive into the world of Mahjong events that give back, from creative tournament and gathering ideas to different ways to raise funds for a cause. We also explore meaningful ways to make a difference that don’t cost a dime. Whether you’re planning a big event or simply want to use your Mahjong community to do some good, we’ve got plenty of ideas to inspire you to play with purpose.

In this episode, we’re diving into the world of online American Mahjong—from playing against bots to sitting down at a virtual table with players from anywhere.  We’ll compare some of the most popular Mahjong apps and sites, talk about what we love, and share what first-time online players should know before they click “Join Game.” Is online Mahjong as fun as playing around the table with friends? Let’s find out!

We talk about Molly’s new app, TileTime, and then dive into the many sides of Mahjong Molly—as a teacher, mentor, influencer, strategist, and player. It’s a fun conversation about her approach to the game, the Mahjong community, and what she’s learned along the way.

What if your love language isn’t Words of Affirmation, Acts of Service, Quality Time, Receiving Gifts, or Physical Touch—but Mahjong? In this playful episode, we’re putting a Mahjong spin on the five love languages and exploring how each one shows up around the table. From setting up the perfect game to celebrating a friend’s big win, find out how you give and receive Mahjong love—and take our quiz to discover your very own Mahjong Love Language!

Pairs may be small, but they can have a BIG impact on your American Mahjong game! In this episode of Mahjong and Mics, we're talking all things pairs—from the golden pairs we desperately want to protect to the dangerous pairs that keep us hanging onto a hand that just isn't happening. When should you keep a pair? When should you break it? We'll explore the strategy, psychology, and downright emotional attachment that comes with those two matching tiles. 

Come listen as Nancy de Zutter joins us to take us behind the scenes of Mahjong history! Nancy was one of the four players who recently broke the Guinness World Record for the longest Mahjong game. She shares the exhaustion, strategy, laughs, challenges, and unforgettable moments from 48 hours at the table.

What would you rather do at the Mahjong table? In this fun and fast-paced episode of Mahjong and Mics, we're putting ourselves—and our Mahjong preferences—to the test with a hilarious collection of “Would You Rather?” questions. From game play and strategy to Mahjong personalities, pet peeves, and ridiculous scenarios, we're debating the choices that every Mahjong player can relate to. Which choices would you make? Listen along and see if your answers match ours!

Is Mahjong all about the tiles you draw, or do great players create their own luck? Tina and Michelle tackle the age-old debate of luck versus skill, sharing personal stories, spirited opinions, and practical insights into what really leads to winning at the Mahjong table.

In this episode, we sit down with the team behind Miss Mahjong, a Wichita-based tile company, to hear the story behind their business, what inspires their beautiful designs, and how they landed an exciting collaboration with Hallmark. From creating unique tiles to seeing them featured in a Hallmark movie, it's a fun conversation full of creativity, entrepreneurship, and plenty of Mahjong magic.

Mah Jongg Maven has been a trusted name in the Mahjong world for nearly three decades, and in this episode, we sit down with Debbie Levin Katz to learn how she took the reins of this iconic brand during Mahjong's recent boom. We talk about the enduring appeal of the company’s customized jokers, how the Mahjong business has evolved over the years, and the exciting recent collaboration between Mah Jongg Maven and a world-famous entity.

Michelle and Tina each bring five of their favorite Mahjong strategies to the mic, sharing practical tips for both beginners and seasoned players. From Charleston choices to table-reading tactics, they reveal what's worked for them—and what hasn't—all with plenty of laughs and lively conversation along the way.

This week, we sit down with Anna Nguyen, Creative Director and Graphic Designer for Oh My Mahjong, to explore the creative vision behind one of Mahjong's most recognizable brands. Anna shares her journey to OMM, the inspiration behind their iconic tiles and mats, and how design is helping shape the modern Mahjong experience. Plus, we talk about her personal love of the game and what a perfect Mahjong night looks like.

Can we talk about this?! In this episode, we're putting five controversial Mahjong hot topics on the table and debating both sides. Should hosts make their own rules? Is Mahjong night about winning or socializing? Are modern tile designs ruining the game—or making it better? Grab your card and prepare to pick a side as we tackle some of Mahjong's most passionate debates.

What happens when Mahjong meets a pool party? Mahj POOLooza! Join us as we relive the memorable moments from Michelle's day-long Mahjong celebration, review pool mats and floating accessories, and share the products that made playing in the water surprisingly fun and successful. If you've ever dreamed of taking your game poolside, this episode is for you.

This week, we sit down with Lara of Lara's Mahjong Edit for a conversation packed with practical teaching advice, smart game-play strategies, and plenty of Mahjong inspiration. Lara shares how she's built a unique business centered on helping players build confidence at the table. Whether you're learning or looking to sharpen your game, this episode is full of valuable takeaways.

This week on Mahjong and Mics, we enter the world of Mahjong speed dating as we sit down with five alternative Mahjong cards to see which ones steal our hearts. We explore the personalities, play styles, quirks, and chaos levels of cards released by The Mahjong Line, American Mahjong Society, Miss Mahjong, Mahjong & Magnolia, and Oh My Mahjong. Take a listen while we reveal what it’s really like to play each card and what your favorite alternative card might secretly say about you.

In this episode of Mahjong and Mics titled “Teachers Near and Far,” we speak with two inspiring Mahjong teachers growing the game in their own unique ways. We chat with Tulsa’s Jen Keeling of Mahjong with Jen and The Bamboo Room, then head to Georgia to meet Christy Dickey of Bamboo and Boxwoods. From teaching philosophies and Mahjong trends to funny table stories and building community through the tiles, this episode is full of insight, inspiration, and plenty of Mahjong fun. 

Mahjong isn’t just strategy—it’s emotions. From fear to frustration to full-blown elation, we’re breaking down exactly what this game does to us… one feeling at a time.

In this episode, we tackle the art of choosing a hand and committing to it in Mahjong. We cover how to evaluate your tiles, narrow your options, and decide when to go all in—or pivot. With a mix of strategy and humor, it’s all about playing with confidence and letting go of bad hands sooner. 

In this special one-year anniversary episode, we’re taking a look back at the first year of Mahjong and Mics! From our very first recording to building a growing community of Mahjong lovers, we reflect on the highlights, lessons learned, and a few behind-the-scenes moments along the way. We also take an honest look at our social media journey and merchandise—what worked, what surprised us, and what we’d do differently. It’s equal parts celebration, reflection, and a little bit of the chaos that got us here. Cheers to one year… and Mahj more to come! 

In this episode, we dive into the newly-released 2026 National Mahjong League card, sharing our first reactions, favorite hands, and biggest surprises. We break down key patterns and potential strategy shifts as players adjust to the new card. Whether you’ve studied the card cover to cover or just opened it, this episode will help you approach the new card with confidence—and a little humor.

In this playful “Mahjong Goes to College” episode, Michelle and Tina kick things off with a hilarious co-host banter imagining what Mahjong would be like as a college student—complete with majors, social life, and dorm room vibes. They then sit down with Anne Potter of West Wind Mahjong to explore her creative line of university-themed Mahjong tiles and how school spirit meets game night. The episode wraps with Oleta Salyards of Mahjong Sisterhood, diving into her sorority-inspired tile designs and the powerful connection between sisterhood and Mahjong.

In this episode, we chat with Kathy Wise, editor of Mahj the Magazine, as she shares her personal Mahj story, the incredible team behind the publication, and the inside scoop on this fresh, stylish publication. We dive into the inspiration for the magazine and her hopes for it’s future. Kathy also serves up helpful tournament advice and tops it all off with a go-to snack recipe perfect for your next Mahj night.

“Tournament Trials and Triumphs” is all about our first-ever mahjong tournament experience—equal parts nerves, surprises, and unforgettable fun. We share what caught us off guard, what we learned on the fly, and the moments that made us feel like total champs (and total rookies). Whether you’re tournament-curious or a seasoned player, come along for the highs, the lows, and everything in between.

“Dishing on the Draw and Discard” is all about the tiny decisions that make a big difference at the Mahjong table. We unpack the do’s and don’ts of drawing and discarding, and then we walk through several sticky situations and share their solutions. The episode is rounded out by serving up practical strategy tips to help you discard with intention and protect your hand.

During their “Besties and Brunch” event, we mixed play with work as we sat down with Meredith Ajello and Robin Offut, the owners of Bam Bird Boutique. We got in some games and then carried the conversation over to the mic. In this episode, we hear insider information about their business, a high-profile collaboration, and their summer products. Give a listen to find out what makes Bam Bird Boutique and their products so special and unique.

Michelle and Tina share the excitement of opening the Oh My Mahjong Mahji Mentor Conference with a special live episode of Mahjong and Mics. In this episode, listeners get to hear the actual audio from the stage—full of laughs, mahjong love, and the electric energy of being surrounded by fellow players. It’s a behind-the-scenes seat at the conference kickoff and a celebration of the amazing Mahjong community that made the moment unforgettable.

In this special recap episode, we relive our unforgettable weekend with Oh My Mahjong at their annual conference! From performing a live episode in front of 200 Mahji Mentors to attending the fabulous welcome party, we share behind-the-scenes moments, favorite highlights, and the joy of connecting with some of the very best people in the mahjong community. It was a weekend full of laughter, friendship, and tiles — and we’re bringing you right along for the fun.

In this episode of Mahjong and Mics, Michelle and Tina explore the history of flower tiles, highlight the many graphic styles found in modern sets, and share smart strategies for using (or discarding) flowers during play. It’s a quick, fun dive into why these tiles matter more than you might think—on and off the card.

Mahjong is having a moment, and we’re breaking down why. This episode dives into how the game creates healing space, meaningful community, lasting friendships, and plenty of laughter around the table. More than a trend, Mahjong is connection—one tile at a time.

In All’s Fair in Love and Mahjong, we dive into the wild world of couples who play together — and survive to tell about it. We asked real-life duos questions, and their answers run the full spectrum from heart-meltingly sweet to hilariously sarcastic… with a little spice tossed in for good measure. Turns out, love and mahjong both come with strategy, patience, and the occasional side-eye.

In this episode of Mahjong and Mics, we’re calling out the tells — those little habits, facial expressions, and suspicious tile behaviors that give mahjong players away. With our usual ridiculous humor, we spill some table-side secrets, share stories, and lovingly expose the giveaways we’ve all tried (and failed) to hide. You might laugh, you might feel seen… and you’ll definitely walk away with a few new signs to watch for at your next game.

In this episode of Mahjong and Mics, we’re joined by Megan Trottier, the founder and creative catalyst behind Oh My Mahjong, for a conversation about the past, present, and future of her fast-growing company. It’s an inside look at the vision, heart, and hustle of the brilliant woman helping shape the mahjong movement today.

In this episode, Michelle and Tina take a deep look into the process for getting tiles onto players’ racks. Listeners will hear about the traditions, mishaps, and even a potential secret handshake of the almost-sacred rhythm of the deal.

This week on Mahjong & Mics, Michell and Tina are talking about New Year’s resolutions. From improving their game to improving themselves, they explore the funny, the frustrating, and the meaningful ways resolutions show up in Mahjong as self-titled podcast superstars.

In this festive episode of Mahjong & Mics, we imagine beloved holiday characters pulling up a chair at the Mahjong table—and the chaos that ensues. From Santa’s generous tile play to the Grinch’s strategic side-eye, we explore how iconic personalities handle rules, rivalries, and bad hands. Packed with pop-culture humor and relatable Mahjong moments, this episode is a lighthearted celebration of holiday spirit, tradition, and table-side antics.

In this episode, Tina and Michelle sit down with Sydney Tucker and Brooke Benoit, the dynamic duo behind Mockingbird & Magnolia, a Northwest Arkansas brand celebrating all things Mahjong, friendship, and fun.The Mockingbird Magnolia founders share the story behind their charming business, the growing lunchtime Mahjong crew at work, and the community they’re building through their stylish t-shirts, local events, and thoughtful blog From Our Table to Yours.

In this special episode, we get to record in Sam’s Club’s stunning in-house studio (video version in link below!) and interview Rachel Ludeman, a buyer for Sam’s Club. Rachel walks us through the process from initial idea to launch of their fantastic Mahjong tile set. Rachel shares behind-the-scenes insights and how the Sam’s Club’s sets are making the game more accessible and growing the Mahjong community.

Video Version Here

In this potentially scandalous episode, Michelle and Tina break down the facts surrounding the two newly released boutique mahjong cards and the wave of reactions online. They present a balanced look at the positives, negatives, and concerns voiced by the community—offering a clear (even humorous) overview of what these new cards mean for today’s players.

https://www.mahjsocial.com/pages/mahj-musts

In this heartfelt episode, Tina and Michelle laugh and cry as they reflect on personal, podcast, and Mahjong-related moments of gratitude. It’s a cozy reminder to pause, play, and give thanks for the community this game creates.

Tina and Michelle unwrap the festive side of Mahjong, exploring how players celebrate the season with themed games, parties, and traditions from Hanukkah to Christmas and beyond. They share gift ideas, holiday mats, and tips for hosting inclusive gatherings around the table. It’s a merry mix of laughter, friendship, and Mahjong cheer!

Gabby Spatt: Mahjong for Israel https://www.instagram.com/mahjongforisrael/

Tiles & Tonic: https://www.instagram.com/tilesandtonic/

Tina’s family punch recipe: Boil 3 c sugar & 6 c water for 5 min. Let cool. Blend 3 bananas. Add 1 small can frozen lemonade & 2 small cans frozen orange juice and blend. Mix in 2 46 oz. cans of pineapple juice. Add cooled sugar/water mix. Put in freezer for 4-5 hours. Stir in 3 qts ginger ale and serve slushy. Serves 50 people--because my grandmother didn’t know how to cook for less than a crowd!

Tipsy Grinch Punch: https://www.simplisticallyliving.com/tipsy-grinch-punch/

Michelle’s Corn Dip Recipe: 1 c sour cream, 1 c mayo, 1 c shredded Mexi cheese, 1 cans fiesta corn (drained, 1 pkg taco seasoning. Mix.

Moderntribe Marzipan: https://moderntribe.com/products/hanukkah-mahjong-tiles

Mahjong Besties https://www.etsy.com/listing/4381322961/happy-hanukkah-mahjong-mat-mahj-game?ref=shop_home_active_27&frs=1&logging_key=b4167133bbd320be716fae03929cec3371ade06f%3A4381322961

Hanukkah Dice: https://modernmahjong.com/products/hanukkah?srsltid=AfmBOoq_wEjZhsF6aO7XOb5DN7DjLmuoRTGSkkznjp8H_ylLnA1672IW

Holiday Mahjong Cards: https://modernmahjong.com/

Rockin’ Rudolph Tiles and Nativity Tiles https://www.hiphipmahjong.com/

Variety of mats and tiles https://ohmymahjong.com/

Stationery:https://www.etsy.com/shop/erinshelby?ref=shop_sugg_market

In Little “Hands,” Big Wins, Tina and Michelle share the joy of teaching Mahjong to the next generation. From tiny tile hands to big surprise victories, they highlight how kids bring fresh fun to the game. It’s a heartwarming look at family, laughter, and passing down Mahjong traditions.

In this episode, Mahjong and Mics takes a road trip to the University of Arkansas to visit the Chi Omega house! Michelle and Tina sit down with two Chi O sisters to chat about how Mahjong is finding its way into Greek Life and college campuses across the country. From late-night games and laughter-filled study breaks to the sense of community it creates, these collegiate players share how Mahjong is becoming the next big social trend on campus. Tune in as we explore what happens when tradition meets sisterhood — and the tiles hit the table!

Things get spooky on the mic as Tina and Michelle dive into the eerie world of Dead Hands! Dressed in their Halloween best, they break down what makes a hand “dead,” how it happens, and what the consequences are at the table. Between ghostly giggles and ghoulish gameplay stories, the hosts remind us that even a dead hand can still bring lively laughter and lessons to every Mahjong night.

http://myfairmahjong.com/

https://www.instagram.com/keepmahjingon/?hl=en

https://www.instagram.com/mahj_mood/

https://www.instagram.com/motorcitymahjong/

This week, Tina and Michelle explore the world of Siamese Mahjong—a two-player variation where each person manages two racks at once. They break down the basics, clear up common rule questions, and share their own tips, challenges, and strategies. From the thrill of juggling two Mahjongs to the quirks of joker use and exposures, it’s double the racks, double the fun.

This week, Michelle and Tina dive into the delicate dance between rules and etiquette at the Mahjong table. From punctuality and pace to chatter, card-sharing, and Cheeto fingers (yes, really), they unpack the unspoken courtesies that keep the game fun and friendships intact. 

In this special episode, Tina and Michelle welcome the creative force behind My Fair Mahjong, Katherine Marshall. From her weekly game table to launching one of the most beloved modern Mahjong brands, Katherine shares how her passion project grew into a joyful full-time business.

Michelle and Tina of Mahjong and Mics dive into Mahjong history, strategy, and culture to uncover ten fascinating tidbits. Their lively, table-talk style makes these surprising facts as entertaining as a winning hand.