In today’s episode Fern welcomes two guests to the podcast. The first is Debbie Barnett, co-founder of MahjCon along with her partner Michele Frizzelle. We’ll discuss details about the upcoming event happening in October in Boca Raton, Fl. Fern’s second guest is Theresa Bounassi who attended MahjCon last year. Theresa also shares her love of teaching and playing mahj and she shares how she recently connected with new friends in her new home in Alaska through the game of mah jongg. I’m wishing ev...
Jul 04, 2022•59 min•Ep. 101
Let’s celebrate! Liam and I are excited to have reached the 100th episode of the podcast. I have some very special people joining me on the podcast today to help me celebrate this milestone episode. My guest today is Karen Gooen who will be talking with me about back up hands and the positive effects that technology and social media had during the trying time we all encountered during covid. MJTI! was and is a fantastic Facebook home for us all to come together and share our love for mah jongg. ...
Jun 20, 2022•57 min•Ep. 100
In today’s episode Fern welcomes Jenelle Schatz to the podcast. They will discuss Mah Jongg For Memories, an organization Jenelle started after losing her husband to Alzeheimer’s in 2012. Jenelle found support, friendship and fun through learning mah jongg and joining in weekly games after her husband passed away. She now teaches mahj, loves tournaments and combining her love of the game with helping raise money and awareness about Alzheimers. Brian Dressler stops by the podcast with a special o...
Jun 06, 2022•55 min•Ep. 99
In today’s fun-filled episode join guests Jan Zegel, Mary Lechman and mah jongg’s funny lady Lorraine Urist, as they share their experience of being on the national tv game show: The Chain Reaction. Then get ready for some podcast game show fun as Fern tests their mahj knowledge. Liam joins in the game show fun too! Fern's book, Mah Jonng Mondays, can be found on Amazon.com or at your local bookseller. Want to support the show? Please consider becoming a Patron at patreon.com/mahjonggmondays...
May 23, 2022•47 min•Ep. 98
Join Fern and two guests in this information packed episode. Fern’s first guest is Sally Hall, a mahj player whose analytical mind promts her to take a deeper dive into the card. Fern’s second guest is mahj teacher and enthusiast Daron Barness. Daron helps us identify patterns and rhythms and she highlights some card insights for us all. So grab your card, a pencil and paper and lets get our mahj—on! Sally can be contacted at [email protected] Daron's website can be found at www.majbydaron.c...
May 06, 2022•1 hr 6 min•Ep. 97
Join Fern and returning guest Karen Gooen, aka Bubbe Fischer. Karen is a mah jongg teacher, strategist and analyst extraordinaire. Karen also has written three books with the theme of mah jongg and has spoken all around the country about her books and mah jongg wisdom. Go grab your new card, a pen and paper and lets dive into the new card with Karen. You can visit Karen's blog at bubbemj.blogspot.com , and you can purchase her book Searching for Bubbe Fischer: The Path to Mah Jongg Wisdom on Ama...
Apr 11, 2022•52 min•Ep. 96
It’s that incredibly special mah jongg time of the year! Our 2022 cards are arriving and the excitement is felt nation-wide! In today’s episode Lorraine Urist will give us some card highlights and insights. Let’s get our mahj-on!! www.mahshelpinghand.com www.ilovemahj.com Fern's book, Mah Jonng Mondays, can be found on Amazon.com or at your local bookseller. Want to support the show? Please consider becoming a Patron at patreon.com/mahjonggmondays...
Apr 04, 2022•58 min•Ep. 95
We’re just two weeks away from receiving our new 2022 mah jongg cards! How do you review and learn the new card? In this weeks episode Fern welcomes Lorraine Urist back to talk about tips and strategies to use when your card arrives. Fern's book, Mah Jonng Mondays, can be found on Amazon.com or at your local bookseller. Want to support the show? Please consider becoming a Patron at patreon.com/mahjonggmondays...
Mar 14, 2022•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 94
In todays episode Fern welcomes Lynda Schulman to the podcast to discuss her love of playing and teaching mah jongg. They will discuss the upcoming 2022 card and go over tips and strategies to help learn the card. Lynda runs In Tempo mah jongg tournaments in Scottsdale, Arizona and hopes to meet you the next time you are in town. https://intempobridge.com/mah-jongg-in-tempo/ Fern's book, Mah Jonng Mondays, can be found on Amazon.com or at your local bookseller. Want to support the show? Please c...
Feb 28, 2022•51 min•Ep. 93
In today’s episode Fern talks with tournament aficionado John Charles. John attends sixty tournaments a year and has gained insight and experience, some which he will share with us in today's episode. Fern's book, Mah Jonng Mondays, can be found on Amazon.com or at your local bookseller. Want to support the show? Please consider becoming a Patron at patreon.com/mahjonggmondays...
Feb 21, 2022•36 min•Ep. 92
Join Fern and her guest Sue Glass as they discuss Sue’s attendance at the NMJL’s annual meeting and hear what she learned. Fern and Sue also talk about the history and the formation of the league and the philanthropic role the league adheres to eighty-five years after its inception. Dr. Heinz's website can be found at www.amheinz.org Mah Jongg: The Musical's GoFundMe can be found here . https://hollyboxenhornscheduler.as.me/ Fern's book, Mah Jonng Mondays, can be found on Amazon.com or at your l...
Feb 07, 2022•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 91
In this weeks episode Fern welcomes fellow author and mahj enthusiast Barbara Barrett. Barbara writes mah jongg mysteries as well as non mahj themed stories in the romance genre. Barbara's website can be found at www.barbarabarrettbooks.com and you can sign up for her newsletter at www.subscribepage.com/BBCozies Fern's book, Mah Jonng Mondays, can be found on Amazon.com or at your local bookseller. Want to support the show? Please consider becoming a Patron at patreon.com/mahjonggmondays...
Jan 24, 2022•51 min•Ep. 90
Fern welcomes Terry Cole, mah jongg enthusiast and recent Jeopardy! contestant to the podcast. Listen in to hear how Terry, a third generation player gets her mahj—on, recently faced the reigning champ on Jeopardy! and teaches people like you and me how to tell stories that wow listeners. https://www.tellmeanotherstories.com/workshops If you'd like to order a signed copy of Fern's book, you can do so at www.burtonsbooks.com Want to help support the show? Become a patron at patreon.com/mahjonggmo...
Jan 17, 2022•54 min•Ep. 88
Happy New Year! This is the first episode of 2022! Today’s guest Karen Bloom, a third generation player shares her love and enthusiasm for mah jongg. It was b’shert (meant to be) she was reconnected to the game. The organization Hadassah brough the click-clack sound of the tiles back into Karen’s life and we will hear about the organization and how it helps people. Fern also talks about her very special mahj meetups in Florida. Listen in and enjoy the episode! https://www.hadassah.org/ If you'd ...
Jan 10, 2022•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 88
It’s the last episode of 2022! Join Fern and guest Kathy Jones as they discuss the details of some creative and fun twists in house rules to shake up your holiday games. Pass your rack to the right?!? Everyone pick a tile from the wall and discard one back in?!? Crazy house rules can cause crazy fun gaming excitement. We’ll get to hear from Liam too, as he joins Fern in the latter part of the episode. Wishing everyone a happy and healthy holiday!!! MJM Mah Jongg: The Musical episode (Episode 85)...
Dec 20, 2021•53 min•Ep. 87
Join Fern and returning guest mah jongg teacher Lorraine Urist as they talk about the Charleston. Lorraine highlights some tips and pointers for beginner to advanced players. There’s always laughter when Lorraine stops by and today’s episode is no different! Listen in as we talk, learn and laugh. If you would like to order a signed copy of Fern's memoir, you can place an order through Burton's Books at their website, burtonsbooks.com . Want to support the show? Become a patron at patreon.com/mah...
Dec 13, 2021•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 86
Join Fern and guests John Davis and Paolo Tatafiore, the creative team behind Mah Jongg the Musical. We’ll hear about this work in progress and behind the scenes details. Mah jongg on stage…doesn’t that sound amazing!!! Want to support the show? Head on over to patreon.com/mahjonggmondays and become a patron! If you would like to help contribute to Mah Jongg the Musical, their GoFundMe page can be found here . John and Paolo can be contacted via email: [email protected] [email protected]...
Dec 06, 2021•55 min•Ep. 85
Join Fern and her guests Joanne Harris and Patti Fell as these two mavens of mah jongg share the shenanigans they got into through their mah jongg friendship. Joanne’s love for the game inspired her to open an Etsy shop called Mah Jongg Ladies. Check out her shop for fun mahj inspired gifts. Both ladies can attest to the special bonds of friendship that form around a mah jongg table. Listen in and hear their fun stories! You can find Joanne's shop on Etsy as Mah Jongg Ladies ....
Nov 29, 2021•53 min•Ep. 84
Join Fern and guest Ron Tyson as they talk about how this man of mahj found his way to the game and has made special bonds of friendship through mah jongg. Ron also shares how he started the non-profit Bringing Smiles to Seniors organization and helps seniors across the country feel connection and love. Ron also shares some recent accolades while being recognized for his hard work and devotion to this organization. Whether winning at mah jongg or winning hearts by being such a great guy you will...
Nov 22, 2021•52 min•Ep. 83
Join Fern and this weeks guest Bonnie Wise as they talk all about mahj. Learn how this busy Florida County Administrator was lured to the tiles and pushed her gaming skills to achieve world championship status. Not only does Bonnie play both socially and competitively, she also takes time out of her busy schedule and together with fellow mahj player and friend Judy Serrapica, created Dragons on the Green, a 501(c)(3) organization. Together they teach the game to new players and hold tournaments....
Nov 08, 2021•57 min•Ep. 82
Join Fern and her guests, MahjCon hosts Michele Frizzell and Debbie Barnett, Kathleen DeMarco event attendee, mahj player and enthusiast, and Barney Gallessio, the colorful and exuberant event keynote speaker. We will hear details about the groundbreaking mah jongg event that will become an annual happening for mahj-minded people. Let’s all get our mahj—on at MahjCon! mahjcon.com Want to support the show? HEad on over to patreon.com/mahjonggmondays to sign up, show your support, and keep us ad-f...
Nov 01, 2021•1 hr 17 min•Ep. 81
Listen in as Fern calls her mah jongg friend Lorraine and they talk about life, mah jongg, movies and family. Whenever Lorraine is on the podcast you are sure to laugh. Fern’s husband makes a cameo and Lorraine shares some strategy. Want to support the show? Head on over to patreon.com/mahjonggmondays and sign up to become a patron!
Oct 18, 2021•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 80
Join Fern and her guests Jill Fox, Susan Bishop and Ali Wasserman as they talk about the moms mah jongg getaway at Club Med in Florida. Jill and Susan spread their love of the game through teaching new students and creating mahj centered getaways filled with much needed R&R for mahj playing moms. Ali shares her getaway experience with us. Like what you hear on todays episode? There’s another getaway coming up in a few months! Pack your bags and don't forget your mah jongg card! Want to suppo...
Oct 11, 2021•1 hr 6 min•Ep. 79
It’s fun question to ponder and in this weeks episode Fern and returning guest Lorraine Urist discuss their picks and read responses from members on MJTI! Want to support the show? Please consider becoming a patron over at patreon.com/mahjonggmondays to help keep the show ad-free!
Sep 27, 2021•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 78
Join Fern along with Lorraine Urist as they muse about mah jongg with guest Nikki Edwards from Minnesota. Nikki created a large mah jongg playing space for dozens of players in her home. The room is filled with mahj ephemera as well as tables ready to be played on. We all are touched by the game of mah jongg but some enthusiasts take it to another level like Nikki. She opened her heart and her home in her personal persuit of sharing her love of the game of mah jongg! Fern's book can be found on ...
Sep 13, 2021•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 77
Join Fern and her guest Tina Gottes as they read and discuss both the good and bad habits that mah jongg players shared on my Mah Jongg That’s It post. It’s an episode filled with information that new, intermediate and advanced players can learn from. Fern's book can be found on Amazon.com , or at your local bookseller. The highlighters mentioned in this episode can be bought at www.mahshelpinghand.com Want to help support the show? Become a Patron at patreon.com/mahjonggmondays and set up a mon...
Aug 31, 2021•1 hr 14 min•Ep. 76
In this weeks episode join Fern and her guests Rachael Cohen, Peggy Kamins and Ashley Street. Listen in as they talk about their love for the game of mah jongg and then “get their game on“ answering mahj questions in a game show section of this episode. Go grab your NMJL card and join in the fun! Fern's book, Mah Jongg Mondays, an be purchased on Amazon or at your local independent bookseller. Want to help support the show by becoming a patron? Head to patreon.com/mahjonggmondays to learn more! ...
Aug 24, 2021•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 75
In this weeks episode Fern welcomes back Lorraine Urist to discuss the “altered rule” when two players need the same tile for an exposure or to call for mah jongg. There is tension around the table with this touchy topic. Lorraine never ceases to entertain us and this funny lady of mah jongg reads a poem she wrote recently and then shares a list of mah jongg sayings that is sure to make you laugh! Looking for a new series to watch after you settle in for the night after mahj? Lorraine has one ho...
Aug 16, 2021•55 min•Ep. 74
Some rules are made to be broken or shall we say altered in non-tournament games of mah jongg. Seems like we all have created, shared or been inspired by other players house rules. Shawn Dudokovich shares her survey of house rules on this weeks podcast episode. Some of the house rules we’ll discuss I’ve personally played and some were new to me. No matter what, mah jongg “rules” as the game I love to play and talk about! Shawn’s Facebook group can be found at Rocket Mah Jongg Become a patron of ...
Aug 09, 2021•50 min•Ep. 73
In this weeks episode Fern welcomes mah jongg enthusiast, teacher, tournament lover and author Jane Flagello to the podcast. Tips and trips at a Las Vegas tournament couldn’t stop Jane from getting her mahj—on! Love to read? Jane weaves the theme of mah jongg into her mysteries and romance novels. Visit Jane's website at janeflagello.com Become a patron of the show at patreon.com/mahjonggmondays to help support the show! Fern's memoir can be purchased on Amazon , or at your local bookseller....
Jul 26, 2021•44 min•Ep. 72
