I’m the co-founder of Mahj in the City with my business partner and Mahj queen Leigh Young. Since 2022 we’ve been teaching American Mahjong in Charlotte and beyond through classes, retreats, fundraisers, corporate events, and mini-mahj parties. We also created the Bambird Scramble, the first-ever flexible, competitive ladder-style league for American Mahjong powered by custom software. The Scramble gives players a way to play consistently and competitively while sharpening their skills and building real community-and it’s now expanding into new cities across the USA!
I was a lifer at Charlotte Latin School (K–12) before attending UNC–Chapel Hill, where I majored in elementary education. I taught elementary school for six years in Research Triangle Park before stepping back to stay home with my first son, Henry. While working from home in Winston-Salem, I got involved with Stella & Dot and sold jewelry at traveling trunk shows. Upon moving back to Charlotte in 2017, I co-founded Mahj in the City—and while my subject matter has changed, I like to say I’m still a teacher, just with a much more fun curriculum!
I’ve been married to my high school sweetheart, Lee, for 18 years and together we have three boys—Henry (14), Griffin (11), and Walker (8). When I’m not working, I’m usually busy “Ubering” them to practices and cheering from the sidelines. In my spare moments, I love working out, playing tennis, traveling, spending time with family and friends, and of course playing lots of mahjong (I’ve even gotten Lee and the boys hooked!).
What was the first concert you attended?
Eeek, I’m not totally sure of the first concert I attended, but I’m pretty sure it was Barenaked Ladies- so ’90s.
Who is your favorite rock star?
I’d say Kurt Cobain—because Nirvana defined the ’90s.
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