Episode #34

Sara Sloman

Episode Title:

Shuffle Up and Slay: Building a Mahjong Movement with Sara Sloman

Episode Description:

In this episode of Fanatical DreamHer, April sits down with Sara Sloman, the dynamic founder of RichMahj, a growing business teaching people how to play mahjong—yes, the game that’s quietly taking over social circles, coffee tables, and corporate team-building sessions alike. What began as a hobby turned into a movement, with over 1,700 beginners trained since early 2024.

Sara opens up about launching her passion project with intention, building a team of instructors across multiple states, and using the game to foster community, friendship, and even philanthropy. Whether you're a business dreamer or just love a good comeback story, Sara’s episode is full of inspiration, strategy, and joy.

Key Discussion Points:

  • Sara’s roots and confidence-building college years (01:30)

  • Discovering mahjong and turning curiosity into a business (02:30)

  • Building RichMahj from website to multi-state expansion (03:40)

  • Teaching 1,700+ students and the power of beginner energy (04:10)

  • Personal growth, patience, and the joy of creating friendships (04:45)

  • A milestone moment: Mahjong for Memories Tournament for Alzheimer’s Association (09:00)

  • Facing obstacles: asking for help and imposter syndrome (10:30)

  • Self-talk, setting boundaries, and turning doubt into fuel (11:30)

  • Advice to other women: prepare well, but don’t wait too long (16:13)

  • Out-of-the-box thinking and mahjong’s universal appeal (17:00)

  • The cutest swag: napkins, cups, banners—and a custom mahjong table (19:45)

Notable Quotes:

“I always tell myself it’s going to be okay. And usually, it is.”
– Sara Sloman

“You don’t have to wait. Someone else might come up with your idea.”
– Sara Sloman

“Mahjong is the new pickleball. There’s napkins. There’s swag. It’s community-building magic.”
– April Kemp

Takeaways:

  • Start slow, plan well—but don’t wait forever to launch your dream.

  • Building something joyful can have real community impact.

  • Women thrive when they use their voices and ask for help.

  • Games like mahjong aren’t just play—they’re powerful connection tools.

  • Surrounding yourself with like-minded women leads to unexpected opportunity and growth.

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