Ancient Game. Modern Leadership.: Timeless Lessons From the Mahjong Table

“Maureen translates hard-won lessons into ten vivid, memorable parallels that speak directly to what leaders actually struggle with: building culture, shaping employee experience, and forging real emotional connection with their teams.” —Denise Lee Yohn, best-selling author of FUSION: How Integrating Brand and Culture Powers the World’s Greatest Companies

Executive coach and Chief HR Officer Maureen A. Cahill reveals the surprising connections between the enduring game of Mahjong and the art of leading people.

You don’t need to know how to play Mahjong to benefit from this book. The game simply provides a memorable lens for leadership.

Drawing on more than three decades of leadership experience—as well as compelling research, practical examples, and insights from accomplished executives—Maureen illuminates timeless leadership skills.

Inside, you’ll discover how to:

• Create the conditions for people to do their best work.
• Recognize when to stay the course—and when to pivot.
• Read people, situations, and team dynamics more effectively.
• Build a culture of connection and shared success.

Whether you’re an executive, seasoned manager, entrepreneur, or emerging leader—Ancient Game. Modern Leadership. will help you lead with greater confidence and intention, one tile at a time.

"Through engaging stories from the Mahjong table and the workplace, she simplifies leadership without oversimplifying it…showing that mastery is built tile by tile through deliberate study and practice.”—Aileen Wilkins, Chief People Officer, Arvest; former Chief People Officer, H&R Block