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What do United Nations human rights work, middle school math games, and couples counseling have in common? On the surface, not much.
However, when Noah Teitelbaum brings together these experiences, he teaches The 12-Week MBA with a focus on relationships and having fun.
An International Start
Noah’s career began with the United Nations, where he worked on human rights in post-war Yugoslavia and Croatia. This experience instilled in him a profound understanding of resilience and adaptability.
“It was a couple of years after the war ended, and a lot of it involved overseeing the return of ethnic minorities to Croatia,” he explained.
Despite the administrative and bureaucratic challenges, Noah’s work was rooted in helping people reclaim their lives amidst the remnants of conflict. Navigating these intense issues developed a steely resolve and appreciation for the lighter things, which he now integrates into his teaching of The 12-Week MBA, emphasizing the importance of resilience and adaptability while ensuring the process remains engaging and enjoyable.
Transition to Education and Business
After his time overseas, Noah returned to the United States to become a schoolteacher. He joined the New York City Teaching Fellows, teaching in Central Harlem—a period he describes as the most challenging and rewarding professional years of his life. Teaching middle school math in such a demanding environment honed his communication, problem-solving, and adaptability— laying the foundation for his future in education and facilitation.
“I gravitated towards math because I could do lots of games, which is one of the things that draws me to Abilitie—the opportunity to play games with people,” he said.
Bringing fun, experiential learning to the classroom was so successful, he became a trainer of other teachers and began developing curricula and refining his pedagogical philosophy.
This led to another career change when he joined Manhattan Prep, a test preparation company founded by former presidential candidate Andrew Yang.
“I got my first taste of business, opened a test prep line, and created interactive videos. I think the experience combined my love for education with the challenges of the business world,” he said.
How Noah Teaches The 12-Week MBA
Today, Noah facilitates simulations at Abilitie, including modules in The 12-Week MBA. His diverse background enriches his teaching style, blending personal anecdotes with collaborative learning.
This constructivist approach underpins his philosophy that authentic learning comes from experience, interaction, and FUN—not just listening to lectures.
One of Noah’s favorite simulations to teach in The 12-Week MBA is Enterprise Challenge, which places participants in a dynamic marketplace where their company must vie for customers. Each team member takes on a unique role within a cross-functional team, working with limited resources. These roles change over time, allowing participants to gain various business perspectives. Additionally, teams must handle unexpected challenges, such as mishaps in social media campaigns, requiring quick and collaborative problem-solving under time pressure.
“Enterprise Challenge suits me because it involves navigating chaos, processing feelings, and leading a team,” he said. “And it’s just really fun.”
The simulation is one of the most fast-paced, interactive experiences in The 12-Week MBA. Because learners work on a team, they must communicate and collaborate effectively to lead their company to success within the simulation.
“Noah brings so much energy to Enterprise Challenge,” Abilitie Program Manager Gina Curran said. “Seeing the students laugh with Noah while learning real business skills is so much fun to watch.”
Noah has a method to his fun and games, though. By creating memorable experiences and a safe space, learners can practice valuable trial and error without consequences.
Leaving a Lasting Impact
In addition to facilitating for Abilitie, Noah and his wife recently purchased The Parent and Family Wellness Center, an organization focused on helping women through pregnancy, postpartum, and early family life. This new venture adds another dimension to Noah’s multifaceted career, providing him with firsthand experience in running a business and supporting others.
Noah hopes that participants in his sessions walk away with more than just knowledge.
“I hope people remember having a learning experience where they were reflective and felt ownership of their learning,” he said.
If you want to experience Enterprise Challenge and interact with faculty like Noah, check out The 12-Week MBA.
