Meet some of our Instructors
Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
We partner with talented neighbors—artisans, healers, technologists and fellow business owners—to transform their expertise into enriching classes and workshops that connect, inspire, and empower our community.
Our Story
Our visionary, January, has spent over two decades designing, marketing, leading and delivering programs in corporate-walled rooms, and although she still beats to this drum, her soul has kept tugging her toward a different kind of classroom—one with creaking floors, shared cushions, and neighbors who learn by laughing together. Nearly a decade in the making, her passion for community started with Blackbird, and her legacy continues on with the latest venture, Aerie Commons. Aerie Commons is the love letter the tug toward community and learning has become. Here, the expertise forged in corporate corridors melts into warm, hands-on workshops and experiences where curiosity is contagious and every voice belongs. Her passion for lifelong learning beats at the center of each session and event, inviting us all to grow, give, and carry new light back into the wider world. Inviting local instructors in to share their wisdom, art, or craft - whatever their passion. Housed in the historical Wil-O-Paw Inn in Coloma, Michigan - a labor of love unfolds as January and her family continue to restore the property and give back to this thriving community.
Meet The Team
Trip, SoundJourneys.life
After 25+ years managing and supporting IT teams, Trip now brings his depth of technical mastery and calming presence to SoundJourneys.life, where he leads transformative sound healing experiences for individuals and communities.
January, Aerie Commons
With 25+ years leading global teams in corporate leadership development and a master’s in Organizational Development, January is the founder of Blackbird, Aerie Commons, and Optimme Performance—dedicated to creating inspiring spaces, experiences, and communities.
Ericca, Ross Collaborative
Founder of Ross Collaborative Learning, is a leadership and org development expert with 20+ years’ experience. Known for her no-nonsense style and smart facilitation, she helps teams grow through practical training and culture-focused solutions.
Deb
Deb channels her devotion to peace and presence into her sound bath sessions at Aerie, guiding guests into deep relaxation and restorative stillness.
Sue
Former facilitator for Corporate Athlete program; pursuing her passion of fitness as a certified Pilates teacher through Balanced Body.
Teresa, NextHorizon AI Consulting
● Harvard Business School: AI Essentials for Business Certificate
● APMG International: Certified AI-Driven Project Manager
● Certified AI Marketer (CAIM): Strategic AI implementation specialist
● 26 Years Corporate Leadership: Real-world experience in driving organizational
change through strategic project management
Anna
Certified Michigan special education teacher with a master's degree in Learning Design and Educational Technology, and post-master's certification in Applied Educational Neuroscience.
Megan, Tempest Yoga, LLC
RYT-200 Yoga Instructor and owner of Tempest Yoga, LLC. With certifications in flexibility coaching, breathwork, and adaptive & inclusive yoga, she specializes in making yoga accessible for differently abled bodies and aging adults.
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Traci, You Can Do It Studios
Based in our charming little town of Coloma, MI, Traci has established herself as a beloved figure in the local crafting community. Her enthusiasm for creativity is infectious, and she is thrilled to bring her expertise and vibrant spirit to the Aerie Commons team. Whether she's guiding a beginner through their first brushstroke or collaborating on innovative projects, Traci's commitment to fostering creativity shines through in everything she does.
Interested in being an instructor?
We are looking for instructors like you to book classes at Aerie. Always wanted to instruct a cooking class? Are you a dance or yoga instructor looking for a space? Reach out to us to talk about a partnership to offer our community enrichment with Aerie hosting the space and promoting your classes.
