Advertise on podcast: COTS: The Art of Family Podcast

Host Aisha Morrell-Ferguson talks with COTS colleagues Courtney Jackson and Rachel Minion about motherhood, especially the often-invisible demands of single parenting, advocacy, and carrying responsibilities without dependable support. They share personal experiences of financial strain, children’s needs, work pressures, emotional depletion, and the importance of community, rest, and faith.

In this episode, we dive deep into the inspiring journey of LaJoy Roy, founder of Le Jewel Hair Restoration. With over 20 years in the hair industry, LaJoy shares her unique path from a budding cosmetologist to a successful trichologist, a specialist in hair loss and scalp disorders. LaJoy emphasizes the importance of community and support in her journey. This support system not only helped her in her career but also reinforced her belief in following her passion. LaJoy's story is a testament to the power of resilience, community, and faith. For those looking to carve their own path, her journey serves as a reminder that every challenge can lead to a new opportunity.

In this reflective sit-down, COTS COO Corisa Reed and Black Her Stories host Michaela Ayers reunite one year after launching their collaboration to look back on what they've learned—and what comes next. The conversation explores the conditions needed for people in the middle of traumatic experiences to tell their stories, including what Michaela would do differently at Peggy's Place. They discuss the narratives surrounding Black motherhood and poverty and how paternalism and fatalism keep people from rest and from making their own choices. The episode closes with a shared vision: what would change if communities approached families with curiosity instead of judgment?

In this bonus episode, Michaela turns the lens toward the people who show up every day — the social workers, coaches, and human services professionals who carry the weight of this work alongside the families they serve. Through conversations with licensed therapist Jeffery Williams and COTS Director of Coaching and Training LaTonia Walker, we explore what vicarious and secondary trauma actually look like — and what it takes to sustain yourself when you're in close proximity to other people's pain. This episode is a must-listen for anyone in a helping profession, or anyone curious about what wellness might look like when you're a caregiver.

In Act III of Black Her Stories × COTS, host Michaela Ayers takes us inside the Peterboro Arms Apartments— affordable housing in Detroit's Midtown—for a collage workshop with residents. What unfolds are conversations about the narratives we've internalized about poverty and the radical act of being seen.

In this episode of Black Her Stories, Michaela Ayers takes us inside Peggy's Place, COTS' emergency shelter on Detroit's west side, where she connects with residents about their journies and confronts what she thought she knew about homelessness. Through a collage workshop with mothers living in the shelter, conversations with COTS COO Corisa Reed, social worker LaTonia Walker, and insights from therapist Jeffery Williams, this episode looks at how trauma and generational poverty shape the mind and how the stories we tell about it can either limit or liberate us.

Elizabeth Howard grew up navigating instability on Detroit’s east side. When her apartment became overrun with pests and her family was displaced, she didn't just find a shelter—she found an advocate. A COTS staff member didn't hand her a pamphlet; they packed her car and moved her to safety themselves. Now, Elizabeth is in a better position to pay it forward to her children and her community. The Art of Family is proud to share her triumphant story.

In this episode of Black Her Stories, Michaela shares the story of a creative collaboration with COTS Detroit, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting families experiencing homelessness. Through conversations with COTS leaders, we explore their radical practice of the Month of Imagination—a full month devoted to rest, reflection, and dreaming beyond limits. Together, we uncover how imagination fuels transformation, how collaboration builds community, and how rest itself becomes a form of resistance. Tune in for a story about creativity, care, and the courage to reimagine what’s possible when we pause to dream.

Join Rebecca Eaddy (Office Administrator) and Dawn Walker (Director of Accounting) as they sit down with Cheryl P. Johnson (CEO) to reflect on her remarkable 35-year journey at COTS. Cheryl shares insights on leadership, the art of kindness, and the transformative power of purpose. Discover how intentionality, vision, and community impact have shaped her work and continue to guide her vision for the future.

In this episode of the Art of Family podcast, we discuss the immediate impact of the government shutdown on Detroit families, particularly focusing on the suspension of SNAP benefits. We explore the severe consequences for families relying on these benefits, the emotional and economic ripple effects, and the urgent need for community support and collaboration. The conversation emphasizes the importance of advocacy, the challenges faced by nonprofits, and the call to action for listeners to engage and support families in need during this crisis.

In this episode of the Art of Family podcast, Aisha Morrell-Ferguson, Nikki Carbonari, and Anthony Eid discuss the immediate impact of the government shutdown on Detroit families, with a particular focus on the suspension of SNAP benefits. They explore the severe consequences for families relying on these benefits, the emotional and economic ripple effects, and the urgent need for community support and collaboration. The conversation emphasizes the importance of advocacy, the challenges faced by nonprofits, and the call to action for listeners to engage and support families in need during this crisis.

Join us at the COTS Partner Breakfast — a morning of gratitude, connection, and collaboration. Hear how our community partners are coming together to celebrate impact, spark new ideas, and continue building brighter futures for Detroit families.

Join Aisha Morrell-Ferguson (Chief Development Officer), Nikki Carbonari (Executive Director of Impact), and Anthony Eid (Policy & Advocacy Coordinator) as they delve into the state of the agency, exploring the triumphs and challenges faced by families in Detroit. Discover how COTS is making a difference through advocacy, partnerships, and innovative programs like the Passport to Self-Sufficiency and EMDR therapy. Tune in to hear inspiring stories of resilience and discover how you can contribute to creating positive change.

In this episode, Bianca Robinson shares her inspiring journey from experiencing homelessness to finding stability and support through the COTS community. She discusses her childhood, the challenges she faced, and the pivotal moments that led her to seek help. Bianca highlights the importance of community support, the impact on her daughter, and her long-term goals, including aspirations for homeownership and personal growth. She also addresses misconceptions about homelessness and emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding from the community.

Join us on the Art of Family podcast as we dive into the inspiring journey of Marlene Johnson, a dedicated peer support specialist at COTS. With her lived experience and deep compassion, Marlene walks alongside families, helping them navigate challenges and build towards stability and success. In this episode, we explore the vital role of peer support and the transformative power of community. Tune in to hear Marlene's story and discover how empathy and resilience can pave the way for a brighter future.