The Other 9 Podcast

Annette Jones is a community builder, consultant, educator, and co-founder of Jones Community Solutions, a Black-owned, peer-run social enterprise specializing in consultation, community-based support, education, and peer support training. Drawing from lived experience, professional expertise, and more than three decades in leadership and management, Annette creates spaces where people can learn, connect, grow, and show up authentically.

Annette has a gift for recognizing possibility in people, organizations, and communities—and supporting them as they turn that possibility into something tangible. Her work is grounded in cultural respect, honest conversation, collaboration, and the belief that real change happens through connection.

Annette is a lifelong learner who believes deeply in gratitude, abundance, community, and the power of building something meaningful together.

Driving to Win. 
Driven to Advocate.

Austin Varco is a 26-year-old American racing driver from San Diego, California, competing across NASCAR weekly racing, Spec Miata, and endurance sports-car racing. Through Race4Autism, he uses motorsports as a platform to promote autism acceptance, challenge stigmas, and build greater understanding around neurodivergence.

Sharon Holmes has over 20 years of management skills, business consulting experience, and education. She holds a Master’s and Bachelor of Science degree in Education from SIUC, IL; a graduate certificate in Human Resources from Brandman University in Orange, CA; an Associate of Art, Science Degree from Pierce College, Lakewood, WA; and a Chemical Dependency Certificate from Clover Park Technical College, Lakewood, WA.  Sharon worked as a WA State Certified Peer Counselor and has managed several teams to facilitate change. During her tenure as Recovery Educator in Mental Health, Sharon provided direct care management and instruction to clients with mental health, substance use, and/or co-occurring challenges. Sharon is the owner of Inspiring Here & Now LLC, which consults and contracts with corporate businesses in workforce education, training, and development. 

Sharon Holmes, MS.Ed, CPC, She/her/hers