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Episode Overview

In this powerful and heart-opening episode, Valerie is joined by father–son duo Mark and John Cronin, founders of John’s Crazy Socks, the world’s largest sock store with a mission to spread happiness and create meaningful employment opportunities for people with differing abilities.

• Mark X. Cronin – Social entrepreneur, policy leader, advocate for disability inclusion, co-founder of John’s Crazy Socks and Abilities Rising. Two-time TEDx speaker, published author, and EY Entrepreneur of the Year award winner.
• John Cronin – Co-founder and Chief Happiness Officer of John’s Crazy Socks. Public speaker, advocate, and role model for inclusion. Entrepreneur with Down Syndrome.

Together, they share:

• Their personal family story, including John's early medical challenges and the expectations others placed on him.
• How their family philosophy—“With us, not for us”—has shaped John’s autonomy, independence, and confidence.
• The origin story of John’s Crazy Socks: a 21-year-old with vision and determination creating his own business when he couldn’t find employment he loved.
• How their company intentionally hires people with differing abilities and why that workforce has become their greatest competitive advantage.
• Their advocacy efforts, including speaking at the U.N., testifying before Congress, and pushing to end sub-minimum wage laws that allow people with disabilities to be paid as little as 5 cents per hour.

Key Themes & Takeaways

1. Never underestimate ability.
John’s story challenges assumptions and reminds families to give children space to try, fail, and succeed.

2. “With us, not for us.”
John makes his own decisions. Support is available, but autonomy is essential.

3. Entrepreneurism is for everyone.
If a job doesn’t exist or isn’t welcoming—create one. Entrepreneurship can be a path to independence and purpose.

4. Disability is not a burden.
Mark shares how his son has made him a better man—and how societal messaging can unintentionally diminish a child’s perceived potential.

5. Advocacy matters.
The Cronins use their platform to champion policy change—especially the fight to end sheltered workshops and sub-minimum wage practices.

Memorable Quotes

“Please, don’t ever apologize for my son.” — Mark
“With us, not for us. It’s my life, and I get to make my choices.” — John
“We don’t lower the standards—every employee earns their job.” — Mark
“Never underestimate their ability. Give them the chance to figure it out.” — Valerie

Connect with Mark and John

johnandmarkcronin.com; abilitiesrising.com; johnscrazysocks.com

Connect with Valerie

[email protected]

Music Acknowledgement: Audio Coffee - Denys Kyshchuk

Editor: Scott Arbeau

Link for book: The S.H.I.N.E. Principle: The special needs mom's path to strength, hope and happiness by Valerie Arbeau

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CW18ZXGX (Canada)

https://a.co/d/03hFdZI4 (United States)

Thank You for Listening

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Learn more about your host at:
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