We’re thrilled to share some exciting news: John and Mark X. Cronin, the father-son duo behind John’s Crazy Socks and Abilities Rising, have been named to MSN’s “Top 10 Keynote Speakers to Follow in 2025.”
This national recognition places them among global voices in business, leadership, and innovation and shines a light on the growing movement for disability inclusion in the workplace.
Not Just Speakers, They Are Storytellers with a Mission
John and Mark don’t just give keynotes. They tell real stories of inclusion, purpose, and possibility. John, a young entrepreneur with Down syndrome, had a dream to sell socks. With the support of his dad, Mark, that dream became John’s Crazy Socks, the world’s largest sock store and a mission-driven company where more than half the employees have a differing ability.
Their message is simple and powerful: disability is not a limitation; it’s a dimension of human potential. They present a simple proposition: hiring people with differing abilities is not altruism, it is good business.
Why MSN Recognized Them
MSN highlighted John and Mark for their unique ability to:
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Champion ability, not disability
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Lead with joy, purpose, and gratitude
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Inspire inclusive workplaces that thrive
Their keynotes succeed because John and Mark make their talks about the people in the audience, the listener. Listen to what an audience member who heard them speak at Synergy 2025 in Ohio said:
You are so inspirational. You had me laughing, tearing up a bit and feeling inspired, ready to act. You certainly know how to spread happiness.
John and Mark blend humor, purpose, heart, and practical insight into every talk. They inspire, but also leave people with actions they can take. Whether they’re speaking at Fortune 500 companies, schools, HR conferences, or nonprofit events, they leave audiences moved and ready to act.
As John says, “Down syndrome never holds me back.”
Proven Voices for Inclusion and Business Innovation
John and Mark have shared their message at:
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Corporate events with the likes of Microsoft, EY, and SHRM
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Non-profits like the Society of Human Management (SHRM), Best Buddies, and the Special Olympics
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Conferences for entrepreneurs, self-advocates, and direct service workers
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Colleges and universities ranging from Stanford to Texas A&M to Vanderbilt to Rutgers, and Holy Cross
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The United Nations and the U.S. Congress
They’ve delivered two TEDx Talks, starred in the documentary Sock Guys, and been featured by major media outlets including CBS News, Good Morning America, Fox and Friends, and PBS. Their lived experience and business success make them trusted guides for any organization ready to build a more inclusive culture.
Ready to Book for 2025
If your organization is looking for:
✅ Keynote speakers who uplift and energize
✅ Inclusive leadership insights backed by real results
✅ A message that blends storytelling and strategy
Then John and Mark X. Cronin are the speakers for you.
📩 To book John and Mark, visit johnandmarkcronin.com or email booking@johnandmarkcronin.com
Being named one of MSN’s “Top 10 Keynote Speakers to Follow in 2025” is an incredible honor—but it’s just one more way John and Mark are showing what’s possible when you lead with heart, believe in others, and spread happiness.
