Mark X. Cronin, John’s father and co-founder, recently appeared on the Growth Compass podcastto share the story of how their company combines entrepreneurship with purpose.
Mark spoke about how John’s Crazy Socks is more than just a sock company. It is a social enterprise built on a mission to Spread Happiness™. That mission shows up in everything the company does: from creating jobs for people with differing abilities to giving back to charity partners and delivering socks that make people smile.
Building a Business with Purpose
On the podcast, Mark described how John’s Crazy Socks has grown into the world’s largest sock store with over 4,000 designs. But behind every pair of socks is a deeper purpose: proving what people with differing abilities can do. More than half the team at John’s Crazy Socks has a differing ability, and every employee earns their spot through dedication and talent.
The company also runs a robust Giving Back Program. From day one, John’s Crazy Socks pledged 5 percent of earnings to the Special Olympics, and they’ve since expanded to support causes like Down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy, and more. To date, they have donated over $800,000 to charity partners.
Creating Memorable Customer Experiences
Listeners of the Growth Compass podcast learned how John’s Crazy Socks puts the customer at the center of its work. Every package includes a personal thank-you note from John, candy, and the name and picture of the Sock Wrangler who packed the order. Customers don’t just buy socks, they join a movement of inclusion and joy.
Looking Ahead
Mark also shared their plans for the future. From expanding custom sock offerings to opening a warehouse store in Farmingdale, NY, John’s Crazy Socks continues to grow while staying true to its mission. John is even working on new books, including Down Syndrome Never Holds Me Back and John’s Giant Book of Jokes.
Spreading Happiness
The Growth Compass podcast episode captured the heart of John’s Crazy Socks: a business that blends commerce with compassion. By hiring inclusively, giving back, and delivering experiences that delight customers, John and Mark are showing that business can be a force for good.
Want to be part of this mission? Visit John’s Crazy Socks to find socks you’ll love and help spread happiness with every order.
