When John and Mark X. Cronin, the father-son co-founders of John’s Crazy Socks, travel to speak at events, they often seek out local businesses that share their mission of inclusion. During a recent trip to Boise, Idaho, where they delivered the keynote at the Western Partnership Conference, they discovered one such gem: Sweet Zola’s Candy Shop.
Sweet Zola’s isn’t your average candy store. It’s a nonprofit, community-driven space where people with differing abilities find meaningful employment. Eager to learn more, John and Mark reached out and arranged a visit.
They were warmly greeted by founder Cyndy Radovichand her colleague Amy. The shop was a marvel filled with candy and artwork and, most importantly, a sense of purpose. John and Mark spent the afternoon sharing stories, listening, and learning about Cyndy’s journey and the work performed at Sweet Zola’s.
John said, “What an amazing store. I loved everything about it.”
Cyndy’s Journey: From Behavioral Therapist to Entrepreneur
For nearly two decades, Cyndy worked as a behavioral therapist supporting individuals on the autism spectrum. But one moment changed everything: after successfully helping a client land a job, that client was dismissed just two weeks later. The employer wasn’t equipped to understand or support someone with autism.
Instead of accepting defeat, Cyndy grew more determined. She wanted to create an organization that could provide employment and training for people with differing abilities. At first, Cyndy thought she would open a coffee shop. She visited inclusive cafes like Bitty and Beau’s for inspiration. Yet the resources weren’t there. So, she pivoted toward candy.
Starting with a small section of a friend’s tea shop, she tested the concept. It worked. She soon opened her own storefront and added local artwork to create a vibrant, welcoming space.
Today, Sweet Zola’s employs 28 individuals with differing abilities, working 2–3 hour shifts that accommodate their unique needs while allowing them to preserve their SSI benefits. It’s a model rooted in dignity, flexibility, and joy.
Connecting Through Experience and Purpose
During their visit, John and Mark shared the story of John’s Crazy Socks, a social enterprise where more than half of the employees have a differing ability. They spoke with Cyndy about the importance of inclusive hiring, the power of storytelling, and the practical steps that make it all work, from job design to customer experience.
“Cyndy has a real business from scratch; she’s an inspiration. We learned so much from her and watching how Sweet Zola’s operates,” said Mark.
Mark offered insights from his and John’s new coaching initiative, where they help other mission-driven businesses grow and thrive. They discussed marketing strategies, ways to engage the local community, and how email outreach can build loyalty and increase foot traffic.
Cyndy called the meeting a turning point. “I am so grateful for this opportunity,” she said. “You’ve already helped me see ways to attract more customers,and that will let me create more jobs.”
A Shared Mission
John and Mark know from experience: creating a business that embraces people with differing abilities is good business. It strengthens communities, enriches culture, and spreads happiness. That’s why they continue to visit, support, and mentor other organizations with similar missions.
If you’re ever in Boise, make it a point to visit Sweet Zola’s Candy Shop. You’ll find more than candy, you’ll find community, possibility, and joy.
And if you’re starting or growing a business that includes people with differing abilities, John and Mark would love to hear from you. They believe in sharing what works and helping others succeed. Reach out to them at John’s Crazy Socks (service@johnscrazysocks.com). They will be glad to have a conversation, to learn about your plans and to see how they can help.
