When my son John and I travel to speak at conferences, we always look for local businesses that align with our mission, places that believe in the talent and potential of people with differing abilities. We want to learn form them, support them and see if there are opportunities to collaborate.
That’s how we found ourselves one sunny afternoon in Boise, Idaho, standing inside a candy shop that John smiling and laughing, full of joy
We were in town to deliver the keynote address at the Western Partnership Conference for Social Services, sharing our story of building John’s Crazy Socks and spreading happiness through inclusion and entrepreneurship. But it was a tip from a local that led us to Sweet Zola’s Candy Shop.
And I’m so glad we followed that lead.
Meet Cyndy and Learn the Vision Behind Sweet Zola’s
At the heart of Sweet Zola’s is a woman named Cyndy Eldredge Roadovich, a longtime behavioral therapist with a deep commitment to the people she serves. Her journey to becoming a business owner started with heartbreak: a client she had successfully placed in a job was let go after just two weeks. The employer didn’t understand how to support someone on the autism spectrum.
That was the moment Cyndy knew things had to change. If the workplace wasn’t ready, she’d build one that was.
She first thought to open a coffee shop and visited inclusive businesses like Bitty & Beau’s for inspiration. But, like many entrepreneurs, she ran into real-world roadblocks: she lacked the funding to start such a capital intensive enterprise. Cyndy would not be deterred; she pivoted and decided to open a candy store. A very persuasive leader, Cyndy convinced a friend to let her test the idea inside his tea shop. Those first steps led to a growing business.
Today, Sweet Zola’s Candy Shop is a vibrant, happy space offering sweets, art, and, most importantly, opportunity. Cyndy now employs 28 individuals with differing abilities who work in 2–3 hour shifts, hours that fit their needs, support their independence, and allow them to keep their SSI benefits.
It’s more than a candy shop. It’s a launchpad.
From Socks to Sweets: Sharing Stories and Solutions
When John and I arrived, Cyndy and her colleague Amy welcomed us with such warmth that it felt like coming home. We spent the afternoon sharing stories about the people we serve, the lessons we’ve learned, and the systems we’re building to make entrepreneurship more inclusive.
We’ve always said our work isn’t just about socks, it’s about what those socks represent: Inclusion. Empowerment. Possibility. Sweet Zola’s is living proof of that same spirit.
Cyndy asked many questions about growing her business, and I offered coaching on marketing, community partnerships, and building deeper customer relationships. We talked about how she could use her email list more effectively and create experiences that turn shoppers into raving fans.
Before we left, she said something that stuck with me: “You’ve already helped me see ways to attract more customers and that will let me create more jobs.”
That’s what it’s all about.
A New Chapter: Coaching Businesses Like Sweet Zola’s
Over the years, John and I have been asked again and again: Can you help us start a business like yours? Can you help us grow?
The answer is yes.
That’s why we’re launching a new venture under our Abilities Rising banner, to coach, consult, and support businesses that want to hire people with differing abilities or start inclusive enterprises of their own. We’ve learned so much from our journey with John’s Crazy Socks, and we want to share those lessons. Not just the wins, but the mistakes, the pivots, the real-world insights that can help others go further, faster.
If you run a business that’s already employing people with differing abilities, or if you dream of starting one, we’d love to talk. Whether it’s a one-time strategy session or an ongoing coaching partnership, we’re here to support you.
One Last Thing…
If you’re ever in Boise, stop by Sweet Zola’s Candy Shop. Buy a few sweets. Chat with the team. Let yourself feel the joy in that space. I promise,it will make your day.
And if you’re ready to build or grow your own inclusive business? Reach out. John and I are just a conversation away.
📬 Contact us at: booking@jmspeak.com
🌐 Learn more at: johnandmarkcronin.com
Together, we can spread more happiness and create a world where everyone belongs.
