Especially after interviewing all of his employees, boss-man Steve Van Doren is one of the most respected men we've had the privilege of meeting. His father, Paul Van Doren, founded Vans in 1966 (the company sold for $396 mill to VF Corporation in 2004), and Steve and his daughter, Kristy, now work in the marketing department — running all events (he still rocks out at the Warped Tour). And, you can thank him for that unforgettable Sean Penn Fast Times at Ridgemont High-style moment.