Authentic: A Memoir by the Founder of Vans

Paul Van Doren gives us his clear business advice and perspective. He shows us the ups and downs of Vans. With candor and specific suggestions, he tells the story in a way that is like sitting across the dining room table from this man. While Van Doren did not have a high school diploma, he built a successful business and shares the lessons learned on that journey. A great read that is sure to give everyone an idea or two, or at least remind us about what it takes to make a successful company.

I have been a loyal Vans wearer since junior high in the late 80s. 30+ years later, I am STILL wearing Vans! And my kids are wearing Vans too! I feel connected to the spirit of Vans, especially since having my own pair of custom Vans made a few years back. In Paul's memoir, I learned of the origin of the custom-made Vans and how it was an early and integral part of the business. Paul Van Doren's life story is fascinating read for lifelong fans, business leaders, shoe addicts, and everyone in between. He knows his successes and acknowledges his flaws and mis-steps, presenting a sense of humility. I cannot help but love Vans now even more than I did prior to reading the book!

Paul Van Doren's straightforward story telling and common sense lessons make this a good read for any manager, and every Vans shoes lover.

very cool book about the history of Vans, which I have been wearing for 35 years or so!

Paul shared such wonderful story by reliving his personal and business ups and downs. It’s a true testament of his success even when the chips were down. This should be a required read for all high school students.

Even if you care nothing for shoes or fashion, this is a well written life story of a man who has his priorities right in the face of adversity.And how he passed this spirit to his family and a company that to this day holds the “Van Doren Spirit” as a core reason to do their work and save some kindness to pass along to others.You need to read this book.

Business memoirs are my favorite and this was by far one of the best, if not THE best one I’ve ever read. I felt like I was along for the ride from the inception to where it stands today as one of America’s most iconic brands of all-time. Well done!!

Definitely a different kind of memoir. Less about him and all about the business. As a guy who skated for the better part of three decades, I’m glad I didn’t dive in looking for nostalgia. Having read the book, I have a much better appreciation of the sacrifices entrepreneurs like Paul Van Doren make in order to bring us the products we know and love.

La vida de Van Doren es muy interesante, llena de anécdotas entretenidas y con consejos aplicables a la vida y los negocios. Muy recomendable, quizá no está al nivel de Shoe Dog de Phil Knight pero si cercano.

Interested in reading about the Vans founders

Libro muy interesante,le pongo menos valoración porque me mandaron un libro de segunda mano

Awesome book, a man born to graft.

Buch Top! Halt auf Englisch.Negativ : der Umschlag/Hülle/Einband schnell dreckig, unstabil und nicht fest!