Even hard-edged C.E.O.'s, genius admen, and prolific producers had to learn how to ride a bike. And the person who helped him or her get back on when balance proved tricky was probably none other than Dad. Portfolio.com pays tribute to Father's Day by asking industry leaders about the best advice they ever received from their dads—especially when it comes to business. The answers show what helped set these sons and daughters on the road to the top.

Bill Bradley

Basketball Hall of Famer, Olympic gold medalist, former New Jersey senator

Warren William Bradley made it through the Great Depression as a banker without foreclosing on a single home. "He was my No. 1 example in life," says Bill Bradley, who at 6-foot-5 towered over his father. "He was always thinking of other people, what he could do to make their lives better.

"The best advice my father has given me is to put your money in the bank because it works for you while you sleep," Bradley says. "That's why they call me Dollar Bill."

Frank Bisignano

Chief administrative officer, J.P. Morgan Chase

"Advice from my father: Children are God's gift to the world. And the harder you work the luckier you get."

Galt Niederhoffer

Partner, Plum Pictures  

When your dad is a highly influential investment banker (Victor Niederhoffer founded what is now Niederhoffer Henkel), you better be smart with your money. "Best advice my dad ever gave me is that, in a successful negotiation, all parties leave happy," says Galt Niederhoffer, whose independent film company, currently developing The Rise of Theodore Roosevelt starring Leonard DiCaprio and The Bell Jar with Julia Stiles, promises investors a 30 percent return.