She wasn’t supposed to be in the game. It was game point, and UC Irvine’s volleyball team gave Linton a chance to step up. But walk-on freshman Caroline Linton’s number was called. Without time to warm up, she stepped in—and delivered. That single moment became her leadership blueprint: be ready when the moment calls, not just when it’s convenient.
That pressure to stay prepared wasn’t just about athletics. Years later, when an ACL tear left her sidelined with two young children at home, she again turned to that mindset. What seemed like a setback led to her recovery journey at Pure Barre—where she not only rebuilt her body, but discovered a brand she’d go on to lead as Chief Marketing Officer. She helped scale Pure Barre to 600+ studios and is now channeling that same resilience into her executive role at Perspire Sauna Studio.
But it’s not just about grit. Linton believes in leadership with warmth. She makes time to reflect every evening—asking what went well and what didn’t. She encourages her team to do the same, making space for both vulnerability and victory. Because great leadership isn’t just performance-driven—it’s deeply personal.
In this episode, you will learn:
"Don is one of the best storytellers I’ve ever met. I’ve known him for a long time and every time we talk I walk away wiser and more inspired. He is the best in the business at teaching you a skill – storytelling – that will last you a lifetime.”
“The ability for athletes to get hired is carried on through you because you are putting out the message that lessons learned from sports are important in life. It is embedded in this podcast, what you’re doing is significant.”
We speak the same language. I am inspired by the stories you tell, the people you have met, and the things you’ve done. Those of us that are competitors like to follow others that have been down that journey, so it is always fun talking to you!”
“Many of the leaders I have worked with were excellent athletes, and I think there is a direct correlation. You’re one of the few people that really has pursued this study, Don. Keep up the great work. What you are doing really makes a difference.”
“Don, you have mastered the skill of interviewing and asking great questions. That is a great skill all leaders need in order to understand their team members’ thought processes.”
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