9 Things We Can Learn from Isla Gordon’s Character in Season One of Running Point
In Netflix’s new show Running Point, Kate Hudson plays Isla Gordon, a reformed party girl whose life behind the scenes of her family’s sports empire is turned upside down when her brother appoints her as President of the family business.
As the new head of The Waves pro basketball team, Isla Gordon is thrown into the hot seat from day one, struggling to earn the trust of her siblings, colleagues, and the players.
Facing down sexism, skepticism, and her own deep-rooted insecurities, Isla doesn’t just survive — she shakes things up. She challenges the corporate status quo and proves herself on her own terms. Her moves may be clumsy at times, even impulsive, but there’s plenty to learn from Isla’s bold, determined, and undeniably capable leadership.
Today on the blog, we’re taking a look at Isla Gordon’s fictional journey of business leadership and the true-to-life key lessons we can learn and apply to our own professional pathways in 2025.
Trust your gut, trust yourself
Isla Gordon’s journey is the definition of “trial by fire”. Feeling the pressure of family expectations, skeptical coworkers, and a dysfunctional troop of entitled basketball players to contend with, Isla must learn how to navigate the many roles and relationships that now fall under her responsibility.
While Isla stumbles at times and has a tendency to second-guess herself (who doesn't?), she ultimately finds her greatest moments of success when operating from the gut and trusting her instincts.
Having confidence in your own abilities and your unique value is the key to unlocking success in all of your endeavors. You have to believe in yourself before you can expect anyone else to - so trust your gut!
Learn from others, but do things your way
This show exemplifies the concept of learning from others while still working to pave your own path. Sure, Isla Gordon was stepping into some big shoes, but instead of letting that intimidate her, she opted to use the resources and wisdom around her to support and fuel her own decision-making and actions.
Expect the unexpected
Planning is vital in any industry. If you want to lead, you need to anticipate the next step, and the one after that… but even the most prepared professionals know to expect the unexpected. There will be moments you have no way of planning for, and it’s in those scenarios where you will be tested for your ability to pivot and problem-solve. In Running Point, it seemed that at every milestone, a new twist or roadblock would appear. While this can often feel discouraging, it’s a reality of business - and life. Instead of dreading the unexpected, do what you can to prepare for everything else, and try to embrace the unknown. It’s always just outside of our comfort zone where we grow and learn the most, and these are the teaching moments of our lives that we reflect on later for their value and hidden opportunities.
It gets better - trust the process
If we can learn one thing from Running Point, it’s that every time you get knocked down - you can get right back up and keep moving forward. The most successful people in the world will tell you that their journey as leaders was anything but a vertical climb. There are twists and turns, roadblocks and unexpected barriers. People will let you down, plans won’t work out, and you may doubt yourself when the going gets tough. Know that this is all part of the process. Just as the challenges come, so too will the successes and achievements along the way. Every step forward you take is one step closer toward your goals - no matter how shaky that step is! So trust the process!
Make sure you have the right “supporting cast” around you - and support them in return
One of the most engaging aspects of this show has to do with the cast as a whole. From her assistant to her brothers, the players on the team - there is a lot of talent on deck here! One major trend we see throughout each episode, is the impact, both good and bad, that the people in Isla’s life have on her new role at the company. We see a power struggle form between her and her brothers, bonds form between herself and her assistants, support and struggles with Isla and her players - and of course, sparks flying between herself and the team’s coach.
Ultimately, the people we surround ourselves with have a massive impact on our lives. Understanding how the influence of others impacts us is critical, as it helps us to make smart choices when considering who to keep close, and with whom to maintain stricter boundaries. Find people who support your goals, offer honest and constructive opinions, and who clearly want to see you succeed. In return, make sure you are also offering that kind of support to others. It’s a give and take, after all.
Never get discouraged
Isla Gordon doesn’t wait for approval — she creates her own momentum. When others doubt her, she doubles down on her purpose. Entrepreneurs often face skepticism; what matters is believing in your vision before it's validated by others. Have faith in yourself first and let that confidence inspire others to follow suit.
The key here is to keep showing up. Even when Isla’s burned out, underappreciated or underestimated, she shows up. Consistently. She is relentless. That’s the energy entrepreneurs need, because consistency beats perfection every time.
Stand up for yourself - without burning bridges
Isla’s not afraid to speak her truth — but she knows when to turn up the heat and when to keep it friendly. She pushes back without blowing things up (usually!) Entrepreneurs need to master this balance: assertiveness with emotional awareness. You can advocate for yourself and protect your integrity without closing doors you'll need tomorrow.
Confidence is key
Isla walks into every room like she belongs there - even when she’s underestimated, and even when she knows she might not be welcome. That kind of quiet confidence isn’t arrogance, it’s the foundation of influence. For entrepreneurs, confidence is what makes investors listen, teams follow, and clients trust. Even when you're still figuring things out, how you carry yourself sets the tone.
Be prepared
Isla doesn’t wing it — she shows up with a plan, and a plan B (and probably a plan C). She does the work others skip, and that’s why she commands the room. For entrepreneurs, preparation builds confidence, credibility, and resilience when the unexpected happens.
At the end of the day, Isla Gordon reminds us that you don’t have to have it all figured out — you just have to keep going. Stay prepared, stay confident, and don’t let setbacks shake your vision. Keep pushing, keep showing up, and do it all on your own terms. That’s how real progress happens.