What does it mean to lead when you are the only one in the room?
In ONLY, Dr. Susan Lang delivers a powerful, affirming guide for leaders who carry unique visibility, responsibility, and pressure-often without a roadmap or peer support. Drawing on more than 40 years of experience across education and executive leadership, Lang speaks directly to those who find themselves navigating leadership roles shaped by imbalance, scrutiny, or isolation.
This book is both deeply personal and highly practical. Through reflection, insight, and actionable strategies, ONLY helps readers transform the weight of leadership into clarity, confidence, and impact. Rather than asking leaders to conform, Dr. Lang empowers them to claim their space, leverage their perspective, and lead authentically-without burnout or compromise.
ONLY acknowledges the realities of modern leadership while offering language, tools, and reassurance for moving forward with resilience. Above all, it reminds readers they are not alone-and they are not required to lead like anyone else to be effective.
Why You'll Want This Book
For leaders who feel isolated at the top
If you've ever been the only woman, the only voice, or the only pathbreaker in the room, this book was written for you.
Actionable, not abstract
Dr. Lang provides practical strategies for navigating bias, pressure, and high-stakes decision-making with confidence and strength.
Lead authentically-without burning out
Learn how to maintain your core values, protect your energy, and lead with resilience in demanding environments.
A message of permission and empowerment
ONLY gives readers permission to claim space, speak with authority, and lead on their own terms.
From a trusted, proven leader
Dr. Susan Lang's career spans superintendent leadership, corporate innovation, and executive consulting-bringing credibility, wisdom, and real-world perspective to every page.
Perfect For:
-Women in leadership and executive roles
-Aspiring leaders preparing for increased responsibility
-Educators, administrators, and corporate professionals
-Mentors, leadership coaches, and leadership development programs
If you are ready to stop shrinking, start owning your leadership voice, and turn being "the only" into a position of strength-ONLY is your guide.
About the Author :
Dr. Susan Lang is a distinguished leader in both education and business, with a career spanning more than three decades. Most recently, she served as President of K12 Education at NewsBank, a global information company. In this role, she led innovation in the K-12 sector, guiding teams to develop high quality digital instructional products that meet the evolving needs of educator and students. Prior to her corporate leadership, Dr. Lang dedicated over 40 years to education, including 18 years as superintendent in three Ohio school districts. Her visionary leadership earned her the prestigious title of Ohio Superintendent of the Year. Dr. Lang's career is defined by her unique ability to bridge the worlds of education and business. Today, she continues to champion educational excellence as President and owner of K12 Vision L.L.C. She and her husband are proud parents of four children and grandparents to five. Dr. Lang remains deeply committed to empowering further generations through innovative learning solutions and championing female leadership.
