Karen Yeates (pronounced YATES) is a transformational leader, keynote speaker, business strategist, and certified career and business coach. With over 25 years of experience spanning education, healthcare, information technology, and leadership development, Karen brings a heart-centered and strategic approach to every engagement.
She is the Founder of The Center for Transformational Leadership and CEO of Excel to Elevate, LLC, organizations dedicated to helping leaders and professionals discover their authentic identity, elevate their confidence, and create meaningful impact. Through her signature workshops——Karen guides clients through a process of "Leadership Identity Evolution," helping them align who they are with how they lead.
Karen is known for her engaging speaking style, blending humor, authenticity, and insight. Her talks on empathy, emotional intelligence, and bold leadership have inspired audiences across the country. She believes that leadership is not about the leader—it’s about the people they lead.
Whether she’s mentoring entrepreneurs, coaching executives, or speaking to global audiences, Karen’s mission remains clear: to help people elevate through excellence, personal fulfillment, and professional success.