About Brian Yates

Coach, Consultant, Adventurer, Guide

Plus est en vous

There is more in you than you think.

A while back, I was searching for a statement to anchor my philosophy of teaching and learning. I wanted something enduring, global, intelligent, and inspiring. Most of all, I wanted words that resonated deeply with my own heart. That search led me to the life and work of Kurt Hahn, founder of Outward Bound. Hahn drew from an old French idiom he discovered on a church wall in Belgium: Plus est en vous — "There is more in you than you think." This phrase became the motto of his Gordonstoun School in Scotland and, over time, it became my own guiding purpose.

As a 32-year educator—teacher, principal, district administrator—plus est en vous grew in meaning to me. It became a compass for how I engage and serve the community around me, grounded in the belief that each of us has unique gifts, talents, and a purpose that connects us all. Whether consulting with boards or coaching individuals, my goal is to help others discover and live out the "more" within them, in alignment with their highest values and vision.

Life is Lived to Its Fullest at the SkyEdge

A place where clarity, purpose, and potential converge. Thank you to Philip Keller for the inspiration, and to all those who continue to seek their "more."

Today, as a father of four amazing adult children, three incredible bonus children, a husband who has journeyed through both divorce and remarriage, and a lifelong educator, mountain guide, and business owner, I bring a lifetime of personal and professional experience to every coaching and consulting relationship.

I’ve walked alongside many on their paths, listening, asking questions, and helping them interpret the “cairns” that mark their unqiue journey’s path.

About Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP)

NLP is a method that explores the relationship between how we think (neuro), communicate (linguistic), and act (programming).

It provides practical tools to help individuals and teams shift perspectives, break unproductive patterns, and develop new ways of thinking that lead to meaningful change.

As a trained practitioner in Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP), I incorporate powerful, proven techniques to enhance the effectiveness of both my coaching and consulting services. And above all, I take a person centered approach to all work and life.

How NLP Can Benefit You:

  • Shift Mindsets: Transform limiting beliefs into empowering ones that drive you forward.

  • Improve Communication: Learn to communicate with clarity and purpose, enhancing personal and professional relationships.

  • Build Resilience: Gain tools to reframe challenges and remain centered even in stressful situations.

  • Enhance Self-Awareness: Identify patterns in thinking and behavior, empowering you to make intentional choices.

Brian’s Resume

My journey has been shaped not only by my work but by a deep, varied life lived with purpose. From years spent in education and leadership to the highs and lows of personal growth, and the unique lessons learned in the wilderness, I offer an approach that blends knowledge, empathy, and vision. Here’s a brief look at the background that shapes my coaching and consulting work.

    • Education Leadership: Over 30 years of experience as a teacher, principal, and district administrator, including roles such as Executive Director of Academic Services (Harrison School District 2) and Principal (Buena Vista School District).

    • Organizational Leadership: Directed strategic planning and team development, fostering collaboration and building unity across diverse communities and organizations.

    • Consulting & Business Management: Owner of Redbird Services, LLC and owner/CEO of High Country Metal Building, Inc., serving on and chairing non-profit boards -offering a unique blend of business acumen and leadership skills.

    • Appointed Chair of the Colorado Student Leaders Institute Executive Board.

    • Implemented significant reductions in student discipline referrals through proactive culture-building strategies, recognized by Colorado Chalkbeat.

    • Selected for prestigious leadership programs, including the Tointon Principal Academy and the University of Virginia’s School Turnaround Program at Darden School of Business.

    • Superintendent Certificate in District Level Leadership: University of Colorado – Colorado Springs

    • Ed.S. in Educational Leadership and Administration: Webster University

    • M.A. in Teaching Science: Webster University

    • B.A. in Business Administration: Baylor University

    • Served on multiple nonprofit boards, including the YMCA Denver/Aurora Branch and Aurora Community Center, Denver Young Life, Colorado Student Leaders.

    • Actively contributed to youth and educational initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to community-centered leadership.

  • These experiences—each unique yet interconnected—inform my approach, bringing a holistic perspective to both personal growth and organizational leadership. I’m interested in exploring how my own story can support your journey.

Start living life with purpose

Let’s explore what lies within you and how you can serve the world around you.