We’re continuing our series celebrating incredible women... because you can’t be what you can’t see. In this edition of We See You, the spotlight falls on Marie Ross, founder of Marpole Retreats.
As a kid, Marie didn’t dream small. She pictured herself running a global hotel empire complete with James Bond-style casinos in the basements. Fast forward to today and Marie’s swapped the world of sports betting and casinos for the calm of yoga mats, channeling that same bold energy into helping others slow down, breathe and find balance.
Her venture, Marpole Retreats on Leith Walk Edinburgh, has blossomed into a thriving wellness hub where community and calm meet creativity. From social events and yoga to pilates, personal development and co-working, it’s a space designed for people to pause, connect and reset.
Here, Marie shares her inspiring journey with egg and how she’s proving that you can reinvent your life without losing your spark.
Q: Marie, your journey from the fast-paced world of casinos to creating a calm, welcoming wellness space in Leith is quite the transformation! What inspired that shift and how did Marpole Retreats begin?
Marie: Everything changed when I moved to Canada. I was completely taken by the beauty of the outdoors and the focus on wellness and balance. It was a revelation. That’s what ultimately inspired me to start Marpole Retreats: to create accessible, everyday wellness escapes that offer a little reset from the chaos of life.
Q: Take us back to the beginning. What were you like as a kid and how did it prepare you for what you’re doing now?
Marie: My education followed a fairly traditional path. After sixth form, I went on to study Information Management and Business Studies at Loughborough University. I then decided to deepen my understanding of branding and customer connection, so I completed a part-time Master’s degree in Marketing at the University of Leicester while continuing to work. As my interests evolved and shifted toward wellness and holistic living, I completed my Health Coach Certification remotely through the Institute of Integrative Nutrition. That blend of business, marketing and wellness knowledge really shaped the foundation for Marpole Retreats.
Q: What was your first job?
Marie: My first job was in recruitment and I loved it! It was fast-paced, social and super competitive. I even ended up running the London Marathon because of an office bet! I knew recruitment wasn’t going to be my long-term path but it gave me so many valuable experiences. I’ve always thrived when I’ve got multiple things on the go, and in that role, I also took on organising company events. One of my proudest moments was launching a charity event that brought together over 120 attendees and raised £10,000. It gave me a taste for creating experiences, which I now pour into every Marpole Retreat.
Q: Who’s been your biggest support system through this journey?
Marie: Definitely my husband, he’s been incredible. When I got the keys to our new Marpole building in Leith, Edinburgh, he was right there with me, painting walls and building furniture. Total team effort! I also have amazing friends, but I find a special comfort in chatting with other business owners. It’s hard to explain just how much space your business takes up in your head until you’ve lived it, so having people who get it makes all the difference. They get it. There’s a shared understanding of what it’s like to have your business constantly on your mind.
Q: Your inspiration?
Marie: Deborah Meaden really inspires me. She seems to strike that perfect balance of being firm but fair, and she’s built an incredible empire without ever losing sight of the importance of treating people right.
Q: How would you describe your leadership style and how do you lead?
Marie: I value working with people who are not just talented, but also genuinely fun to be around. I’m the type of person who wants to share a drink or meal with my team, that kind of connection matters to me. When I’m bringing someone new on board, I look for that energy first. Skills are obviously important, but I really believe people are the experts in their own areas. If they feel valued, heard, and supported, they’ll do their best work and when they thrive, the business thrives.
Over time, I’ve learned that while I tend to move at a thousand miles an hour, not everyone operates at that same pace and that’s okay. I’ve had to take a step back and really understand each person’s individual process and working style. For me, leadership is about creating an environment where everyone can do their best work in their own way, while still driving the vision forward.
Q: What’s been your biggest challenge as a business owner?
Marie: Wearing all the hats! I’m sure anyone with their own business can relate to that! From marketing to finances to customer service, it’s non-stop. There are days when it feels impossible to do everything, but over time I’ve learned to prioritise and embrace the chaos. It’s all part of the process.
Q: How has egg helped you?
egg has been an incredible source of instructors for Marpole. So many of our coaches found me through the community, or came recommended after I posted about opportunities last year.
Q: Biggest lesson learned so far?
Marie: In the words of Dory, "just keep swimming!" The more effort I put in, the more I see the results and that’s such a rewarding feeling. On the flip side, when I’ve taken my foot off the pedal, I can definitely notice the impact later. It’s a constant reminder that consistency is key, and the effort always pays off in the end.
Q: What’s next for Marpole Retreats?
Marie: My 5-10 year plan is all about growth and stability. First, I want to get this new building up and running smoothly. We’re currently renting, but my goal is to buy within the next 5 years. I’m also focused on training my team to take on more leadership so we can expand, maybe even open another location. It’s all about creating a strong foundation now so that we can scale in the future.
Q: Any advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?
Marie: Go for it, really throw yourself in. Don’t dip your toe in. Jump. The best lessons come from doing, and the rewards are so worth it.
Marie is the founder of Marpole Retreats, part of the egg business club. egg members are offered an exclusive 10% off classes and workshops.
If you’d like to check out the space, come along to our next egg co-working day on Tuesday 18th November, 10am-5pm. It’s the perfect chance to focus, connect, and get things done in great company. This month, we’re excited to host a Lunch & Learn with Wilma, founder of Maverick Menopause, a nutrition consultancy empowering women to navigate menopause with energy, clarity and confidence. She’ll be leading a brilliant session on the menopause.
Whether you’re diving into a big project, brainstorming your next idea, or just craving the buzz of a shared workspace, a change of scene can do wonders for your creativity and motivation. Tickets here.
Read more about the egg business club here.
