Next Up in Our 30 Faces of YES: Marlee Rabin
Joining YES in 2018, Marlee was navigating a pivotal moment in her entrepreneurial journey. Having just launched her first business, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic forced her to step back and reflect on the future of her company. It was during this pause that she joined the inaugural cohort of the ELLEvate Women Entrepreneurs Pre-Accelerator. The intensive experience was challenging, yet it provided the tools, mentorship, and community she needed to push forward.
Today, Marlee has transitioned from running her own company to a role she deeply enjoys: outfitting private jets. She credits the relationships she built and the strategic clarity she gained during her time at YES for helping her transition smoothly and continue growing professionally.
With two successful ventures behind her, Marlee now looks back at her time in the accelerator as a key turning point in her career—one that set the foundation for the next stage of her journey. She has continued giving back to the entrepreneurial community as a YES workshop speaker and Business Real Talk conference panelist.
Interview with Marlee
What brought you to YES, and what were you hoping to achieve at that time?
I first came to YES while running my first business and considering a pivot. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic created a natural pause and pushed me to reflect on the future of my company. I joined the YES ELLEvate Women Entrepreneurs Pre-Accelerator as part of its inaugural cohort—one of ten inspiring women entrepreneurs—and won the third-place prize. The program was energizing and supportive; I learned a lot and began working with a business coach during that time, whom I continue to work with today!
Can you tell me about some of the challenges or goals you faced when you first connected with YES? Was there a particular moment or obstacle that felt especially significant?
When I first connected with YES, one of the biggest challenges was going through the accelerator program itself. It was a very intensive experience, with a heavy workload that kept me busy and constantly on my toes. At the same time, it pushed me out of my comfort zone and encouraged me to think more critically and strategically about the future of my business. That combination of being challenged and supported was significant—it helped me grow as both an entrepreneur and a leader!
How did YES support you in overcoming those challenges or moving forward in your career, business, or artistic journey?
YES supported me by offering not only resources, but also a strong sense of community and encouragement. The combination of mentorship, practical tools, and ongoing support gave me the confidence to navigate challenges and take concrete steps forward. Knowing I had a network to lean on made all the difference in helping me move ahead with clarity and momentum.
Were there any tools, workshops, or insights from YES that made a lasting difference?
Absolutely—the ELLEvate Pre-Accelerator and the networking events. ELLEvate gave me a clear framework, accountability, and practical tools I still use (from refining my value proposition to structuring a go-to-market plan). The networking events helped me build lasting relationships with mentors and peers, and those connections continue to open doors, sharpen my thinking, and support my career growth.
Where are you now in your journey, and what achievements or milestones are you most proud of?
Today, I’m no longer operating my own company—I’m channeling that same entrepreneurial energy into a role I love: outfitting private jets. I arrived here through relationships I built during my first venture, and those connections continue to shape my career. My biggest point of pride is launching two profitable businesses, which gave me the skills, credibility, and momentum to thrive in this space.
Looking back, is there a particular moment or success that stands out as a turning point?
The turning point came when COVID-19 hit. I made fast, decisive changes to my business strategy, and that agility not only kept me moving—it set the tone for how I lead today.
At what stage were you in your career, business, or artistic journey when you connected with YES?
I first connected with YES while launching my first business, at the early, building-from-scratch stage of my entrepreneurial journey.
Which YES services, workshops, or coaching did you participate in?
ELLEvate Pre-Accelerator and Business Coaching
Do you have any full-circle moments to share—such as returning as a speaker, mentor, or volunteer?
Yes—speaking on a panel moderated by Andy Nulman was a real full-circle moment.
➔ Find more details on Marlee’s journey and businesses.
➔ Check out Marlee’s Client of the Month feature
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