Let’s work together

The best conversations are the ones that leave people seeing the world a little differently.

I'm always happy to connect with journalists, editors, podcast hosts, television producers, event organizers, tourism boards, and brands looking for thoughtful conversations about living fully in life's second act.

As the founder and editor of The Empty Nest Rebellion, I write and speak about travel, food, wine, books, creativity, reinvention, and the many ways women can build richer, more intentional lives after the kids leave home.

Whether you're looking for an interview, expert commentary, a podcast guest, a keynote speaker, an editorial contributor, or a creative brand partner, I'd love to explore how we can work together.

Press & Media

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Headshots

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A woman with long blonde hair smiling while talking on a white rotary telephone in a modern, minimalistic room. She is sitting on a cream-colored textured sofa with a small white side table in front of her. The background features a plain gray wall and a partial view of a mirror.

Official Bio

Media Kit

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Press Mentions

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A woman with blonde hair wearing a black sleeveless dress holds a food menu in a restaurant with art decor on the wall and a tall white vase with flowers in the background.

Speaking Topics

UGC Portfolio

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Topics I Love Discussing

  • Reinvention in midlife

  • Women and second acts

  • Thoughtful travel & boutique hotels

  • Food, wine & culinary experiences

  • Books, storytelling & literary travel

  • Building a lifestyle media company

  • User-generated content (UGC) and creator partnerships

  • Creativity, curiosity & lifelong learning

  • Saying yes to the things that scare us—in the best possible way

If you're looking for thoughtful conversation, genuine enthusiasm, practical insights, and a story or two that might make people laugh, I'd love to hear from you.

Michelle Jolene is the founder and editor of The Empty Nest Rebellion, a lifestyle publication for women who believe life gets bigger after the kids leave, not smaller. An MFA-trained writer, former college professor, self-trained home cook, traveler, and lifelong learner, she writes about thoughtful travel, food, wine, books, and the quiet courage of building a beautiful second act. Her mission is simple: help women explore more, savor more, read more, and live more.

Michelle helps women collect stories—not just souvenirs.