About the Researcher

Jolene MacFadden brings 40+ years of communication expertise to academic research. After personal experiences with loss and discovery through solo travel, she founded Solo Sojourn Research LLC to investigate technology-mediated interventions for women’s empowerment.

Academic Credentials

• 4.0 GPA in graduate coursework
• PhD applicant, University of Florida College of Journalism and Communications
• Specialization: Social Media & Mobile Health Communication
• Expected enrollment: Fall 2027

Teaching Experience

• Featured lecturer, Sunshine State Book Festival (January 2026)
• Monthly instructor, Writers Alliance of Gainesville
• 50+ podcast episodes on branding and communication
• Professional-development workshops for authors and entrepreneurs

Research Interests

Digital empowerment for older adults • Mobile health interventions • Women’s technology adoption • Community-based participatory research

Personal Journey

After becoming widowed, I discovered solo RV travel as a path to independence and self-discovery. This personal transformation inspired rigorous academic investigation into how technology can facilitate similar journeys for other women navigating life transitions.