Maureen McDole was born in St. Petersburg, Florida. She is a direct descendant of carnies, carpenters and fisherman. Her first book of poems, Exploring My Options, came out in 2006. Her second poetry book, Longing for the Deep End was released in 2011.

She has a BA in English Literature from the University of South Florida and a certificate in Arts & Culture Strategy from University of Pennsylvania. Her poetry has been set in a variety of different ways including: film, dance, spoken word, art installations, Sprechstimme, and traditional vocal works. She founded the literary arts organization, Keep St. Pete Lit, because she believes wholeheartedly in the power of literature to change the world.