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March 8, 2026

Your Brain on Social Media: How Constant Connectivity Shapes Our Lives

How is life online reshaping the way we think, feel, and connect? JOB production dramaturg and Licensed Clinical Social Worker Erin Shea Brady joins UIC Professor of Communication Zachary McDowell for a conversation exploring the cognitive, emotional, and physiological impacts of the wired world, from attention and mental health to identity and relationships. Gain insight into the challenges—and possibilities—of constant connectivity, along with practical tools for navigating a healthier digital life.

About the Panelists

Erin Shea Brady

JOB Dramaturg & Panelist

ERIN SHEA BRADY is a writer, director and dramaturg based in Chicago, IL. Directing credits include: Grace, or the Art of Climbing and Everybody (BPBCo.); Cabaret and The Rise and Fall of Little Voice (No Stakes Theater Project). Playwriting credits include: You're a Weirdo, Annie Best (developed at SheATL and Fresh Fruit Festival, NY.) Erin has assistant directed and/or dramaturged productions at the Goodman, Jackalope, TimeLine, Remy Bumppo and A Red Orchid Theatre, as well as interning in the casting department at Steppenwolf. They are currently pursuing a Masters in Extension Studies (Creative Writing & Literature) at Harvard University. In addition to their work in theater, Erin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker focusing on trauma recovery work with LGBTQ+ folks.

Zachary J. McDowell

Panelist

Zachary J. McDowell is an Associate Professor in the Department of Communication at the University of Illinois Chicago. Focusing on Information and Media Theory, policy analysis, and political economy, Zach focuses on digital knowledge platforms, particularly Wikipedia and emerging algorithmic AI systems, and their implications for knowledge representation and access. His research critically examines the evolving role of complex digital environments in shaping public knowledge, information literacy, labor, and social justice. He is the co-founder and editor of the Diamond open-access journal communication +1 and the coauthor of Wikipedia and the Representation of Reality.

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