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Speaking at TEDxChicago 2025: The Future is Human

Friday, September 26th @ Harris Theater, Millennium Park

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Self Connection

Relationships

Psychology of Intimacy

Dr. Hareder McDowell

COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGIST, AUTHOR, SEXUAL ACTIVIST AND RESEARCHER

“By embracing the courage to openly communicate our deepest desires and needs, starting with ourselves, then others, and ultimately within the realms of intimacy and sexuality, individuals can dismantle the walls of loneliness and foster rich connections, leading to more authentic and fulfilling lives.”

Dr. Hareder McDowell, affectionately known as Dr. Mac, is a bestselling author, speaker and researcher from the south side of Chicago. Her work focuses on how effective communication around sex and intimacy can lead to better relationships, better sex, long lasting marriages and friendships. Dr. Mac has taught research methods, human sexuality and sexual psychology at various universities including, DePaul, Roosevelt and her Alma mater , National-Louis University, Chicago and has served as a consulting researcher for Stanford University’s organization B.L.A.C.C., focusing on breast cancer and Black women. A passionate advocate for Black women and their inclusion in sexual health research, Dr. McDowell sits on the advisory board for the Congressional Caucus on Women and Girls, addressing maternal mortality under the leadership of Congresswoman Robin Kelly.

She also made history as Chicago’s first community psychologist in government, serving as Assistant City Treasurer, where she directs financial empowerment initiatives. Her book “Black Women, Sex and the Lies our Mothers Told Us”, and its supporting mothers manual, is recognized as one of Amazon's top 21 books for Black Women. She connects with audiences around the globe through her nonprofit P.R.E.T.T.Y INC., her membership in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and as a published correspondent for Essence Magazine. Dr. Mac continues to promote her message of communication being the prevention to any prescription and offers methods in confidence, grace and style.

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Instagram @haredermcdowell

Linkedin Hareder (Dr.Mac) McDowell

Friday, September 26th at Harris Theater, Millennium Park

Chicago’s stage for ideas + connection at the convergence of our culture, innovation, and democracy.

Our future feels uncertain, yet we are resoundingly called to what matters most: You and me. Us. Humanity, itself. At TEDxChicago 2025, we believe the most powerful force shaping tomorrow is our collective agency, imagination, desire for connection and laughter, dignity, and generosity. This year, our speakers and artists arrive on Chicago’s stage to share their ideas, showcasing their fierce commitment to unify science, technology, and sustainability with the essential principles of compassion, justice, and care. This is our love letter to Chicago.