<p>In this insightful episode of <em>Passion Struck</em>, John R. Miles sits down with psychologist and author William von Hippel to unpack the central theme of his latest book, <em>The Social Paradox: Autonomy, Connection, and Why We Need Both to Find Happiness</em>. Together, they explore how modern life has tilted heavily toward autonomy—careers, smartphones, and endless options—often at the expense of deep connection and belonging.</p><p>Drawing on research with the Hadza hunter-gatherers of Tanzania, von Hippel explains why our ancestors’ lives, though materially sparse, were rich in connection and happiness—and why our overemphasis on independence leaves many feeling lonely and invisible.</p><p><a href="https://passionstruck.com/the-social-paradox-william-von-hippel-connection/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>Visit this link for the full show notes</strong></a></p><p><strong>Go Deeper: The Ignited Life Substack</strong></p><p>If this episode stirred something in you, The Ignited Life is where the transformation continues. Each week, I share behind-the-scenes insights, science-backed tools, and personal reflections to help you turn intention into action.</p><p><a href="https://www.theignitedlife.net/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Subscribe</a>🔗  and get the companion resources delivered straight to your inbox.</p><p>Catch more of William von Hippel:</p><p>If you liked the show, please leave us a review—it only takes a moment and helps us reach more people! Don’t forget to include your Twitter or Instagram handle so we can thank you personally.</p><p>Get the full companion workbook at <a href="https://www.theignitedlife.net/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">TheIgnitedLife.net</a></p><p>Full episode on YouTube: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@JohnRMiles" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/@JohnRMiles</a></p><p>Listen on Apple Podcasts, <a href="https://spotify.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spotify</a>, or wherever you get your podcasts</p><p>Everyone deserves to feel valued and important. Show it by wearing it: <a href="https://startmattering.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://startmattering.com/</a></p><p>See Privacy Policy at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy</a> and California Privacy Notice at <a href="https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info</a>.</p>