How should we deal with rude people? It’s a question that comes up again and again, and in this episode, we turn to Marcus Aurelius for the answer. In Book 9 of his Meditations, the great Roman emperor laid out a simple but profound exercise that can be done in seconds, an exercise that shifts our perspective, grounds us in virtue, and helps us respond wisely instead of reacting with anger.

William unpacks this teaching in practical, everyday terms, showing how we can apply it when we’re cut off in traffic, confronted with harsh words, or faced with everyday frustrations. Drawing on Aurelius as well as Viktor Frankl’s reminder of the “space between stimulus and response,” he explains how the Stoics urged us to first return to our own directing mind, then remember our place within the greater whole, and finally see the other person with compassion rather than hostility.

Rudeness, from the Stoic perspective, is not an obstacle but an opportunity, a sparring partner that gives us the chance to practice patience, empathy, and resilience. By pausing, recalling our shared humanity, and choosing to act with wisdom, courage, temperance, and justice, we not only protect our own peace of mind but also contribute to harmony in the wider world. This is timeless Stoic advice, and it remains just as relevant today.

In this episode, William is joined by Aaron Parker to explore how Stoicism, Muay Thai, and mindfulness helped Aaron transform a life of hedonism into one of purpose, gratitude, and authenticity.

Aaron opens up about his rough upbringing, struggles with escapism, and the turning points that led him to philosophy, meditation, and self-discipline. Together, William and Aaron dive into the practical side of Stoicism, how to move beyond just reading the texts to truly living by them, and how principles like gratitude, presence, and temperance can reshape everyday life.

They also tackle misconceptions around Stoicism, including the modern wave of “broicism,” and discuss how being truly Stoic means embracing emotions, practicing self-awareness, and striving to serve others. From sparring partners in Muay Thai to sparring partners in life, Aaron shares how challenges become the very training grounds for virtue.

If you’ve ever struggled with finding direction, questioned the culture of excess, or wondered how to live more authentically, this conversation will resonate deeply.

Most people have completely misunderstood Stoicism. The most common myth, repeated endlessly online, is that Stoics were cold, emotionless, and detached from life. This false idea is not only wrong, it’s harmful. It fuels toxic masculinity, pushes people away from philosophy, and has convinced many that Stoicism is about suppressing emotions instead of living well with them.

In this episode, William breaks down why this myth has spread so far, how it nearly ruined his own understanding of Stoicism, and what the Stoics actually taught about emotions, friendship, and community. Far from being a philosophy of indifference, Stoicism shows us how to recognize and work with our emotions, using them wisely instead of being ruled by them.

Stoicism has never been about isolation or coldness. It is about virtue, justice, courage, and compassion. It is about building friendships, loving humanity, and striving for harmony in society. Whether you are new to Stoicism or have been practicing it for years, this episode will challenge what you thought you knew and reveal why Stoicism remains one of the most human and life-affirming philosophies ever created.