Solo – The Single Person’s Guide to a Remarkable Life
Psychology & Relationships
About
“Solo - The Single Person's Guide to a Remarkable Life” by Dr. Peter McGraw, seeks to celebrate and destigmatize single living. Welcome to the podcast that explores how being single affords you the freedom to be adventurous, start a business, make art, travel the world, get in shape, or simply sleep in when you want to. Join Peter – behavioral scientist, humor researcher, and bachelor – as he interviews happy single men and women and assembles advice from leading experts about health, fitness, money, business, travel, fashion, art, leisure, and of course, sex and dating. For the so-called spinster or bachelor, Solo is the resource for people who are happily single (aka the unapologetically unattached).
Episodes
- Aging Single #12: The Wealth Ladder
What does financial freedom look like when you’re climbing solo? Peter McGraw talks with Nick Maggiulli , author of The Wealth Ladder , about the six levels of wealth, what changes at each stage, and how singles can build money…
- Are You Dead? Going Solo in China
One in four Chinese households is now a single person. Pan Wang , Associate Professor of Chinese and Asian Studies at UNSW Sydney, joins Peter McGraw to talk about the “Are You Dead?” app, one-person hotpot restaurants, date-renting,…
- Solo Thoughts 18: Welcoming Rough Seas
A high-achieving friend falls in love and suddenly finds himself in rough emotional seas. In this Solo Thoughts episode, Peter McGraw explores why calm, optimized lives can make us successful – but not truly alive – and why passion, uncert…
- Lessons from the Hurt Business
Heavyweight boxer turned writer Ed Latimore joins Peter McGraw to talk about his new book, Hard Lessons from the Hurt Business —a raw meditation on violence, discipline, ego, addiction, and growth. Onwards! Love the show? Subsc…
- The Psychology of Solitude
Alone isn’t lonely. Psychologist Robert Coplan , author of The Joy of Solitude , coined aloneliness—the distress of not getting enough time to yourself. Psychologist Thuy-vy Nguyen , co-author of Solitude: The Scien…
- Aromanticism (Again)
In this re-released episode, Peter McGraw asks the question, “What if you never felt romantic love – and didn’t need to?” In this eye-opening favorite, Peter sits down with Jessalyn Dean , an aromantic relationship anarchist living a…
- I Love You, Man (Again)
What happens when two charismatic creatives—and close friends—sit down with Peter McGraw to talk friendship, love, and the Solo movement? This intimate, funny, and thoughtful conversation with Chester See and Darwyn Metzger explores what i…
- Sick while Solo
Why are unmarried patients less likely to receive life-saving medical treatments? Peter McGraw talks to professor and author Joan DelFattore about how America’s healthcare system disadvantages those who are single or outside th…
- Aging Single #11: Third Acts
Whether you call it a Third Act, third season, or second life, one thing’s clear: middle-age and beyond isn’t the end. It’s a redesign. In this episode, as part of the series on aging, retiring, and dying single, Peter McGraw explores how…
- Solo Thoughts 17: Welcome to the Solo Economy
In this Solo Thoughts episode, Peter McGraw talks directly to you about how singles are reshaping work, housing, finance, and community. The rise of single living isn’t a passing fad— it’s a structural shift. Yet our institutions remain st…
- Diverging from the Relationship Escalator (Again)
New to Solo? Start here! This re-release from the early days of the pod covers a concept that comes up again and again—in the podcast and Peter McGraw’s book. The “relationship escalator” is the default path of dating, moving in, marrying,…
- Single at Heart, Singles Bill of Rights, and Singles' Day
It’s 11/11—Singles’ Day—and we’re celebrating Solo style. First, Bella DePaulo returns to talk about her new book Single at Heart , why solo diners are more influential than you think, and what it really means to thrive a…
- Intimacy Design
Sex educator and psychologist Lisa Dawn Hamilton returns to join Peter McGraw to build on Relationship Design and discuss Intimacy Design—the art of co-creating authentic, adventurous, and consent-forward sexual experiences. Fr…
- Lucy Meggeson is Thriving Solo
Peter McGraw talks with Lucy Meggeson —host of Thrive Solo and author of a new book Shiny Happy Singles (UK) / Thrive Solo (US)—about embracing single, child-free living as a path to freedom, joy,…
- Rewind & Reflect: What Makes a Life Remarkable?
In this re-release of a popular early episode, Peter McGraw talks to guests Jill Cohen and Julie Nirvelli about what it means to live a remarkable life. They explore how to break away from societal expectations and design a life that align…
- Episode 250: Looking Forward and Looking Back
In this milestone episode, Peter McGraw reunites with fan-favorite Julie Nirvelli to reflect on 250 episodes of Solo and the rise of the Solo movement. Together, they look back on how far we've come, celebrate the viral success of the TEDx…
- Waiting (Again)
What does it mean to wait—especially as a single person? In this re-release, Peter McGraw is joined by guest co-host Iris Schneider, a fellow Solo and behavioral scientist, to talk with sociologist Kinneret Lahad about the overlooked power…
- Defending Relationship Ideology
Why do so many people defend marriage like it is sacred – even when the data does not back it up. In this provocative episode, Peter McGraw talks to Martin Day about his paper on people’s committed relationship ideology – the b…
- Dignity
What if your life was built around dignity – not just yours, but everyone’s? In this episode, behavioral scientist and proud Solo Cait Lamberton joins Peter McGraw to unpack how dignity shapes Solo living, partnered life, and everything in…
- Three Single Women Put Peter on the Hot Seat!
Peter McGraw takes the hot seat on the Three Single Women podcast to celebrate their 6-month anniversary—and (boldly) speak for all men. This crossover episode dives into masculinity, femininity, dating, and personal growth. ✨ Special anno…
- Masculinity and Manhood
Masculinity and Manhood: What are they, what are they not, and where we’re headed? To answer these questions, Peter McGraw is joined by two friends from a recent Men’s Wellness Day for a thoughtful (and fun) conversation on strength, vulne…
- A Rich Remarkable Life (Again)
In this re-release of a thought-provoking episode, Peter McGraw is joined by Dr. Erin Westgate for a lively exploration of what it means to live a psychologically rich life. Moving beyond the usual narratives of happiness and m…
- Meditations For (Single) Mortals
What if the key to a remarkable life isn’t doing more—but doing less, better? In this episode, Peter McGraw welcomes author Oliver Burkeman to explore themes from his latest book Meditations for Mortals . They dive into the beauty of limit…
- Did The Covid Pandemic Fuel The Solo Movement?
Peter McGraw is joined by Mary Dahm and Shane Mauss to reflect on how the pandemic disrupted everything—and unexpectedly liberated Solos. From lockdown revelations to pandemic breakups, we explore how COVID accelerated a shift toward indep…
- Are You A Lone Wolf?
Are you a lone wolf? Live from the HiFi Homestead, Peter McGraw is joined by his good friend—comedian, science communicator, and self-professed lone wolf—Shane Mauss, for a deep dive into solitude, survival, and the myths we tell about our…
- Friend Breakups
Everyone talks about romantic breakups—but what about breaking up with a friend? In this episode, Peter McGraw is joined in the Solo Studio by two community favorites: the perceptive and passionate Janice Formichella and the Solo OG Julie…
- Relationship Design (Again)
In this re-release of a popular episode, Peter McGraw welcomes Jessalyn Dean into the Solo Studio for a deep dive into Relationship Design—the art of co-creating intentional, customized relationships that truly work for you. Instead of fol…
- Listener Questions #2
In this AMA episode, Peter McGraw welcomes back familiar guest Julie Nirvelli to tackle questions from the Solo community. From Solo Salons and international moves to personality types and relationship design, they dive into thought-…
- Creating Your Solo Space
Your space is more than just where you live—it’s a reflection of your independence and the life you’re building. Breakup coach and Sex and the Solo Girl host Janice Formichella joins Peter McGraw in the Solo Studio to explore how to design…
- Creative Journeys
How can creativity fuel a remarkable Solo life? Writer and storytelling expert Carrie Osgood joins Peter McGraw in the Solo Studio to explore using storytelling to embrace unconventional choices, alternative narrative frameworks beyond the…
- Valuing Yourself (Again)
How do you value yourself? This fan-favorite episode is being re-released for new listeners (or a reminder for seasoned listeners)! Peter McGraw welcomes Sarah Stinson and Lawrence Williams into the Solo Studio to explore what it means to…
- Aging Single #10: Retiring Early
In this episode in the series on aging, retiring and dying single, Peter McGraw dives into the world of early retirement with Pete Adeney , aka Mr. Money Mustache, and Jessalyn Dean. They tackle the unique challenges and perks of achieving…
- Aging Single #9: Retiring Abroad
We continue the Solo series on aging, retiring, and dying Solo with a look at expat living as a remarkable opportunity for singles. Kathleen Peddicord, a leading expert on living, investing, and retiring abroad, joins Peter McGraw to discu…
- Solo Thoughts 16: Are You the Hero in Your Life's Story?
Peter McGraw reflects on the question, “Are you the hero in your life’s story?” After announcing a more spontaneous podcast release schedule, Peter dives into the idea of being the active protagonist in one’s life. Using the Hero’s Journey…
- Romance and Love as a Solo
How do you embrace romance while living a solo life? In this episode, Peter McGraw is joined by two special guests who crave romance without compromising their independence. They discuss navigating the complexities of love and dating, bala…
- A Party Of One
Peter McGraw talks with Meghan Keane, the founder and managing producer of NPR's Life Kit and author of the new book Party of One. They discuss the empowering message of being your own soulmate and navigating a world full of societal expec…
- TEDxBoulder Recap: Stop Telling Single People To Get Married
Join Peter McGraw, fresh off his TEDxBoulder talk “Stop Telling Single People to Get Married,” as he sits down with Mary Dahm in the Solo Studio. They preview the talk, explore the process of crafting and delivering it, and share behind-th…
- Aging Single #8: Family Love Letter
We continue the Solo series on aging, retiring, and dying single by continuing our exploration of end-of-life issues. Financial advisor Todd Engmann joins Peter McGraw to discuss the " Family Love Letter " – a tool designed to help organiz…
- Coping with Loneliness
In this episode of Solo, Peter McGraw talks to Janice Formichella , a breakup coach and member of the Solo community, about the challenge of loneliness. Together, they explore the complex nature of loneliness—whether social or romantic—and…
- Aging Single #7: Advance Directives For End-Of-Life
In this heartfelt episode, Peter McGraw explores the challenging yet crucial topic of end-of-life planning for Solos with Teri Ashley, a certified advance care planning specialist and hospice volunteer. Teri shares her deeply personal jour…
- Single In Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
Peter McGraw welcomes back previous guest Monique (Murad) Da Cunha and long-time listener Theresa Williamson , both proud solos living in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. They discuss Monique and Theresa's unique experience of single living in Braz…
- Truth Or Truth With Myq Kaplan
In this Solo episode, Peter McGraw welcomes comedian Myq Kaplan, known for his appearances on the Tonight Show, Conan, and America's Got Talent. They dive into a lively game of Truth or Truth, discussing the lone wolf nature of stand-up co…
- Aging Single #6: Generosity And Legacy
In this episode, as part of a series on aging, retiring, and dying single (which airs on the first Thursday of every month), Peter McGraw talks with Shelby Radcliffe. She shares insights on generosity and legacy for Solos, discussing how t…
- Listener Questions #1
Inspired by Peter McGraw's appearance on the SavageLove Podcast, he invites Julie Nirvelli into the Solo Studio to answer some listener questions. For access to a bonus question, sign up for the Solo community: https://petermcgraw.or…
- Aging Single #5: Aging Sexy
Peter McGraw continues his series on aging, retiring, and dying single. In this episode, he talks to Cindy Gallop about aging sexy. What do you think? Join the Solo community to discuss: https://petermcgraw.org/solo/ Love the show?&n…
- Truth Or Truth With One Single Woman
Peter McGraw plays Truth or Truth with Pip Brown , the host of One Single Woman podcast. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/
- Aging Single #4: Moving Your Body in Old Age
Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/
- The Art Of Being Alone
Peter McGraw speaks to Renuka Gavrani , the author of " The Art of Being Alone: Solitude Is My HOME, Loneliness Was My Cage. " Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/
- Solo Thoughts 15: Solo Thoughts From Solo "Trips"
In this introspective episode of Solo Thoughts, Peter McGraw delves into the life-altering insights gained from a year’s worth of solo psilocybin trips, exploring themes of enjoying life more, connecting deeply, and embracing freedom. He a…
- The Science of Solitude and the Power of Being Alone
Is solitude just for introverts or monks? Think again. Heather Hansen, co-author of Solitude: The Science and Power of Being Alone , talks to Peter McGraw about how solo time is essential for our well-being. In this episode, they explore t…