Solo – The Single Person’s Guide to a Remarkable Life

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, uncertainty, and even heartbreak may be the price of a psychologically rich life.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

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? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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 Science and Power of Being Alone, discovered the “deactivation effect”—just fifteen minutes alone turns down the volume on your emotions. Peter McGraw talks to them about the science of solitude and answers questions, such as “What actually happens when you sit with yourself? And how much solitude is enough?” The answers might surprise you.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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 remarkable solo life. They unpack what it means to be aromantic, how Jessalyn got off the relationship escalator, and why autonomy, not romance, is her guiding compass. It’s funny, sharp, and surprisingly relatable – even if you’re not aromantic.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

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 it means to live remarkably, forge deep male friendships, and question the default path. A fan favorite, this episode returns for a new wave of listeners.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/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 the nuclear family model. From TEDx talks to the New England Journal of Medicine, she’s sounding the alarm on a silent crisis. If you’re Solo—and especially if you live alone—you need to hear this episode.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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 Solos can turn aging, retirement, and reinvention into their most liberated chapter yet. Joined by Theresa Williamson, a city planner and Solo in her own second life, they unpack how mobility, flexibility, and optionality give Solos an edge—and why a fulfilling Third Act doesn’t require a fat bank account or a partner, just a little creativity (and maybe a plane ticket to Brazil).Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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 stuck in a world built for two. That disconnect is where the Solo Economy sits. Is the world ready? No.Join the movement: petermcgraw.org/soloInterested in workshops or coaching? Reach out. Onwards!Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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, and merging lives. Amy Gahran, who coined the term, joins Peter to break it all down. We explore what the escalator is, why it’s so invisible, and how Solos step off it—through consensual non-monogamy, platonic partnerships, sexual friendships, or simply going Solo.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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 alone. Then, Christina Campbell (aka CC) joins to unveil the Singles Bill of Rights—a bold call for equality in a world built for two. Onwards!Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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. From sexual containers to eager consent, they explore how to make intimacy safer, hotter, and more intentional.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/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, and reinvention.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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 aligns with your values. The conversation touches on autonomy, identity, and the joys – and challenges – of living remarkably as a Solo. If you are interested in how Peter’s thoughts have evolved on the subject of living remarkably, check out the later chapters of his Solo book to learn about the Foundation-Flourish model of well-being. Onwards!Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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 talk Stop Telling People to Get Married, and look ahead to what’s next for a world built for one.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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 of time in singlehood.They explore how the relationship escalator shapes our perceptions of time and adulthood—particularly for women, who are often left waiting hopefully... or hopelessly. They also discuss how waiting can strip people of power, and why having a family is so often equated with moral virtue. Plus, they ask a big question: If becoming an adult means giving up childish things—like Peter Pan—why are we so quick to abandon joy? Iris’s answer might just blow your mind.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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 belief system that says romantic partnership is the key to happiness, status, and success. With special guest co-host Iris Schneider, they explore how these beliefs are less about love and more about control and comfort in a chaotic world.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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 between. They explore what dignity really means (hint: it’s not just self-esteem or being nice), the everyday moments we affirm or violate it, and how to design a life rooted in clarity, voice, fairness, and ownership. Onwards!Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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 announcement: Peter’s new eBook on aging sexy is coming soon. Learn more and join the Solo community at petermcgraw.org/soloLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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, vulnerability, relationships, femininity, and the state of manhood and masculinity. You can find bonus content about male role models and learn about the new Aging Sexy eBook at petermcgraw.org/solo.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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 meaning, this episode introduces a third path—one filled with novelty, complexity, and perspective-changing experiences. From solo travel to one-way tickets, Peter and Erin unpack how embracing uncertainty and pursuing the unconventional can lead to a more remarkable life. With so many new members joining the Solo community, this conversation is well worth revisiting. Tune in and start enriching your life—on your own terms!Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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 limits, the folly of perfectionism, and why embracing imperfection might be the most productive thing you can do. Tune in for kayak metaphors, scruffy hospitality, and practical wisdom for the Solo life.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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 independence, self-reliance, and living a life off the relationship escalator.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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 ourselves.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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 Nirvelli. Together, they dive into the often-overlooked world of friend breakups—why they happen, how to navigate them, and what makes a good friend in the first place. Expect real talk, a few laughs, and maybe even a Taylor Swift reference…Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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 following default scripts, Relationship Design encourages open communication, mutual agreements, and regular check-ins to ensure relationships remain fulfilling and adaptive over time. This conversation is too important not to revisit—especially with so many new members joining the Solo movement. Listen in and start designing!Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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-provoking topics about solo living, dating, and self-discovery. Plus, an update on Peter’s latest projects—including the Solo workbook!Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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 a solo space that supports your well-being, creativity, and personal growth. They cover everything from choosing the right location to adding personal touches, small luxuries, and routines that make your home feel like you.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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 Hero’s Journey, and how art can be a tool for personal transformation. Listen now and start rewriting your own story!Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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 truly value yourself in a world that pushes conformity. Packed with personal stories and practical insights, this conversation will inspire you to embrace your worth and live remarkably. Join the Solo community and tell us how you are valuing yourself in the new year: http://petermcgraw.org/solo Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

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 Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) as a single person. Discover how Solos can navigate life's big financial decisions alone, find purpose, and embrace the freedom of early retirement.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

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 discuss the unique opportunities for singles to pursue a global lifestyle. With over 30 years of experience and having traveled to more than 75 countries, Kathleen shares insights about retiring abroad. The conversation explores financial considerations, social connections, and overcoming challenges to create a thriving life abroad—one uniquely suited for singles seeking adventure and personal growth.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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 and Virgin’s Promise as frameworks, he unpacks the ways we can break free from domestication—society’s “rules” that hold us back from pursuing our dreams.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/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, balancing autonomy with romantic desire and rethinking traditional relationship models. What do you think? Join the Solo community and let us know: https://petermcgraw.org/solo/Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

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 expectations. Meghan shares insights from her journey and advice for the mental and emotional side of single living in a world built for two.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

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-the-scenes insights, including the challenges of speaking to a large, live audience.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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 organize and communicate vital information to loved ones in case of incapacity or death. We explore how this document, can be a lifesaver for Solos without traditional family structures, ensuring that their wishes are known and respected. More importantly, the Family Love Letter is an act of generosity that eases the burden on love ones putting your affairs in order.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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 practical strategies to combat it. Whether you're navigating the end of a relationship or simply seeking to better understand and cope with loneliness, this conversation offers valuable insights and actionable advice. There is also fun bonus material for this episode where Janice and Peter talk about their love of the show, Queer Eye. You can access bonus material by signing up to be part of the Solo community: https://petermcgraw.org/solo/Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

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 journey that led her to start Mindful Endings, which is dedicated to informing and empowering individuals to make thoughtful end-of-life choices that align with their personal values. Together, Teri and Peter explore the importance of advance directives, the unique challenges Solos face as they age, and the emotional realities of facing end-of-life without a traditional family network, including what to expect from hospice and palliative care. Teri provides invaluable resources and insights on how Solos can prepare for potential diagnoses, such as dementia, build supportive communities, and ensure their wishes are respected. Join the Solo community for more information and discussion of this important topic: https://petermcgraw.org/solo/.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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 Brazil, exploring cultural perspectives, personal journeys, and the vibrant solo lifestyle in Rio, one of the world's most dynamic cities.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

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 comedians, the prevalence of single scientists, and strong solo characters in media. What do you think? Join the Solo community and share your thoughts: https://petermcgraw.org/solo/Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

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 they – with thoughtful planning and reflection — can make significant contributions and create meaningful legacies while living fulfilling lives.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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.org/solo/. Cheers!Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

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? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

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/

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

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/

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 also touches upon the challenges of overthinking and the quest for balance between vigilance and relaxation. Plus, don't miss the bonus material available exclusively to our Solo community members; signup at https://petermcgraw.org/solo/.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

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 the history and benefits of solitude, why it's so hard to study, and how anyone can craft positive solitary experiences. From "complete olitude" to "public solitude." you'll gain a new appreciation for the power of being alone. Onwards!