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

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!

Welcome back to another episode of "Aging Single," where Peter McGraw explores the intricacies of aging, retiring, and dying solo. This time, in episode three, he is focused on the critical topics of finances and estate planning, an essential discussion for singles navigating their later years independently. Peter is joined by two guests: Louisa M. Ritsick from Ritsick Law LLC, a seasoned lawyer specializing in estate and tax planning, and Kirsten Hollander, a certified financial planner with a wealth of experience in helping clients achieve financial independence. Together, they share their expertise on overcoming the unique financial and legal challenges faced by aging singles.

This episode seeks to explore the singles advocacy movement with Gordon Morris, who is aiming to breathe new life into Unmarried Equality, a nonprofit at the crossroads of the singles' rights movement. Alongside guest co-host Christina Campbell, a fervent supporter of single living, Peter McGraw explores the roots and future of singles advocacy, from the pioneering "Singles Bill of Rights" to today's push for societal acceptance. Discover how you can join this crucial cause for equality.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

Peter McGraw is concerned about his students and has been writing open letters to them. In this Solo Thoughts episode, he reads those letters to you with the hope of getting you to read more books, write more often, and never give up on your dreams.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

Whether with a partner or solo, sex is fun--or at least should be. Peter McGraw and guest co-host, Laura Grant, talk to Justin Lehmiller, a sex researcher and author of "Tell Me What You Want" about how to have better sex. They discuss Justin's "Ten Resolutions for Better Sex."Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

In the second episode on the series on aging, retiring, and dying single, Peter McGraw talks to William J. Kole (aka Bill Kole), author of "THE BIG 100: The New World of Super-Aging." Kole shares insights from his extensive research on the phenomenon of people living to 100 and beyond, discussing the implications for society, relationships, and personal well-being. They explore the factors contributing to longer lifespans, the pros and cons of a super-aging world, and the importance of preparing for this new reality. Kole also offers advice on cultivating habits and attitudes that can help us live longer, healthier, and more fulfilling lives, with a special focus on the considerations for those aging single. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

Peter McGraw recently appeared on Savage Love. In this episode, Peter continues the conversation with writer, journalist, and activist Dan Savage for a bold, unfiltered discussion of the Solo Movement. Dan, known for his direct approach to discussing sexuality and relationships, provides valuable insights that have been essential to the Solo project. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that goes beyond the pod's usual "PG-16" rating.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

In this episode, Peter McGraw invites two guests to tackle the complex and emotionally charged topic of family estrangement, as requested by several members of the Solo community (sign up at https://petermcgraw.org/solo/). To delve into this important subject, Peter is joined by Dr. Kristina Scharp, who brings her research expertise on the topic to the conversation. They are joined by guest co-host Janice Formacella, who brings her unique perspective and experience in helping individuals navigate difficult relationships add depth and nuance to the discussion.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

Peter McGraw speaks to Ari Engelberg about the growing number of singles (i.e., "late singlehood") in Religious Zionism. Ari shares insights from his new book, Singlehood and Religion: The Case of Israeli Religious Zionist Singles.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

One question that often comes up for the life-long single is, "But who will take care of you when you are old?" This episode begins a series on aging, retiring, and dying solo. Topics will include the future of aging, estate planning, longevity, navigating end of life, and making aging sexy. Episodes will be released on the first Thursday of the month. In this episode, which begins the series, Jessalyn Dean joins Peter McGraw in the Solo Studio to talk about the series, raise questions, brainstorm topics, and share perspectives. If you want to request topics or raise questions, you can do so as part of the Solo community: https://petermcgraw.org/solo/Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

In this Solo Thoughts" episode, Peter McGraw builds on his "Big Day Theory" to explore the concept of being ALIVE versus merely existing. He reflects on the importance of making each day count, influenced by a transformative trip to the HiFi Homestead in Joshua Tree. Peter discuses how ordinary days can be infused with extraordinary meaning, engagement, and positive experiences. What do you do to feel "ALIVE"? Share your experiences with the Solo community: https://petermcgraw.org/soloLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

While many listeners of the Solo podcasts are "No Way" Solos who are not interested in dating (for now or forever), the "Just May" and "New Way" Solos are often navigating the dating apps in search of love or lust. Peter McGraw and Jessalyn Dean talk about best practices for online dating--from figuring out your goals to how to pick the best pictures. They finish the episode by doing a dating profile audit for two online daters.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

Peter McGraw recently appeared on Lisa Dawn Hamilton's podcast, Do We Know Things. A member of the Solo community suggested the episode would be a good primer for people new to the Solo movement. Here is that conversation for new listeners to help bring them up to speed on statistics, definitions, and Peter's perspectives on single living–and going Solo.Join the movement at: https://petermcgraw.org/solo.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

It's that time of year. To discuss Valentine's Day, Peter McGraw invites Mary Delia Allen and Iris Schneider back on the Solo podcast. They have a wide-ranging conversation that includes the history of Valentine's Day and alternative approaches to the day. What do you think? Join the Solo community and share your opinion: https://petermcgraw.org/soloLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo

Kris Marsh returns to Solo to talk to Peter McGraw about 1) her research on how singles are not a monolithic group, 2) the reaction to her new book, The Love Jones Cohort, and 3) advice for Peter about dealing with the "haters" who will surface with the launch of his book, Solo-Building a Remarkable Life of Your Own. Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

Peter McGraw and Kriss Rita present another round of Solo Love Letters from his new book, Solo: Building a Remarkable Life of Your Own. What do you think? Join the Solo community and join the conversation: https://petermcgraw.org/solo/Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

Peter McGraw's new book (Solo: Building a Remarkable Life of Your Own) is about to come out. To talk about it and reflect on Solo's episode, he invites two familiar voices into the Solo Studio to talk about the Solo Movement. Join the conversation at: https://petermcgraw.org/soloLove the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

Peter McGraw speaks to Jen O'Donnell, a friend and early-reader of his new book, about being married and solo. What do you think of the conversation? Join the Solo community and let Peter know: https://petermcgraw.org/solo/.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

People think that people are either monogamous or non-monogamous--on or the other. However, emerging research reveals a new perspective on people's sexual and romantic desires. In this Solo episode, Peter McGraw speaks to a neuroscientist and Solo listener, Lisa Dawn Hamilton, about her research that shows the average person sits somewhere in the middle. What do you think? Join the Solo community and tell Peter: https://petermcgraw.org/solo/.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

Friendship is essential to a remarkable life. Peter McGraw believes it is time to elevate friendship, and in that vein, he invites Marisa Franco to talk about the topic. Marisa is the New York Times bestselling author of Platonic: How the Science of Attachment Can Help You Make--and Keep--Friends. What do you think of the conversation? Join the Solo community and let Peter know: https://petermcgraw.org/solo/.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

Peter McGraw speaks to you directly in this Solo Thoughts episode about the need to develop connections beyond traditional romantic relationships. In particular, he asks if you have someone to call in the middle of the night if you are sick or afraid, and if you don't, it is essential to develop new friendships or invigorate old ones. Finally, there is a bit of bonus material at the end about an experiment that Peter has been doing called "Monastic Mornings."Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

Peter McGraw has found the research conducted by the Pew Research Center to be invaluable for his Solo Project. In this episode, Peter speaks to Rachel Minkin about Pew's report on Americans' View of the Modern American Family. Get ready for an enlightening discussion where expert analysis meets deep curiosity. Nerd Alert!Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

Peter McGraw invites a breakup coach and host of Breakups, Broken Hearts, and Moving On into the Solo Studio to play Truth or Truth. Janice Formichella and Peter have a delightful conversation, discussing topics such as the "no contact" rule, overcoming loneliness, and being single during the holiday.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

Many Solo listeners have requested an episode on loss – whether due to the death of a loved one, the loss of a beloved pet, a difficult breakup, or just the disappointments of everyday life. Peter McGraw invites Tessa Bringer and Jaclyn Foglio into the Solo Studio to examine healthy coping strategies, find meaning after loss, and discover the potential for post-traumatic growth. As part of the conversation, they discuss the unique challenges singles face when grieving and mourning.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/

Tracy Maxwell, a cancer survivor and author of "Being Single, with Cancer," joins Peter McGraw in the Solo Studio to talk about the unique physical, emotional, and practical challenges singles face undergoing cancer treatment and how to respond to those challenges.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo/