Solo – The Single Person’s Guide to a Remarkable Life
Dr. Peter McGraw
“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
Mentioned books
Sep 23, 2025 • 1h 36min
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 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
Sep 9, 2025 • 1h 18min
Episode 250: Looking Forward and Looking Back
Julie Nirvelli, a fan-favorite returning guest known for her insights on dating and relationships, joins Peter McGraw to celebrate 250 milestones in the Solo journey. They reflect on the impact of societal norms on singles, advocating for intentional living and self-acceptance. Their conversation highlights the evolution of personal relationships and the challenges singles face, including the push for better representation. Humorously, they also share adventures in Colombia and insights from their boxing experiences, blending personal growth with advocacy.
6 snips
Aug 26, 2025 • 1h 46min
Waiting (Again)
Kinneret Lahad, a senior lecturer specializing in gender studies, and Iris Schneider, a behavioral scientist, delve into the complexities of waiting for love as a single person. They explore how societal norms shape perceptions of time and adulthood, especially for women. The conversation highlights how waiting can diminish personal power, discussing the moral implications of family over singlehood. Iris provides a thought-provoking take on why adulthood often demands abandoning joy, encouraging a reevaluation of happiness and fulfillment outside conventional timelines.
Aug 12, 2025 • 59min
Defending Relationship Ideology
Martin Day, a social psychologist exploring relationships, teams up with Iris Schneider, a bold advocate for the solo movement. They dive into the societal obsession with marriage, questioning why so many cling to traditional relationship ideologies despite contrary evidence. The conversation explores how these beliefs often stem from a desire for control in an unpredictable world and challenges the idea that romantic partnerships are the sole path to happiness. Expect thought-provoking insights on love, singlehood, and the evolving dynamics of relationships.
Jul 22, 2025 • 1h 11min
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 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
Jul 1, 2025 • 1h 14min
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 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
Jun 17, 2025 • 1h 26min
Masculinity and Manhood
David Jatendernot, a tech professional and writer recently navigating life post-divorce, and Kerr Shireman, an adventurous lifelong bachelor, join for a lively discussion on masculinity. They explore the evolving definitions of manhood, balancing vulnerability with traditional strength. The conversation dives into the importance of emotional connections among men and the need to challenge societal norms. They emphasize the significance of building community to combat isolation and redefine male friendships through meaningful, supportive interactions.
4 snips
Jun 3, 2025 • 1h 7min
A Rich Remarkable Life (Again)
Dr. Erin Westgate, an assistant professor of psychology, dives into the idea of living a psychologically rich life. She and Peter McGraw discuss the thrill of embracing novelty and complexity instead of simply chasing happiness. They explore how solo travel and unconventional experiences can enrich one’s life. Erin also sheds light on how being single allows for spontaneity and meaningful connections, including the fascinating dynamics of polyamory. This vibrant conversation challenges listeners to redefine fulfillment and seek out diverse life experiences.
4 snips
May 20, 2025 • 1h 5min
Meditations For (Single) Mortals
Oliver Burkeman, an author acclaimed for his works on time management and human limitations, joins to redefine productivity. He discusses the beauty of embracing imperfection and the folly of perfectionism, urging listeners to acknowledge life's limits for a more meaningful existence. Through the concept of 'scruffy hospitality,' Burkeman emphasizes authentic connections over flawless social interactions. He advocates for the '70% principle' to combat procrastination and shares insights on managing life’s inevitable challenges with grace.
May 6, 2025 • 1h 8min
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 independence, self-reliance, and living a life off the relationship escalator.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! https://www.petermcgraw.org/solo
