No Expectations
No Expectations is a podcast about mindful living without the pressure to be perfect. Hosted by Andrew H. Housley, a Zen Bodhisattva and recovering yogi, and Jen S., a spiritual seeker, the show explores wellness, yoga, spirituality, and Zen philosophy. Through raw, unfiltered conversations and interviews, they share practical insights for living with presence and curiosity, letting go of the need to have everything figured out.
Episodes
Is Time Money?
We live in a culture that tells us that time is money and that if we're not productively using our time, we are wasting it. Jen & Andrew discuss time as currency against the idea that we all have 1440 minutes a day. How are you spending it?
Living with No Expectations
Is it possible to live without expectations? Or make our histories and need for constant control get in the way of living free? Andrew and Jen discuss the topic from a coffee shop near you.
Breaking the Cycle: Three Questions to Live More Fully
In this rebroadcast episode of Must I Evolve?, Andrew H. Housley invites you to pause the hustle and reconnect with grounded presence. Drawing from timeless Zen wisdom and soul-level clarity, Andrew asks a profound question: Are you merely sustaining the cycle of the daily grind, or are you awakening within it?With a blend of humor, insight, and mindful awareness, this episode offers three essenti
Lost & Found: Reclaiming Your Inner GPS in a World of Noise
Have we traded our gut instinct for glowing screens and curated content?In this episode of Must I Evolve?, Andrew dives into what it means to feel lost—and why that might be precisely what you need. From brain science to Zen wisdom, you'll discover how moments of disorientation can actually reawaken your intuition, reshape your neural pathways, and restore deep trust in yourself.🌿 Backed by:•
Stop Outsourcing Your Spirituality | Reclaim Your Power Now
On this episode of Must I Evolve?, Andrew H. Housley explores the overlooked trap of spiritual outsourcing—placing our healing, clarity, and growth into the hands of gurus, systems, or communities. Drawing from personal insight and ancient wisdom, he unpacks the emotional need behind our dependency on spiritual authority and reveals how to reclaim your sovereignty. Featuring the provocative teachi
Let It Fall Away: The Sacred Art of Impermanence
What if letting go wasn’t a loss, but a transformation? In this reflective episode, we dive into the ancient spiritual wisdom of impermanence. With teachings from the Buddha, Patanjali, Zen masters, and the Tao, you’ll learn how to move through change with grace, purpose, and peace.This is a journey through grief, growth, and the beauty of falling like autumn leaves—guided by breath, mindfulness,
The Affirmation Trap: Why Repeating ‘I Am Enough’ Might Be Blocking Your Growth
Are affirmations helping you evolve—or are they subtly holding you back?In this episode of Must I Evolve?, Andrew H. Housley explores how feel-good mantras like “I am enough” can mask deeper unresolved truths. Through a Zen perspective, we uncover why constant repetition may be a form of spiritual bypassing, disconnecting us from authentic presence and true healing.Ditch the performance. Embrace t
How to Harvest the Gold in Your Soul (Without Rushing It)
Do you ever feel like you're rushing your own growth, pushing for clarity, peace, or purpose before it’s ready to bloom?In this reflective episode, Andrew H. Housley explores the ancient fable of the goose that laid golden eggs and how it reveals a deep truth about your spiritual journey: transformation takes time. Learn why the soul blossoms in silence, and how patience becomes the sacred too
Are You Living or Just Looping? A Zen Question You Won’t Forget
Let’s be honest—life can feel like a loop: eat, work, scroll, sleep, repeat.But what if one brutally honest question could snap you out of it?In this episode of No Expectations / Must I Evolve?, Andrew H. Housley reflects on a raw, unforgettable quote from Zen master Kodo Sawaki: “Do you eat so you can take a sh*t?” It’s not a joke—waking up is a challenge. We unpack what this question really mean
Letting Go to Grow: The Art of Life's Controlled Burn
Is your mind cluttered? Your spirit heavy? You’re not alone. This episode explores how letting go—intentionally, courageously—can become the most regenerative act of your life. Inspired by nature’s practice of controlled burns, we look at how releasing the overgrown parts of ourselves clears the path for new growth.✨ From ancient Zen wisdom to soulful storytelling, you’ll learn:🔥 Why letting go is
The Cage of Love: Why Holding On Too Tightly Can Destroy What You Cherish [How to Let Go]
In this episode of Must I Evolve?, Andrew Housley explores the paradox of love—how our deepest affections can turn into quiet control. Through Zen fables, spiritual wisdom, and soul-searching stories, discover why letting go may be the purest form of love. Learn how to unclutch, love without attachment, and create space for what you cherish to thrive. Real love doesn’t build cages—it blesses freed
The Mind’s Time Machine: Letting Go of the Past, Trusting the Future, and Returning to Now
The mind is a time machine. But are you traveling with awareness… or just getting lost?In this TED-style reflection, we explore how spiritual time travel—into your past, your future, and your present—can either hold you back or evolve you.You’ll hear:🧘 A Zen story about letting go🌀 Visualization to connect with your future self🌬️ A guided breath practice for the present moment🎶 A poetic lyric from
Bloom in the Fire: How Pressure Awakens Your True Purpose
What if your most powerful growth happens in the middle of your hardest moments?In this episode of Must I Evolve?, we explore the natural phenomenon of stress-induced flowering—a survival mechanism where plants bloom under extreme pressure—and how this mirrors the human spirit. Through science, metaphor, and a deeply personal story of watching my father’s emotional blooming in the face of death, w
The Power of Spiritual Hibernation | Why Doing Nothing Is Key to Growth (Zen Wisdom)
Feeling stuck? Spiritually lost? Like nothing is happening no matter how hard you try? You're not alone—and you're not failing.In this TED-style talk via the new MUST I EVOLVE? Podcast, Andrew explores the concept of spiritual hibernation—a natural, necessary phase of stillness that precedes real transformation. Drawing on Zen teachings, the parable of the bamboo, and timeless spiritual wisdom, th
Contentment During Uncertainty
On this special post election episode of No Expectations, Jen and Andrew discuss contentment during times of uncertainty. Is it the key to longevity in this life?
Discussing Health & Wellness with Heidi Rendina
On this episode of No Expectations, Jen & Andrew are joined by health & wellness coach Heidi Rendina of Fierce Grace Coaching to discuss a holistic approaching to living.
Is Spirituality Real?
Jen & Andrew are back with a new episode of No Expectations. In this episode, they're discussing whether spirituality is real or just a money-making industry.
The Nature of Time & The Power of Compassion
Andrew & Jen are back with a new episode of No Expectations!
In this episode, they discuss the recent tragedies in North Carolina and how to support our lives and the lives of others through compassion and the mind as a powerful time travel device.
Talking About Our True Nature
In this episode of No Expectations, Andrew nurses a bite from a lost dog. As he tends to his wound, his mind wanders to the deeper questions of life, sparking a profound yet lighthearted conversation with Jen. Together, they peel back the layers of everyday existence to reveal the essence of our being.
With each anecdote and shared laughter, they explore the idea that perhaps our true nature is no
Karma and The Story of the Hiking Poles
Join Andrew and Jen in this enlightening episode of No Expectations, where the cosmic scales tip between spirituality and comedy. As they unravel the mysteries of karma, Andrew ponders whether his missing socks are a sign of past misdeeds, while Jen shares a rib-tickling tale of her hiking pole - an unexpected teacher of life's stickiest lessons. They'll explore karma's twists and turn
What's The Purpose of This Life?
Jen brings the big question to Andrew in this episode of No Expectations. What is the purpose of this life? Is life different than existence? The gang discusses a big topic in this short episode.
The Importance of Aloneness
This episode of “No Expectations” delves into the profound realms of solitude and self-discovery. Drawing inspiration from Andrew's Medium article “The Solitary Journey of the Spirit,” we explore the nuanced differences between loneliness and aloneness and the transformative power of embracing solitude. Join us as we discuss how the solitary journey can lead to spiritual growth, personal enlig
Is Your Spiritual Journey Moving Backwards or Forwards
The journey is unique for everyone, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But by asking, “Am I progressing or regressing?” we open ourselves up to deeper understanding and a renewed commitment to our spiritual development.
In this episode of No Expectations, we delve into the ebbs and flows of the spiritual journey. Are we moving forward, or are we slipping backward? Join us as we explore the
Say Yes to Everything (Within Reason)
This episode discusses embracing the uncertainty of life and delves into the profound realization that life’s unpredictability is not a hurdle but a path to meaningful experiences. Hosted by Andrew H. Housley and Jen S., this episode encourages listeners to let go of the burden of unattainable expectations and to live mindfully and intentionally. Through unedited, thought-provoking discussions, th
Intuition - 6 Tips on How to Trust It
In this episode of No Expectations, we delve into the power of intuition and how to harness it effectively in our daily lives. Join us as we explore six practical tips to help you trust your gut feelings and confidently make decisions. From understanding the difference between intuition and impulse to learning how to quiet the mind for more precise insights, these strategies will empower you to ta
Are You Living or Just Surviving?
In this episode, we explore the meaning and purpose of life beyond the daily grind of work and survival. We discuss how to break free from the cycle of busyness and consumption that often leaves us feeling empty and unfulfilled. We also share some practical tips and strategies to help you pay more attention to what really matters, and live a more mindful and intentional life.
The Happiness Hack: Speaking Beauty and Riding the Wave of Wonder!
Prepare to add some sparkle to your day with Andrew and Jen on the newest “No Expectations” episode! 🎉 This time, our fantastic pair is on a quest to discover what happiness really means, and you know what? It’s all about embracing a sense of awe for everything around you! Join the fun-filled adventure as Andrew and Jen reveal their secrets to adding wonder to your daily life. From enjoying the or
Self Love
Do you love yourself as much as you deserve?
If not, this episode of No Expectations is for you. Andrew and Jen invite you to join them on their personal journeys of self-love, where they reveal the struggles and triumphs of learning to accept and celebrate themselves. In this candid and playful conversation, they discuss how self-love differs for men and women, and how to overcome the internal
Listener Question: What Role Does Ego Play in Anger?
Cue the intergalactic dance music because Andrew is about to spill the cosmic tea on the latest episode of "No Expectations"! 🌌💃 Get ready for a playful exploration as we tackle a burning listener question: What's the deal with ego and its wild dance with anger?
In this laughter-infused episode, Andrew takes center stage, breaking down the F.A.C.E. of ego and revealing the backstage
Cosmic Leap of Faith: Trusting Yourself as a Spiritual Rockstar with Andrew and Jen!
Strap in, cosmic adventurers, because Andrew and Jen are taking a quantum leap into the wondrous world of faith on the latest episode of "No Expectations"! 🚀🌌 Join this dynamic duo as they unravel the mysteries of faith, trust, and whether you can channel your inner god or goddess!
In this laughter-filled cosmic powwow, Andrew and Jen playfully explore the essence of faith for spiritual
Spiritual Buffet: Grabbing Your Cosmic Plate and Jen's Towel Tree Tale!
Get ready for a cosmic carnival on the latest episode of "No Expectations" with your hosts, Andrew and Jen! 🚀✨ This time, we're diving deep into the spiritual buffet, asking the burning questions: What do you need from the cosmic spread? Gratitude? Forgiveness? Love? Or maybe a side of something else entirely?
Join the laughter-filled banter as Andrew and Jen play cosmic detectives,
New Year, No B.S.: Crushing Resolutions, Kicking Negative Self-Talk, and Crocheted Running Shorts Extravaganza!
Happy New Year, cosmic cohorts! 🎉✨ Join the party with Jen and Andrew on a brand-new episode of "No Expectations," where we're ditching the New Year's clichés and diving into the real talk about resolutions, self-talk, and yes, crocheted running shorts!
In this hilarious and insightful episode, our dynamic duo spills the cosmic tea on the effects of negative self-talk and how to
A Conversation About Attachment
Hold on to your cosmic cushions because Jen and Andrew are back on "No Expectations" with an episode that's equal parts Zen wisdom and playful banter! 🧘♂️🌟
In this laughter-infused episode, we're diving deep into the thoughts of Zen master Deshimaru on the cosmic dance of attachment and meditation. But fear not, dear listeners – this isn't your typical meditation talk; it
Triggers: Rock N Roll High School
Get ready for a wild ride on the cosmic yoga mat with Andrew on the latest "No Expectations" episode! 🌌🧘♂️ Join us for a laughter-filled adventure as Andrew spills the beans on a hilarious tale involving a yoga student, the Ramones, and the unexpected journey into the realms of "shenpa", triggers, and breaking free from old thinking habits!
In this playful episode, our dynamic
Listener Question
A listener struggles to find her spiritual community in a new town after a recent move. Andrew and Jen dive in to help this listener find their place.
Life's Ultimate Plot Twist: Embracing Death for a Joyful Now!
Cue the confetti cannons and break out the dance moves because Andrew and Jen are back on "No Expectations" with an episode that flips the script on life and death – all while having a blast doing it! 🎉✨
In this lively chat, our dynamic duo dives into the notion that death isn't the grand finale; it's just a part of life's cosmic dance floor. Buckle up for a rollercoaster of
It's Fine. Is it really?
Hold onto your cosmic hats, folks! On the latest episode of "No Expectations," Jen takes center stage to dish out some real talk about the cosmic balancing act of life. 🌌✨ Brace yourselves for a laughter-infused exploration as Jen spills the tea on whether we're all just moonwalking through life, clinging to delightful delusions to keep up appearances!
In this playful and candid epis
Invisible Sun Interview
Sujata interviews our very own Andrew H. Housley about his upcoming novel Invisible Sun on October 17th.
Cosmic Comeback: Jen and Andrew Chat on Burnout, Detours, and Remembering Your Dreams!
Guess who's back and ready to sprinkle some cosmic magic on your day? Jen and Andrew are back from their intergalactic hiatus on "No Expectations" with an episode that's part wisdom, part giggles, and all-around joy! 🌌🚀
Join our cosmic duo as they dive into the lively conversation about burnout – that sneaky intruder on the journey of life. But fear not, dear listener, because th
Learn By Doing
Do you want to deepen your spiritual connection but feel stuck in a rut of reading books, watching videos, or listening to podcasts? Do you crave more direct and authentic experiences of the divine but don’t know where to start?
If so, this episode of No Expectations is for you. Andrew and Jen share how they learned to embrace the power of learning by doing in their spiritual journeys. They revea
Questions & Answers About Meditation
Andrew answers common questions about meditation with our special guest Sujata.
Send your questions to us https://www.noexpectations.me/
The Four Types of Horses
Embark on a soulful journey as Andrew unfolds the teachings of the Buddhist story of the Four Kinds of Horses on this contemplative episode of "No Expectations." 🌿✨ In this sincere exploration, Andrew delves into the metaphorical richness of the tale, offering profound insights into the nature of our minds and the paths we tread on our spiritual journey.
This episode serves as a spiritua
Reset
Jen and Andrew enter the studio again after some time off to discuss coming back from falling off the path.
Kleshas: 5 Roadblocks in Our Spiritual Journey
In this episode, Andrew discusses the five roadblocks that can impede our spiritual path. We must first recognize the ties that bind us. Kleshas - negative mental states or afflictions that arise from ignorance and lead to suffering and delusion.
Read more: https://www.noexpectations.me/post/freedom-from-the-bondage-of-the-human-condition
Burn Out: Warning Signs & Ways to Manage It
Are you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or unmotivated? Do you struggle to find joy in the things you used to love? If so, you might be experiencing burnout. Burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by chronic stress. It can affect anyone, from workaholics to stay-at-home parents, from students to spiritual seekers.
In this episode of No Expectations, we share our p
Wave Hello to Contentment: Jen and Andrew Surf the Seas of Satisfaction!
Surf's up on the latest episode of "No Expectations," where cosmic waves of contentment are crashing against the shores of playful banter and genuine insight! 🌊🤙 Join Jen and Andrew as they dive into the delightful topic of contentment, with a side of good-natured teasing and a splash of humor.
In this playfully sincere conversation, Jen gives Andrew a friendly ribbing for his speed
What Is Yoga? Part II - Asanas
In this episode, Andrew and Jen are diving into the bendy, twisty world of asanas – the physical delights of the yogic discipline.
Join the laughter-filled conversation as our dynamic duo wonders aloud: Is there a bit too much love for these cosmic stretches in modern Western yoga culture? Brace yourself for insights, giggles, and maybe even an impromptu cosmic stretch or two.
But wait, there'
What Is Yoga? Part I - Yamas & Niyamas
Hold onto your yoga mats, folks! 🧘♀️✨ On this cosmic carnival episode of "No Expectations," the gang is unraveling the mystical threads of what Yoga truly is (and what it absolutely isn't)! Join us for a playful and enlightening exploration as we break down the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, twirl through the eight limbs of yoga, and have a cosmic powwow about the yamas and niyamas.
In t
What Is Spirituality?
What does spirituality mean to you? Is it a feeling, a belief, a practice, or something else? You probably have difficulty putting it into words if you're like most of us. But don’t worry; you’re not alone.
In this episode of No Expectations, Andrew and Jen explore the mysterious and marvelous realm of spirituality with a dash of playfulness and a splash of wonder. In this lively and candid c
Gratitude
Get ready for a whimsical ride on the gratitude train with Andrew and Jen on the latest enchanting episode of "No Expectations"! 🚂🌈 Join our cosmic duo as they embark on the magical journey of unraveling the mysteries of gratitude. Spoiler alert: It involves laughter, insights, and a sprinkle of cosmic fairy dust!
In this playfully profound exploration, Andrew and Jen tackle the tricky t
Compassion
What is compassion? How can we access inside ourselves to help end suffering in others? We'll discuss it in episode 3.
Don't Try
On this joy-infused episode of "No Expectations," we're tossing the roadmap out the window and diving headfirst into the cosmic question: What happens when we stop trying on our spiritual journey? Spoiler alert: It's a wild, laughter-filled adventure of letting the universe take the wheel!
Join Andrew and Jen as they playfully ponder whether everything will work out just fine if
New Year's Resolutions - Meditation
In this episode, Jen and Andrew discuss habits and routines for 2023.
Music by: New Trainers with Chinese Tongues (A. Housley)
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