Sunny Side Up! with Ash London

With Sydney plunged back into lockdown and uncertainty in the air...I thought I'd jump back in for a quick 5 minute check in.  No guests today.  No positive story.  Just a little you and me time. Because like many of you - I'm feeling a little UGH.  Wherever you live, if you're feeling a little uncertain about things right now, hopefully this helps.  Recording it helped me, so I suppose even if you all give it zero stars it wasn't a total waste.  Big love x ash  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Carol Richards found an old suitcase in her garage that she'd always assumed was full of old sheet music.  What she actually found connected to her to an incredible women from generations past, and turned her into a full blown detective.  This story is an incredible reminder of the power of memories, and how important it is that we keep them alive.  Produced by Ash London and Maddi Wilson  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We loved meeting Charlie and his Dad last season.  At just 10 years old, Charlie has faced more battles than most of us will face in a lifetime.  Suffering from both Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) and Persistent Hyperplastic Primary Vitreous (PHPV), he is blind in one eye and not readily mobile on his own.  Their mission? To raise funds for a new family vehicle to get him around in his powered wheelchair.  Well, we have an update! The good kind.  Listen to hear how it all unfolded! To follow their journey and donate, you can follow their journey on instagram at @fightingforcharlie See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The bushfires brought devastation to hundreds of thousands of Australians over summer.  While Diana was holidaying in Queensland, she helplessly waited for news as the fires got closer and closer to her property in Malacoota, Victoria.  But out of the ashes of this tragedy, hope sprung forth in the most unexpected way...and it came with a bushy tail.  Produced by Ash London and Maddi Wilson  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In season one we spoke to our mate Tommy who recalled the life altering moment that, at the height of a pandemic, he found out he was expecting a baby with his wife.   6 months later we check in with Tommy, who is ten days into officially being a Dad! Yay! Babies!   Produced by Ash London + Maddi Wilson  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nath loves music, dancing and attention.  He also has Down syndrome, which hasn't stopped him from having a gloriously full social life.  With his 40th birthday approaching, his sister Tamara knew that a big birthday bash was off the cards due to COVID, so she asked the community to rally around.  And boy did they come to the party... Produced by Ash London and Maddi Wilson  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dave Hughes always makes me laugh - but this week a tweet of his really made me think.  I got him on for a quick chat about work, family, and how COVID-19 has helped him to refocus on what really matters.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At just 10 years old, Charlie has faced more battles than most of us will face in a lifetime.  Suffering from both Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) and Persistent Hyperplastic Primary Vitreous (PHPV), he is blind in one eye and not readily mobile on his own.  His family are working tirelessly to both raise awareness, and funds for a new family vehicle to get him around in his powered wheelchair.  Amidst bushfires and now COVID-19 everyday Australians (both friends and strangers) have dug deep to make this dream a reality for Charlie so that he can get around and integrate into the community like a regular kid.  And they are so close to meeting their goal.  To follow their journey and donate, you can follow their journey on instagram at @fightingforcharlie See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is a little different.  I delve into my day job (which technically is a night job) as host of music radio show Ash London Live. Today I shine a light on a seemingly insignificant moment with one of my favourite people to interview - Niall Horan.  It was a moment that made a lot of people laugh, and reminded me of the power of letting go, caring less about how others may perceive us and most importantly - just having FUN! Now go stream Niall's new song 'Black and White'.  It's the best x  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Business owner and Mum Frankie wanted to do something for new Mums in her community who were without the usual support due to COVID-19 restrictions.  What happened next was an incredible show of generosity from her peers, and a whole bunch of smiling (and exhausted) mums.  Go Frankie! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dianne and her three siblings recently faced a reality many of us dread - the loss of a parent.  Dianne knew it would be gut wrenching, but what she didn't expect was the kindness of her community who came through when they needed them most. Rest in peace, Leslie x  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It started out as a bit of a competition between mates.  Four years later, and 130 thousand Aussies are taking part in the push up challenge, aiming to raise funds and awareness for mental health.  But when COVID-19 hit, Nick and his team were forced to pivot, moving the challenge forward (and losing lots of sleep in the meantime).  The results?  Pretty unbelievable.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kane Ford was stressed, anxious and dreading going into work everyday.  After a couple of trips to the hospital suffering from debilitating panic attacks - it was clear that something had to change.  What happened next proved once and for all the healing powers that exist outside the four walls of our homes.  You can get involved with Kane's work at Get Outside Melbourne.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I can imagine that first time parenthood is stressful enough without the added anxiety of annoying your neighbours with a crying baby while they are all working from home in a pandemic.  Luckily for Bec, a Korean airplane passenger inspired her with an idea to win over the neighbours. As for the penpals? Well you'll just have to listen to find out! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is dedicated to all the parents juggling life, parenthood and homeschooling.  With three school-aged children at home, life is full on for Nikki.  But her morning exercise sessions with her 17 year old son have been a beacon of light among the change and turmoil of COVID-19.  This is a gorgeous and simple story about the power of relationships, and how life is indeed 'a lesson in learning to let go'.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Cassie slipped a note under her elderly neighbour's door, she had no idea the wild and wonderful world she was opening up.  At 89 years old, Yin (who lives alone) was struggling with basic tasks in this brave new world of COVID-19, waiting for an angel like Cassie to come along and offer a hand.  And as you'll hear, this budding friendship turned into a win-win! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Not many families have a yearly tradition that's been going for 50 years, but Bron's family are pretty special.  This year, COVID-19 threatened to put a halt to their easter tradition, but this story proves that where there's a will (and a clever Aunty), there's a way! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Josh launched a sustainable alternative to handwash in 2019, he had no idea what he was in for. An inspiring story of innovation and creativity that begs the question - what can we do personally to make our world better, during COVID-19 and beyond? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When it's your boyfriend's birthday during a national pandemic, great presents are a little tougher to come by. Unless it turns out that your boyfriend's hero lives down the road... Got a story of joy, positivity or connection during the time of COVID-19? Hit me up at @ash_london . I'd love to chat! x See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With both of her grandparents serving in the SAS, Anzac Day has always been a special day in the life of Emily's family, most notably her grandmother who still dons her medals and walks the 2km march every year at the ripe old age of 82.  This year, with restrictions in place their dawn service was a little different. A little intimate.  And certainly one to remember.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nadja is a married mum of two gorgeous kids, a 7 year old daughter and a 5 year old son with special needs who requires round-the-clock assistance.  With schools closed due to COVID-19, it's been non stop in their household, and at times a little overwhelming as she juggles work life, mum life, and carer life.  After a particularly tough week, Nadja's daughter sprang into action with the kind of surprise that would leave any mum proud as punch and grinning from ear to ear.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I tried to think of a clever title for this episode - but the reality is that Sal has faced something we all dread, and has still managed to count herself lucky.  After a breast cancer diagnosis in 2019, life has been turned upside down for Sal.  It's a battle she's faced head on, and one that culminated in reconstructive surgery this March, at the height of COVID-19 panic. With isolation measures in place, visitors were not allowed in during her recovery.  But Sal's time in hospital, while harrowing, was also one of immense gratitude and perspective, thanks in no small part to the care given to her by real-life angels. I think the official term is 'nurses'.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you need a reminder that even in times of grief, there is room for a little bit of magic, then this is the episode you need to hear.  After her parents' passing, it was time for Veronica and her sister to pack up their house of 25 years.  The plan was to hold a large garage sale for charity, and donate the rest of the goods (something her generous parents would have wanted).  But with new lockdown restrictions in place, neither of those options were available.  And then the universe intervened, and even from the grave her parents' love and generosity was able to shine through and continue to help those in need.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After government regulations meant the lockdown of the local aged care facility, Pete knew that many residents (including his own grandparents) would be separated from family members and partners for the foreseeable future.  Then Pete had one of his 'bright ideas'...which led to ten days of insane construction...and a chance for his grandparents to be reunited. Together with his wife Brooke, they share a story of creativity, hope and sacrifice.    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is a simple story - but a beautiful reminder of the power of community.  Living alone during self-isolation can be a lonely experience.  Brodie Lancaster is used to working at home, but found herself missing out on the usual contact she has with friends after work.  Then came a knock on the door, an offer of hot-cross buns, and a chance to finally learn her upstairs neighbour's name after five years.  Hooray for neighbours.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When COVID-19 turned our health system on its head, birth photographers River and Bel from The First Hello Project knew they would no longer be able to do their jobs, documenting the precious first moments of life. Instead of riding it out, they sprang into action with a photo series that documents life in lockdown, through the windows of everyday Australians.   And through their story (and the stories they tell) we learn that perhaps we are all undergoing our own rebirth...and are reminded that indeed on the other side of pain we so often unexpectedly find joy.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The weekly trip to Coles is a favourite outing for Jason's 87 year old mother, who suffers from Vascular dementia and Alzheimer's disease.  With isolation in full force, the whole family knew that she was missing her weekly shop, a chance for her to get out of the house and have an adventure.  So what did they do?  As a family, they brought the magic of Coles to their living room, creating a truly magical moment that has touched people all around the world.  Follow Jason's adventures at @jasonvangenderen See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Unassuming assistant head teacher Zane Powles is not one for attention, so when vision of him on foot, carrying nearly 20 kilos of food around town went viral, he was as shocked as the next guy.   Zane loves his job at Western Primary School in Grimsby, northeast Lincolnshire, and he also loves keeping fit.  So when the country went into lockdown and his students were sent home - he knew it was up to him to make sure they got their government-subsides school lunches everyday.  Even if it meant delivering them himself.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tanya Hennessy is a TV/radio/online machine.  Her little sister is a personal trainer.   They have never had much in common, and have never been close.  But what happens when they end up in isolation together?  Looks like not only is Tanya getting fit, but she's also getting a new bestie.... See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many of us can't imagine what it must be like to head into battle everyday the way our hospital staff do (especially those working in our emergency wards).  There's fear, there's anxiety - but as we learn today from Laura - there's also camaraderie, hope and a whole lot of kindness.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With her straight up, no-holds barred attitude, Heidi Anderson has won audiences over for years on tv, radio and online.  Now, together with fellow broadcaster Edwina Bartholomew these two new mums have rallied together a community of women navigating motherhood while stuck at home in the age of COVID-19.  What started as an idea to get a dozen or so mums together for a chat online, has turned into something far far greater (and much bigger) than anticipated! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In order to keep her healthy during COVID-19, Lyndsay has moved her 86 year old grandmother up to Brisbane to live with her, her husband and their 3 year old daughter.  But 83 years and four generations weren't going to stop the youngest and oldest members of this family from becoming newfound besties.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After a trip to the US to introduce family to their newborn, Jemimah and Jason returned home with their 6 month old and entered government mandated hotel quarantine for 14 days.   With no deliveries allowed, and her baby supplies dangerously low - Jemimah needed a hero.  And this one wore an apron...not a cape.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

2 days before his wife gave birth to their first child, Todd began treatment for cancer.  9 months later, while the world battled COVID-19, Todd undertook a glorious milestone in his journey.  As you listen to his story - may you be inspired by his resilience and moved to celebrate with him. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Having recently moved across the country for work, Maddy doesn't know many people in town, let alone in her apartment block. But a small act of kindness has brought them together - and formed an unlikely friendship right in the nick of time.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dan has encountered something special in his adopted home town of Madrid

These two legends pulled off the impossible when new government restrictions on gatherings meant that their April wedding could not go ahead.  With 24 hours to pull together their nuptials, the celebration they chose made people all around the world smile and declare that LOVE always wins.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While driving past his local Centrelink and seeing people lining up at 6am, Brent was compelled into action.  Proof that even the smallest gesture of kindness can change someone's day, and inspire others to do the same.  Onya Brent! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wondered what it would be like to be stuck in a studio apartment indefinitely with someone you've met once? No? Me neither.  Because in what world would that actually happen? Oh yeah. This one. Right now.  In 2020.  Josh and Sophie prove that it's all about attitude, even when life serves you the unexpected. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These days we equate shopping for toilet paper with going into combat...but Rhiarn's experience turned out to be a lesson in kindness and sacrifice.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's episode is a reminder to check in on the people who have always checked in on us....A shopping trip for Leon's parents turned into an emotional drive home on the freeway.  #blameChrisMartin.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This morning we chat to school teacher Tommy who had a life changing moment of hope among a worldwide pandemic.... See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While their city is in lockdown, each evening at 8pm residents of Madrid take to their balconies for an extraordinary show of gratitude. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Life is a little weird right now. In search for an antidote for the anxiety that comes with a worldwide pandemic, each morning I'll chat to someone from around the world who's had a positive experience in their local community. Hopefully it will inspire us all to be a little kinder, reach out to our neighbour, and survive this craziness in one piece. All in the time it takes to cook your morning egg! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.