Just John

John McBlain

Just John is a vibrant, engaging magazine-style podcast hosted by Ayrshire-based award-winning podcast producer, educator, and multi-talented creative John McBlain. Broadcasting from South West Scotland via his production company Jonsan Media, John brings his extensive background in audio journalism, digital media, music, and education to deliver thoughtful conversations with interesting guests from the worlds of film, creative industries, local enterprise, and beyond. With his signature greeting “Hello Hello Hello”, the show spotlights inspiring stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and community-focused discussions. Perfect for listeners who enjoy personable, locally-rooted interviews with a professional yet approachable vibe, Just John captures the spirit of creativity, innovation, and connection in Ayrshire and further afield. New episodes drop periodically on Spotify and other platforms – dive in and say hello! For more productions and podcasts by John McBlain and Jonsan Media head over to https://jonsanmedia.carrd.co

Episode

Summary

This episode is released in association with Podcasthon and in support of Young Lives vs Cancer.

Most stories of resilience are inspiring, but Noah Hyslop’s journey hits differently – showing that even the toughest battles can be fuelled by positivity and purpose.

At just 18, Noah’s remarkable story of facing childhood cancer with unwavering strength and turning it into transformational charity work is a beacon of hope for anyone fighting their own battles.

This episode dives deep into Noah’s incredible resilience, how he navigated diagnosis at 15, shattered the stigma around talking about cancer, and leveraged his experience to raise nearly £83,000 for various charities including Young Lives Versus Cancer.

Host John McBlain sits down with Noah and his supportive parents, Lynn and Paul to explore the extraordinary behind-the-scenes of their charity initiatives, Pride of Scotland and Pride of Britain award ceremonies, and the real life impact of community support.

Links & Things

⁠Jonsan Media Website ⁠

⁠Jonsan Media Instagram ⁠

⁠Noah Hyslop Instagram ⁠

⁠Noah Hyslop LinkTree⁠

⁠Neil MacKinnon Instagram ⁠

⁠Rockpool Podcasts Spotify ⁠

⁠Rockpool Podcasts Website⁠

⁠Podcasthon Website ⁠

⁠Young Lives vs Cancer Website ⁠

⁠Pride of Britain Awards 2025 ⁠

⁠Noah Meets Margot Robbie on YouTube ⁠

⁠Pride of Scotland Awards 2025 ⁠

Episode Takeaways

Noah and parents Lynn & Paul, share their journey through cancer diagnosis at 15 and how it shaped Noah’s outlook on life

Insights into the emotional and practical support from Young Lives Versus Cancer and Marion’s House

The impactful stories behind Noah’s fundraising efforts, including raising thousands of pounds for charity

The importance of raising awareness about rare cancers and breaking the taboo around discussing cancer

Behind-the-scenes of Noah’s award-winning moments, including the Pride of Britain recognition

How positivity and community support help Noah and his family navigate treatment and recovery

Future projects, charity initiatives, and upcoming creative endeavours by Noah

Chapters

00:00 – Introduction, Podcasthon, & Young Lives vs Cancer

01:22 – Noah’s diagnosis and early challenges with cancer

02:40 – Noah’s supportive family and pet Stanley

04:31 – Creative work and life during treatment

06:26 – Photo shoot with Neil MacKinnon and charity involvement

10:04 – Fundraising milestones: Raising over £15,000 for Young Lives Vs Cancer

12:02 – The role of Marion’s House and hospital support systems

15:38 – Navigating conversations about cancer and breaking taboos

17:06 – System of support: Family, friends, and medical professionals

18:59 – The impact of medical staff and nurses on Noah’s journey

21:16 – Family’s experience with diagnosis, treatment, and emotional resilience

23:47 – Growing up fast: Noah’s teenage experiences with cancer

27:29 – Noah’s attitude: Not defining yourself by cancer

28:33 – Achievements and future aspirations: College, charity work, and more

35:42 – The massive impact of Noah’s story reaching a global audience

45:46 – Remarkable recognition: Pride of Scotland and Pride of Britain awards

57:23 – The unforgettable night at the awards and future plans

58:44 – Key message: “You are not alone – Ask for help, stay positive, keep smiling!”

64:50 – Upcoming creative projects, charity initiatives, and continued success

66:36 – Final thoughts: Support, resilience, and inspiring others

Podcasthon

This episode is released in association with Podcasthon – the biggest charity event in the world of podcasting. Podcasthon.org is an incredible and fast-growing non-profit initiative that unites thousands of podcasters globally with the sole cause of raising awareness for various charitable causes.

Young Lives vs Cancer

Young Lives vs Cancer is a charity providing practical, emotional and financial support from the moment of diagnosis onward, helping families navigate the immense challenges of treatment, side effects, hospital stays, travel costs and life beyond cancer.

Just John

71 min

Noah Hyslop: A Story of Resilience & Relentlessness - [PODCASTHON]

Young Lives vs Cancer

The charity and its cause

Young Lives vs Cancer

We know that the impact of cancer on young lives is more than medical. And that impact can be felt by the entire family. That’s why we exist. Young Lives vs Cancer is the only charity in the UK with specialist social workers who provide tailored support to children and young people with cancer, and their families. We know everyone's different, so we work hard to provide support that’s easy to access and meets individual needs, from helping families navigate the emotional and practical impact of cancer to removing barriers and solving problems that come with a diagnosis. We are there to prioritise wellbeing and take care of the non-medical. And we stop at nothing to make sure the voices of children, young people and families are heard and their unique needs understood, so they can get the right care and support at the right time.

Visit the website Make a donation