Kaylee Golding is pure fun.

When she speaks, she emanates confidence, joy, and a good time. Whether talking about her passion for radio or the love for her hometown, you will be drawn into the conversation and want to know more. But if you haven’t heard her name before, I dare you to tune in and experience the wonder on her weekday BBC 1Xtra radio show between 1pm and 4pm.

We had the opportunity to learn more about Kaylee and her many lives as a DJ, podcaster, community builder, and queer icon. In this interview, Kaylee made it clear why we’ll always root for “our favourite gyal from Brum” and how you can reach your dreams without compromising where your heart feels most at home.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.