The 5-minute Interview: Lisa I'Anson, DJ and television presenter

'To be humble is a quality that I am in constant pursuit of'

Lisa I'Anson, 42, was a Radio 1 DJ from 1994 until 1998, when she was sacked for not turning up to work after nightclubbing in Ibiza. She presented television shows and a radio programme on BBC London 94.9. This winter, she will appear in the PDSA Pet Pawtraits calendar to raise awareness of animal cruelty

If I weren't talking to you right now I'd be...

I'd love to be on a permanent holiday somewhere hot. The truth is I never have a typical day. They are always different and interesting. I need a lot of variation in my life.

A phrase I use far too often...

"Go to your room" which is obviously what I say to my kids. But my friends would tell me it is "you're kidding".

I wish people would take more notice of...

The countless injustices in the world. I was watching Spike Lee's documentary about New Orleans and the impact of Hurricane Katrina, and was so shocked by the number of people who are still suffering because of it. The devastation it caused affects thousands. Everyone needs to take more notice of this.

The most surprising thing that happened to me was...

Definitely becoming a mother of two. My kids Deia, five, and Dylan, 10, are such a blessing. Although I always wanted children, I didn't realise how responsible they would make me. I just adore them.

A common misperception of me is...

That I am frivolous, but I'm actually a lot more sensible then people think.

I am not a politician but...

I would never want to be one, I'm aware of how much hard work it is. I am conscious of women's and children's issues, particularly education.

I'm good at...

Dancing. And telling bad jokes.

I'm very bad at...

Being patient. I find it a constant struggle.

The ideal night out is...

Probably going out for great food with good company in a beautiful environment and then going home, having a long bath and falling into a lovely deep sleep.

In moments of weakness I...

Eat chocolate and talk far too much.

You know me as a presenter but in truer life I'd have been...

A dancer or a social activist.I know if my career hadn't developed the way it did I would have put more into campaigning for the things I believe in.

The best age to be is...

They were all good. Being a kid was especially fun. Right now, though, I'm really happy and love my life. After getting over the initial fear of reaching my forties, I now realise how great it is hanging out with my family and friends.

In a nutshell, my philosophy is this...

To be humble is a quality that I am in constant pursuit of. I strive to be like that everyday.

Gaby Aung