Kaila Story

Kaila Adia Story-Jackson (born January 9, 1980) is an American academic and podcaster. Story's academic work focuses on the intersections of gender, sexuality, and race.

Early life and education Story was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan on January 9, 1980. She came out as a lesbian at the age of 16.

Story completed a bachelor's degree in Women and Gender Studies at DePaul University. Story graduated from Temple University in 2007 with a masters and doctorate in African American Studies, and a certificate in Women and Gender Studies. She holds the Audre Lord Chair in Race, Gender, and Sexuality. Guests interviewed on the podcast have included Janelle Monáe, Janet Mock, and Wanda Sykes.

In 2025, Story published the book The Rainbow Ain't Never Been Enuf: On the Myth of LGBTQ+ Solidarity. The book was named a finalist for the 2026 Amber Hollibaugh Award.

Honors and recognition In October 2015, Story was honored as a "champion of fairness" at a Fairness Campaign event in Louisville, for making an impact on LGBT civil rights.

In June 2017, Story was included in the inaugural NBC Out #Pride30 list.

Personal life Story married her wife Missy Story-Jackson in April 2016. The couple lives in Louisville, Kentucky.

Selected publications