Welcome to “Seven Minutes in Heaven” GO Magazine’s brand new interview series that profiles a different queer lady each day, by asking her seven custom (sometimes random) questions. Get to know the thoughts, feelings, and opinions of the groundbreaking, fierce forces-of-nature in the queer community.
I’ve known the amazing nightlife-promoting-force-of-lesbian-nature that is Danielle Millet-Stanziale for a little over a year. “That’s the don of lesbians” my girlfriend whispered to me before introducing me to her at The Stonewall Inn one night. The moment we shook hands, I instantly understand what she meant. Millet-Stanziale has an energy, a powerful, intoxicating energy, that makes her stand out in a room. She’s the type of woman who is wildly unafraid of eye-contact.
Not only is she fierce AF, Millet-Stanziale is also super kind. At all of her events (and trust me, if you’re gay and live in New York City, you’ve been to one of her MANY events) she can be found talking to everyone, ensuring the crowd feels comfortable and is happy at the event.
However, there is more to Millet-Stanziale than most of us partying lesbians probably know. For instance; the powerbabe works in the man’s world of construction. Bad. Ass.
Anyway let me shut the hell up, and let Millet-Stanziale do the talking today, babes. After all, you came here to listen to her interview, not my Friday rambles.
So ladies, I’m proud to announce, today’s Seven Minutes In Heaven, featuring the incredible Danielle Millet-Stanziale.
Oh and my favorite of her events in LezVolley in Cherry Grove this weekend. I’ll be there and I’ll be covering the whole thing. Queer babes, you all should come! It’s the ~best~ event of the summer. I swear to Lana Del Rey.
GO Magazine: Who are you and what do you do?
Danielle Millet-Stanziale: I am a force of leadership. From when I was very young and growing up with 3 older sisters whom I wanted to be in charge of but never could—because I was the youngest. When I started school I knew it was my chance to lead and to be a role model to younger girls that didn’t have the confidence.
I work in a man’s world of construction. And I love it. Especially when you’re in charge. I always wanted to build something and was so interested in my fathers work. Whom owned his own construction company.
I am also an LBGTQ promotor and owner of LezVolley with Kristine Bungay. LezVolley is the biggest women’s event on Cherry Gove Fire island. I have been working the club scene for 20 years. Started working for the biggest clubs in NYC like the Tunnel. Till one day about 13 years ago I decided the lesbian scene needed my help. And I do love to throw an awesome party.
I started with GirlNation then moved onto The Stonewall Inn for the past 10 years. Anything Goes on Thursday nights. Also, I join forces with Pier Pressure for pride events.
GO: What is the driving force behind your career?
DMS: My driving force for both of my careers is the fact of really loving what I do. And knowing your building to change and influence your community for a better way of life.
GO: Where do you go for inspiration when you’re feeling discouraged or depleted?
DMS: For inspiration I always go to my friends and family who have always been my rock throughout the heartaches and the best of times. And I can always walk into the stonewall or cubby and find them there!
GO: Who are your biggest queer lady role models?
DMS: My lady love will always be Madonna. And of course a shout out to Lady Gaga. Because they both fought for what they have from nothing and built an empire with always speaking their voices. And the support they both gave to the gay community is like nothing I ever scene from a celebrity.
GO: Describe yourself in three words?
DMS: So many words can describe me. But I will have to go with loyal, vivacious, leader!!
GO: What music are you listening to right now?
DMS: I’m always listening to lady Gaga and Madonna But the band I’m in love with is Imagine Dragons. Their words are so powerful and gets the blood pumping. And maybe my fist too. Ha!
GO: Where can people find you?
DMS: You can find me on Facebook: Danielle Stanziale. Or Danielle LezVolley. Or Instagram Daniellestanz, and email daniellepresents@gmail.com.