Facing the Firing Squad: Danielle Andersen

Meet Danielle Andersen

I had never heard of, nor did I know, Danielle Andersen prior to the showing of a new poker documentary called Bet, Raise, Fold — which is the story of online poker and its impact on millions of people, including this stay-at-home mom.  Aside from Danielle absolutely stealing the movie, what impressed me most was her willingness to reveal herself to the world.  That takes great courage.  We all want to show our best side at all times.  Most of us are afraid of revealing our vulnerabilities.  However, Danielle was willing to show us everything — the ups and downs, the triumphs and toils of making a living as an online poker pro.

When we watched Danielle up on the big screen — as a devoted mother, as a wife, as the online poker pro — we knew we were watching someone really special, someone trying to find the balance in her life and somehow have it all.  I suppose we all want that, which is what makes Danielle so compelling, not just as the star of the movie, but as a poker player to watch in the months and years ahead.  Indeed — poker, family life, financial independence, and perhaps most important of all — the self-satisfaction of accomplishing something that not everyone can do is not easy to achieve.

Make no mistake, Danielle can play.  And when I say that, I mean she’s used to playing for pots worth what my house is valued at (according to one of our recent Twitter exchanges).  Yet, Danielle also comes off a disappointing 2013 World Series of Poker, which is precisely when she agreed to complete this questionnaire.  In some ways, that makes her even more interesting to watch and — dare I say — root for in every way.  True to her nature, she didn’t duck a single question.  Danielle is also worth following on Twitter (dmoongirl).  She lives in Minnesota with her most supportive husband and son. 

What are some of the things you stand for?

Good manners, respecting elders, not being an asshole.

What are some of the things you stand against?

Discrimination, stealing, being an asshole.

What living person do you admire the most, and why?

My husband. He puts up with my crap and somehow still genuinely likes me.

What historical figure do you admire the most, and why?

Harriet Tubman-that woman had more bravery in her toe than I have in my entire body.

What living person do you despise?

Anyone and everyone that has ever caused intentional harm to a child.  Also, Joan Rivers.

If money were not an object, what profession would you choose?

Food critic.

What is it about yourself that you are most proud of?

My willingness to disregard, and step outside of the limitations others have set for me.

What is it about yourself that you’d like to change?

I wish I was more domesticated. I’m good at a lot of things, cleaning isn’t one of them.

What’s the most exciting thing you’ve ever done?

Randomly entered (and won) a boxing competition at a bar.

What’s the most unusual time and place you’ve ever visited?

I drove through Missouri once. It felt like I traveled back in time.

Name a place you’ve never visited where you still want to go.

Africa.

Favorite book, favorite movie, and favorite musician.

Book: “I Know This Much is True” by Wally Lamb
Movie:  Don’t have a single favorite but I heard “Bet Raise Fold” is pretty good.
Musician: Johnny Cash

What upsets you the most?

My husband’s driving.

What bores you?

Sober limit poker.

Do you believe in an afterlife and why do you believe it so?

Yes.  I have to for sanity purposes.