It’s rare that the word powerhouse feels truly fitting, but there’s no better way to describe Danielle Parson. A devoted mom to 5-year-old Clarke Macklin and wife to LaWarren Macklin, Danielle Parson is the visionary behind PWN, Pittsburgh’s premier organization for women.
Beyond her leadership in empowering women, she also gives back to the community, like serving on the board of trustees for the Laurel Highlands Council, Boy Scouts of America. And her dedication and advocacy have not gone unnoticed—she was appointed vice chair of Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro’s Advisory Commission on Women in 2023.
Most recently, Pittsburgh Magazine recognized her among the distinguished 2024 Women in Business honorees. Driven by a mission to connect, engage and inspire, Parson is building a more diverse pipeline of female leadership. With family, career and a movement all in motion, one question remains: How does she do it all? Let’s find out.
Tell us a little bit about why you felt starting Professional Women’s Network (PWN) was necessary and essential. And what does PWN mean to you now that your daughter is old enough to understand what Mommy does for work?
When I moved to Pittsburgh two decades ago, I was excited to be in a “big” city, surrounded by working professionals, influencers, change-makers and community leaders.
I was eager to build my career and establish deep community roots. More than anything, I looked forward to being in spaces filled with women from diverse backgrounds—women who could guide and inspire me along my journey. I also wanted to see more women who looked like me. But finding that space in Pittsburgh was difficult. After years of saying, “This city needs it,” I finally decided to create it. That’s how PWN was born—so that the next woman, professional or leader moving to Pittsburgh wouldn’t have to face the same struggles I did. Life is already challenging enough, and knowing I can make it just a little easier for other women is incredibly fulfilling. Now that my daughter is old enough to understand what I do, it’s even more meaningful. She gets to see women building relationships and creating spaces where they are celebrated, supported and uplifted. She’ll grow up knowing what a strong, encouraging community of women looks like—so she’ll always expect that for herself.
Clarke is Team PWN all the way! When I come home, she asks how my day was. When we have an event, she wants to know how many people came and if they had a great time. When I speak on a panel, she’s sometimes in the audience, and afterward, she’ll run up to me with a big smile and say, “You did a great job, Mommy.” I love that for her—and for me. Because just as much as PWN is essential today, it’s just as important for future generations to know they deserve spaces like this.
What is one of the most rewarding experiences you have had recently as a parent?
Being a mom is incredibly rewarding. My daughter is at that wonderful stage where every day she says something that completely amazes me. Recently, we realized her piggy bank was full—not even one more penny would fit! My husband and I told her it was time to empty it, deposit the money into her bank account and start fresh. But instead, she had a different idea. She asked if she could give the money to the homeless. Not only that, but she came up with a whole plan—exchanging the coins for dollars and passing them out herself. It was one of those moments that made my heart swell. It was a proud moment knowing I’m raising a kind, compassionate human. We need more of them!
What advice would you give parents who worry about achieving a healthy work/life balance?
Work/life balance is a myth. I’d actually encourage parents to stop chasing it altogether when thinking about success—both professionally and personally. The idea of balance makes it seem like everything will align perfectly … That we’ll reach this magical place where work, family, health, friendships, self-care and all the things on our never-ending to-do lists just fall into place. But that’s not reality—especially for parents who are juggling a career, kids, hobbies, healthy living, friendships, birthdays, vacations and remembering to stay hydrated!
Instead of striving for balance, I focus on integration—finding ways to blend work and life in a way that feels natural and sustainable. That might mean my daughter is sitting at the table with her iPad and headphones during a speaking engagement or that I bring a babysitter on work trips to keep her entertained during busy hours. When I’m packing thank-you notes or event swag, she’s right there on the assembly line, filling bags and boxes. And sometimes, we turn it into a learning moment—reading event programs together or doing quick math on attendance numbers.
That’s what works for me, but I encourage parents to find what works for them. The key is to release the pressure of perfection. Balance isn’t the goal—making life work in a way that feels right for you and your family is.
What is your favorite thing to do as a family in
Pittsburgh?
We love being outside—especially during Pittsburgh’s beautiful spring and summer seasons! You’ll often find us at a festival, a Dollar Bank Cinema in the Park night or an outdoor concert. Pittsburgh has done a great job expanding its family-friendly events over the years, and we take full advantage of every opportunity. It’s also the perfect chance for us to support local businesses, which is something I’m really passionate about. Local businesses are the heart of the community, and I don’t take that lightly. So, for us, a perfect day means enjoying a fun outdoor event and bringing home a bag full of local goodies—a win-win!
You’re not originally from Pittsburgh but have called it home for quite some time. What is your favorite thing about raising a family in Pittsburgh?
Community is my favorite thing about raising a family in Pittsburgh. While it’s technically a major city, it still has that small-town feel where you can find a true village to support
you. Whether it is neighbors looking out for the kids while they play outside, a lively block party bringing everyone together or community groups advocating for safe and supportive spaces for families, Pittsburgh has a way of making you feel connected.
That said, it’s not perfect. No place is. That’s why organizations like PWN are not only necessary but able to thrive here. Pittsburgh has the kind of community that values growth, connection and creating spaces where families and professionals alike can feel supported. And that’s what makes it such a special place to call home.
What advice would you give to parents who are new to the region and want to get acclimated in the Burgh?
Take the time to get to know all of Pittsburgh—not just your neighborhood or the community you live in. The city is full of hidden gems, from world-class museums and beautiful parks to charming galleries and cozy coffee shops. But to truly fall in love with Pittsburgh, you must explore it. Say yes to community events, support local businesses and venture into different neighborhoods. You’ll quickly see how much Pittsburgh has to offer. The more you experience, the more connected you’ll feel, and before you know it, the city will start to feel like home.
Carrie Woodard is a National Certified Counselor, National Certified School Counselor and a Pittsburgh mama of two.
