Episode 388: Ana Carrillo
Apr 08, 2026
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Summary:
In this episode of The Produce Moms Podcast, host Lori Taylor continues the celebration of the International Year of the Female Farmer with Ana Carrillo, Business Development Director at UVEX, a multi-generational farming operation based in Sonora, Mexico.
Ana shares her unique journey from studying marketing and international business to building a career within her family’s farming operation. What began as a path outside of agriculture ultimately transformed into a deep passion for the industry-one rooted in legacy, responsibility, and purpose.
Together, Lori and Ana explore the evolving role of women in agriculture, the challenges of stepping into leadership in a traditionally male-dominated field, and the importance of creating space for women to define their own paths. Ana also provides an inside look at the complexity behind growing grapes from varietal selection to market strategy highlighting the years of planning, risk, and faith required to bring fresh produce to consumers.
The conversation emphasizes how empowering women in agriculture leads to stronger businesses, more connected communities, and a more resilient global food system. Ana shares her vision for the future one where more women not only lead within organizations, but build agricultural businesses from the ground up.
Takeaways:
- The International Year of the Female Farmer (2026) is elevating women’s voices across global agriculture
- Farming is deeply rooted in legacy, but requires modern innovation and business strategy
- It can take 4–5 years for grapevines to reach full production, showcasing the long-term nature of farming investments
- Women bring a holistic, integrative approach to leadership that strengthens collaboration across teams
- One of the biggest challenges women face in agriculture is finding confidence and voice in male-dominated spaces
- Empowering women starts by giving them the opportunity to shape their own career paths and contribute ideas
- Consumers often underestimate the complexity, risk, and planning behind fresh produce
- The future of agriculture includes more women-led businesses built from the ground up
Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to the Episode & International Year of the Female Farmer
01:30 – Meet Ana Carrillo & Her Family’s Farming Legacy
04:30 – From Corporate Career to Agriculture: Ana’s Journey
07:00 – Inside UVEX: Grapes, Asparagus & 40+ Years of Farming
08:30 – The Role of Women in Agriculture & Leadership Perspectives
11:30 – Bridging Field & Business: Wearing Multiple Hats in Farming
12:30 – Challenges Women Face in a Male-Dominated Industry
14:30 – Misconceptions About Farming & The Reality of Growing Grapes
18:30 – The Complexity of Modern Agriculture & Consumer Awareness
20:30 – Why Female Empowerment Matters in Agribusiness
24:30 – Building the Future: Women-Led Farming Businesses
29:45 – What Gives Ana Hope for the Future of Agriculture
32:45 – Final Advice for Women Entering the Industry
34:00 – Closing Remarks & Where to Follow UVEX
