Episode 398: Lori Castillo
Jun 17, 2026
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Summary:
In this episode of The Produce Moms Podcast, host Lori Taylor welcomes back a familiar and beloved voice-Lori Castillo, a respected leader in the fresh produce industry and longtime advocate for healthy food access.
Known affectionately as “Lori C” within The Produce Moms community, Lori shares insights from her evolving career journey, including her recent transition into entrepreneurship with the launch of her own consultancy. With decades of experience spanning retail, foodservice, and industry leadership, Lori reflects on the lessons that shaped her path and the purpose that continues to guide her work.
The conversation highlights Lori’s passion for connecting families with fresh, healthy foods, her involvement in industry boards and community organizations, and her commitment to driving meaningful change across the supply chain. From career pivots to personal growth, this episode is an inspiring look at how leadership evolves—and how purpose remains constant.
Takeaways:
- Career evolution can open doors to new opportunities for impact and leadership.
- Building strong relationships is foundational to long-term success in the produce industry.
- Entrepreneurship allows for greater flexibility and purpose-driven work.
- Industry experience across multiple sectors provides a unique and valuable perspective.
- Serving on boards and community organizations expands influence beyond day-to-day roles.
- Mentorship and collaboration are key to advancing the fresh produce industry.
- Staying connected to purpose helps guide decisions during times of change.
- The mission of increasing access to fresh, healthy foods remains a unifying goal.
- Leadership is not defined by title, but by the ability to inspire and create change.
- Reinvention is possible at any stage of a career.
Chapters:
00:00 – Welcome & Episode Introduction
01:15 – Reintroducing Lori Castillo (“Lori C”)
02:30 – Career Beginnings in Fresh Produce
05:30 – Leadership Roles & Industry Experience
08:00 – Community Involvement & Board Service
10:30 – Recent Career Evolution & New Consultancy
13:30 – Entrepreneurship & Building a Business
16:00 – Staying Connected to Purpose
18:30 – Industry Collaboration & Relationships
21:00 – Lessons Learned Through Career Transitions
24:00 – Advice for Emerging Leaders
26:30 – Closing Thoughts
Resources:
LinkedIn: Lori Castillo, MBA | LinkedIn
