Women in Ag Spotlight: Ag Women Connect Founder Vanessa Wood

Vanessa Wood shares more about Ag Women Connect, the importance of uplifting women in agriculture, and upcoming projects designed to highlight stories across rural America.

SELECTS_FARMHER_ 19_12_19_USA_ALL_VARIOUS_0171.jpg

FarmHER, Inc.

LUBBOCK, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — As the role of women in agriculture continues to grow, new platforms are emerging to help connect, support, and amplify the voices of female farmers and ranchers.

In recognition of Women’s History Month, we were joined by Vanessa Wood, founder of Ag Women Connect, on Monday’s Market Day Report to discuss her mission of building a community for women across the agricultural industry.

In her conversation with RFD NEWS, Wood explained that Ag Women Connect was created to provide a space where women in agriculture can share their experiences, build networks, and support one another both personally and professionally. The platform highlights the contributions of women across farming, ranching, and agribusiness while encouraging meaningful conversations about the challenges and opportunities they face.

In addition to its online presence, Ag Women Connect also produces the “Ag Talk: Your Story Matters” podcast on Rural Radio, alongside its website and social media channels. Wood said balancing multiple platforms allows the organization to reach a broader audience while giving women several ways to tell their stories and engage with the agricultural community.

Wood also emphasized the importance of recognizing and elevating women’s contributions to agriculture, noting that visibility and mentorship play a critical role in inspiring the next generation of leaders in the industry.

Beyond Ag Women Connect, Wood is currently working on a short documentary focused on Bureau of Land Management mustangs and the role they play in preserving Western heritage. The project aims to explore the history and cultural significance of the horses and the landscapes they inhabit.

Related Stories
Jake Charleston, with Specialty Risk Insurance, joins us now for an industry update and advice for cattle producers as they consider options for managing the risks of a murky market.
The National Milk Producers Federation will launch a new advocacy campaign to secure a final vote, urging House lawmakers to approve the bill as soon as they return from the Thanksgiving recess.
AFBF Vice President of Public Policy and Economic Analysis, Dr. John Newton, explains the factors contributing to the growing financial strain in the ag sector and the urgent need for swift economic support.
Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller warns horse owners after EHV-1 cases linked to the Waco WPRA Finals. Horses linked to recent Waco events should be isolated and closely monitored, as early action is critical to stopping the spread of EHV-1.
Jael Cruikshank, the newly elected Western Region Vice President, shares her story on this week’s FFA Today.
Shaun Haney, host of RealAg Radio, provides the latest insight into the timing, expectations, and broader considerations of the potential aid package, despite increasing exports to China.

Marion is a digital content manager for RFD News and FarmHER + RanchHER. She started working for Rural Media Group in May 2022, bringing a decade of digital experience in broadcast media and some cooking experience to the team.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

The Farm Bureau is making an urgent call to Congress for more farm support. Colton Lacina with Farmers National Company joined us to discuss farmland values and how market dynamics for the year ahead reflect stabilization rather than collapse.
Analysts say a Supreme Court decision on tariffs could reshape protein markets, strain U.S.-China trade, and force farmers to rethink global demand strategies.
Wayne Cockrell with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association joined us to discuss preparedness, producer awareness, and the industry’s response to New World screwworm concerns.
President Donald Trump speaks at the World Economic Forum in Davos, addressing SNAP spending, tariff threats against Europe, market reactions, and the upcoming USMCA review.
From meatpacking settlements to landmark NEPA rulings, Roger McEowen outlines the top legal developments in 2025 that will shape agriculture in the years ahead.
Alan Bjerga with the National Milk Producers Federation joined us to review new policies and regulations supporting the dairy industry and what they mean for the year ahead.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Brought to you by Gus Arrendale & Springer Mountain Farms, join dynamic bluegrass duo Dailey & Vincent as they welcome scores of fabulous bluegrass, country, and gospel music acts as special guests. Loads of laughs, your favorite guests galore, and lots of good times are guaranteed. Don’t miss all the fun!
Twisted Skillet brings a straightforward, hands-on approach to kitchen television, rooted in food and fire. Hosted by Texas chef Sean Koehler, the series explores open-fire outdoor cooking techniques, regional ingredients, and the people who raise, prepare, and inspire the food found across America.
FarmHER + RanchHER on RFD-TV is working to change how people perceive a farmer by sharing the stories of the women who live and lead in agriculture.
Join popular polka performer Mollie Busta as she hosts the weekly “Mollie B Polka Party” on RFD Network! The one-hour program features the nation’s top polka bands and a wide variety of ethnic styles, recorded on location at music festivals across the country.
The affable and unassuming international singing star Daniel O’Donnell is one of Ireland’s best known performers – from Australia to Alaska.