Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jenny Castro. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Jenny, thanks for joining us today. Was there a moment in your career that meaningfully altered your trajectory? If so, we’d love to hear the backstory.

There was definitely a specific experience that changed the trajectory of my career and that defined my passion in its current state relating to a mentor of mine. A few years ago I joined a social community in which we all shared the same values and goals in mind. Through this community, we had the extraordinary opportunity to gain wisdom and mentorship from former mobster (Michael Franzese) turned motivational speaker, entrepreneur, and highly influential social personality on social media and so forth. Franzese has appeared in numerous documentaries and has been interviewed by the likes of Piers Morgan and Tucker Carlson due to his fascinating experiences. During my time in Franzese’s social community, a contest was held in who could write the best short mob script. I decided to enter and write on real life personal experiences combined with fiction and created a thrilling and heart wrenching story which eventually won over Franzese and his team as my story was voted #1 out of many submissions. After this, I realized I loved the writing and storytelling process so much and decided to turn my script into a full length novel which I am currently working on. Since then, I have become extremely passionate about authentic and genuine storytelling and was motivated to continue exploring more. I then started to tap into freelance opportunities and became a contributor to many online and print media publications including working a variety of internships in which I gained real working knowledge of AP (Associated Press) writing style as well as getting exposed to the world of communications and public relations while exploring various editorial content. The internships were extremely valuable as they provided me with the opportunity to make connections and explore creative and journalistic stories while building my portfolio at the same time which is highly essential when starting a career in journalism or editorial. You may never know what passions you have or how your life can change for the better if you hold yourself back and don’t take risks. I took a risk in being vulnerable by sharing my true life family story which is deeply personal and emotional but it changed the course of my career and life forever and only for the better.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Currently, I am a journalist and creative writer for various media outlets including The Hollywood Times, Latinitas Magazine, and Seattle Refined. I interview and profile various personalities in various industries including artists in entertainment and entrepreneurs in business including in the music, beauty, and fashion industries. For the Hollywood Times I conduct book reviews on a wide range of topics including historical figures, classic Hollywood, film, and conduct author interviews as well for books partnered with Turner Classic Movies and more. Past interviews I have also conducted include many contestants and title holders within pageantry as well including Miss World America Shree Saini, Miss USA Savannah Gankiewicz, and Miss U.S. Latina Roxette Solis. Other past work includes interviews with Actress Francia Raisa, Renowned Bridal Designer Pnina Tornai, Patricia Kelly (Widow & Biographer to Hollywood Icon Gene Kelly), and actress Lucie Arnaz (Daughter to Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz). My strong passion for history, entertainment, and pop-culture coincides with the work that I have presented in my portfolio as I strive to profile and showcase the most unique and riveting stories relating to lifestyle, entertainment, and current trends. I also have a strong passion for highlighting the Latino community in which I have profiled many entrepreneurs and Latinos in business, entertainment, and historical events. My work has also been featured in Latina Style Magazine, Texas Lifestyle Magazine, University of Washington-Tacoma, Hispanic Executive, and Washington Wedding Day and Oregon Wedding Day for bridal editorial. I also have great experience in corresponding with high profile Public Relation firms and management to celebrities and other industry professionals, and have been a guest speaker for Hispanic Heritage Month highlighting my work for the Latino community. I plan to eventually offer services in helping others with resume writing and host goal setting workshops.

Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?

Besides training, I think that educating yourself is essential for gaining more skills in perfecting your craft. So, I think that taking extra courses in communications, public relations, and creative and professional writing can boost your resume and portfolio that will help you stand out from other candidates or other professionals in your field. In addition to education, networking is also key. I recommend aligning yourself with the right mentors who can help guide you as well as hustling your way and finding the right connections through attending events and so forth. Ultimately, finding freelance opportunities and internships will greatly help one succeed when looking to break into the field of journalism, writing, media, or any creative field.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

Well recently on top of writing full time, I also got back into the legal field as a legal professional full time which is what I initially went to school for. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Law & Justice from Central Washington University and learned a great deal on the criminal justice system. Managing both my full time corporate job as a legal professional and career as a journalist has been very time consuming and a lot of work, but my drive, ambition, and passion for success in both fields that I love is what keeps me going. I don’t think anyone should hold themselves back from pursuing multiple endeavors as long as they can function and maintain a good work life balance.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/misscastro
• Instagram: @miss_jcastro
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-castro-724515179/

Image Credits

I have rights to use any images submitted.