Today we’d like to introduce you to Jose Luis Castillo.
Hi Jose, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
Born and raised Venezuelan, my journey starts with the discovery of music.
My dad used to play John Lennon Cassettes on his car. I remember the first time I listened to “Imagine”, I knew music had a different impact on me.
From that moment on, all I wanted is to create songs and to be an artist. I was 8.
During my high school years, I started many bands until I found a lineup that worked out well.
At the time, I had a few songs I’ve written in my bedroom, I thought it was a good idea to put them together with the band and record a demo and we did. That was the beginning of my musical career.
From 2002 to 2012 we toured a lot and experienced the ups and downs of rock and roll until it wasn’t sustainable anymore.
After graduating from College, I wanted to pursue a new career as a videographer, so I started a business with my brother providing low-budget video productions to small business in our hometown.
From the beginning, I fall in love with the process, I wanted to be part of every stage from scriptwriter to director, D.P., editor, sound design, and postproduction.
Fast forward today, the business evolved into a video post-production company based in Los Angeles, CA. where we serve as a reliable partner, providing Video Editing, VFX, and other postproduction needs to our clients.
Back to music.
Music was always present, I never stopped producing, writing songs, performing. I don’t think I will ever stop, is part of who I am, it makes me happy… Writing songs with my guitar is my therapy.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Starting a business is hard. I know I’ve failed many times, but with each unsuccessful story, I’ve found new ways to avoid making the same mistakes.
As long as you keep trying and don’t quit, you will find out that there is always a smarter way to do things and when you do, keep pushing until your business start working out, then focus on what works so you can scale it.
The biggest challenge I’ve faced is myself, I had to become a better version of myself to succeed. For me it meant more education, mentors, reading more books, attending coaching events, etc.
With a winner mindset, every door closed means a new opportunity, a different way.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
“Wonder Bros LA” is my main business that operates in Santa Monica, California with clients all over the US. We serve video production companies that needs a reliable post-production partner in their team.
I’m the CEO and project manager of WBLA, I’m also a DIT for a big corporation.
The best part is that most of my work is done remotely, so I can be in a coffee shop in town or at my office and enjoy my work.
I’m proud of my work and the team I’ve put together.
I’m proud of all the new music I’m working on and the new challenges ahead.
I’m also proud of creating a lifestyle that I deeply enjoy and support my dreams.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out.
If you’re starting out, grab a piece of paper in blank and draw a destination, wherever that is, do you want to start a business or career? Have a clear picture of your end goal in the next 10 years, then start drawing smaller goals that will led you to success. Try to picture the road you’re taking that will led you to your destination faster, and constantly update it. Don’t stick to plan A, you need Plan B, C, D, E, and F to achieve success, always have a backup plan.
For example, if you want to start a video editing service, first study how to use adobe premiere pro for a few months, then practice, create content for yourself and potential clients. Brand yourself with a website or social media. Join a network like Upwork and start networking and offering your services. Once you understand the demands of a real-life client, you can delegate your work and focus on attracting new clients. Then you scale.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: _j.wonder
Image Credits
Daniela Genie
