We’re looking forward to introducing you to Christopher Castillo. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Christopher , thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
This is a difficult question. Many would say intelligence is the most important quality, but I don’t agree. Anyone can learn a craft and become proficient; the difference between a professional and a beginner is simply training, which can be taught and coached. Intelligence alone doesn’t determine work ethic or efficiency.
I interpret “energy” as the hunger to succeed and having a growth mentality. One of the best qualities a person can have is that unbreakable spirit when adversity hits or a door closes. That’s what I value most when bringing people onto my team. Success is never linear—it’s full of setbacks. What matters is the attitude you bring when you take an “L.” I also see “energy” as the willingness to learn something new, even when it’s uncomfortable. It’s okay not to know something, but it’s not okay not to try.
Integrity is what my field lacks the most. After fifteen years in politics, I’ve been betrayed more than once. Politics can be cutthroat, but over time, you learn not to take it personally. I keep very few close friends in the business, and loyalty is something I deeply value.
In short, I value an equal blend of energy and integrity.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Christopher Castillo, a political consultant based in Los Angeles and the founder of Black Castle & Associates. I launched the firm in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, and since then, we’ve grown into one of California’s fastest-rising political consulting firms. Our work spans political consulting, government affairs, and opposition research, serving candidates, elected officials, special interests, and issue-based campaigns across California and Mexico. With more than fifteen years of experience in politics, I’ve built Black Castle & Associates around a commitment to bold strategy, sharp opposition research, and breaking away from traditional political consulting. What makes me proud is knowing that our firm gives clients a true competitive edge through outside-the-box thinking and a fearless approach to the political arena.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
My parents shaped my work ethic more than anyone else. I grew up watching them start with nothing and build a successful business through hard work and persistence. My father always told me to pursue a career I loved so much that it would not feel like work. I can confidently say I’ve found that in running Black Castle & Associates. It’s demanding, but every day is different—and that makes it exciting.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
“You are meant for great things. You’ll meet people and find yourself in situations you never imagined. Don’t get discouraged—everything is a process, and things will come at the right time.”
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
This has two answers, depending on who you ask. Because I work in politics, I often operate in two personas. Publicly, I’m friendly, confident, and charismatic—but very private when it comes to my personal life.
If you ask my closest friends in politics, they’ll tell you I’m outspoken and unapologetically myself. I don’t aim to be liked by everyone, and I’ve accepted that some people will strongly like me while others strongly dislike me. That’s just politics—and life.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope my legacy is that I was a resource for positive change in politics. That I always approached situations with a pragmatic lens, worked to settle differences, and did my best to reach compromise.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.blackcastleassociates.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chris_castillo90/profilecard/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-castillo-b0802b200?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
