Today we’d like to introduce you to Blair Castro
Hi Blair, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
In 2017, I didn’t just start a PR firm—I set out to disrupt the status quo. Founding **Shook PR** in my hometown of Pensacola, Florida, I was determined to bridge the divide in a world where politics felt more polarized than ever. My mission was clear: to champion diverse voices and foster inclusion, all while building meaningful connections in the community. From day one, I was committed to shaking things up, and I haven’t looked back since.
My journey into public relations has been shaped by my background in law and education. By 23, I had earned my Juris Doctor (J.D.) from Barry University School of Law, specializing in legal research, conflict resolution, and advocacy. I continued my education, earning a Master of Science in Entertainment Business from Full Sail University and a Graduate Certificate in Conflicts from Religious Traditions from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. These experiences not only honed my legal skills but also deepened my understanding of mediation and conflict resolution—skills that have been invaluable in my PR work. Today, I’m proud to give back by teaching undergraduate law courses as an adjunct professor at Pensacola State College, where I’m also an alum.
After expanding Shook PR to New Orleans, where I primarily focus on maritime PR and marketing, I felt it was time to take on a new adventure. My legal expertise in industries like shipping and construction gave me the flexibility to explore off-season work when political campaigns slowed down. Around this time, I joined a travel and hiking group which took me unexpectedly on a trip to Hocking Hills State Park. That sparked not just a personal connection but also a deep interest in Columbus, Ohio. After visiting, I was struck by the city’s vibrant culture, natural beauty, and educational opportunities. It felt like the perfect place for a new chapter, both personally and professionally. So, I decided to expand my business to Columbus, thrilled to grow my political connections and business network in a city I was excited to call home.
As a mother of two, finding the right environment for my children has always been a top priority. I was incredibly impressed by the schools in Columbus and felt they could offer my kids opportunities that we didn’t have back in Florida. That mix of personal and professional motivations made the decision to relocate feel natural.
Beyond my work in PR, I’ve embraced social media as a tool to build my personal brand. With over 11,000 followers on Instagram, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with clothing brands and become a brand ambassador for women’s clothing, hiking and travel gear—things that genuinely align with my love for the outdoors and adventure. Being able to promote products I actually use has made this journey all the more rewarding. I’ve learned to balance multiple roles—whether it’s PR strategist, political consultant, model, or influencer—all while working remotely. It’s a lifestyle that’s given me the freedom to do what I love: travel, hike, and explore the world around me.
This flexibility has been a blessing, allowing me to keep growing my business while staying true to the things that matter most in my life. Expanding to Columbus has been part of that growth, a new chapter in both my career and my personal journey.
Through all the ups and downs, my story is one of resilience and continuous growth. I’m proud of how far I’ve come, but I know there’s so much more ahead. With passion and dedication, I believe you can truly shake things up—both in business and in life.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My journey to success has been anything but smooth. It’s been marked by struggles, setbacks, and moments that tested my strength, but each challenge shaped me into the resilient woman I am today. Growing up in poverty with a strict single mother, I was pushed to excel in education from an early age. My mother, along with my stepfather—a college professor—instilled in me the value of hard work and the power of education. Yet, even with their support, I battled severe depression and anxiety, much of it stemming from the hardships I faced growing up and navigating life’s challenges.
One of the most pivotal influences in my life was my high school English teacher, Dr. Anthea Amos. She mentored me, taught me how to write, and introduced me to the world of ghostwriting. Under her guidance, I discovered a talent that would eventually open doors for me in the political world. From humble beginnings, I found myself ghostwriting for sheriffs, congressmen, state representatives, and CEOs of major corporations. My discretion and trusted advice earned me a reputation as someone reliable and skilled in local politics, which eventually led to my acceptance into the Leadership Pensacola Class of 2022, a program that recognizes rising community leaders.
On the personal front, life wasn’t always easy. I became a mother at 18, giving birth to my son, Desmond, who is now a high school senior ranked in the top 10% of his class at a magnet school for the gifted. Eight years later, I had my daughter, Juliet, but found myself again as a single mother, raising both children on my own. Financially, it was tough—I’ll be honest. But my unwavering faith in God and my belief in karma and dharma gave me the strength to keep going, even when the road ahead looked uncertain.
One of the most life-changing moments for me happened when I was a teenager. I was pulled into court as a witness in a shocking homicide trial. The experience had such a profound impact on me that I decided to pursue law, enrolling in law school to seek justice for people who had been wronged. That legal education, combined with my drive and passion for helping others, eventually led me to build my own PR firm. Today, I’m proud to say that I’ve been able to make a mark in both the business and political worlds, turning the challenges I’ve faced into the fuel that keeps me moving forward.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At Shook PR, what sets us apart is the unique intersection of law, politics, and media—a combination I’ve been fortunate to bring to the table. With my background as a Juris Doctor (J.D.) and my experience as a law professor, I’ve gained a deep understanding of not just public relations and political strategy, but also the legal frameworks that underpin them. This allows my team and me to craft marketing messages that resonate on a deeper level, always focusing on the client’s “why”—the core motivation behind their campaigns or brand.
Navigating the complexities of legislation, politics, and media has given Shook PR a distinct advantage. With my legal knowledge, I can help clients avoid potential missteps and stay compliant with the ever-evolving landscape. My experience in teaching law has also been invaluable—it’s taught me how to take complicated issues and break them down into clear, digestible messaging that can shape communities and drive change.
By blending these unique skills with strategic marketing and PR services, we’re able to deliver powerful, compliant messaging that not only promotes a brand but also aligns with political and legal realities. This ability to bridge law, politics, and marketing is what makes Shook PR stand out in an industry that often overlooks the importance of all three working in harmony.
Under my leadership, Shook PR is proud to work with a diverse range of clients, reflecting our commitment to inclusivity and respect for every individual’s story. One of the things I love most about my work is the opportunity to represent clients with vastly different viewpoints—from popular Republican congressmen in the Panhandle to outspoken drag queens in Orlando. No matter the project or the cause, we always strive to maintain the integrity of each client’s message.
I’ve learned to bridge the gap between contrasting worlds by using my understanding of law, politics, and media to craft messages that are not only impactful but also aligned with the realities of both legal and social landscapes. It’s this versatility that makes Shook PR truly unique—ensuring that every campaign, no matter how diverse, is treated with the utmost respect, authenticity, and professionalism.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
I’ve quickly fallen in love with some of the best things Columbus has to offer. One of the biggest draws for me is the city’s incredible diversity and the educational opportunities it provides for my 10-year-old daughter, Juliet. Columbus is home to a variety of excellent schools, both public and private, and I’ve found it to be a nurturing environment that aligns perfectly with my values when it comes to providing Juliet with a unique, high-quality education.
Another thing I’ve come to appreciate about Columbus is its beautiful fall weather and the endless hiking opportunities. As someone who loves being outdoors, I’m in awe of the nature trails and that crisp fall air that makes every hike feel like an adventure. While I’ll always be a Southern girl at heart—and yes, I do miss my sweet tea and authentic Southern cooking—Columbus’s charm has definitely made me feel at home.
One of the few challenges I’ve faced is connecting with other Spanish speakers, as I was raised speaking it as a second language. But that’s something I’m working on. And even though I’m a die-hard University of Alabama football fan—still shouting “Roll Tide!” every chance I get—I have to admit, I’m slowly starting to fall for the Ohio State Buckeyes. The local sports culture here is hard to resist, though in my heart, the Crimson Tide will always come first!
Pricing:
- Web Design- ranges anywhere between $500- $3500 depending on size
- Social Media Management- monthly fees from $300- 2500
- Press Releases and Publicity- price varies
- Content Development and Writing- varies
- Graphic Design= varies
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.shookpr.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/shook_pr and instagram.com/blaircastro
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/ShookPR
