James was born and raised in Louisville. He is married to his best friend Lauren. After graduating from Trinity High School, he went to college at Bellarmine University, graduating with a Major in Business Administration and a Minor in Environmental Studies.

He acts as RFX’s Innovative Solutions Coordinator; developing educational opportunities like the Tech the Tool program. He also serves as the Director of the nonprofit Cornerstone Legacies Foundation where he works with small nonprofits from a business standpoint.

James is involved in the nonprofit group Louisville Grows, where he serves as a Board member and citizen forester helping to rebuild the urban tree canopy in Louisville.