James is a Behavioral Financial Advisor™ working with individuals and organizations seeking to make the best decisions they can with the assets they have. James has spent most of his life in the Pacific Northwest and enjoys meeting new people and learning new things.
He graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Music degree from Stephen F. Austin State University (“Axe ‘em Jacks!”). He loves singing, conducting, teaching and making music. He lived in Italy for a couple of years and afterward taught Italian at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. James worked as an executive for a nonprofit for eight years prior to his move to the financial services industry. He, along with a couple partners, owned two insurance agencies in Southern Oregon until 2022 where James led the team that provided life insurance, health insurance and employee benefits.
James started working with the Simmons Insurance team in Hermiston, Oregon, starting in 2008. His mentor, Kelly Bissinger, became a close friend and, when it was time for Kelly to consider retirement, James moved to Hermiston to join practices as the Legacy Creation Network. Shortly afterwards, James expanded his practice to Yakima, Washington, through a partnership with another advisor, Paul Merz. The practice continues to grow and serve more families and organizations across the country with their wealth management needs.
James and his wife Cassy have four children. They enjoy travelling together, biking, spending time on the water and creating. They like to stay involved in their community, serve actively in their church, and participate on various boards and committees. James is currently part of the Eastern Oregon Leadership Council for the Oregon Community Foundation and an active member of his local Rotary club. He also enjoys serving on the board of Cascade Health Alliance, an Oregon Coordinate Care Organization serving at-risk populations in Southern Oregon.