James has been a Smyrna resident for over 30 years. He has a son named Mason and daughter named Leah. James is actively involved coaching his son’s athletic teams. James is a 1986 graduate of Smyrna High School where he played football and soccer. He is a graduate of Leadership Rutherford and the Smyrna Citizens Police Academy.

He is an owner of Red Realty, LLC, owns Yates Enterprises Construction, LLC, and owner of Termite Solutions, LLC. He has served on the Board of Directors for the National Association of Realtors and the Middle Tennessee Association of Realtors, as well as the Rutherford County Home Builder Association. He is the founder of The Middle Tennessee Flag Football League (MTFFL.net).

As a side business, James offers public speaking on a variety of topics. His interests include fly fishing, physical fitness, and golf.