James was born and raised in Vancouver, British Columbia, and educated at universities across Canada. A graduate student specializing in sociology, he is well versed in subjects that highlight the individual and society at the intersections of time and place. Some subject James has explored are as diverse as they are interesting; society and law, to video games and literacy. Over the years he has led several educational tour groups in the Vancouver region, highlighting key areas of interest and historic quality. His education and lived experience give James a unique perspective on what it means to be a Vancouverite in a contemporary fast moving world.