Prior to launching Burnt Peaks, James co-founded Burly Bear Network, a college cable company focused on reality-based TV, where he served as creative director and programming head. He was the driving force behind Burly Bear’s cutting-edge image and distinctive style. He applied his ethnography skills to craft a diverse range of original programming for the upstart network creating an environment for students to have their voices heard. He also co-created Half-Baked, the number-one rated college show for the last eight years—using an irreverent documentary style that has become his signature. James has worked with stars such as Shaquille O’Neal, Uncle Kracker, G. Love, and Lisa Loeb. He has also produced off-beat original commercials and product placement content for Half-Baked sponsors such as Snapple, Lipton, and Reebok. Before starting up Burly Bear in 1994, James owned and managed JAM Video Productions, a boutique video market research company based in NYC. James is a graduate of NYU with a background in television, ethnography, and documentary film.