When Parker James returned to farm broadcasting a few years ago, he hoped to build a long-term career in the industry. Becoming an owner was always a goal, but one he expected would come much later.
Instead, that opportunity arrived in January 2026, when James and longtime broadcaster Derek Beck purchased Your Ag Network from James' father.
Agriculture and broadcasting have shaped James' life from the beginning. A fourth-generation ranch family member, he grew up watching his father work in radio across the Midwest and landed his own first broadcasting job while still in high school in Yankton, South Dakota.
Although he spent about 10 years away from the industry, James returned when his father invited him to help with the network.
"Since I first started working for him, that was always the goal," James said of someday owning the business.
That goal became reality after James approached Beck, who brought more than 20 years of radio experience, about partnering on the purchase. Together, they secured financing and presented James' father with an offer.
Today, the two balance experience with fresh perspective as they lead the independent ag network.
"The mixture of having a young 27-year-old and someone in their 50s who's had years and years of experience is pretty unique," James said. "I feel like it works to our advantage."
The move from employee to owner has also given James a new appreciation for the work that happens behind the scenes.
"There are a lot of things that you take for granted in different positions," he said. "Once you have the actual responsibility of running the company, you realize there are so many behind-the-scenes things that you didn't account for."
As co-owners, James and Beck handle nearly every aspect of the business. Their days can include producing radio programs, meeting with clients, attending farm shows, updating websites, managing social media and overseeing business operations. Each morning begins with a phone call to plan the day's priorities.
Looking ahead, James said the focus is on strengthening the network's presence across Nebraska, South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota and Iowa while maintaining the personal relationships that have defined the company. Recent additions of affiliate stations and upgrades to the network's digital systems are helping position the business for continued growth.
"We're trying to keep it small, keep it personal," James said, "but at the same time, expand some areas where we see opportunities."
For James, owning the network represents more than a career milestone. It's an opportunity to carry forward a family legacy while helping ensure independent agricultural broadcasting continues serving producers across the region.
