Jim Kern was born and raised in southern Minnesota. After graduating from Byron High School he attended Winona State University where he earned his B.S. degree with majors in English and Physical Education, and later an M.S. degree with emphasis on guidance and counseling. From the University of Wyoming, Jim earned his doctorate in educational psychology. Jim has taught every age group from kindergarten to seasoned citizens in Minnesota, Michigan and Wyoming.

Today Jim lives in South Texas with his wife Denise.

Jim gives between 150 and 200 presentations per year to a wide variety of groups. A few of these groups are:

• National Association of Secondary School Principals
• National Association of Elementary School Principals
• National Parents and Teachers Association
• National Play Therapy Association
• Young President's Organization (YPO)
• National 4-H Programs
• National Future Homemakers of America
• National Future Business Leaders of America
• National Student Councils Association
• Council of State Governments
• American Probation and Parole Association