Tony St. James, 2024

Tony St. James

Anchor + Markets Expert

Tony St. James joined the RFD-TV talent team in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to RFD-TV and Rural Radio Channel 147 Sirius XM. In addition to his role as Market Specialist (collaborating with Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady to provide radio and TV audiences with the latest updates on ag commodity markets), he hosts “Rural America Live” and serves as talent for trade shows.

“Tony’s gracious demeanor first stood out to me in our initial conversations,” said RFD-TV News Director Ashlee Pitzl. “His knowledge of agricultural commodities, ability to wear many hats, and solid work ethic will resonate with rural America, which is our bread and butter.”

“When I met Patrick Gottsch eight years ago, I saw his passion for serving agriculture and rural America,” said St. James. “I’ve shared this passion as well. I live in a small farming community, and as a business owner, I know the challenges that rural communities face firsthand. Serving rural America and agriculture through RFD-TV is the honor of a lifetime.”

Before arriving at RFD-TV, St. James served as President and CEO of Paramount Broadcasting Corp., a powerhouse in rural radio focusing on ag and farm programming. He was the driving force behind the content on the “All Ag, All Day” radio stations, which feature a 24/7 farm talk format. St. James also produced more than two hours of syndicated programming that aired on radio stations from California to New York. With 42 years of broadcasting experience, St. James has worked in various formats, including Top 40, Country, Oldies, Classic Hits, News/Talk, Urban, and Spanish Tejano. In addition to his new role, he will continue to host a daily afternoon shift on Paramount Broadcasting’s FM station.

Interestingly, St. James’s journey into agriculture was born out of necessity. Coming from a non-farming background, he began learning about farming and ranching 28 years ago when he needed to fill the farm director position at his stations. Through interviews, trips, and observations, he has become a knowledgeable and respected voice in the ag community.

St. James recently celebrated 35 years of marriage with his wife, Pamela, a high school guidance counselor and former Spanish teacher. They have two adult children, Remington, who works in radio and digital news, and Kylie, a high school teacher and coach, all residing in Texas.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Matt Makins of Makins Weather says the West’s drought is among the worst on record. Even a strong El Niño may ease conditions, but it won’t end them.
USDA forecasts record U.S. canola production at 5.4 billion pounds for 2026/27 as farmers expand acreage to meet stronger demand from food and biofuel markets.
Rising freight and diesel costs are making it harder to move hay between regions.
USDA says the FIELDS program will fund 22 projects across 16 states in an effort to boost fertilizer supply.
Sharply lower placements tighten future cattle supplies, while heifer numbers still show only limited evidence of meaningful herd rebuilding.
The special provision giving producers the higher of ARC or PLC for 2025 will not continue next year.
Higher heating costs are putting added pressure on household budgets in rural communities.
Final details on eligible endorsement combinations are expected by the end of November.
Stronger East Coast shipments are giving U.S. corn another route to overseas markets.
Higher restaurant spending could support foodservice demand for U.S. agricultural products.