The Brian James Story
Rooted in Faith, Family, and Dreams
Brian James was born in Alexandria, Virginia, on August 15, 1990, and raised just outside Washington, DC, by two loving parents who instilled in him a foundation of faith, community, and service. Growing up with his little brother and best friend, Justin, Brian learned the power of connection early on. Their home was a place where love was freely given, faith was central, and community was everything. His parents were intentional in raising him and Justin with an awareness of the world around them, always encouraging the boys to see beyond themselves. For Brian, these values became guiding stars. Like many children, his dreams were limitless. Some days he imagined himself as a star athlete; on others, he wanted to explore the cosmos. But no matter the day, there was always an inner pull to make an impact—to shine in his unique way.
In 1999, Brian discovered what would become a lifelong passion: radio. He began recording shows on local stations, captivated by the voices that came through the speakers. Imitating those hosts in his bedroom, he found joy in bringing words to life, unwittingly setting the stage for a future career. Around this time, his love for storytelling began to flourish. By 2001, he joined a Toastmasters program at his elementary school, where he discovered not only a voice but also the thrill of capturing an audience. Whenever he got into trouble, his parents would have him write essays about his actions—a practice that turned discipline into a journey of introspection and self-discovery. Over time, his storytelling skills sharpened, and he developed an unbreakable bond with words.
Throughout high school at DeMatha Catholic in Hyattsville, MD, Brian’s passions continued to evolve. Alongside his academic pursuits, he became a voice for his school’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes and performed with a gospel band across the Washington, DC area. He even played football with the DeMatha “Stags” for one season. These years taught him the discipline and commitment needed to balance his many callings. His faith and creativity converged, fueling his dreams as he entered Salisbury University in pursuit of a degree in Communications. The lessons of faith, family, and community that he’d been raised on were now propelling him into adulthood with a vision and purpose beyond himself.
The Brian James Story
Finding His Voice: From Campus to Career
At Salisbury University, Brian’s journey took shape with challenges that strengthened his resolve. Balancing coursework with his passion for broadcasting wasn’t easy, especially when he secured an internship at Radio One in Washington, D.C. Twice a week, he would travel from college to the nation’s capital, learning under prominent voices in the industry, including EZ Street, Russ Parr, and Angie Ange. The intensity of his schedule took its toll, and his grades suffered. At a critical moment, he found himself on academic probation, teetering on the edge of losing it all. One day, as Salisbury’s President entered the school’s main building, Brian approached her and shared his dreams for a future in media. With conviction, he laid out his vision and asked for more time to get his grades back on track.
Impressed by his determination, the President granted his request—with conditions. He had to leave the football team and join a campus organization. Eager to honor this second chance, Brian joined the school’s radio station, WXSU, where he found his voice behind the mic and began shaping his on-air presence. His grades quickly rebounded, and within two years, he had climbed the ranks to become Program Director, overseeing a new era for the station that brought it into competition with professional local stations. DJing at local venues on the weekends and interning at Radio One during breaks, Brian pushed his limits, staying connected to his community and the empowering principles of ministry that had always guided him.
In 2011, Brian’s commitment to community took another step forward when he was initiated into Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., furthering his devotion to service and brotherhood. By May 2012, Brian graduated with a degree in Communications (Media Production) and Music (Performance). His dedication paid off almost immediately: just days after graduating, he received an offer from 93.9 WKYS, bringing him back to the very building where he had interned. It was a full-circle moment, affirming that he was on the path he’d envisioned years before.
As an overnight host, Brian honed his craft, conducting early interviews with future legends like Kendrick Lamar and Miguel. He developed his interviewing style, blending thoughtful questions with authentic conversation, allowing the stories of his guests to unfold naturally. For two years, Brian held down the overnight slot in the nation’s capital, all while mastering the art of connecting with his audience and giving back through his platform.
The Brian James Story
Building a Legacy: The CTZNS and Beyond
In 2014, Brian accepted a new challenge as the night host on Buffalo, NY’s legendary urban station, WBLK. There, “Brian’s World” came to life—a show dedicated to enriching listeners’ lives through powerful storytelling, laughter, and community-focused content. Brian’s goal was to keep listeners engaged and uplifted, providing a rare combination of entertainment and introspection. Initially, his focus was simply on making a mark, but with encouragement from his program director, Brian pushed boundaries, and Brian’s World became one of Buffalo’s highest-rated shows. Joined by co-hosts Michelle Visa and DJ Big Rob, the show’s unpredictability and heart made it a standout in the community, with listeners tuning in not just for entertainment but for empowerment.
Brian’s World drew in artists, athletes, and celebrities, establishing Brian as a trusted voice who could balance humor and insight, and he thrived in creating an atmosphere where real stories could be told. One night, before going on air, he received an offer that would take him even further—to Indianapolis. In May 2015, Brian moved to Radio One Indianapolis, where he continued to push the show’s high-impact, community-centered vision alongside DJ Topspeed. Although his time there was brief, Indianapolis gave Brian something unexpected: his future wife, Ashley.
Returning to the East Coast in 2017, Brian brought Brian’s World to Baltimore’s 92Q, re-establishing himself in a new market. The show eventually transitioned into a podcast, with plans to evolve into a full-fledged media outlet. Driven by his belief in the power of community, Brian also answered another calling: to create a network for influencers and creators who wanted to inspire positive change. This vision became The CTZNS—a creative village where voices with purpose could collaborate, share resources, and drive impact. As he pursued his graduate studies in Public Relations at the University of Maryland Global Campus, Brian poured everything he was learning into The CTZNS, shaping it into a hub for those committed to media-driven empowerment.
Today, Brian continues to carry the torch of inspiration and community-building. Hosting Brian’s World on 92Q Jams, he remains a vital voice in Baltimore, while his novels—particularly The Man Who Didn’t Stop Running series—add yet another dimension to his story. His work as an independent author allows him to connect with readers in a deeply personal way, extending his reach and impact.
Yet, amidst all his achievements, Brian’s greatest joy is in building a life with Ashley. The couple lives along the Baltimore-Washington Parkway and looks forward to growing their family and legacy. As The CTZNS continues to expand its reach and influence, Brian’s story serves as a reminder of the power of resilience, the strength of community, and the boundless potential of dreams nurtured by faith.
Thank you for being a part of my story. Please let me know how I can serve you.
POWERED BY
We thank our supporters and sponsors who help make the Brian James vision a reality. These partners offer funding, platforms, advertising space, and more.
