>James Autry is an author, poet, and consultant. Before taking an early retirement in 1991 to pursue his current path, he had a distinguished career at Meredith Corporation as president of its Magazine Group, a 500 million dollar operation with more than 900 employees. Autry has written ten books and is also a renowned speaker and lecturer. As a business consultant, he visits top corporations around the country.

Autry has received many awards and distinctions, among them the distinguished alumnus award for the University of Mississippi, being inducted into its Hall of Fame in 1981, the Headliner Award from Women in Communication in 1990, a Doctorate in Literature from William Jewel College in 1991, and the Missouri State Medal of Honor in 1991.

A native of Memphis, Tennessee, Autry grew up in Mississippi and as a young man, he worked a variety of jobs including: reporter, musician, copy boy, and farm hand. After graduating college, he was a jet fighter pilot in France for four years. Following his military service, Autry joined Meredith Corporation. He currently lives in Des Moines, Iowa with his wife and son.