Jim Odle, originally a rancher, began his journey in auctioneering in 1962, mentored by Claude Redman. Two years later, he acquired the Weld County Livestock Commission Company, later selling it and joining Brush Livestock Commission Company. Jim purchased Brush in 1969 and owned it until 1976. From 1994 to 1996, he also owned and operated Amarillo Livestock Auction in Texas. In 1972, Jim partnered with Chuck Cumberlin to form Odle Cumberlin Auctioneers, pioneering seasonal video cattle auctions. By 1986, Jim had established Odle Auctions, which later merged with Amarillo Livestock Auction and Amarillo Livestock Video Auction to create Superior Livestock Auction, establishing a nationwide market for cattle.
Under his leadership, Superior became a trailblazer in video cattle auctions, utilizing satellite and later internet technology as it evolved. In June 2007, Jim and his partners sold Superior Livestock Auction, but he continued to serve as General Manager and later as a management consultant until 2016. Jim also founded and produced “Cowboy Church TV,” a nationally broadcast Christian service on RFD TV. His impactful career has earned him recognition from numerous organizations, including various Hall of Fame honors. Today, Jim and his wife, Ruth Ann, live on their ranch south of Brush, Colorado, where they farm, operate a cow-calf and feeder business, and raise quarter horses.
