Jim Briola was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. His father, a regimental surgeon, served in the Battle of Guadalcanal before returning home to run an industrial clinic on Cleveland’s east side. His mother, a registered nurse, dedicated her life to raising their seven children.

Jim attended St. Edward High School and went on to earn a degree in painting and printmaking, with a minor in philosophy, from Kent State University. He later taught part-time at a local community college and established a pottery studio in a historic warehouse along the Cuyahoga River in Cleveland’s Flats.

Driven by a passion for both human behavior and artistic expression, Jim founded North Coast Sign and Lighting Services Inc. with minimal resources, growing it into a successful enterprise employing a dedicated team. His philosophy—prioritizing people over profit—has contributed to the company’s long-term success.

In addition to his business endeavors, Jim has been actively engaged in civic and philanthropic efforts. In 1998, he lobbied Congress for the implementation of a National Retail Sales Tax as an alternative to income tax. He also served as a trustee for the Cleveland Police Historical Society in honor of his uncle, Detective Martin J. McFadden, whose actions led to the landmark U.S. Supreme Court case Terry v. Ohio. Committed to community service, he has volunteered at the Battered Women’s Shelter in Medina, Ohio.

Jim continues to reside in Cleveland’s Flats, where he remains dedicated to his creative pursuits, business, and community involvement.