In this episode of Almost Paradise in North Idaho, I sit down with my friend Jim Bottoms — a man many around here affectionately call our own Cowboy Poet.

Jim is a gifted songwriter, poet, and author who has quietly spent years putting faith, life, and hard-earned wisdom into words. He stopped by the studio with his guitar, shared some songs, recited some of his poetry, and talked about his latest book. But more than that, he shared the story behind the stories.

Jim reflects on the winding path that led him to Bonners Ferry, including a clear sense of God’s urging that this was the place he was meant to be. Along the way, he spent years involved in theatre, did some teaching, rode horses, raised a family, and learned to listen for God’s gentle direction through every season.

Today, with most of his children, grandchildren, and even great-grandchildren living nearby, Jim considers North Idaho “almost paradise.” He also helps host Vintage Worship Night every third Saturday — a growing gathering centered on old gospel hymns and classic worship songs that point straight to the heart of the faith.

This is a thoughtful, relaxed conversation about creativity, obedience, legacy, and using whatever gifts God has placed in your hands.

If you enjoy meaningful lyrics, quiet faith, and stories that remind us God is still at work in ordinary lives, you’ll feel right at home with this episode.