 Prior to entering politics, he worked as an ordained Disciples of Christ minister, serving pastorates in Fayetteville, Arkansas, Marshall, Missouri, Bosworth, Missouri, Mendon, Missouri, Grand Pass, Missouri and Oakland, Missouri.He received his master's degree from Phillips University and his Ph.D in Political Science from the University of Missouri, as well as numerous honorary doctorates from colleges and universities throughout the country.Jim's brother, John Spainhower, a long-time coach and athletic director at Kirksville High School is a member of the Missouri Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame.