By Billie J Olson
For over four decades, Jim Senst has been a cornerstone of Montana’s airwaves, but for those who know him in Great Falls, he is far more than a broadcaster—he is a community builder. In 2025, his storied career reached a new pinnacle with his induction into the Montana Broadcasters Association (MBA) Hall of Fame, a fitting tribute to a man who describes his life’s work as “a riot.”
Senst’s journey began in the late 1970s at K99 in Great Falls, where he balanced the grit of an account executive with the solitude of an overnight announcer. While he admits he was only an “OK” DJ, his true talent lay in connecting people with local business. Under the mentorship of legend Dan Snyder, Senst rose through the ranks in Helena before returning home in 1988 to lead KMON AM/FM.
As Vice President and shareholder of STARadio, Senst spent twenty-six years expanding the company’s reach across Montana and North Dakota. His “team approach” to growth was simple: hire exceptional people and give them the space to be passionate. For Senst, the biggest thrill wasn’t just hitting sales targets; it was watching his team get excited about serving their audience.
Even after retiring in June 2022, Senst’s commitment to “localism” remains unshakable. Currently serving as President of Eagle Mount Great Falls, he champions therapeutic recreation for individuals with disabilities, ensuring every neighbor has a chance to soar.
His influence also extends to the Greater Montana Foundation, where he helps manage resources that strengthen the state’s communication landscape. From lobbying in Washington, D.C. for broadcast issues to serving as a Division Chair for United Way, Senst’s resume reads like a love letter to Great Falls.
Despite his numerous accolades, including the American Advertising Federation’s Silver Medal, Jim remains grounded in family. He and his wife, Jean, are often found exploring the rugged beauty of Montana. For Jim Senst, the business of communications was never just about signals and towers; it was about the “really neat people” that make the Big Sky Country home.