Rod is an alumnus of Kansas State University (1970) and Hastings College of Law, University of California (1973). After graduating from law school, he served as a Judge Advocate for the United States Air Force for four years.

Rod returned to start his private practice of law, joining Jim Morrison and Bill Frost in 1979. Rod is admitted to practice in all Kansas courts, the U.S. District Court for Kansas, the U.S. Supreme Court and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces. He is an active member of the Kansas, Riley County and Pottawatomie County Bar associations, and an inactive member of the California bar. Rod is also a member of the Kansas Trial Lawyers Association.

Rod is a former member of the Urban Area Planning Board and an active member of the First United Methodist Church. He has particpated in various community organizations.

Rod's wife, Susie, is a preschool director at the First United Methodist Church, and they have three adult children, Brian, Sarah and Craig. Rod enjoys many sports, including hiking, rafting and an occasional golf outing.