Your Time With James Sweetman

Episode 210 Am I pushing or being pulled?

We live in a world obsessed with discipline, optimisation and productivity. But what's driving our effort? This week, I explore the difference between pushing and being pulled, and why the most sustainable discipline is actually rooted in devotion. I also look at the hidden role of shame and the pressure of all our ‘shoulds.’

If you've ever felt tired of striving, constantly chasing the next goal, or wondering why achievement doesn't always bring fulfilment, this conversation will offer a fresh perspective.

Episode 209 Feeling stuck or feeling lost?

We often use the phrases ‘I feel stuck’ and ‘I feel lost’ interchangeably, but as I explore this week, there are important differences between these two experiences. I look at how labels we place on situations can become identities and how we can intellectualise our emotions rather than feel them. I also share tips for getting ‘unstuck’ and for navigating those times in life when we feel lost. If you've been feeling unmotivated, disconnected, or unsure of your next step, this conversation will help you see your experience in a whole new light.

Episode 208 The art of receiving

This week’s episode is for those of us who are natural givers and doers but who can struggle with receiving. I explore why receiving is a skill, how self-worth and control influence our ability to receive, as well as the connection between endless giving and burnout. If you’re someone who brushes aside compliments and feels guilty when resting, you’ll find this week’s episode helpful. 

Episode 207 What if your desires are trying to teach you something?

What are our desires really trying to teach us? In this reflective episode I look at the deeper emotional needs hidden beneath our goals, ambitions and dreams. In other words, why do we want what we want? I share my thoughts about striving and self-worth, and why the life lesson hidden inside your desire may be every bit as valuable as the desire itself.

Episode 206 The cost of convenience

This week I explore the hidden cost of convenience and how it masks what economists call opportunity cost neglect, the unseen trade-offs when it comes to how we spend our time, energy and attention. From self-service checkouts to AI tools, tasks once outsourced now land in our ‘to do’ lists, stealthily sapping our mental bandwidth. I reflect on why a little inconvenience isn’t always a bad thing and how we equate convenience with freedom, when in reality, it’s awareness that is liberating.

Episode 205 Seeking Permission

After a break from recording, I’m delighted to return with a simpler and more reflective format of my podcast. In this new episode, I explore the concept of psychological permission, those moments in life when we already know what feels true for us, but struggle to give ourselves permission to act.
At a time when we are bombarded by information, it’s important to recognise that wisdom is not always something we need to acquire externally. It’s something we need to stop talking ourselves out of internally.

Episode 204 Behind the Pendulum Summit: Frankie Sheahan on Leadership and Focus

In this special episode, I sit down with Frankie Sheahan, co-founder and CEO of Pendulum Summit, for a wide-ranging and refreshingly honest conversation.
As well as chatting about this year’s Pendulum Summit, taking place on Friday 23rd January at the Convention Centre Dublin, Frankie shares insights into the thinking behind the event, the evolution of Pendulum over the years and what makes this year’s gathering particularly special. We touch on the stellar line-up of speakers including Brené Brown, Marc Randolph, Rory Sutherland, and Richard Susskind.
Beyond the event itself, our conversation goes behind the scenes, reflecting on past Pendulum moments, the realities and pressures of running a world-class summit, and Frankie’s personal approach to leadership, work life balance, and staying grounded when the pressure is on. It's a conversation not to be missed.

Episode 203 Book Review 2025

This week’s episode, the last in the current series, is one of my favourites, my annual book review. I speak about 10 books that have inspired, entertained and stretched me over the past 12 months, five non-fiction books and five novels.
From books about creativity, awareness and purpose, to stories that explore connection, courage, and the human condition each one reminded me why reading is high on my list of passions.
If like me, you’re a book lover, avid reader, on the lookout for a new read, or are curious about the themes and insights that shaped my reading year, then I think you’ll enjoy this episode.

Episode 202 Lessons for Leaders with Gerry Duffy

In this week’s episode, I’m joined once again by international keynote speaker and high performance coach Gerry Duffy (www.gerryduffyacademy.com) We chat about his latest book Lessons for Leaders, a collection of 28 practical and thought-provoking insights designed to help leaders reflect, grow and inspire. Our conversation explores what leaders are hungry for today and how common sense is not always common practice. Gerry also shares what his ideal week looks like and the leadership lesson that continues to re-teach itself to him. Whether you’re leading a team, managing projects, or simply seeking inspiration to show up as your best self, this is a conversation packed with ideas and insights.

Episode 201 The hidden cost of visibility

We all run the gamut between waiting to be found and waiting to be found out. On one hand we long to be seen and appreciated, on the other, we fear criticism and rejection. In this week’s episode, I explore the hidden cost of visibility, how it takes courage to show up, speak up and share our work with the world, but it’s the courage to rest and refill the well that keeps us whole. If you’ve ever felt that post-sharing wobble, or the emotional fatigue that follows exposure, this episode is for you.