Testimonials

James’s book “If You Say So” is a powerful message to everyone of all lifestyles, cultures, and backgrounds. Although I have not undergone many of the same experiences that James has, his message of self love and respect powerfully resonated with me throughout the entirety of the book. The way he unapologetically lays out his past in order to set the foundation for crafting a better future was beautifully inspiring, and perfectly captures the essence of happiness through hard work. Thank you James! Will definitely re-read!

Sara Winokur, Amazon Review

“Hi, James, I wanted to say thank you for your book. I read it at the right time as I’ve been struggling with many things, but mainly self pity and depression. Already I have reshaped my ‘conversation’ and life is lighter as a result.”

Francesca J.

“I was mesmerized by your words and cried at the end. I don’t know if it was the history, how similar our lives were (minus divorce and 12 kids) or the fact I am struggling with my own alcohol issues right now. I knew it would catch up to me some day. Thank you for sharing your story. I don’t feel so alone.”

Maria K.

“I couldn’t put the book down, it was so good! Thank you for being real and sharing your story. I have issues that linger from a compacted childhood and this book was very impactful! Thank you again for sharing and I will be sharing your story In Indianapolis. Everybody should read this book at some point in their life.”

Doug Miltenburger

"Author James Sweigert offers a simple, but powerful approach for changing your perspective and improving your outcomes in life with his first book, If You Say So: My Story and How I Changed It To Save My Life. Inspired by his own journey from tribulations to triumph, Sweigert uses the extended metaphor of a train to dissect certain aspects of life, peppering in personal anecdotes between universal advice and sage wisdom. From finding what parts compose your 'engine' to analyzing what 'passengers' you are bringing along your journey, the metaphor may be somewhat basic, but Sweigert delivers his guidance with humility and sincerity."

Publishing Review, ★★★★

“James completely opened my eyes to my “story” and how only I can change the narrative. Shoveling coal this morning and every day moving forward!”

TONY BERNS, REAL ESTATE AGENT

"James has been my mentor for around five years now. During that period I proposed to my girlfriend, got married, bought a house, finished a novel and got promoted three times in my day job. There isn’t a single one of these major life events in which I haven’t benefited from James’s support. In fact, it has been instrumental to all of them. He brings a wealth of experience, both learned, and lived, to every challenge that is presented to him. And, as his book shows, has transcended his own background superbly, turning the kinds of trauma that would have hampered many, into a precious source of wisdom in his unceasing support of others. He’s a great friend and counsellor and also f*cking hilarious - I suggest you try some of this thinking out in your life.”

William Fowler, Head of Programming, Headspace Inc.

“James Sweigert has been like a father to me since just after I first moved to LA. At 18 I didn’t have anyone in the city and James took me under his wing. Giving me a place to sleep when I had none, putting food in my stomach, even helping me get my first couple of jobs. All while mentoring me in everything from my career to my relationships. At 20 years old I watched James save the life of my friend Nick, someone I had come to know and love as my own brother. Nick had been struggling with a heroin addiction. And when I watched him lock himself in a McDonalds bathroom and not come out. James was the first person I called. He showed up immediately and he turned into a goddamn superstar. His breathing slowed down. I watched his decisions become increasingly calculated. Immediately he began barking out orders. He pounded on the door and Nick wasn’t answering. James Instructed me to call 911 and was screaming at the cashier who didn’t realize there was someone dying in the bathroom. It had been at least 25 minutes since Nick went into the bathroom. James finally secured the keys and kicked open the door. Nick had OD’d and his body was laying motionless on the tile, he was blue in the face with needles scattered across the floor and foam coming out of his lips. James immediately began CPR. Still staying calm and collected and giving instructions. He kept my friend alive until the paramedics were able to arrive and give him Narcan to bring him back and stabilize his condition. It brings great joy to my heart to be able to say that Nick and myself are still friends today. And it’s purely because of James. He’s not only a great man and mentor, he’s a goddamn American hero.” 

Mitch “the Hero” Bowerman, Musical Artist

“James has been an instrumental part in showing me how to shift perspective and to follow the love. James has shown me how to be accountable and honest. James has given and shared his time, blood, sweat and tears with me in my darkest times giving me hope and leading me down a path I knew nothing about.  He showed me how to be strong and positive when all I wanted to do is die. He’s has saved my life on several occasions in more ways than he’ll ever know.” 

Jake Kirschenbaum, Pro Surfer

“I don’t remember meeting James, but it’s been several decades.  He’s supported me with empathy, thoughtful calls to action, and the simple kindness of a great listener.  A truly humble, kind, and thoughtful man of action, James has and continues to improve my relationships and outlook on life.  I’m simply a better man for his friendship, guidance, and wisdom.”

Daniel Pensiero, III, Film Executive

“James has been instrumental in my life as a mentor, for the past 10 years. During that period I recovered from ending a serious, long-term relationship, almost losing the home I’d worked so hard to buy, and closing my company in the teeth of a brutal recession. When I met him, I was also struggling with depression amid serious financial difficulties after the life-changing decision to move across the country to pursue my life goals. Since then I’ve prospered in a new career, proposed to my girlfriend and gotten married, bought another home, and had our first child. The fact that his life experience echoes much of my own despite our obvious differences, with overcoming early childhood trauma, has helped me transcend that background and become a happy, successful, reasonably sane adult. Most importantly to me, I’ve also gotten to help a lot of people who’ve struggled with similar issues, using James’ mentorship as my example. I love the life I have today! And none of this would have happened without significant input, support and guidance from James, in changing my “story” so that my life could evolve in a positive direction. This man has so much to share, and does it so willingly, that so many around him benefit in ways they couldn’t even imagine on their own.”

JAMIL TOURE’ SR. CREATIVE PRODUCER, NFL MEDIA