Born in Cedar Rapids and raised in San Diego, Sweeney began his career in a hospital supply room, an experience that fueled his lifelong impatience with bureaucratic inefficiency. After serving in the U.S. Army Medical Corps, he launched Caremark in 1979. His premise was radical for the era: intravenous therapy did not require a hospital setting. The company became profitable within six months and expanded to 75 national centers before its eventual acquisition by CVS, establishing the blueprint for the modern home infusion industry.

Beyond his corporate success, Sweeney transitioned into advocacy and mentorship. He authored 'Creative Insecurity: Lean into the Unknown and Unleash Your Inner Misfit' and dedicated his later life to the nonprofit sector. Through his work with Kids Set Free and his partnership with OUR Rescue, he focused on dismantling human trafficking networks. At the time of his death in Austin, Texas, he served as Strategic Advisor and Chairman of the Board at Dremana Productions, while remaining active in his faith community as a Stephen Minister.