Everyone carries something.
This is a story about what happens when you finally put it down.
A memoir about mountains, imposter syndrome, and the quiet work of becoming who you really are.
At 19,341 feet, the air is thin and the lies are louder. Lies like: “You don’t belong here.” “You’re not strong enough.” “You’re a fraud.”
It Goes With You is the story of one man’s journey to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro—and the even steeper climb inward. It’s about chasing big goals, facing small voices, and learning that no achievement will ever silence the doubts unless you learn to live alongside them.
This is not a book about conquering a mountain. It’s about confronting the one within.
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It Goes With You is not just a story about climbing a mountain—it’s about shedding the mask you’ve worn for years to finally face the truth of who you are.
At 7:35 a.m. on October 20, 2024, I stood atop Mount Kilimanjaro after nine grueling hours of hiking through snow, sleet, hail, and wind. I thought the summit would be the finish line. In reality, it was just the beginning.
About the Book
Written with the raw honesty of someone who’s been broken and rebuilt, It Goes With You explores the intersection of personal growth, self-doubt, faith, and healing. With vivid storytelling and journal-style introspection, Brandon Cox invites readers on a trek through five climate zones, dozens of emotional checkpoints, and a lifetime of lessons carried on his back like a heavy pack.
You’ll laugh. You’ll wince. You might even see yourself in the voice of The Imposter that follows him to the summit.
But most of all, you’ll be reminded that you’re not alone—and that what you carry doesn’t define you. What you do with it does.
Perfect for readers who:
struggle with imposter syndrome or approval-seeking
are navigating big life transitions (career, relationships, faith)
love personal development stories with a soulful edge
are seeking hope, honesty, and healing after burnout, breakdown, or loss
want a book that reads like a conversation with a trusted friend who’s been there too
Praise for It Goes With You
“A bold, honest, and deeply reflective journey that maps the climb up Kilimanjaro onto the far more treacherous terrain of self-discovery. Brandon Cox writes with humility, grit, and insight. This isn’t just a story about mountains—it’s a guide for anyone daring to face their own.”
—Dr. Brent Garrard, PhD, LPCC-S, LCADC
In the mountains, there’s a principle called Leave No Trace. The idea is simple: whatever you bring into the wilderness, you take out with you. You don’t leave your trash, waste, or gear behind.
Everything you carry in comes out.
That’s life. Everything we experience—the good, the bad, the burdens and joys—it all goes with us. But the weight doesn’t define us. It shapes us. And that’s what makes the journey worth it.
Up the mountain and back down again.
It goes with you.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Brandon Cox is an award-winning marketing, communications, and business operations professional. He is known for his ability to connect people with information, ideas, and each other to make a difference in their communities.
He has honed his storytelling skills through a long and successful career spanning journalism, nuclear energy, public policy advocacy, sales leadership, and corporate marketing. Brandon earned an MBA from the Louisiana State University system and a B.A. in Visual Communications from Kentucky Wesleyan College. He has progressed through roles of increasing responsibility and ascended to C-level positions in multiple industries.
Beyond his professional achievements, Brandon is a published author, columnist, essayist, and ghostwriter. A skilled public speaker, he has facilitated numerous team workshops, strategy sessions, executive presentations and delivered keynote addresses.
In his personal life, Brandon is a dedicated father and husband. His hobbies include playing guitar, cycling, and photography. He’s an avid adventurer with ambitious goals like climbing the Seven Summits and cycling across the United States.
Brandon resides in Kentucky with his wife, Charity, and four children – Alyssa, Marshall, Anderson, and Boston. They have two dogs, Millie and Blondie.
Preorder your signed copy of my new book, It Goes With You!
The first run is heading to press soon. Be among the first to purchase “It Goes With You,” and I’ll send you a signed copy! Fill out the form with your contact and mailing information, and send $20 via Venmo to @BrandonJCox for your first-run, autographed copy. Thanks for supporting this journey!
