MOSES MATTOX: Pushing Past the Trauma and Struggles into a Life of Purpose

 

by Cyrus Webb

In 2024 I had the privilege of speaking at author Colette R. Harrell's Writers Brunch in Columbus, OH. One of the authors I was introduced to and interviewed was Moses Mattox. 

It was very obvious from our first introduction that he had a story, and part of it is being shared in his first book THE BOOK OF MOSES: Surviving Childhood Trauma. In this conversation we discuss the book, being a role model and what's to come. 

Moses, it was great meeting you in Ohio last year. Your story is touching people around the world. What has it been like for you to see the way readers are responding to THE BOOK OF MOSES?

It was scary at first, because I didn’t know what to expect; but witnessing the way readers have been responding to "The Book of Moses" has been an incredibly rewarding and humbling experience for me. It’s everything I could have hoped for and more. I've poured my heart and soul into this book, and to see it resonate with so many people is profoundly moving. Readers have reached out to share their own stories, their struggles, and their triumphs, creating a beautiful tapestry of shared experiences and understanding. It feels like a conversation—a two-way street where we're all learning and growing together. It's been heartwarming to witness the community forming around the themes of this book, highlighting how deeply interconnected our stories are.

The feedback has also been a significant reminder of the power of vulnerability. By laying bare the challenges and traumas of my past, I hoped to create a space where others felt seen and heard. Seeing readers express that connection is a confirmation that sharing our truths can lead to healing and empowerment for many.

Moreover, the response reaffirms the idea that while these stories might stem from individual experiences, the emotions—hope, fear, triumph, and resilience—are universal. It's been an incredible journey, and I am looking forward to continuing this dialogue with each reader, knowing we are all on a path of mutual understanding and support.

Overall, it's been an inspiring and transformative experience. I am grateful for every reader, every story shared, and every conversation sparked.

You are able to share some difficult truths about your life. Was it an easy decision what you were going to share?

Deciding to share the difficult truths about my life in "The Book of Moses" was far from easy, but it felt necessary. There’s a significant weight that comes with revealing the most vulnerable parts of yourself to the world. However, I knew deep down that in order to truly connect with others and do justice to my story, I had to be open and honest.

Initially, I faced a lot of inner conflict. I asked myself numerous times whether I was ready to confront these parts of my past, knowing that doing so would require revisiting painful memories. However, the prospect of potentially helping others who have faced similar struggles was a compelling motivator. I realized that by giving voice to my experiences, I could contribute to broader conversations about trauma and healing – conversations that are often shrouded in silence. Knowing that I could potentially validate someone else's experience and offer them hope was a critical factor in my decision. Ultimately, it was about breaking the stigma and fear surrounding these topics.

By sharing openly, I hoped to empower others to embrace their narratives, fostering a sense of solidarity and shared resilience. The decision was challenging, but it felt like the right one – not just for myself, but for every reader who might see a part of their own journey in mine. Though it was a difficult path, the sense of liberation and the opportunity to touch lives in a meaningful way made it an invaluable choice. I’m grateful for every step of this journey and for every person who feels less alone because of it.

The title of role model and mentor is not always easy to accept. How does it feel to know that people are inspired by you?

Being seen as a role model and mentor is both an honor and a profound responsibility. It's something that I approach with gratitude and humility, knowing the impact such titles can have on people’s lives. When others express that they’re inspired by my journey, it’s both incredibly humbling and a testament to the power of authenticity and vulnerability. I’ve always believed that being transparent about my experiences, with all their ups and downs, can help foster understanding and hope. Knowing that people find inspiration in my story reaffirms my belief in the power of embracing our true selves, no matter how messy or challenging our paths may be. It’s a reminder that strength is often found in our willingness to share our truths, and in doing so, we can lift each other up.

At the same time, it's a reminder to remain grounded. Every person's journey is unique, and I feel a great sense of responsibility to encourage others to write their own stories, embracing both the struggles and triumphs. My hope is to empower others to find their strength and courage within, seeing themselves not just in my story, but in their own. Ultimately, it feels like a privilege to be part of a shared journey toward healing and growth. As much as others may look to me for inspiration, I am equally inspired by their courage and resilience. It's a continuous cycle of learning, supporting, and inspiring each other. This title, though sometimes daunting, is incredibly enriching, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to positively impact lives.

Challenges are not new to you, but every day has its own unique circumstances. What keeps you inspired?

Challenges are indeed a part of my everyday life, each day brings its own set of hurdles and opportunities for growth. What keeps me inspired through it all is the deep love and unwavering support I receive from my wife and my kids. They are my anchor and source of joy, even on the toughest days. Their belief in me and our journey together gives me the strength to face whatever comes my way.

My faith in God is another cornerstone of my inspiration. Through every trial and triumph, my faith provides me with hope and guidance. It reminds me that there is a greater purpose to each challenge I encounter and that I am never alone in my journey. Together, the love from my family and my faith create a wellspring of inspiration and motivation. They remind me every day of why I continue to persevere and share my story. Knowing that I have such a strong, loving foundation keeps me grounded and encourages me to keep moving forward, no matter what life throws my way. 

It's this combination of love, faith, and resilience that inspires me to not only face life with courage but also strive to inspire others who might be going through their own struggles. This circle of support and belief in something greater is what truly keeps me inspired.

 Social media is the way you and I have stayed connected. Talk to us about the role it has played in sharing your message and platform.

 Social media has played a pivotal role in helping me share my message and expand my platform. It has become an invaluable tool for connecting with people from all walks of life, allowing me to reach a broader audience than I ever could through traditional means alone. Whether it's through heartfelt posts, live sessions, or direct interactions, social media has been a bridge that connects my story with others who may resonate with it. 

One of the most powerful aspects of social media is its ability to foster community and dialogue. It's given me the opportunity to engage with readers and supporters on a personal level, creating a space where people feel comfortable sharing their own stories and experiences. The conversations sparked by this virtual connection are incredibly enriching and often serve as a reminder of our shared humanity. Moreover, social media provides a platform for authenticity and immediacy. The ability to share thoughts, reflections, and encouragement in real-time keeps the dialogue going and allows for ongoing engagement. It's a dynamic space that encourages transparency and openness, which are key elements in sharing my journey and fostering genuine connections.

Ultimately, social media has been instrumental in amplifying my voice and mission, enabling me to inspire and be inspired by others. It’s a place where relationships are nurtured, ideas are exchanged, and hope is spread. I'm deeply grateful for the community it has allowed me to build, and for the shared stories and support that continue to drive my passion each day.

 

What are you looking forward to in 2025?

 As 2025 continues, I am filled with anticipation and excitement for what’s to come. This year promises to be a transformative and impactful journey, and I’m so eager to share it with all of you. One of the most thrilling ventures on the horizon is the continuation of "The Book of Moses" series. I am actively working on parts 2, 3, 4, and potentially a fifth installment, with the goal of releasing a new book every 4 to 6 months. This series aims to delve deeper into the themes of resilience, healing, and growth, and I can’t wait to continue sharing this journey with readers.

Additionally, I’m gearing up for a nationwide book tour to connect with readers in person. This tour will allow me to engage with you at various events and speaking engagements, opening up conversations about trauma, healing, and empowerment. As a trauma coach, sharing my story and insights worldwide is a mission dear to my heart—I want to inspire and support as many people as possible on their own paths to healing. 

Beyond the books and events, I'm passionate about helping individuals overcome personal challenges, including trauma, encouraging growth, and igniting the spark for positive change. Through my work, I've had the privilege to support not just married couples, but a diverse range of individuals, guiding them through healing with wisdom from my own experiences. I've witnessed the profound transformation in marriages when partners embrace vulnerability, especially among men. Encouraging men to speak openly, to be seen in their authenticity, has been incredibly rewarding. It’s about dismantling the myths that vulnerability equals weakness. By speaking out, men find power in their truths, fostering deeper connections with their spouses and families. 

My goal is to be a beacon of light in dark times, to motivate and inspire. I aim to give voice to those who feel unheard, to be the catalyst for healing and understanding. The journey of opening up is not just personal but also communal, as it helps others open up too, fostering an environment of shared healing and connection. I am truly excited for all these opportunities in 2025 and beyond, and I look forward to traveling, meeting new faces, and expanding this incredible community.

 What advice do you have for those who might have been hesitating about sharing their own story?

 Sharing your own story, especially when it involves personal traumas, is undoubtedly a challenging journey. My advice for those hesitating to open up is to first recognize that your story holds immense power—not just for you, but for others who may be walking similar paths. As a trauma coach, I understand how daunting this can feel, but also how transformational it can be.

It's important to acknowledge that every step of this journey requires courage. It's not easy to face the memories and emotions tied to our traumas. Yet, the act of confronting and sharing these parts of ourselves is a crucial step toward healing and empowerment. By facing your traumas, you take back control from the past and empower yourself to redefine your future.

When you share your story, you're not only releasing the weight that you’ve been carrying but also creating a ripple effect of courage and hope. You give others permission to do the same, to speak their truths and find healing in unity. It's a collective journey—no one should feel they must navigate it alone. Remember, the perceived challenges of opening up pale in comparison to the strength you gain through healing. Once you face your traumas, there’s a profound shift; the hurdles that life throws at you seem less daunting because you’ve already confronted some of the hardest chapters. Though the path to sharing is never easy, it is incredibly worth it. The release, the understanding, and the acceptance that follows can set you free. You empower yourself and those around you to stand in truth and authenticity.

Be gentle with yourself. Allow your story to unfold at your pace, and know that by sharing, you’re forging a path of healing not just for yourself, but for many who are seeking the courage to begin their own journeys.

 Thanks for the time, Moses, and continued success to you. How can our readers stay connected with you?

Thank you so much for your kind words and support. I'm excited to stay connected with everyone as we continue this journey together. You can find and follow me across various social media platforms, where I share insights, updates, and inspiring content:

TikTok: Join me on TikTok for quick snippets of daily inspiration, storytelling, and positive vibes.

Facebook: Connect with me on Facebook for longer conversations, live sessions, and community interactions. https://www.facebook.com/mosesmattox.486

Instagram: Follow me on Instagram for a glimpse into my life, behind-the-scenes content, and motivational posts. https://www.instagram.com/mosesmattox_/

YouTube: Subscribe to my YouTube channel, where I’m beginning to upload new videos with the help of my talented videographer. Expect in-depth discussions, interviews, and visually engaging content. https://www.youtube.com/@mosesmattox

I also want to extend my heartfelt thanks to you, Cyrus, for your incredible dedication and all that you bring to people around the world. Meeting you was a profound reminder that everything happens for a reason. God has a purpose and a plan for each of us, and my meeting you reaffirmed that we are always in the right place, at the right time, for the right reason. It's all part of God's divine plan. We must trust that God doesn't make mistakes. Through faith and understanding, we can see that our journeys are guided by His purpose. 

Together, let's embrace every moment, trusting the process, and knowing that we are exactly where we need to be. Thank you again for your encouragement and for being a part of this incredible journey with me. Let’s continue to inspire and uplift each other!