Josh Squires, MAMFTC, MDiv, Th.M

Hope for the Holidays

You can't keep me away from a microphone for too long! I wanted to record a holiday episode because I know this time of year is hard for many people, and that's okay!  In this episode, we discuss what it truly means to navigate the holidays with your emotional, spiritual, and relational well-being intact. From family triggers to loneliness, unrealistic expectations, and boundary fatigue, we navigate the pressures that arise during this time of year and explore practical ways to stay grounded. You’ll hear therapist-informed insights, faith-centered encouragement, and simple tools you can use to care for yourself well. If the holidays feel overwhelming, this conversation will help you find your breath again. I am so thankful to Jenna Bridgers and Susan Van Horn, who took the time out of their day to record this episode. It will resonate with many people.

Kelsey Granger

One of my lifelong friends. We met 19 years ago as freshmen in college, playing volleyball, and the rest is history!  This episode needs a trigger warning. Kelsey has an incredible story, but it is not for little ears! She articulates what she went through with grace and truth!  I am so thankful for her friendship and what she has meant to me over the years! It is a blessing to do life with her! Kelsey is a mom of 4 and married to DR! She is an artist, barber, and I am trying to think what else she does, along with being a wife and mom. Kelsey suffers from a rare disease called Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and just had her 20th surgery.  She is a fighter and loves the Lord. I can't think of a better way to end this season than with a friend who has walked a long road with me!  Enjoy!

Susan Van Horn, LPC

I love this episode! I know I say that about every episode, but I am proud of Susan for leaving her comfort zone and sitting down with me to talk about grief!  This is a complex subject to talk about because until you've been in it, you do not have words to describe it. Susan broaches this subject with grace and truth, and it is an Incredible episode to hear, especially if you are walking through grief right now!  Susan is married and lives in Columbia, where she has a private practice for counseling. She is a dear friend I have known most of my life, and  I consider her an incredible mentor and friend!  If you or someone you know needs help walking through the stages of grief, please do not hesitate to reach out! This is what the podcast is for!

Josh Squires, MAMFTC, MDiv, Th.M

Josh Squires joined the First Presbyterian Church staff in January 2014. He is a graduate of Belhaven University with a B.S. in Psychology; a graduate of Reformed Theological Seminary (RTS) with an M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy and Counseling. Josh started a private practice counseling company and was a private therapist before returning to RTS to earn an M.Div. While pursuing his divinity degree, Josh served as the Christian Education intern at First Presbyterian Church of Jackson, Mississippi, and later as the Interim Director of Christian Medical and Dental Association at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. He also writes for Desiring God. He is married to Melanie, and they have two daughters and three sons. Josh has walked me through some low points in my life post-COVID. He is an incredible pastor at First Pres, and you can hear him on Sunday nights during the year!  https://www.firstprescolumbia.org/josh-squires [https://www.firstprescolumbia.org/josh-squires]

Ryan Rike

The Midtown Man! Ryan is a pastor at Midtown in Columbia, South Carolina. He is in the Master's of Clinical Counseling Program at CIU. Ryan has a great perspective on pastoral care versus clinical care.  You can find him working the front desk at the Courtyard Marriott when he is not pastoring at Midtown or in grad school. Ryan loves to travel and spend time with friends.  One of my favorite things about him is that he loves wine. We talk about that! But most importantly, Ryan loves the Lord and is passionate about helping people learn about Jesus and mental health!