Real Talk

Reformed Perspective · realtalkpodcast.ca

Real Talk is a podcast presented by Reformed Perspective focused on having meaningful and honest conversations with subject experts about the challenges facing the Reformed church community. Hosted by Lucas Holtvluwer and Tyler Vanderwoude, Real Talk aims to inform your conversations and inspire you to have challenging but important discussions with fellow Christians in the spirit of brotherly love.

157 episodes

20d ago latest

fortnightly cadence

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Episodes 158

Ep. 156 - Living as Exiles - Dr. Will den Hollander
6d ago · 1:13:39
How should we live in this hostile world? What does it mean be exiles? How should we think about suffering and persecution? Joining us to speak about these issues is returning guest, Dr. Will den Hollander who recently published a book and Bible study guide on 1 Peter. We discuss the context of this epistle, and how it applies to our day and age especially in regard to how we view and experience suffering. We pray this conversation inspires you to live with hope in this world as we journey to our eternal home. RESOURCES Be sure to pick up a copy of 1 Peter: Hope for Suffering Sojourners and it
Ep. 155 - Sunday: Rest or Rules? - Rev. Peter Holtvlüwer
20d ago · 1:51:42
Do you often find yourself thinking about what you should or shouldn’t do on Sunday? Stuck in this loop of either legalism or self-justification? Thankfully, God’s Word regarding the Lord’s Day and Sabbath provides clear direction. Joining Lucas to unpack this topic, is once again, Rev. Peter Holtvlüwer, who recently authored Foundations a new devotional on Genesis 1-3. Like many issues of our day such as marriage and identity, the Sabbath is rooted in creation and has massive implications for how we are to live. Listen as we discuss the biblical understanding of the Sabbath, Sunday, and the g
Ep. 154 - How To Worship The Other 6Days - Mark Wanders & Ben Nobels
1mo ago · 1:13:04
We know we’re called to worship on Sunday but how do we view the other six days of the week? Joining Lucas for a conversation about a theology of work is Mark Wanders and Ben Nobels, from a new organization called 6Days. 6Days is seeking to help Christians connect and grow in all our labors in order to see the kingdom of God advanced in our daily work. To learn more check out www.6days.ca We would love to hear what you thought of this episode. Be sure to email us at realtalk@reformedperspective.ca 0:00 - Intro 6:15 - Why 6Days? 30:00 - Work as Obedience 37:00 - Trust 50:00 - One Income 59:00 -
Ep. 153 - Would You Risk Your Life For The Gospel? - Pastor James Folkerts
1mo ago · 1:51:39
Would you risk your life to share the Gospel? It’s a question few of us are called to ask but for missionaries, it is a reality they face. Joining us to explore the topic of World Missions is Pastor James Folkerts who with his family spent many years on the mission field and knows what it means to count the cost. We discuss his story, the barriers missionaries face and why overseas missions still matter even though the nations have come to us. We hope this episode encourages you to think about what it means to send, to go and to pray for the Gospel to reach every tribe, tongue and nation. JOIN
Ep. 152 - Recovering Family Worship - Dr. Brian Najapfour
2mo ago · 1:19:37
Family worship is one of the most neglected practices in the Christian home today. What is family worship, and how is it different from simply reading the Bible or praying before/after a meal? In this episode, pastor and author Dr. Brian Najapfour joins us to discuss the biblical foundation for family worship, why it matters, and why worshipping together as a family is a grateful response to all Christ has done for us. Whether you're just getting started or looking to strengthen an existing family rhythm, this conversation will encourage you to intentionally make your home a place where the Lo
Ep. 151 - How To Lead Your Family - Dr. Joel Beeke
2mo ago · 1:14:02
Most men would say they would die for their wives and children. But will they live for them? In this episode, we're joined by author and theologian Dr. Joel Beeke to discuss what biblical headship actually looks like. In a culture where leadership is often misunderstood, avoided, or distorted, we explore God's calling for men to lead their families with humility, conviction, and Christ-like love. From the frame work of prophet, priest and king, we chat about holy habits, marriage, discipline, and family leadership. This conversation offers both practical wisdom and gospel hope for husbands and
Ep. 150 - Are We Giving God Our Leftovers? - Rev. Hank Van der Woerd
3mo ago · 1:22:18
What does true generosity actually look like? Have we reduced giving to percentages and leftovers, while missing the heart behind it all? In this episode, we’re joined by Rev. Henk Van der Woerd to discuss the biblical role of deacons, the ministry of mercy, and how generosity reflects the very character of God. From church leadership to stewardship and practical care, this conversation challenges the way we think about money, service, and the life of the church. To listen to Rev. Van der Woerd’s full presentation referenced in this episode click here: https://www.sermonaudio.com/sermons/11825
Ep. 149 - The Kindness of God in Guilt & Conviction - Matt King
3mo ago · 1:09:52
What do we do with guilt? Is conviction something to fear—or could it actually be one of the ways God lovingly draws us back to Himself? In part two of this conversation with Pastor Matt King, we talk honestly about sin, confession, repentance, and the difference between shame and guilt. We unpack why guilt, when understood rightly, isn’t meant to crush us, but can be a gift of God’s kindness that leads us back into relationship with Him. We also explore what it means when we don’t feel convicted, the importance of confession in the Christian life, “gospel gaps” between what we believe and how
Ep. 148 - Jesus Took On Shame So You Don't Have To - Matt King
3mo ago · 1:10:24
Shame can be one of the most powerful forces shaping our lives and most of the time, we don’t even realize it. In this episode, we go back to Genesis 3 to see where shame begins, then unpack how it still works today, distorting our thoughts, and changing how we see God, ourselves and others. But shame doesn’t get the final word. Joined again by fan favorite, Pastor Matt King We talk about how Jesus steps directly into our shame, takes it on Himself, and what it actually looks like to start “shaming shame.” Stay tuned for part 2 of this conversation on guilt, conviction and confession of sin… y
Ep. 147 - Lead with Intention or Lose the Mission - Peter Greer
4mo ago · 1:12:22
Mission drift is real and whether we realize it or not, it can happen to even the best of organizations and people. In this episode, we’re joined by Peter Greer, author of the book Mission Drift, to talk about how drift happens and how to avoid it. Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to lose focus over time—and often, you don’t realize it until you’re already off course. Through real examples, we unpack the subtle warning signs of mission drift, the influence of culture, and how leadership decisions, people, and priorities can quietly shift your direction. This conversation is about stayi
Ep. 146 - Life Together: Cultivating a Ministry of Small Things - Dr. Reuben Bredenhof
4mo ago · 1:21:33
We are all called to minister to others and the most meaningful ministry often happens quietly, in the small acts we often overlook. Joining us for this conversation is CRTS Professor and the author of The Ministry of Small Things, Dr. Reuben Bredenhof. We discuss the temptation to do big things, how we can cultivate a ministry of small things and the effects this kind of work has both on the one who receives and the one who gives. If you want to learn more we highly encourage you to pick up a copy of The Ministry of Small Things here! A BIG THANKS TO OUR OFFICIAL SPONSOR, TRIVAN! WE APPRECIAT
Ep. 145 - Redeeming Productivity: Are You Making the Most of Your Time? - Tim Challies
5mo ago · 54:26
Everyone’s busy. Packed schedules, constant pressure, always something next. But the real question is—are you actually doing what matters? In this episode, we talk about what it means to redeem your productivity—not by cramming more into your day, but by stewarding your time with purpose. If you’re someone who prides yourself on being busy, this might challenge you. Joined by blogger and author of Do More Better, Tim Challies, we walk through principles of how to be productive and enjoy true rest in a way that stewards all of life for the glory of God and the good of others. You don’t want to
Ep. 144 - Backsliding: How to Guard Against Complacency - Dr. Mark Jones
5mo ago · 57:37
Backsliding: Are We Presuming on God’s Grace?Are we drifting in our faith without even realizing it? In this episode, Dr. Mark Jones joins us to tackle the quiet danger of backsliding—what it is, why it happens even in churchgoers, and how complacency can creep into our spiritual lives. From the subtle signs like pride, prayerlessness, and neglect of Scripture, to modern distractions and the love of the world. This episode dives into what real growth, perseverance, and daily repentance look like, offering both conviction and hope as listeners are challenged to examine their hearts and run to t
Ep. 143: The Sobering Conviction & Comfort of Hell - Dr. Will den Hollander
6mo ago · 1:21:50
Can the reality of Hell actually be comforting and how should it inform the way we live and share the Gospel? In this part two in our series on eternity, Tyler and Dr. Will den Hollander discuss what hell is and how it displays the character of God. They also get into some quite emotional questions such as can God send a child to hell? How bad is it? And why doesn’t God just create the elect? This episode will challenge your thinking, confront your assumptions, and show how the reality of hell comforts and soberly convicts us in our love for the lost. BE SURE TO LISTEN TO PART ONE OF THIS SERI
Ep. 142 - How to Fight Fair & Forgive Well - Dr. Tim Lane
6mo ago · 1:25:35
Is conflict always bad? And do Christians always have to forgive? In this episode of Real Talk, we take an honest look at conflict and forgiveness—two realities every Christian faces because every Christian is in relationships. We’re joined by Dr. Tim Lane, biblical counselor and author of Relationships, to explore what distinguishes godly conflict from ungodly conflict, what real forgiveness actually looks like, and how the gospel shapes our relationships—both personally and in the church. Conflict doesn’t have to destroy relationships. And forgiveness is more than just words. To learn more,
Ep. 141 - The Comfort Heaven Brings to Earth - Dr. William den Hollander
7mo ago · 1:07:14
It is with both heavy and grateful hearts that we release this episode in loving memory of Rev. William den Hollander—a faithful pastor, preacher, and dear friend of Real Talk. Our guest for today, Dr. Will den Hollander, is Rev. den Hollander’s son. With his blessing, we chose to release this episode as originally scheduled. In God’s kind providence, this conversation on heaven arrives at a moment when the comfort of our eternal home feels especially near and deeply needed. Together, we explore questions many Christians wrestle with: What happens when we die? What is heaven? And what will the
Ep. 140 - Godly Ambition: The Eagle Builders Story
7mo ago · 1:39:29
What does it mean to have godly ambition and to work hard with what God has given you? Joining us to answer these questions is the Director of Eagle Builders, Craig Haan. Joined by his brother-in-law Gerrit Sterk, the two share the story of their family business and how God has blessed them as they’ve sought to work for His glory and the good of the Kingdom. Listen in, not only to hear a fantastic story, but to learn what it means to take action and be faithful every day. A BIG THANKS TO OUR OFFICIAL SPONSOR, TRIVAN! WE APPRECIATE YOU HELPING US MAKE THIS CONVERSATION POSSIBLE. BE SURE TO CHEC
Ep. 139 - Make 2026 The Year You Actually Read! - Jon Dykstra
8mo ago · 59:26
As Christians can we really say we don’t like to read?! Joining us for this conversation all about reading, how to actually do it and how to do it well is our friend and Reformed Perspective’s editor, Jon Dykstra. We chat about why as Christians we have to be readers, best practices for choosing books, and how as parents we can cultivate a love for reading in our kids. If your New Year’s resolution is to read more, be sure to listen to this episode to actually help you accomplish this goal. And listen to the end to hear all about Reformed Perspective’s Bucket List Book Club starting this Janua
Ep. 138 - Lessons We Can Learn From Charlie Kirk
8mo ago · 46:48
2025 was a big year for us. On top of building a new studio, we have worked hard to refine our purpose and identity to ensure that we are actually cultivating real talk that serves our community. In this episode we are joined by Mark and Jon, our friends from Reformed Perspective, to discuss the influence of someone who created no shortage of discussion: Charlie Kirk. We discuss his desire to know the truth and his boldness to witness that truth to the world in the way our Saviour did. As we move into 2026, we are committed to keep having Real Talk and we ask you to help us with this. Give us
Ep. 137 - Why Tiny Hearts Need Big Theology! - Amy Gannett
9mo ago · 58:29
Joining us for this fun episode is Amy Gannett, the founder of the ministry and podcast, Tiny Theologians! This is a podcast that is playing on repeat in Tyler’s home and he wanted to bring Amy on to chat about the importance of teaching our children big truths about God and his Word. Tiny Theologians does just that by providing children ages 2-14 with resources that help them grow in their knowledge and love of God. If you’re feeling the weight of what it means to disciple your children but don’t know where to start, we encourage you to check out Tiny Theologians! Here are some resources that
Ep. 136 - Addiction, Recovery & True Healing - Jake DeJong & Carling North
9mo ago · 1:13:13
BE SURE TO CHECK OUT OUR NEW STUDIO SETUP ON YOUTUBE! Joining us for this conversation on addiction is our friends from Agape Recovery, a new Christ-centered recovery program launching January 2026 here in Southern Ontario. Jake and Carling share bit about the organization and the Agape framework. We address the spiritual foundations of addiction and what it means to be in recovery and experience healing. We hope this episode both convicts you to see what might be taking the place of God in your heart while also encouraging you in the hope of the Holy Spirit's transforming work. If you are str
Ep. 135 - How the Reformation Changed Everything! - Douglas Bond
10mo ago · 1:20:59
Last week we celebrated 508 years of the Reformation but how much thought did we actually give it? Joining us for a discussion on the history of the Reformation is prolific author and historian Douglas Bond. We speak about the context that bred the need for Reformation, the impact it made and what it actually means to “always be reforming.” We hope this episodes encourages you in knowing all history is God’s story! Be sure to check out all of Bond’s work including his most newest Advent family devotional, Infant Holy, Infant Lowly. You can see all of Bond's work at www.bondsbook.net And be sur
Ep. 134 - What is Classical Christian Education? - Jesse Newton & Doug Sikkema
10mo ago · 1:17:49
You may have heard of Classical Education but do you know what it actually is? To answer this question, we are joined by Doug Sikkema and Jesse Newton, our new friends from Oakhill Christian Academy. We discuss the model and goal of Classical Christian Education and whether this is something that the Reformed schools are missing. We also chat about Oakhill, its s and why you should view Classical Christian Education as a potential option for your children. If you want to learn more about Oakhill, check out oakhillhamilton.ca A BIG THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR, NEERALTA, BUILDERS OF GRAIN STORAGE AND
Ep. 133 - Do Home Visits Actually Work? - Dr. Cornelis Van Dam
10mo ago · 1:41:26
Dr. Van Dam is back for the third time to finish off our series on the offices of the Church! We discuss his book, The Elder and deal with some hot topics such as, should elders be elected for terms or a lifetime? Are home visits really all that effective and what about woman voting? To learn more, pick up a copy of The Elder here. Be sure to let us know what you think of this episode and if you found it at all helpful please share it with your family and friends! A BIG THANKS TO OUR OFFICIAL SPONSOR, TRIVAN! WE APPRECIATE YOU HELPING US MAKE THIS CONVERSATION POSSIBLE. BE SURE TO CHECK THEM O
Ep. 132 - Gender Roles: Who Does the Dishes? - Andrea Kampen
11mo ago · 1:21:13
We are talking headship, submission and all things gender roles today. Joining us for this conversation is biblical counsellor, Andrea Kampen. We discuss what the Bible actually says about understanding the differences between men and women, how society can distort these differences, and why the Bible, rather than tradition, must be our foundation for this issue. Listen to find out who actually does the dishes! A BIG THANKS TO OUR OFFICIAL SPONSOR, TRIVAN! WE APPRECIATE YOU HELPING US MAKE THIS CONVERSATION POSSIBLE. BE SURE TO CHECK THEM OUT AT WWW.TRIVAN.COM To keep up with the podcast, chec

Episodes

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Real Talk

Episodes 158

Ep. 156 - Living as Exiles - Dr. Will den Hollander

Ep. 155 - Sunday: Rest or Rules? - Rev. Peter Holtvlüwer

Ep. 154 - How To Worship The Other 6Days - Mark Wanders & Ben Nobels

Ep. 153 - Would You Risk Your Life For The Gospel? - Pastor James Folkerts

Ep. 152 - Recovering Family Worship - Dr. Brian Najapfour

Ep. 151 - How To Lead Your Family - Dr. Joel Beeke

Ep. 150 - Are We Giving God Our Leftovers? - Rev. Hank Van der Woerd

Ep. 149 - The Kindness of God in Guilt & Conviction - Matt King

Ep. 148 - Jesus Took On Shame So You Don't Have To - Matt King

Ep. 147 - Lead with Intention or Lose the Mission - Peter Greer

Ep. 146 - Life Together: Cultivating a Ministry of Small Things - Dr. Reuben Bredenhof

Ep. 145 - Redeeming Productivity: Are You Making the Most of Your Time? - Tim Challies

Ep. 144 - Backsliding: How to Guard Against Complacency - Dr. Mark Jones

Ep. 143: The Sobering Conviction & Comfort of Hell - Dr. Will den Hollander

Ep. 142 - How to Fight Fair & Forgive Well - Dr. Tim Lane

Ep. 141 - The Comfort Heaven Brings to Earth - Dr. William den Hollander

Ep. 140 - Godly Ambition: The Eagle Builders Story

Ep. 139 - Make 2026 The Year You Actually Read! - Jon Dykstra

Ep. 138 - Lessons We Can Learn From Charlie Kirk

Ep. 137 - Why Tiny Hearts Need Big Theology! - Amy Gannett

Ep. 136 - Addiction, Recovery & True Healing - Jake DeJong & Carling North

Ep. 135 - How the Reformation Changed Everything! - Douglas Bond

Ep. 134 - What is Classical Christian Education? - Jesse Newton & Doug Sikkema

Ep. 133 - Do Home Visits Actually Work? - Dr. Cornelis Van Dam

Ep. 132 - Gender Roles: Who Does the Dishes? - Andrea Kampen

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Episodes 158

Ep. 156 - Living as Exiles - Dr. Will den Hollander

Ep. 155 - Sunday: Rest or Rules? - Rev. Peter Holtvlüwer

Ep. 154 - How To Worship The Other 6Days - Mark Wanders & Ben Nobels

Ep. 153 - Would You Risk Your Life For The Gospel? - Pastor James Folkerts

Ep. 152 - Recovering Family Worship - Dr. Brian Najapfour

Ep. 151 - How To Lead Your Family - Dr. Joel Beeke

Ep. 150 - Are We Giving God Our Leftovers? - Rev. Hank Van der Woerd

Ep. 149 - The Kindness of God in Guilt & Conviction - Matt King

Ep. 148 - Jesus Took On Shame So You Don't Have To - Matt King

Ep. 147 - Lead with Intention or Lose the Mission - Peter Greer

Ep. 146 - Life Together: Cultivating a Ministry of Small Things - Dr. Reuben Bredenhof

Ep. 145 - Redeeming Productivity: Are You Making the Most of Your Time? - Tim Challies

Ep. 144 - Backsliding: How to Guard Against Complacency - Dr. Mark Jones

Ep. 143: The Sobering Conviction & Comfort of Hell - Dr. Will den Hollander

Ep. 142 - How to Fight Fair & Forgive Well - Dr. Tim Lane

Ep. 141 - The Comfort Heaven Brings to Earth - Dr. William den Hollander

Ep. 140 - Godly Ambition: The Eagle Builders Story

Ep. 139 - Make 2026 The Year You Actually Read! - Jon Dykstra

Ep. 138 - Lessons We Can Learn From Charlie Kirk

Ep. 137 - Why Tiny Hearts Need Big Theology! - Amy Gannett

Ep. 136 - Addiction, Recovery & True Healing - Jake DeJong & Carling North

Ep. 135 - How the Reformation Changed Everything! - Douglas Bond

Ep. 134 - What is Classical Christian Education? - Jesse Newton & Doug Sikkema

Ep. 133 - Do Home Visits Actually Work? - Dr. Cornelis Van Dam

Ep. 132 - Gender Roles: Who Does the Dishes? - Andrea Kampen