In the first episode of this three-part series, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave explore the powerful connection between memory, learning, mental health, and healing.

From an early age, we learn patterns and behaviours from our environment and the people around us. Our memories help us recognize these patterns and shape how we respond to them, often with the goal of keeping us safe and helping us navigate challenging experiences.

This learning can include how we respond to difficult experiences such as abuse, grief, bullying, and other forms of adversity. Over time, we may become conditioned to respond automatically in certain ways to avoid perceived threats or negative outcomes. These learned responses can continue to influence our thoughts, emotions, relationships, and behaviours long after the original experience has passed.

While we often think of memory and learning in the context of school and academic achievement, they play a much deeper role in our everyday lives and in our mental health. In this episode, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave explore how our brains learn from experience, how those lessons can shape our responses to the world, and why understanding these patterns can be an important part of healing and developing healthier ways of coping.

Community mental health services are an essential part of our healthcare system, yet they are often among the most underfunded. In this episode of Taking Good Care, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave sit down with Rachelle Kay, Executive Director of Momentum Counselling, a leading non-profit mental health organization in Edmonton, Canada.

Together, they explore the realities of providing accessible, community-based mental health care and the challenges that non-profit organizations face in sustaining these vital services. Non-profit mental health organizations like Momentum play a critical role in bridging gaps in the healthcare system. They provide counselling, assessments, and support to individuals and families who may otherwise be unable to access or afford these services.

What does it take to build and sustain effective grassroots mental health services? What happens when the need for care far exceeds the resources available? And how can communities better support the organizations working on the front lines?

If you are passionate about mental health, interested in community-based care, or curious about the important work of grassroots non-profit organizations, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Momentum's Website - https://momentumcounselling.org/donate-today/

Direct Donation Link - https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/64128

Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/momentumcounselling

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/momentumcounselling.yeg

LinkedIn - https://ca.linkedin.com/company/momentum-counselling

In the worlds of elite sports and the performing arts, success often comes down to more than talent alone. The ability to manage pressure, stay mentally resilient, and perform when it matters most can make all the difference.

On this episode of Taking Good Care, Dr. Andrew H.C. Wong and Dr. David St. Arnault welcome renowned neuropsychologist and University of Alberta professor Dr. Martin Mrazik for an insightful conversation on the science of sports and performance psychology. Drawing on decades of experience working with organizations such as the Edmonton Oilers (NHL), the Edmonton Elks (CFL), and the International Ice Hockey Federation, Dr. Mrazik shares practical strategies to help athletes and performers unlock their full potential.

The discussion also explores the mental health challenges that can accompany high-performance environments, including anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and trauma. Dr. Mrazik offers evidence-based approaches to building resilience, overcoming setbacks, and supporting long-term well-being.

Whether you're an athlete, coach, performer, parent, or simply fascinated by the psychology of peak performance, this fun and engaging episode offers valuable insights into what it takes to thrive under pressure.