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Taking Good Care Podcast

Taking Good Care Podcast

by Dr. Andrew H.C. Wong & Dr. David St. Arnault

Self-Improvement Mental Health

Season 2

The Power of Memory, Part Three: Ageing and Dementia

In the third and final episode of our memory series, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave turn their attention to the other side of developmental psychology: ageing. As we grow older, changes in memory are a natural part of the ageing process. For some individuals, however, memory changes can become more significant and may eventually meet the diagnostic criteria for dementia. In this thoughtful and in-depth conversation, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave explore what dementia is, how it can affect individuals and families, and practical strategies for supporting clients who are navigating a new diagnosis. They also draw on their own personal experiences with extended family members living with dementia, offering perspectives that go beyond clinical practice. Dementia is something many of us will encounter in our lifetime, whether through a client, a loved one, a friend, or someone in our community. Learning how to adapt, remain flexible, and meet people where they are can make a meaningful difference in preserving their dignity, autonomy, and sense of connection. Join Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave for a compassionate conversation about memory, ageing, dementia.

The Power of Memory, Part Two: Strategies to Improve Our Memory

In the second episode of this three-part series, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave explore practical strategies for strengthening our memory and making it work more effectively in everyday life. Our individual interests and unique characteristics influence what we remember. When we’re naturally interested in a topic, information often comes more easily but what happens when we need to remember something that simply doesn’t interest us? How can we improve our memory for studying, particularly when the material feels boring or difficult? And what about the everyday things we often forget, like where we left our house keys? Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave share practical tips and easy-to-use strategies to help improve memory for studying, daily tasks, and activities of everyday living. Whether you’re a student, a busy professional, or simply looking for ways to sharpen your memory, this episode is a must-listen!

The Power of Memory, Part One: Learning, Mental Health & Healing

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.

The Vital Role of Community-Based and Non-Profit Mental Healthcare

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

More Than Talent: The Psychology of High Performance & Sports Psychology

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.

Intelligence Explained, Part Two: Learning Disability & Giftedness

In the second episode of this two-part series, psychologists Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave continue their conversation on intelligence, exploring how it shapes learning and education. This episode examines what defines a learning disability and unpacks the concept of giftedness. Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave discuss how students with learning disabilities possess both strengths and challenges, highlighting the importance of individualized supports, effective learning strategies, and appropriate accommodations to help them succeed. They also take a thoughtful look at giftedness: Why the label can be both valuable and controversial and why it should never be viewed as a predictor of a person's future success. Whether you're a parent, educator, student, or simply interested in how intelligence is understood and applied in education, this insightful discussion offers valuable perspectives you won't want to miss.

Intelligence Explained, Part One: Myths, IQ, and Multiple Intelligences

In this first episode of a two-part series, psychologists Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave explore one of psychology's most fascinating and misunderstood topics: intelligence. The conversation examines what intelligence is, how IQ is measured, the science behind intelligence testing, and the theory of multiple intelligences. Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave also discuss how psychologists assess cognitive abilities and what IQ scores can and cannot tell us about a person's potential. Whether you're a parent, educator, student, mental health professional, or simply curious about how the brain works, this episode offers an engaging, evidence-based look at the psychology of intelligence. In this episode, you'll learn: What psychologists mean by "intelligence" How IQ tests are developed and interpreted The theory of multiple intelligences Common myths and misconceptions about IQ How intelligence relates to learning and development If you're interested in psychology, brain development, education, or cognitive science, this episode is a great place to start. Be sure to tune in for Part Two, where Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave continue the conversation and explore the practical implications intelligence testing.

The Power of Radical Acceptance

Radical acceptance is one of the most powerful and most misunderstood concepts in psychology. In this episode of Taking Good Care, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave unpack what radical acceptance really means, challenge common misconceptions, and explore why accepting reality as it is can be a transformative step toward healing. What makes radical acceptance "radical"? It's the practice of fully acknowledging the present moment without judgment, not approving of difficult circumstances or giving up, but choosing to face reality with clarity and compassion. From there, we become better equipped to navigate challenges, solve problems, and move forward with intention. Whether you're a student, a mental health professional, someone considering therapy, or simply looking for practical ways to cope with life's challenges, this episode offers valuable insights into one of the most important skills for emotional well-being.

Navigating Social Media, Part Two: Understanding Influence and Reality

In part two of our social media stack, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave discuss the authenticity of content creators and social media influencers when the 'self' becomes the brand. The psychologists discuss why it's essential for young people to understand that not everything they see online reflects reality. They examine the influence of social media personalities, influencers, and content creators, encouraging listeners to foster critical thinking skills that help adolescents and teens evaluate the messages and motivations behind the content they consume. As social media, technology, and artificial intelligence continue to evolve, so do the ways they shape our thoughts, behaviours, and relationships. While adaptation is inevitable, this episode highlights both the healthy and unhealthy aspects of our increasingly digital lives and offers practical insights for raising informed, resilient, and mindful young people.

Navigating Social Media, Part One: Critical Thinking in a Digital World

In part one of this timely and thought-provoking conversation, Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave explore the powerful influence of social media on child and adolescent development. While social media offers opportunities for connection, learning, and self-expression, it also presents significant challenges that can shape how young people think, feel, and interact with the world around them. Dr. Andrew and Dr. Dave discuss why critical thinking skills have never been more important in an age of endless scrolling, viral content, and persuasive online influencers. They examine how messages are crafted to capture attention and influence opinions, and why parents, caregivers, and educators play a crucial role in helping young people question what they see, hear, and believe online. This is an essential episode for anyone interested in understanding how social media impacts today's youth and how we can help young people navigate the digital world with curiosity, confidence, and healthy skepticism.

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