Core Insights Podcast

Relationships: The Hidden Fuel Behind Peak Performance

In this episode of the Core Insights Podcast, Alicia and Erin explore a truth that’s often overlooked in the world of performance: relationships are the secret weapon to lasting success. Whether you're chasing excellence on the ice, the soccer pitch, in the boardroom, or the classroom, the quality of your connections can make or break your ability to truly thrive.
Together, they break down the neuroscience and psychology behind high performance, including a powerful framework Erin introduces: the difference between green light and yellow light states of play. Learn how consistent, secure relationships create the psychological safety needed for individuals—whether athletes, leaders, or kids—to step into their full potential.
This episode is a must-listen for coaches, parents, teammates, and professionals who want to understand what actually drives greatness—and how to build it from the inside out.
Connect with us:🔗 Alicia’s Instagram: @alicia.relationshippsych
🔗 Erin’s Instagram: @performancecoacherin
🌐 Learn more: coreelements.ca
 

Understanding Your Nervous System: Polyvagal Theory & Self-Regulation with Rich Luykenaar

Episode Description:In this enlightening episode of the Core Insights Podcast, Alicia is joined by therapist and educator Rich Luykenaar to explore Polyvagal Theory—a powerful framework for understanding how our nervous system shapes our emotional and physiological responses.
Together, they unpack what it means to be in a sympathetic state (aka “fight or flight”), how to recognize signs of nervous system dysregulation in yourself, and most importantly, how to return to safety and calm. Rich explains the science in simple, relatable terms, helping listeners build awareness around their arousal states and offering practical tools for self-regulation.
Whether you're experiencing anxiety, overwhelm, or emotional shutdowns, this episode offers both insight and hope. Learn how to listen to your body, support your nervous system, and move toward greater emotional resilience.
Connect with us:🔗 Alicia’s Instagram: @alicia.relationshippsych🌐 Learn more: coreelements.ca

Raising Kids in a Digital World: A Conversation with Kaylee Low

In this episode of the Core Insights Podcast, Alicia and Alannah sit down with Kaylee Low—a mother of four, registered nurse, and passionate advocate for digital wellness. Drawing from her lived experience as a parent and her years of research into tech addiction and digital health, Kaylee shares insights on how to raise kids in a tech-saturated world without losing sight of what really matters.
From that first request for a phone in grade 5 to organizing community-wide presentations on screen time and mental health, Kaylee has walked the path many parents are just beginning. She talks openly about the challenges, pressures, and critical questions facing families today—and offers practical, research-backed guidance for setting boundaries, delaying screen exposure, and having real conversations with your kids.
Whether you're a parent feeling unsure about when to hand over a device or an educator looking to support your school community, this episode provides clarity, encouragement, and a hopeful reminder that it’s never too late to be intentional with tech.
Connect with us:🔗 Kaylee’s Instagram: @book_cram🔗 Alicia’s Instagram: @alicia.relationshippsych🌐 Learn more: coreelements.ca

Understanding Desire & Consent: A Conversation for Youth and Parents with Brittany Policastro

Brittany Policastro returns to the Core Insights Podcast for a powerful and compassionate conversation—this time directed toward youth and their parents. In this episode, Brittany opens up a supportive dialogue about navigating sexual desire during adolescence, understanding consent, and developing a healthy relationship with your changing body and identity.
Speaking directly to youth, Brittany offers guidance on how to tune into your feelings, set boundaries, and explore your sexuality in a way that is safe, informed, and grounded in self-respect. She also shares practical advice for parents on how to approach conversations about sex with openness, confidence, and care—so you can foster trust and support your child’s development without shame or fear.
Whether you’re a teen seeking clarity or a parent wanting to better connect with your child, this episode creates a bridge for open, healthy conversations around sex, desire, and consent.
Connect with us:🔗 Brittany's Instagram: @sexually_liberated
🔗 Erin's Instagram: @erin_otoole44🔗 Alicia's Instagram: @alicia.relationshippsych🌐 Learn more at: coreelements.ca

Reclaiming Pleasure & Power with Brittany Policastro

Welcome to the very first episode of the Core Insights Podcast! In this powerful and honest conversation, Alicia and Erin are joined by Brittany Policastro—Sexual Empowerment Specialist, Certified Tantric Practitioner, and founder of Sexually Liberated.
Together, they explore what it means to reconnect with authentic pleasure after trauma. Brittany shares her personal journey of uncovering buried sexual trauma, the ways it shaped her early experiences with intimacy, and how healing her nervous system and reclaiming her power transformed her relationship with sex.
This episode is for anyone looking to understand how trauma impacts sexuality—and how it’s possible to move toward safety, self-trust, and embodied liberation.
Tune in for a grounded, courageous discussion about healing, empowerment, and the path back to joy.
Connect with us:🔗 Brittany's Instagram: @sexually_liberated🔗 Erin's Instagram: @erin_otoole44🔗 Alicia's Instagram: @alicia.relationshippsych🌐 Learn more at: coreelements.ca

New Name, Same Heart: Welcome to Core Insights

Welcome to the Core Insights Podcastwith Alicia Hinger
Your journey to clarity, growth, and empowered mental wellness starts here.
Hosted by psychologist and founder of Core Elements Counselling, Alicia Hinger, the Core Insights Podcast explores the inner workings of the mind, body, and spirit to help you unlock your full potential. Rooted in the science of psychology and infused with real-life wisdom, this show offers practical tools and deep insights to support meaningful change.
Alongside Alicia, members of the Core Elements team bring their diverse expertise to each episode—offering guidance on everything from emotional regulation and stress, to identity, purpose, and personal growth. Whether you're feeling stuck or simply striving to live with more intention, Core Insights is your companion for compassionate, holistic, and transformative self-discovery.
If you're ready to deepen your self-awareness and take empowered steps forward, subscribe to the Core Insights Podcast—where real change begins from within.

Navigating the Thirds in Relationships with Erin O'Toole and Alannah Frank-Wilson

In today's episode, Alicia sits down with Erin O'Toole, a Certified Canadian Counsellor and professional life coach, and Alannah Frank-Wilson, a Provisional Psychologist, to delve into the concept of "thirds" in relationships. This episode explores how relationships can be shaped and influenced by people outside of the core partnership, and how to balance these external influences with the relationships that matter most.
Alannah Frank-Wilson brings over a decade of experience supporting individuals and families through life's most challenging times. Her passion for empowering people to move forward as whole, confident beings shines through as she shares her insights on maintaining vibrant and solid relationships amidst external pressures. Drawing from her personal journey as a wife and mother, Alannah offers a calm and accepting space to explore these dynamics.
Erin O'Toole, with her background as a counsellor, life coach, and elite hockey coach, emphasizes the importance of clarity and authenticity in navigating relationships. She discusses the concept of "clear is kind," guiding listeners on how to communicate effectively and set boundaries to protect their most important relationships. Erin's experience in fostering mental resilience and determination in high-performance athletes provides a unique perspective on balancing external relationships and communities.
Join Alicia, Erin, and Alannah as they discuss practical strategies for creating new families and relationships while managing the influence of external connections. Learn how to maintain balance, set boundaries, and ensure that the relationships that matter most remain strong and vibrant.
-About Alicia
Alicia is a registered psychologist with over 24 years of experience in private practice. Her journey began in the fascinating field of forensics, where she gained invaluable assessment skills and was exposed to a wide range of mental health issues.
However,her true passion lies in family systems, attachment and the ecosystem of relationships. She has dedicated her career to understanding and working with the intricate dynamics of families and relationships. To deepen her knowledge and skills, she have undergone extensive training in couples therapy, including Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method. One approach that has truly captivated her is Stan Tatkin's PACT therapy, which centers around the concept of secure attachment.
In addition to being a psychologist, she is also a life coach, a PACT coach, and a relationship coach. These roles allow her to support individuals and couples in creating meaningful and fulfilling lives and nurturing healthy connections. She is also the clinical director of Core Elements Counseling and has supervised many students and provisional psychologists as well as taught at both college and University campuses. 
On a personal note, she is happily married, celebrating over 20 years of partnership. Together, with her spouse raising two incredible teenagers, which has provided a unique understanding of the challenges and joys of navigating family life.
Outside of my professional life, she is a lover of dark chocolate, an advocate for all animals, and finds solace in the beauty of nature.
-About Dayna
Dayna Mullen is a passionate Registered Psychologist (Alberta #3595, BC #2828, Vermont #047.0133697) and Relationship Coach dedicated to helping individuals and couples improve their lives and relationships. With a belief in accessing inner potential and creating a clear life vision, Dayna empowers clients to make positive changes. Her background in forensics led her to specialize in couples therapy and earn a Master's of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. She is committed to ongoing professional development and collaborates with experts in the field. Dayna finds inspiration in her own marriage and is a playful, kindhearted, and an outgoing person. She loves her family, friends, black coffee, and milk chocolate. Dayna's mission is to guide clients towards secure and fulfilling relationships, helping them lead extraordinary lives.
-Our Business
The Relationship Psychologist podcast is committed to deepening your self-understanding, enhancing your relationships, and navigating life's challenges in a healthy and positive way. Drawing from our combined experience of over 45 years, we are excited to share our knowledge and expertise, empowering you to cultivate healthier relationships and tackle the obstacles of everyday life with a positive mindset.
-Things Heard on This Episode
Core Elements - http://bit.ly/3pawldh
daynamullen.com - https://bit.ly/3JqtG67
-Connect with The Relationship Psychologist
The Relationship Psychologist's Instagram - https://bit.ly/3XmbdgG
Alicia's Instagram - https://bit.ly/3pefIgJ
Dayna's Instagram - https://bit.ly/3NjvMWj

Healing Generational Trauma and Building Meaningful Relationships with Mike Elliot

In this powerful episode of The Relationship Psychologists, Alicia and Dayna welcome a renowned relationship coach and host of the popular podcasts "Together" and "Menamorphosis," Mike Elliot. Together, they delve into the complex topic of generational trauma and its impact on personal development and relationships.
Mike Elliot, a visionary transformation expert dedicated to empowering individuals, brings his extensive experience in men's work, breathwork, and deep dive coaching to the conversation. Known for his transformative results, Mike shares insights on breaking free from unhealthy patterns and imprints to unlock the path to realizing one's goals and dreams.
Alicia, Dayna, and Mike explore practical strategies for dealing with generational trauma, offering listeners tools to navigate their personal development journeys. They discuss how to build meaningful relationships that not only support personal growth but also help in overcoming deeply rooted emotional challenges.
Tune in as they discuss the significance of understanding and healing generational trauma, the importance of supportive relationships, and the transformative power of personal development. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to enhance their relationships and embark on a journey of profound personal growth.
-About Alicia
Alicia is a registered psychologist with over 24 years of experience in private practice. Her journey began in the fascinating field of forensics, where she gained invaluable assessment skills and was exposed to a wide range of mental health issues.
However,her true passion lies in family systems, attachment and the ecosystem of relationships. She has dedicated her career to understanding and working with the intricate dynamics of families and relationships. To deepen her knowledge and skills, she have undergone extensive training in couples therapy, including Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method. One approach that has truly captivated her is Stan Tatkin's PACT therapy, which centers around the concept of secure attachment.
In addition to being a psychologist, she is also a life coach, a PACT coach, and a relationship coach. These roles allow her to support individuals and couples in creating meaningful and fulfilling lives and nurturing healthy connections. She is also the clinical director of Core Elements Counseling and has supervised many students and provisional psychologists as well as taught at both college and University campuses. 
On a personal note, she is happily married, celebrating over 20 years of partnership. Together, with her spouse raising two incredible teenagers, which has provided a unique understanding of the challenges and joys of navigating family life.
Outside of my professional life, she is a lover of dark chocolate, an advocate for all animals, and finds solace in the beauty of nature.
-About Dayna
Dayna Mullen is a passionate Registered Psychologist (Alberta #3595, BC #2828, Vermont #047.0133697) and Relationship Coach dedicated to helping individuals and couples improve their lives and relationships. With a belief in accessing inner potential and creating a clear life vision, Dayna empowers clients to make positive changes. Her background in forensics led her to specialize in couples therapy and earn a Master's of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. She is committed to ongoing professional development and collaborates with experts in the field. Dayna finds inspiration in her own marriage and is a playful, kindhearted, and an outgoing person. She loves her family, friends, black coffee, and milk chocolate. Dayna's mission is to guide clients towards secure and fulfilling relationships, helping them lead extraordinary lives.
-Our Business
The Relationship Psychologist podcast is committed to deepening your self-understanding, enhancing your relationships, and navigating life's challenges in a healthy and positive way. Drawing from our combined experience of over 45 years, we are excited to share our knowledge and expertise, empowering you to cultivate healthier relationships and tackle the obstacles of everyday life with a positive mindset.
-Things Heard on This Episode
Mike Elliott's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mikeelliott808/
Core Elements - http://bit.ly/3pawldh
daynamullen.com - https://bit.ly/3JqtG67
-Connect with The Relationship Psychologist
The Relationship Psychologist's Instagram - https://bit.ly/3XmbdgG
Alicia's Instagram - https://bit.ly/3pefIgJ
Dayna's Instagram - https://bit.ly/3NjvMWj

Creating Secure Relationships: Insights with Erin O'Toole

Alicia sits down with Erin O'Toole to explore the concept of secure functioning in dating and relationships. Erin, an expert in relationship psychology, shares her wisdom on building strong, healthy connections that stand the test of time.
Together, Alicia and Erin dive into the importance of getting clear on the values you seek in a relationship. They discuss practical strategies for identifying and aligning with these values to create a solid foundation for lasting love.
Throughout the episode, Erin shares her overall philosophy on relationship psychology, offering listeners a comprehensive guide to navigating the complexities of romantic connections. Whether you're single, dating, or in a committed relationship, this conversation provides valuable insights to help you foster secure, fulfilling partnerships.
Tune in for a thoughtful and engaging discussion that promises to transform your approach to relationships and enhance your understanding of what it takes to create and maintain a secure, loving bond.
-About Alicia
Alicia is a registered psychologist with over 24 years of experience in private practice. Her journey began in the fascinating field of forensics, where she gained invaluable assessment skills and was exposed to a wide range of mental health issues.
However,her true passion lies in family systems, attachment and the ecosystem of relationships. She has dedicated her career to understanding and working with the intricate dynamics of families and relationships. To deepen her knowledge and skills, she have undergone extensive training in couples therapy, including Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method. One approach that has truly captivated her is Stan Tatkin's PACT therapy, which centers around the concept of secure attachment.
In addition to being a psychologist, she is also a life coach, a PACT coach, and a relationship coach. These roles allow her to support individuals and couples in creating meaningful and fulfilling lives and nurturing healthy connections. She is also the clinical director of Core Elements Counseling and has supervised many students and provisional psychologists as well as taught at both college and University campuses. 
On a personal note, she is happily married, celebrating over 20 years of partnership. Together, with her spouse raising two incredible teenagers, which has provided a unique understanding of the challenges and joys of navigating family life.
Outside of my professional life, she is a lover of dark chocolate, an advocate for all animals, and finds solace in the beauty of nature.
-About Dayna
Dayna Mullen is a passionate Registered Psychologist (Alberta #3595, BC #2828, Vermont #047.0133697) and Relationship Coach dedicated to helping individuals and couples improve their lives and relationships. With a belief in accessing inner potential and creating a clear life vision, Dayna empowers clients to make positive changes. Her background in forensics led her to specialize in couples therapy and earn a Master's of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. She is committed to ongoing professional development and collaborates with experts in the field. Dayna finds inspiration in her own marriage and is a playful, kindhearted, and an outgoing person. She loves her family, friends, black coffee, and milk chocolate. Dayna's mission is to guide clients towards secure and fulfilling relationships, helping them lead extraordinary lives.
-Our Business
The Relationship Psychologist podcast is committed to deepening your self-understanding, enhancing your relationships, and navigating life's challenges in a healthy and positive way. Drawing from our combined experience of over 45 years, we are excited to share our knowledge and expertise, empowering you to cultivate healthier relationships and tackle the obstacles of everyday life with a positive mindset.
-Things Heard on This Episode
Core Elements - http://bit.ly/3pawldh
daynamullen.com - https://bit.ly/3JqtG67
-Connect with The Relationship Psychologist
The Relationship Psychologist's Instagram - https://bit.ly/3XmbdgG
Alicia's Instagram - https://bit.ly/3pefIgJ
Dayna's Instagram - https://bit.ly/3NjvMWj

From Saddles to Healing Hands: Vickie Keam on Equine Osteopathy

Alicia welcomes Vickie Keam, a passionate advocate for self-evolution and a pioneer in the field of equine osteopathy. With 25 years of experience in her equine business, Vickie shares her remarkable journey from working in a saddle shop to becoming a Master of Osteopathy.
Vickie’s story is one of continuous learning and evolution. She began by making and repairing saddles and tack, but her curiosity and dedication led her to explore the deeper anatomical structures of horses and dogs through dissection. This hands-on approach provided her with a profound understanding of animal anatomy and the secrets it holds.
Join us as Vickie discusses the transformative power of osteopathy for animals and how these treatments can also offer insights into helping humans deal with trauma. She shares her knowledge on how the disorders in a horse's body can influence their reactions, movements, and overall behavior, offering a fresh perspective on equine health and therapy.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about animal care, osteopathy, and the interconnectedness of physical and emotional healing. Vickie’s unique approach and dedication to sharing her knowledge promise to inspire and educate, shedding light on a new way of perceiving and treating both animals and humans.
-About Alicia
Alicia is a registered psychologist with over 24 years of experience in private practice. Her journey began in the fascinating field of forensics, where she gained invaluable assessment skills and was exposed to a wide range of mental health issues.
However,her true passion lies in family systems, attachment and the ecosystem of relationships. She has dedicated her career to understanding and working with the intricate dynamics of families and relationships. To deepen her knowledge and skills, she have undergone extensive training in couples therapy, including Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method. One approach that has truly captivated her is Stan Tatkin's PACT therapy, which centers around the concept of secure attachment.
In addition to being a psychologist, she is also a life coach, a PACT coach, and a relationship coach. These roles allow her to support individuals and couples in creating meaningful and fulfilling lives and nurturing healthy connections. She is also the clinical director of Core Elements Counseling and has supervised many students and provisional psychologists as well as taught at both college and University campuses. 
On a personal note, she is happily married, celebrating over 20 years of partnership. Together, with her spouse raising two incredible teenagers, which has provided a unique understanding of the challenges and joys of navigating family life.
Outside of my professional life, she is a lover of dark chocolate, an advocate for all animals, and finds solace in the beauty of nature.
-About Dayna
Dayna Mullen is a passionate Registered Psychologist (Alberta #3595, BC #2828, Vermont #047.0133697) and Relationship Coach dedicated to helping individuals and couples improve their lives and relationships. With a belief in accessing inner potential and creating a clear life vision, Dayna empowers clients to make positive changes. Her background in forensics led her to specialize in couples therapy and earn a Master's of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. She is committed to ongoing professional development and collaborates with experts in the field. Dayna finds inspiration in her own marriage and is a playful, kindhearted, and an outgoing person. She loves her family, friends, black coffee, and milk chocolate. Dayna's mission is to guide clients towards secure and fulfilling relationships, helping them lead extraordinary lives.
-Our Business
The Relationship Psychologist podcast is committed to deepening your self-understanding, enhancing your relationships, and navigating life's challenges in a healthy and positive way. Drawing from our combined experience of over 45 years, we are excited to share our knowledge and expertise, empowering you to cultivate healthier relationships and tackle the obstacles of everyday life with a positive mindset.
-Things Heard on This Episode
Vickie Keam's Website - https://clinics.hails.ca/
Core Elements - http://bit.ly/3pawldh
daynamullen.com - https://bit.ly/3JqtG67
-Connect with The Relationship Psychologist
The Relationship Psychologist's Instagram - https://bit.ly/3XmbdgG
Alicia's Instagram - https://bit.ly/3pefIgJ
Dayna's Instagram - https://bit.ly/3NjvMWj