Having trouble engaging core and breathing at the same time?

I feel like I am having trouble doing what Kelli and Daniel say by engaging my core throughout the workout, but also getting in a deep breath during more intense workouts like HIIT. It's like my brain can't let me do both. I have to do one or the other! lol. What am I doing wrong here? Is it because I need to work on my core strength more? Does anyone have any tips?