In this episode of The Whole Health Podcast, Dr. Kelly J. Blodgett, DMD, NMD, IBDM, and Megan Barnett, MS, CNS, sit down with pickleball pioneer Steve Paranto and RECS Founder and President Kevin Richards to explore why pickleball has become one of the fastest-growing sports in America. Beyond the game itself, they discuss how movement, play, and meaningful social connection can improve physical health, combat loneliness, and support healthy aging. The conversation also highlights the mission behind RECS, Portland’s premier indoor pickleball community focused on bringing people together through recreation, exercise, competition, and social connection.

Topics Discussed:

• How Pickleball Supports Whole-Body Health
The physical benefits of pickleball, including balance, mobility, bone health, cardiovascular fitness, and strategies for staying active throughout life.

• The Connection Between Community & Longevity
Why social connection is a critical component of wellness and how pickleball communities like RECS help people build friendships, reduce loneliness, and create a sense of belonging.

• The RECS Mission: Recreate, Exercise, Compete & Socialize
How RECS is creating spaces for analog connectivity, intergenerational relationships, and healthy recreation through Portland’s growing pickleball community.

RECS Website: https://wearerecs.com/

To learn more about Megan Barnett’s clinic and practice, click below:
https://bioloungepdx.com

To learn more about Megan's organic soluble fiber blends, click below:
https://thinkflorasophy.com

Learn more about Dr. Kelly Blodgett's dental practice below:
https://www.blodgettdentalcare.com/

About The Whole Health Podcast:
Hosted by Dr. Kelly J. Blodgett, DMD, NMD, IBDM, and Megan Barnett, MS, CNS, this podcast is dedicated to advancing biological dentistry and integrative health. Join Kelly and Megan as they dive deep with experts and leaders across various disciplines to explore the