Curiosity Over Shame: Elevating Human Performance with Renee Pirkl, Psy.D., PC - 32

In this episode of The Whole Health Podcast, Kelly J. Blodgett, DMD, NMD, IBDM, and Megan Barnett, MS, CNS, sit down with Renee Pirkl, Psy.D., PC—a psychologist and human performance specialist who helps individuals and teams move beyond shame, fear, and stagnation into clarity, courage, and purposeful action. Drawing from her work with high performers, teams, and everyday humans alike, Dr. Pirkl unpacks how curiosity, compassionate self-inquiry, and the DISC framework can transform both personal growth and group dynamics. She also explores the energetic weight of shame, why the words we use to describe our diagnoses deeply matter, and how emerging tools like psilocybin-assisted therapy may help unlock new pathways toward genuine, whole-person healing.

Topics Discussed:

-How shame keeps us small, why naming our “shame gremlin” changes everything, and the role of curiosity and courage in breaking through performance blocks.

-Using DISC and other personality frameworks to build healthy, high-performing teams, increase self-awareness, and honor both strengths and “growing edges.”

-Rethinking diagnoses and identity (“my anxiety,” “my disease”), plus an introduction to psilocybin-assisted therapy, the default mode network, and what whole health truly means to Dr. Pirkl.

Renee Pirkl's website: https://www.reneepirkl.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 connections between oral health, nutrition, and holistic human wellness.