Balancing the Grind with Kyle Turner, Founder & CEO of Pearlii

Kyle Turner is the founder & CEO of Pearlii, a dental company on a mission to improve oral health around the globe.

1) To kick things off, could you tell us a little about your career background and current role? 

I transitioned from an academic background (epidemiologist, former lecturer at Uni of Oxford and Uni of Melb) into entrepreneurship. I now run a dental company called Pearlii trying to improve oral health around the globe. 

2) What does a day in your life look like for you? Can you take us through a recent workday? 

I like to be first in the office, usually arriving by 7:00am. It takes me a while to get going in the mornings, so I use this time to knock out my emails and get set for the day. When I was younger, a mentor recommended that I get up earlier in the day so that I’m switched on and ready to go when my staff arrive (currently 17). I also try to schedule meetings in the afternoon and use the morning for content, strategy, forecasting, board, partnerships, etc.

3) Does your current role allow for flexible or remote working? If so, how does that fit into your life and routine? 

I prefer a hybrid model. My team is in the office Mon-Wed & Friday, and they WFH on Thursdays. On the whole, I believe face to face is optimal, with some flexibility, as we’re still a young company trying to strengthen relationships and build a positive culture. We’re also doing a great deal of creative and design work, which I think is generally more efficient in person.

4) What does work-life balance mean to you and how do you work to achieve that goal? 

Nothing is more important than your physical and mental health, so I always prioritise this for all of my staff and myself. There is obviously a lot to unpack in this question, but regular exercise, healthy eating, etc. are critical.

I also try to enjoy my time at work, such as bringing my dog with me to the office most days, as well as incorporating a wide array of fun activities to lighten the mood. This’ll sound strange, but I assess how the company culture is by the amount of laughter I hear – if there isn’t much in your office, you’ve got problems. I firmly believe people work better when they’re enjoying their time at work, together with clear deliverables and milestones.

5) In the past 12 months, have you started or stopped any routines or habits to change your life? 

It’s hard to switch off in the evenings when you own the company, but I’ve certainly gotten better at this in the last 12 months. This has improved my quality of sleep and all the benefits that come with that.

6) Do you have any favourite books, podcasts or newsletters that you’d like to recommend? 

I’m enjoying Balance the Grind, but I’ve only recently discovered your website. I’m also addicted to Twitter, which can become a valuable resource if you follow the right people; quite remarkably it’s free for everyone.

7) Are there any products, gadgets or apps that you can’t live without? 

Hmm. Do these count? Twitter, Figma, Slack, Xero, Shopify, G Suite, LinkedIn, Jira, Notion, Hotjar.

8) If you could read an interview about work-life balance by anyone, who would that be? 

Tough question. Anyone successful, but still always smiling is a winner. I met Jamie Oliver a couple of times while at Oxford (my PhD was in childhood obesity prevention, trying to make schools healthier) and I have no idea how to do it all. Beautiful family, his staff absolutely love him, and give back so much to his community. Just a legend.

9) Do you have any last thoughts on work, life or balance that you’d like to share with our readers? 

If you can find your ‘why’ in your work, something that keeps you focused and motivated, you’ve won half the battle. Beyond that, keep fit and engaged with family and friends. Anything more is a bonus.

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