About Us

Mission

Music and movement remain treasured languages of the human soul, to interpret, express, heal, and connect. Media and pop culture, however, often imply one is only as valuable as their last ovation, or number of followers. As a result, judgement and competition have become dominant drives for many creators, a detrimental pull away from our true potential and joy as a people. 
           A trusted circle of mentors and peers that cultivate growth with out judgement, is crucial to the preservation of genuine expression. Soul of Cali is a trusted creative haven for all ages, that draws inspiration and style from the inside out. 



Founder, Lisa Medford

As my mother watched “Dirty Dancing” in the movie theater, I made my dance debut with a kick in the womb. 


My early youth was immersed in the beauty, discipline, and grace of the

"Evergreen City Ballet", directed by Wade Walthall. Memories of 30 hour dance weeks, true sisterhood, and Swan Lake, feels like a life time ago, but the deep connection ballet has given me to dance still pulses strong. 

       At age 16, the liveliness of the Seattle Hip-Hop scene drew me in, and inspired me to move to Los Angeles to pursue a career in the music and dance industry.  After moving to Los Angeles,  I toured China as a dancer for Pop Star Jay Chou, trained in New York City at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, and got futuristic as the leading lady in Steve Aoki and Waka Flocka’s music video, "Rage the Night Away." (parent advisory due to language)


 In 2012 I founded  "Soul of Cali",  a place for youth to create, and discover personal style from the inside out. 


​      With over 10 years of experience teaching dance in schools, colleges, studios, and reggio based preschools, I have arrived at a lively crossroad between Dance Instruction and Early Childhood Education, exploring and designing original dance adventures for young children.  “Save the World”,my first published dance along for kids, produced by Mega Mace, has been translated into several languages and broadcasted by Cyberobics through out Europe. Check out my series "Practice makes Magic", Hip-Hop alongs for kids  for free on Youtube!


        I spend my summers at the best place on earth, World Groove Summer Camp, exploring cultural arts and real, live, unity. When I'm not creating with the kiddos, you can catch me for some "grown n sexy time" @  Moore Dancing in Brentwood, where good vibes flow.