LISA COLE
WRITER + DIRECTOR
Lisa Cole is an award-winning writer, director, and producer, shaped by her nomadic past—living with 201 host families across 12 countries in 3 years. Her Oscar-Shortlisted short film "Bienvenidos a Los Angeles," inspired by a true immigration story, reflects her commitment to impactful storytelling and cultural diversity, and has been showcased in over 100 global festivals.
Lisa’s work often explores themes of gender, faith, neglect, and redemption. Notable projects in development include the feature films "Diamond Girls," starring Selena Gomez and based on a WaPo article about sexual harassment and pay discrimination, and "Girl Named Sue," which addresses drug-endangered children. Her documentaries for Viacom, A&E, Sundance, and The Gates Foundation spotlight critical issues such as women’s safety in the DRC and Kenya.
A graduate of Loyola Marymount University School of Cinema and TV, Lisa serves on the board of the Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival, and resides in Los Angeles with her husband, two children, and five pets.
FUN FACTS ABOUT LISA
She lived with 201 host families in 12 countries in a span of 3 years.
Lisa dreams of owning a Mezcal brand and believes she must have Latin ancestry, although 23andme and Ancestry.com both claim she has none.
Her first job was serving beer at age 12 at a hotel pool bar In Arkansas.
She breastfed her adopted infant daughter for fifteen months much to the bewilderment of medical professionals, who really should know better.