Kalani, born on Kauai, grew up on small farms on Orcas Island, Washington and Maui. He was inspired to cook by his mother who always has a garden with fresh herbs, vegetables and fruit trees. He attended cooking classes in Alaska and focused on the culinary arts at King Kekaulike high school. He has worked in Italian restaurants in Alaska and Hawaii and plans on attending cooking school after completing the Maui Culinary College.