Used the "search function" but did not find anyone in SoCal that could give tailwheel transition training. Is there anyone around the area?
I'm not an instructor, nor do I have the -8 flying yet, but I am right down the road from you and can give you some time in the Hiperbipe - I have taught several people to fly the thing, and found that it's an excellent trainer because any other airplane you will ever fly will seem easy by comparison.