A Healing Touch with Purpose
This year, The Skin Games welcomes Jody Stoski to the judging panel for the Paramedical Category—and she’s bringing with her more than a decade of experience, heart, and artistry.
From her Calgary-based clinic and international training academy, Jody has become one of the most respected names in paramedical tattooing. Her work combines technical precision with deep compassion, transforming scars and restoring confidence for clients around the world. As a judge, she’s ready to celebrate competitors who approach their craft with that same mix of empathy, dedication, and mastery.
“I’ll be the kind of judge who truly sees the intention and heart behind the work,” Jody shares. “I know what it takes to show up, be vulnerable, and put your skills out there—and I deeply respect that. My feedback will always come from a place of expertise and encouragement. I want to lift this industry by helping each artist raise their bar with confidence.”
A Bit of RuPaul Energy
When asked which famous judge she most identifies with, Jody doesn’t hesitate: “RuPaul—but with a tattoo machine instead of a runway.”
Her philosophy mirrors RuPaul’s blend of encouragement and honest critique. “I believe in helping people rise to their full potential while keeping it constructive and grounded,” she says. “Like Ru, I want to see each artist shine in their own unique way—and I’m not afraid to lovingly push them to elevate their work.”
What She Values Most in a Competitor
For Jody, it’s not just about flawless results—it’s about heart.
She admires dedication, curiosity, and humility, noting that these traits often separate good artists from great ones. “When someone shows up ready to learn, open to feedback, and committed to doing their best, that speaks volumes. Skill is important—but so is why you’re doing this work. In paramedical tattooing, the impact is so personal. I love seeing artists who truly care about their clients.”
Her Best Advice for This Year’s Competitors
“Breathe. You already belong here. Whether you’re nervous or full of adrenaline, trust your training, trust your eye, and enjoy the process. Even if something doesn’t go perfectly, every moment is a chance to grow. And remember—you’re not alone. We’re all here because we believe in the power of this work.”
A Defining Moment
Though Jody had been performing camouflage tattooing since 2008, one experience changed everything: tattooing her own thyroidectomy scar after thyroid cancer.
“Until I tattooed my own scar, I didn’t truly understand how meaningful these transformations were to my clients,” she recalls. “That realization inspired me to start my training academy in 2020—so I could spread the skill of healing through tattoos to my students around the world.”
Fun Facts
- Favorite Tool: Her tattoo machine—no contest!
- Skincare Myth That Drives Her Nuts: “That scars can be treated right away. Scars need to be fully healed—usually at least a year—before camouflage tattooing. Healing takes time, and proper timing is everything.”
- Judging-Day Ritual: Black coffee. Lots of it. “This will be a high-energy event, and I’ll take advantage of any and every means to rise to the occasion!”
Lifting the Industry with Love
With her blend of skill, compassion, and leadership, Jody Stoski embodies what The Skin Games is all about—raising the standard of beauty and wellness while honoring the human stories behind every transformation.
Whether she’s mentoring students, empowering clients, or championing artists on The Skin Games stage, one thing is clear: Jody is helping the world heal, one tattoo at a time.