Oak Ridge High School graduate Josh Varozza is a big guy, with a big beard and personality, and an even bigger heart. Most of us first noticed the bail bondsman and El Dorado County native in 2016 when his series of “dudeoir” photos (taken for a calendar to help wounded warriors by his now-wife Tami Bears) went viral. You remember those, right? Right.

Well, Varozza is about to get a little, um, bigger—notoriety-wise, anyway: He’s hosting a new, original TV series called Beauty Redefined, premiering this spring on the Discovery Channel and produced by a company called OnlyGood TV. The “Only Good” refers to their focus on “uplifting, inspiring, and heartwarming” programming around social issues. From the sounds of it, Varozza’s show fits that description like a pair of well-worn overalls. “They thought what we did with ‘dudeoir’ was pretty cool and really highlighted body positivity and people doing things differently,” he says. “I hope people will watch this show, fall in love with the characters I meet, and become more inclusive.”

In the series, Josh meets other uniquely beautiful people and finds out what makes them tick. Episodes so far include a film company in New York that gives “non-neurotypical” young adults a chance to work in the movie industry; “Santa Larry,” the first Santa of color to be hired by the Mall of America; and another where Varozza gets into the ring with a lady sumo wrestler (“she abused me,” he jokingly notes).

Varozza admits it’s hard balancing his full-time career as a bail bondsman and this new life as a television show host. “There are hard days, and there are really hard days,” he says. But then, he adds, “There are really rewarding days. It’s all about learning to juggle the things you want.”

By Tom Mailey

Q&A

What advice would you give to your younger self? 

Stop trying to be cool. It’s okay to not always be the coolest person in the room.

What comes to you naturally?

Rapport. I enjoy talking to people and getting to know their backgrounds. People are fascinating, and it’s pretty fantastic to meet new people and see what motivates and rives them. Everyone—from hobos and entrepreneurs to executives—has something you can learn from.

What’s your biggest pet peeve?

Nail clipping in public. 

Are you high or low maintenance?

According to my wife, I constantly need my feathers stroked, so I suppose I’m moderate to high maintenance.

What are you most proud of?

Me. I was kicked out of school my freshmen year and attended high school at the local juvenile hall. I spent a few teenage years on house arrest. I had teachers and leaders tell me I wouldn’t amount to squat. Life is weird. We all find motivation in strange places. I was motivated by naysayers. I hope that my mediocre success can show some wayward kids that there’s more to life if you want to live for it.

Favorite humanitarian cause?

I’ve always had a passion for helping veterans in any capacity. 

Best words of wisdom you’ve received?

Focus on what you can control; if you love it, own it; and don’t eat yellow snow.

Favorites

AUTHOR/WRITER: Patrick F. McManus

Guilty pleasure: Mountain Dew, nachos, and pedicures

Meal in town: Dry ribs from Poor Reds Bar-B-Q

Favorite memory: Hunting with my brother, father, and grandfather

Movie: Step Brothers

Musician/band: Action Bronson

Place to buy a gift, locally: Placerville Hardware

Local nonprofit: Boys & Girls Club El Dorado County Western Slope

Annual event: Battle of the Badges