#290 - Bring the Joy: The Matt Merrit Story

In this episode of In The LOOP, Jordan Jo sits down with 2025 Clown Act of the Year Matt Merrit for a conversation that goes far beyond the makeup and comedy.

For 27 years, Matt has made rodeo crowds laugh, but behind it all is a story built on hard work, faith, family, and a genuine desire to bring joy wherever he goes.

Matt shares how he got his start as a teenager in Louisiana, what he learned working everything from small rodeos to major events, and how “pulling his own wagon” helped shape his career. He also talks about building his personal brand, using social media as part of his business, and how rodeo has evolved over the years.

The conversation turns personal as Matt opens up about his cancer journey, the role faith played in moving him from fear to peace, and how that season deepened his perspective on life.

Jordan and Matt also talk about raising kids in rodeo, financial lessons, the responsibility of being someone younger generations look up to, and remembering that rodeo may be what you do—but it isn’t who you are.

It’s funny, honest, faith-filled, and full of perspective from someone who has spent nearly three decades bringing joy to the rodeo world.