In The LOOP Podcast with Jordan Jo

Nine years. A homebred horse. A world record. And a trip back to the NFR. 🔥 This week on In The LOOP, Jordan Jo sits down with Kathy Grimes, DVM following an incredible 2026 season and her second National Finals Rodeo qualification. Kathy opens up about the journey from her first NFR appearance in 2017 to earning her way back nearly a decade later — and how much life, rodeo, and horsemanship happened in between. They dive into the story behind her standout horse, Showy, from Kathy’s breeding program to becoming the horse that helped carry her back to the Finals and set a standard-pattern world record. But Kathy is quick to share that even a record-setting season comes with doubts, mistakes, injuries, pressure, and the constant mental battle of learning to focus on what could go right instead of everything that could go wrong. Kathy also shares how her career as a veterinarian shaped her breeding program, why she believes so strongly in “mare power,” and the years of rebuilding and perseverance behind this full-circle season. From the science behind breeding great horses to the mental toughness it takes to keep showing up, this conversation is a reminder that success rarely happens in a straight line.

Taylor and Rickie Engesser are back In The LOOP—this time from the rodeo road! The Engesser sisters have been part of professional breakaway roping through some of its biggest years of growth, and in this episode they sit down with Jordan Jo to talk about what it has been like to experience that journey side by side. From growing up in a rodeo family to pushing each other in the practice pen, Taylor and Rickie share how being sisters has made them better competitors without losing sight of the fact that, when they back into the box, they are ultimately competing against themselves. They also look back on one of the biggest moments of Rickie’s career—winning The American—and why the people standing beside her made the accomplishment mean even more. Then, they take us north of the border. After years of competing on the U.S. rodeo trail, Taylor and Rickie decided to shake things up and chase a new goal: the Canadian Finals. They share what they’ve learned about Canadian rodeos, crossing the border with horses, entering, muddy arenas, new friendships, and why the experience has reminded them to enjoy the rodeo road while they have the opportunity to live it. This conversation is about more than winning. It’s about family, gratitude, growing with the sport of breakaway roping, and making the most of the miles along the way.

In this episode of In The LOOP, Jordan Jo sits down with 2025 Clown Act of the Year Matt Merritt 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.

In this episode of In The LOOP, Jordan Jo sits down with Neil Shultz—a financial advisor turned trusted friend—for a conversation rooted in ownership, discipline, and building a life beyond the rodeo arena. What started as a simple phone call with “$2,000 to invest” turned into something much bigger… a full shift in mindset around money, priorities, and the future. Neil brings a perspective that most in the rodeo world don’t always have access to—one that challenges the way we think about income, debt, and what happens when the rodeo road slows down. They talk about paying yourself first, understanding good versus bad debt, and why having a plan matters more than how much money you start with. At the core of it all is a simple belief: If you don’t have a plan… you’re already behind. This episode is a reminder that success isn’t just about what you win in the arena… it’s about what you build after it. 🎧 Tune in to hear how Neil Shultz is helping rodeo athletes take control of their future—one decision at a time.

In this episode of In The LOOP Podcast, Jordan Jo sits down with retired Olympic figure skater, high performance coach, entrepreneur, wife, and mom Paige Lawrence Champion for a conversation about mindset, confidence, resilience, identity, and what it truly takes to perform at your highest level. They dive into topics every athlete can relate to, including confidence versus self belief, handling criticism, learning from mistakes, creating flow state, and separating your identity from your performance. Paige also shares practical strategies for managing pressure, building resilience, and showing up as your best self both inside and outside the arena. Beyond competition, the conversation explores motherhood, entrepreneurship, intentional living, and why having it all is less about balance and more about being clear on your priorities. At the heart of the episode is a powerful reminder that success is not about perfection. It is about consistently investing in your growth, trusting the process, and realizing you are capable of far more than you give yourself credit for. 🎧 Watch now. Available on the Official YouTube Channel of RodeoLive and all podcast platforms.

In this episode of In The LOOP Podcast, Jordan Jo sits down with Judy Wagner for a heartfelt conversation about purpose, mentorship, relationships, branding, faith, and the power of planting seeds that can change lives. From growing up on a ranch in Avon, Montana, to building iconic Western brands like Gator Ropes and helping shape the legacy of Montana Silversmiths, Judy shares the stories, lessons, and moments that defined her journey in the Western industry. The two also dive into the meaning behind “Nice Job Cowgirl,” the importance of encouraging others, navigating different seasons of life, building authentic relationships, and why purpose should always remain at the center of everything we do. Fresh off receiving the 2026 Pam Minick Lifetime Achievement Award at the Premier Women’s Rodeo and speaking at the Cowgirl 30 Under 30 Leadership Conference, Judy reflects on legacy, leadership, mentorship, and the impact of simply believing in people. At the heart of the conversation is a reminder that success is never built alone. The seeds we plant, the relationships we nurture, and the encouragement we give to others can leave a lasting impact far beyond what we may ever see. 🎧 Watch now. Available on the Official YouTube Channel of RodeoLive and all podcast platforms.

In this episode of In The LOOP, Jordan Jo sits down with Susan Maddox for a conversation rooted in resilience, legacy, and what it truly means to build something that lasts. From growing up on a farm in Wyoming to becoming one of the most influential women in the Western industry, Susan shares the story behind the creation of the Best Hat Store and the rise of American Hat Company into one of the most recognizable brands in rodeo today. But what stands out most isn’t just the success of the brand… it’s the heart behind it. Susan opens up about her love story with Keith Maddox, the foundation they built together, and the unwavering belief in “Positive Times” that continues to shape American Hat Company today. She shares the hard moments too—from losing nearly everything in a devastating factory fire to carrying on the legacy after Keith’s passing. They talk about the importance of doing the right thing in business, supporting the next generation through the Keith Maddox Memorial Scholarship, and why faith, family, and integrity remain at the center of everything American Hat stands for. At the core of it all is a simple belief: Be positive. Work hard. And never stop showing up. This episode is a reminder that true legacy isn’t built overnight… it’s built through perseverance, purpose, and the people you choose to impact along the way. 🎧 Tune in to hear how Susan Maddox is continuing the Positive Times legacy, empowering the next generation, and proving that grit, kindness, and authenticity still matter in the Western industry today.

In this episode of In The LOOP, Jordan Jo sits down with Blakely Boardman and Emmry Edwards—two rising stars in breakaway roping—for a conversation rooted in growth, confidence, and the future of women’s rodeo. At just 14 and 16 years old, these two are already competing—and winning—on some of the biggest stages in the sport. But what stands out most isn’t just their talent… it’s their mindset. From jackpot arenas to PWR, they share what it looks like to chase big goals at a young age—while staying grounded in hard work, family, and the love of the game. They open up about competing against the best, learning from every run, and why they truly believe they belong in the box with anyone. At the core of it all is a simple belief: Work just as hard—and you’re on the same level. This episode is a reminder that the future of breakaway roping is already here… and it’s only getting faster. 🎧 Tune in to hear how Blakely Boardman and Emmry Edwards are chasing big stages, big wins, and even bigger dreams.

In this episode of In The LOOP, Jordan Jo sits down with Taylor Santos—2x Timed Event Champion—for a conversation rooted in grit, discipline, and the relentless pursuit of getting better. From growing up in a family built around the timed event to winning one of rodeo’s toughest titles not once—but twice—Taylor shares what it really takes to compete at the highest level across five events in three days. Behind the buckle, though, is a story most people didn’t see. After years of competing through pain, Taylor faced a season where he didn’t know if he’d ever get back to the level he once was. Through surgeries, rehab, and rebuilding from the ground up, he leaned on faith, family, and the discipline of doing the work—day in and day out. He opens up about the mental side of rodeo, the importance of preparation, and why confidence is built long before you ever back in the box. At the core of it all is one simple mindset he’s carried since he was a kid: Run one more. This episode is a powerful reminder that success isn’t built in the spotlight—it’s built in the unseen reps, the hard seasons, and the choice to keep going when it would be easier to stop. 🎧 Tune in to hear how Taylor Santos fought his way back—and why the smallest decisions can lead to the biggest wins.

In this episode of In The LOOP, Jordan Jo sits down with Dusky Lynn Hall—a 12-year-old barrel racing standout whose confidence, knowledge, and drive go far beyond her years—for a conversation rooted in passion, perseverance, and a deep love for the horse. From her first runs at The American at just six years old to competing for millions on one of rodeo’s biggest stages, Dusky walks through her journey in the arena—sharing the highs, the setbacks, and the lessons learned along the way. She opens up about the horses that have shaped her career, the importance of understanding breeding and genetics, and the discipline it takes to care for elite equine athletes. With a mindset built on staying calm under pressure and trusting the process, Dusky explains how consistency—not perfection—is what keeps her progressing. Raised in a family that lives and breathes the Western lifestyle, Dusky credits her success to the people and horses around her—while also embracing her own responsibility to keep learning, improving, and “thriving” in every aspect of the sport. This episode is a powerful reminder that success isn’t about age—it’s about mindset, work ethic, and believing that if you want something bad enough, you’ll find a way to make it happen. 🎧 Tune in to hear how Dusky Lynn Hall is chasing big goals, building her future one run at a time, and proving that the next generation of the Western industry is already here.

In this episode of In The LOOP, Jordan Jo sits down with one of rodeo’s most recognizable champions—Richmond Champion—for a conversation about the moment that changed the sport of rodeo and the career that led him there. A nine-time National Finals Rodeo qualifier in bareback riding, Richmond made history when he became the inaugural million-dollar champion at The American Rodeo, a moment that stunned the rodeo world and helped open the door for bigger payouts and new opportunities across the sport. Richmond shares what life looked like before that historic ride—building a career through years of competition, chasing rodeos across the country, and learning how to compete against the very best bareback riders in the world. What followed after that moment was something few athletes experience. Winning a million dollars in a single ride brought a new level of attention to both Richmond and the sport itself. As he reflects in the episode, the reality of that moment didn’t fully sink in until later—when the rodeo world realized that a rodeo cowboy had just been paid one million dollars for a ride. From raising a family on the road to continuing to compete with the next generation of bareback riders, Richmond reflects on the lessons he’s learned through rodeo, fatherhood, and the pursuit of a dream that helped reshape the sport. This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most defining moments in modern rodeo—and the cowboy who helped set it in motion. 🎧 Tune in to hear how Richmond Champion helped put rodeo on the map with the ride that changed everything.

In this episode of In The LOOP, Jordan Jo sits down with one of the most influential women in rodeo and Western business — Billie Bray — for a conversation that spans three decades of change, resilience, growth, and leadership. From the electric atmosphere of the 2016 USTRC Finals to the birth of million-dollar rodeos, Billie walks us through the moments that reshaped the Western industry as we know it. She shares what it was like owning and building the USTRC for 20 years, investing in the classification system that leveled the playing field, and helping grow team roping into the largest economic force in Western sports — now paying out over $100 million annually. But this episode isn’t just about numbers. It’s about family. It’s about raising two high-level rodeo athletes. It’s about watching your son win an all-around title at the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo — the same arena where you once competed — and hearing him say he wants to be just like his mom. Because at the heart of it all, rodeo is still about values, family, and the culture we’re fighting to preserve. 🎧 Listen now on all podcast platforms and watch via RodeoLive / The Cowboy Channel. You’re officially In The LOOP.