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Robert Valderrama, owner and operator of Trinity Training Complex, has spent more than a decade immersed in the firearms industry. In October of 2021, alongside Joseph Fasinella, he opened the doors to Trinity Training Complex — a facility that stands out with its impressive 16,000‑square‑foot shoot house. Since then, it has welcomed some of the biggest names in the field, as well as agencies from across the country, with a strong focus on the tri‑state area. Robert’s journey began with Condition Gray, Joseph Fasinella’s first company, where he got his start in firearms training. Today, he is certified as both an NRA pistol and rifle instructor, having trained with respected organizations up and down the East Coast. But beyond his professional achievements, Robert is also a husband and father of four, weaving family values into his philosophy of safety and preparedness. The conversation with him goes beyond technical training. It explores themes of self‑reliance, personal responsibility, and the importance of education. Together, they reflect on cultural perspectives surrounding firearms, the influence of political climates on preparedness, and the need for continuous learning. They emphasize teaching children about safety and awareness without instilling fear, and ultimately call on individuals to take responsibility for their own protection and that of their families.

In this episode, Ed and Eddie dive into a light-hearted discussion about their quirky ability to remember jingles while struggling with everyday details like birthdays. They share amusing anecdotes about their recent travels, particularly their first trip to Europe, where they conducted a seminar in Switzerland. The conversation shifts to their experiences in Switzerland, highlighting the stark contrast between the safety and order of the country compared to their home in Mexico. They reflect on the cultural differences, including the food, the efficiency of public transport, and the unique experiences they had, such as a memorable fondue dinner and encounters with local customs. The episode also touches on their observations regarding the socio-political climate in Venezuela, discussing the recent developments surrounding Maduro's regime and the implications of U.S. involvement in the region.

Dave Franke shares his remarkable journey from Los Angeles to becoming a law enforcement officer in Mexico. He discusses his troubled childhood, the bold decision to write to the PGR seeking a new path, and the intense training he underwent to become a police officer. Frank reflects on the challenges of being a foreign officer in a corrupt system, the importance of building trust with his fellow officers, and the harsh realities of police work in Mexico, including his first firefight. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes the dedication and loyalty of many officers who strive to make Mexico a better place. Ed and Franke delve into their experiences in law enforcement during the tumultuous Zeta era in Mexico. They discuss the challenges of working in a dangerous environment, the camaraderie among officers, the harsh realities of combat, and the emotional toll of losing colleagues. The dialogue also touches on the transition to civilian life, the need for better support for law enforcement, and the importance of bridging cultural gaps between Mexico and the United States.

Step inside the journey of Cody Scott Donovan — Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, retired UFC Light Heavyweight fighter, and Bellator competitor. From his roots in Waterloo, Iowa, to training with legends like Nate Marquardt, Donovan’s story is one of resilience, cultural heritage, and transformation. In this conversation, we explore: -His path from security guard to professional MMA fighter -Reflections on Irish and Mexican traditions of grief and resilience -The challenges of violence, bullying, and finding strength through martial arts -Mental preparation, flow state, and lessons from legendary fighters -Personal anecdotes, including a hilarious “Batman” story -Advice for aspiring fighters: commitment, intentionality, and presence This episode is more than a fight story — it’s about growth, culture, and the power of martial arts to shape identity.

Maija studied sword with the enigmatic and reclusive sword master Maestro Sonny Umpad, and since his untimely death in 2006, has focused on teaching sword play as a way to understand tactics and strategy. She has written 3 books on the subject - The Liar, the Cheat, and the Thief, The Hustler, and The Spy and the Rodeo Clown. She has also designed two knives, the Vaari and the Moikka, the former of which appears in the Livia Lone books written by Barry Eisler. She is a Finn who grew up in the UK and now lives in the USA, which probably explains why she enjoys silence and a nice cup of tea with her pecan pie. In this conversation, Ed Calderon and Maija delve into the intricate world of martial arts, focusing on the teachings of Sonya Oompa and the philosophy behind sword fighting. They explore the evolution of martial arts, the importance of deception and strategy in combat, and the valuable life lessons learned through training. The discussion emphasizes the need for adaptability, problem-solving, and the unique relationship between a practitioner and their weapon, highlighting how these elements contribute to personal growth and understanding in martial arts. Maija and Ed explore the intricacies of martial arts, focusing on the balance between tradition and innovation, the importance of adaptability in combat, and the role of luck and deception. The evolution of Filipino martial arts, the significance of understanding movement and balance, and the necessity of training with diverse partners. The dialogue also delves into weapon philosophy, the art of teaching, and the importance of context in combat scenarios, ultimately emphasizing the need for hyper-awareness and social engineering as vital survival tools.

Witchdoctorzero David Byas AKA D. Willy in the tattoo world since 1989, and more recently as "Doc" in the EDC community, has been a lifelong artist and world traveler. Originally making tattoos and outsider art, D became seriously interested in making EDC gear and impact weapons around 2013. Being a bit of a self-styled fashionista, D wanted a sap like Grandpa's, but with more style and flair, so he started carving and tooling them...re-engineering and trying to do something different with an age-old tool. In 2016 he brought one of his daughters, Sydnie, into the fold, and the two have recently opened The Apokalyptik in Urbana, Ohio, combining tattooing and custom-made/bespoke leather gear into one storefront. Witchdoctor Zero- Made with Soul in the USA. This conversation delves into the art of improvisation in tool-making, particularly focusing on the crafting of saps and the journey of a tattoo artist. They explore the historical significance of saps in law enforcement, the influence of military culture on craftsmanship, and the evolution of tattoo machines. They discuss the power of visualization in manifesting success, the intersection of art and weaponry, and personal experiences with the occult. The importance of community support in craftsmanship is emphasized, highlighting how shared knowledge and experiences shape the artisan's journey. They delve into deep themes of spirituality, trauma, and the search for meaning in life. They explore personal experiences with death, the nature of reality, and the power of belief and manifestation. The discussion also touches on the impact of family stories and legends, as well as the complexities of relationships and personal growth. Throughout the dialogue, they reflect on their fears, beliefs, and the lessons learned from their past experiences, ultimately seeking a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

In this episode, Ed and Eddie dive headfirst into a whirlwind of stories and unexpected twists. From there, the conversation veers into the uncanny: alien encounters, unexplained phenomena, and personal tales that blur the line between reality and the supernatural. They trade theories and experiences with raw honesty. They also recount recent travels and training sessions, sharing behind-the-scenes moments with iconic figures from the knife and tactical community.

In this conversation, Ed and Eddie explore the cultural significance of Halloween and the Day of the Dead, sharing personal anecdotes and experiences related to these celebrations. They delve into ghost stories, sleep paralysis, and the impact of childhood fears and stories on adult beliefs. The discussion highlights the intersection of reality and the supernatural, as well as coping mechanisms for nightmares and sleep issues.

A former intelligence analyst that focused mostly on non state actors in Latin America and Africa with nearly a decade of experience in the defense industry from the perspective of several roles. Currently, works specifically the international arms trade. My Instagram project is focused around the weird things I come across at work and also how this work intersects with geopolitics." This conversation delves into the evolution of cartel warfare in Mexico, highlighting the sophisticated weaponry and tactics employed by cartels, particularly the New Generation Cartel. The discussion covers the @TheArmsProjekt aimed at filling information gaps regarding arms sources, the influence of Colombian operators, and the ongoing arms race between cartels and the military. They emphasize the need to understand the complexities of arms trafficking and the technological advancements that have transformed modern warfare. The conversation delves into the complex issues surrounding firearms trafficking, corruption, and the relationship between the U.S. and Mexican cartels. It explores the origins of firearms in the U.S., the implications of gun walking operations, and the political dynamics affecting Mexico's fight against cartels. They also touch on the evolving nature of warfare, particularly with the rise of drones and autonomous systems, and the potential threats posed by terrorism and mass migration. The conversation concludes with insights into the @TheArmsProjekt, aimed at educating the public about these critical issues.

This conversation explores the journey of Nick Betts a veteran transitioning from military service to civilian life, focusing on experiences in executive protection and contracting with Blackwater. The discussion delves into the psychological impacts of combat, the realities of modern warfare, including the use of drones, and the evolving nature of conflicts such as the Ukrainian war. They also touch on the cultural perceptions of veterans and the challenges they face in reintegrating into society and delve into the evolution of drone warfare, the changing dynamics of special operations, and the implications of political violence in the current climate. They discuss the complexities of immigration and identity in America, particularly in relation to the Latino community, and analyze the recent assassination of a political figure. The conversation highlights the intertwined nature of U.S.-Mexico relations and the challenges faced by immigrants navigating the legal system. Overall, it reflects on the broader societal changes and the future of political discourse in the United States.

In this conversation, Ed and Eddie dive into the world of Buc-ee's Beaver nuggets, sharing their taste-testing experiences and humorous anecdotes. They explore the effects of concussions, recount embarrassing stories, and reflect on life lessons learned. The episode blends humor with serious topics, creating an engaging and relatable listening experience.

Randy Blythe is the American vocalist of the Grammy-nominated heavy metal band Lamb of God, known for his aggressive vocal style and powerful lyrics. Born in 1971, he joined the band, then known as Burn the Priest, in 1995 and also fronts the side-project band Halo of Locusts. Beyond music, he is a photographer, author, and activist Ed and Randy discuss the journeys of two individuals through punk rock culture, exploring their experiences in Tijuana and the impact of music on their lives. Their conversation covers the evolution of punk, the importance of skateboarding, and the challenges of personal struggles like alcoholism. They delve into the complexities of addiction, recovery, and the effects of fame on mental health, sharing personal experiences with substance abuse and the path to sobriety. They also touch on how younger generations view drug use, the struggle to confront personal demons, and the role of travel in fostering cultural understanding. The dialogue also highlights the dehumanization and immigration issues tied to labor policies and society. They stress the importance of personal accountability, the role of art in social commentary, and the challenges within the legal system. Ultimately, their conversation emphasizes empathy, authenticity, and being present while reflecting on personal growth and the journey of sobriety.

Ed and Eddie explore a range of topics from a transformative experience at Universal Studios to the impact of social media fame following an appearance on Joe Rogan's podcast. They discuss cultural representation, personal identity, and the evolution of Ed's Manifesto. The conversation also delves into experiences at DEF CON and the complexities of furry culture, providing a rich tapestry of insights and reflections on modern life and identity. They delve into the quirky and fascinating world of furry conventions, sharing humorous anecdotes and unexpected encounters. They explore the adult section of the convention, discuss the cultural significance of cosplay, and reflect on the current state of Vegas. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of warfare technology, particularly the use of drones, and the unique experiences at DEF CON.

Ed & Eddie reflect on their recent travels, including a trip to Mexico City where they explored cultural practices surrounding Santa Muerte, visited the infamous Tepito neighborhood, and encountered the vibrant yet dangerous Sonora Market. They also discuss personal experiences in the Middle East amidst conflict, the significance of heritage, and the challenges faced during their travels, including a chaotic airport experience. The conversation weaves together themes of cultural identity, spirituality, and the complexities of modern life.

In this conversation, Ed and Eddie share humorous anecdotes about language barriers, particularly in Spanish, and delve into their experiences with counter custody training. They discuss the dynamics of employee training, the creativity involved in making tools for liberation, and the importance of realistic training scenarios. The conversation takes a turn as they recount a harrowing car accident, the medical aftermath, and the lessons learned from the experience. They also reflect on cultural insights related to public altars and share exciting future plans for opening a storefront and hosting events.