Liberty Risk

Ep. 32 • Ed Calderon & Eddie Dennis • Cartels, Corruption, Donkey Shows: The Truth Behind The Border.

Oct 31, 2025
Join Ed Calderon, a former Mexican paramilitary officer turned consultant, and Eddie Dennis, founder of Tactical Outfitters, as they share gripping tales from the border. Ed recounts his harrowing experiences with cartels, undercover operations, and the shocking brutality he witnessed. Eddie discusses his transition into the tactical gear business while navigating life as a single dad. They delve into the rise of highly militarized cartels, the strange cultural landscape of Mexico, and even the notorious donkey shows, blending gritty reality with dark humor.
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ANECDOTE

From Tijuana To Paramilitary Police

  • Ed Calderon grew up in Tijuana and joined an experimental paramilitary police unit at 20, training under ex-military instructors.
  • He experienced corruption, infiltration by cartel plants, and daily danger that shaped his later work and migration to the U.S.
INSIGHT

Structural Corruption Breaks Policing

  • Corruption and low pay make policing in Mexico structurally fragile and attractive to cartel influence.
  • Background checks and polygraphs helped, but cartel infiltration and political shifts still decimated trusted units.
ANECDOTE

Close Protection And Forced Exit

  • After 12 years Ed worked operations, investigations and close protection, including for Lt. Colonel Liza Ola who survived many assassination attempts.
  • Political change later flipped protections off, forcing Ed to call favors and seek immigration to the U.S.
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