

Ed Calderon
Security specialist and combatives instructor with over 10 years of experience in public safety along the northern border area of Mexico. He shares insights into cartel culture, violence, and geopolitical issues.
Top 10 podcasts with Ed Calderon
Ranked by the Snipd community

462 snips
Aug 22, 2025 • 3h 6min
#2369 - Ed Calderon
Ed Calderon, a security specialist and combatives instructor with a decade of experience along Mexico's northern border, offers a gripping dive into the realities of cartel culture. He discusses the normalization of cartel violence and its ties to political corruption in Mexico, revealing chilling instances of public brutality. Calderon also explores the alarming recruitment tactics of cartels, including social media's role, while reflecting on the profound socio-political implications of these dynamics for both Mexico and the U.S.

135 snips
Dec 12, 2022 • 4h 12min
#346 – Ed Calderon: Mexican Drug Cartels
Ed Calderon is a security specialist with extensive experience in counter-narcotics and organized crime in Mexico. He shares gripping insights into the nature of corruption tied to drug cartels, exploring how integrity is challenged amidst widespread bribery. Calderon discusses the evolving landscape of cartel violence and the influence of modern technology on recruitment strategies. He also reflects on the emotional toll of trauma and the complex interplay between spirituality and narco culture, shedding light on the intricate dynamics shaping societal behavior in this context.

79 snips
Apr 15, 2025 • 2h 34min
#293 - Cartel Insider Exposes Elites Secretly Funding Syndicates | Ed Calderon
In this discussion, Ed Calderon, a cartel expert and former cartel cop with over 15 years in public safety, reveals shocking insights from his work on the U.S.-Mexico border. He shares harrowing stories, including the emotional toll of working with victims and the chilling methods of cartels. Ed exposes intriguing ties between powerful organizations like BlackRock and the CIA, breaking down how geopolitical issues intertwine with cartel influence. His reflections on PTSD, trauma, and the quest for redemption provide a deeply personal lens on these complex topics.

49 snips
Apr 11, 2025 • 3h 16min
#292 - Undercover Cartel Cop on Mass Grave Discovery & Covert US Ops in Mexico | Ed Calderon
Ed Calderon, a former cartel cop and security expert with extensive experience along the Mexican border, shares gripping insights into the dark world of cartels. He reveals the chilling connection between cannabis legalization and escalating cartel violence, highlights the tragic stories behind mass grave discoveries, and addresses U.S.-Mexico relations impacted by historical corruption. Calderon also sheds light on human trafficking, the influence of politics on crime, and the dire circumstances faced by those caught in the crossfire.

44 snips
Jan 26, 2024 • 3h 9min
#145 - Breaking Misconceptions of Santa Muerte with Ed Calderon | Glitch Bottle
Former counter-narcotics investigator Ed Calderon discusses the evolving veneration of Santa Muerte and shares deep lessons learned from going public. He breaks misconceptions about Santa Muerte, explores altars and offerings, and delves into the nature and symbolism of Santa Muerte. Calderon also talks about the importance of being present, honoring ancestors, embracing death, and personal development.

11 snips
Jan 31, 2025 • 37min
Peak Points | "I Was Covered in Blood" - Terrifying Moments as a Police Officer
In this conversation with Ed Calderon, a former police officer in Mexico known for his fight against cartels, the intensity of his experiences comes to light. He recounts harrowing encounters with cartel members, touching on the struggles of maintaining integrity in a corrupt environment. The discussion also reveals China's role in the fentanyl crisis linked to Mexican cartels. Additionally, Ed shares the significance of mentorship in navigating trauma, emphasizing the blend of personal resilience and community compassion in such a high-stakes career.

5 snips
Jan 17, 2024 • 1h 9min
China’s Ties to Mexican Drug Cartels and America’s Next War (with Ed Calderon)
Ed Calderon, a security specialist and instructor with extensive experience combatting Mexican drug cartels, discusses China's ties to Mexican cartels, fentanyl production and distribution, money laundering, and the potential impact on the US. They also explore the Mexican civil war, the role of drug cartels, and the importance of a strong US-Mexico partnership in addressing these issues.

Nov 26, 2020 • 3h 42min
#7 Ed Calderon Drug Cartel / Narcos Expert
In this insightful discussion, Ed Calderon, a former counter-narcotics expert, shares his harrowing experiences dealing with Mexican drug cartels. He discusses the chilling realities of cartel violence, including the normalization of brutality and the unique challenges faced by law enforcement. The conversation also delves into the alarming rise of fentanyl trafficking, the connections between Chinese interests and cartels, and the socio-political impact on communities. Calderon's stories emphasize the need for a collaborative approach to tackle the drug crisis effectively.

May 6, 2021 • 1h 20min
US-Mexico Border Crisis 2021 with Ed Calderon
In this engaging talk, Ed Calderon, an expert on the US-Mexico border crisis, provides eye-opening insights into the rising tide of illegal immigration and the complex interplay of organized crime and humanitarian challenges. He shares firsthand accounts of the struggles faced by unaccompanied minors and the dire consequences of cartel influence. Calderon also advocates for viewing cartel violence as an insurgency, stressing the importance of community support and transparency in addressing these pressing issues. It's a compelling look at life along the border.

Oct 31, 2025 • 4h 20min
Ep. 32 • Ed Calderon & Eddie Dennis • Cartels, Corruption, Donkey Shows: The Truth Behind The Border.
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.


