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.

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⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/edsmanifesto⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Sneakreaper industries Merchandise

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://sneakreaper-industries.com/⁠⁠

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.

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⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/edsmanifesto⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Sneakreaper industries Merchandise

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://sneakreaper-industries.com/⁠⁠

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.

Subscribe to our patron for ad free podcast and more

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/edsmanifesto⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Sneakreaper industries Merchandise

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://sneakreaper-industries.com/⁠⁠