Hats & Helmets
Hosted by Brendan Wayne, this podcast explores the art, craft, and power of storytelling across film, television, books, and popular culture.
As an actor best known for helping bring Mando to life in The Mandalorian, Brendan has spent his career studying how great characters connect with audiences through performance, movement, emotion, and story. As the grandson of legendary screen icon John Wayne, he also brings a unique perspective shaped by a family legacy deeply rooted in Hollywood storytelling, offering insight into how the craft has evolved across generations while remaining grounded in the timeless elements that make stories resonate.
Drawing from his own experiences in the entertainment industry, as well as conversations with actors, writers, directors, producers, and other creative professionals, Brendan goes beyond the finished product to uncover what makes stories memorable.
Whether you're a filmmaker, writer, actor, avid reader, or simply someone who loves a great story, join us as we explore the stories behind the stories and discover why certain narratives stay with us long after the final page, scene, or credit roll.
Episodes
Aug 27, 2026
Aug 27, 2026
1 hr 19 min
In this episode, Brendan sits down with actor Jonny Coyne to trace his journey from his upbringing through acting school and into a career spanning a wide range of film and television roles. Jonny reflects on the shows that shaped him along the way and his experience working on The Mandalorian and Grogu, sharing what he's learned about craft, persistence, and reinvention across decades in the industry.
Jul 24, 2026
Jul 24, 2026
52 min
In this episode, Brendan sits down with UFC veteran and actor Frank Trigg to talk UFC, his role in The Book of Boba Fett, and his journey from the octagon to the big screen. Frank shares what it took to transition from a career in combat sports to stunts, the mindset shifts along the way, and how storytelling shows up both in the cage and on screen.
Catch Frank live: he's refereeing UFC events in Sacramento on August 22 and LA on September 19, and signing at the Boonta Eve celebration at Rebel Scum on August 7th.
Jul 8, 2026
Jul 8, 2026
47 min
In the first episode of Hats & Helmets, Brendan Wayne sits down with two-time Emmy Award–winning stuntman Lateef Crowder. Over the past eight years, the pair has worked together to help bring the titular character of The Mandalorian to life. They work their way through Lateef's incredible career journey, from capoeira master to the big screen.