Noshing With Joel Brokaw – February 6, 2025

This week, Ira spoke with Joel Brokaw, author of "Driving Marilyn: The Life and Times of Legendary Hollywood Agent Norman Brokaw." In this agential episode of “Ira’s Everything Bagel,” Joel talks about his father being in the right place at the right time in Holly-wood (1943); how he played a major role in the transition of television from being a nov-elty to a major medium; forming the first West Coast office for television in the William Morris Agency; why he loved working with people who had talent; the first star he convinced to perform on television; why starting out in the mailroom of William Morris was a test of character; Joel growing up in that environment; why writing the book helped his understanding of his father’s real talent; how his story needed to be told; why the book is a celebration of a fascinating character; why Norman was very discreet; how his father could cut to the chase; dealing with gifted but flawed clients; why Norman loved being an agent; how his success came at a cost to his personal life; his misconceptions of his fa-ther; why his father was totally fulfilled with his social network; his father’s generosity of spirit; and why relationships matter. (Also Watch Full Podcast Video)