Michael J. Norton

Who is this guy I’ve never heard of? Michael J. Norton did the LA thing: wrote sitcoms and sold screenplays. After a contract at Disney evaporated, his agent said, “You’re okay. You’re solid B-list.” Although it beats the hell out of the D-list, the B-list is an ego-bruising slog once you plateau. Say goodbye to Hollywood—hello marketing!

Michael spent a few decades developing creative and business strategies for clients such as Maybelline, Toyota, LVMH, Jose Cuervo, the Guggenheim Museum, Samsung, Pepsi, Martha Stewart, a smattering of fashion brands, and the launch of GOOP.

Since 2015, he’s been “Professor Norton,” teaching marketing, branding, and public relations at Parsons School of Design. Michael has been appointed to several corporate and non-profit boards, including two terms as board chair of The Trevor Project. 

Michael is an avid reader, pop culture addict, and a dedicated but wobbly yogi. He’s also a devoted pickleball player and has the injuries to prove it.