The bear was raised and trained by his owner, Jeff and the late Leanne Watson, since he was 8 weeks old and weighed less than 10 pounds (4.5 kg).
The Watsons acquired Brody from animal trainer and cinematographer Lloyd Beebe[1] who operated the Olympic Game Farm and managed animal actors for Disney.
[2] Brody and the Watsons traveled throughout the United States educating the public about bears and safety.
[3][4][5] His first television appearance was on Good Morning America at the age of 12 weeks.
[6] Brody was sponsored by Berne Apparel, a manufacturer of outdoor work apparel, as their live mascot and is pictured in the company's corporate logo and other marketing materials.