@Jake E. I'm a real estate broker in Brandon. Are you wanting to become an agent to help clients (buyers & sellers) with traditional real estate or are you looking to be an investor on your own? If you're looking to buy/sell your own real estate, then you do not need a RE license.
As far as brokerages go, you are right...there are a TON of fees, costs, etc. structures and vary greatly from brokerage to brokerage.
As others have mentioned, some of the large "big box" brokerages make substantial money off the backs of their agents with monthly fees and set up fees. Its a similar model to a gym membership, they provide some resources, but you are charged whether you utilize the weights & treadmill or not.
A lot of brokers, such as myself, don't charge "junk" monthly fees to their agents. You'll also want to ask if listings and solds go in your name or the name of the broker or team lead only. You'll want to make sure that they go in your name, otherwise you will have nothing to show if you ever leave for a new brokerage.
Make sure to interview multiple brokerages and see what is the right fit for YOU!