Selena Gomez’s Mom Accused of Turning Company Office Into ‘Drug Den’ by Employees
Controversy Surrounds Wondermind CEO Mandy Teefey Amid Employee Allegations
Mandy Teefey, widely known as the mother of acclaimed actress Selena Gomez and co-founder of the mental health startup Wondermind, has recently come under intense scrutiny. According to a detailed report by The Cut, fourteen current and former employees have shared troubling accounts of Teefey’s behavior while leading the company. These allegations paint a picture of a workplace environment marred by instability and misconduct, with some employees describing the company office as a “drug den.”
The accusations include claims that Teefey often appeared intoxicated during work hours and that she sometimes slept in the office. One employee even alleged witnessing Teefey snorting a substance believed to be Ritalin, a prescription stimulant commonly used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. Such allegations have sparked widespread concern and criticism, especially given Wondermind’s mission to support mental health.
Despite these serious claims, Mandy Teefey has publicly denied all allegations. In a statement shared with US Weekly, she expressed disappointment over what she described as “lies” spread by disgruntled employees seeking to damage her reputation. Teefey emphasized that these accusations are distortions of the truth and reaffirmed her commitment to Wondermind’s vision.
The Origins and Vision of Wondermind
Wondermind was launched in April 2022 by Mandy Teefey alongside her daughter Selena Gomez and Colombian-American entrepreneur Daniella Pierson. The startup aims to provide accessible mental health resources, emphasizing that mental wellness is for everyone, not just those diagnosed with mental illnesses. Daniella Pierson, who also served as CEO, highlighted this inclusive approach during an interview on ABC’s Good Morning America, stating, “Wondermind is not just for people who have a diagnosed mental illness—this is for anyone who has feelings.”
However, internal tensions reportedly existed between Teefey and Pierson. Former employees described their relationship as “hostile,” though Teefey’s representatives have called this characterization a “gross distortion.” Pierson eventually left Wondermind in January 2023. While some reports suggested she was pushed out, her spokesperson clarified that leaving was a difficult but proud decision, underscoring the achievements made during her tenure.
Financial and Operational Challenges at Wondermind
The controversy surrounding Wondermind extends beyond personal allegations. In May 2025, Forbes reported that the startup failed to pay some of its employees, a serious red flag for any growing company. Shortly after, another Forbes article revealed that approximately two-thirds of Wondermind’s workforce had been laid off, signaling significant operational challenges.
Employees who spoke to The Cut expressed frustration, particularly with Selena Gomez’s perceived inaction despite witnessing the turmoil firsthand. One staffer commented that while Teefey’s behavior might not have been intentionally harmful, it contributed to a toxic work environment. Furthermore, some insiders described the relationship between Mandy Teefey and Selena Gomez as “strained and uncomfortable,” adding another layer of complexity to the company’s internal dynamics.
Mandy Teefey’s Personal Struggles and Future Plans
Mandy Teefey has been open about her personal challenges, including mental health struggles during her teenage years when she gave birth to Selena Gomez at just 16. She also publicly shared her battle with double pneumonia in 2021, revealing that she used IV drips containing antihistamines like Benadryl to aid her recovery.
Despite the ongoing controversies, Teefey remains optimistic about Wondermind’s future. She is reportedly working on launching a new community-building app that will feature “mental fitness” tools designed to support users’ emotional well-being. This initiative aligns with Wondermind’s original mission to make mental health resources more accessible and engaging.
Conclusion
The allegations against Mandy Teefey have cast a shadow over Wondermind, raising important questions about leadership and workplace culture in startups focused on mental health. While the accusations are serious, Teefey’s denial and plans for future projects suggest that the story is still unfolding. For those interested in mental health innovation and celebrity-led ventures, staying informed about Wondermind’s developments will be crucial.
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