Wondermind, the mental health startup co-founded by singer Selena Gomez, her mother Mandy Teefey, and media entrepreneur Daniella Pierson, is facing scrutiny after reports of unpaid staff and mounting debts. According to Forbes, employees, freelancers, and vendors allege they have not been paid since March 2025.
The startup, launched in 2021 and based in Los Angeles, was created to promote mental fitness through content such as podcasts and interviews. It gained early traction and credibility due in part to Gomez’s high-profile advocacy for mental health and secured $5 million in funding in 2022 at a $100 million valuation. The round included investments from Serena Ventures and Sequoia Capital.
However, internal financial issues have surfaced. Staff members report that Teefey informed them on May 8 that she had taken a loan against her home to help cover company debts. While one round of salaries has reportedly been issued, a second payment remains pending.
A Wondermind spokesperson responded to Forbes, stating, “Like many startups, Wondermind has been working through its own set of growing pains. In the coming days, we will be transitioning into a new chapter… dues will be paid by Monday (May 12).” Teefey declined further comment, and Gomez's representatives did not respond.
Forbes also cited internal emails and recordings indicating that the company owes substantial sums to a PR agency and freelance writers. Employees noted financial difficulties began in January 2023 after Pierson’s departure left Teefey solely in charge of operations.
Selena Gomez, while listed as chief impact officer, is said to have minimal involvement in daily affairs. Gomez remains a prominent public advocate for mental health and leads Rare Beauty, a cosmetics brand that generated an estimated $370 million in revenue in 2023.
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