Employees Unpaid, Benefits Cut: Trouble Brews at Selena Gomez’s Startup!

May 13, 2025: Global superstar Selena Gomez is facing mounting scrutiny after reports surfaced claiming her mental health startup, Wondermind, is battling financial instability. Despite her billionaire status and vocal support for mental health awareness, the company has allegedly failed to pay some employees on time and has slashed staff health benefits, according to a recent Forbes exposé.

The report sparked controversy by alleging that Mandy Teefey, Wondermind’s CEO and Gomez’s mother, stepped in to cover the startup’s debts by taking a loan against her home. However, a source told People that this specific claim was inaccurate.

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Forbes stated that while one delayed paycheck was resolved, at least one other remains unpaid. In a statement addressing the situation, a Wondermind spokesperson said:

“Like many startups, Wondermind has been working through its own set of growing pains. The team remains committed to its mission and is preparing for a new chapter.”

Fans and Critics React: “Where’s the Billion-Dollar Backup?”

The backlash stems largely from the apparent contrast between Gomez’s personal wealth and the reported financial challenges at Wondermind. Last year, Bloomberg estimated Selena’s net worth at $1.3 billion, placing her among the richest entertainers globally. Other sources place her fortune closer to $700 million, but either way, Gomez stands as a financial powerhouse.

Critics online have questioned why the singer-turned-businesswoman isn’t personally stepping in to stabilize the company. Some have accused her of hypocrisy, citing her frequent public statements advocating for mental health while her employees reportedly suffer from missed paychecks and reduced benefits.

Wondermind: Mission vs. Management

Founded in 2022, Wondermind was created to normalize conversations around mental health and provide tools for emotional fitness. It received praise early on for combining science-backed strategies with celebrity influence. But the recent revelations have cast doubt on its internal stability and leadership.

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While the company’s official statement attempted to reassure the public of its continued dedication to mental health advocacy, the damage to its reputation—particularly in an industry where transparency and trust are crucial—may take time to repair.

What’s Next for Wondermind—and Selena Gomez?

The controversy raises broader questions about celebrity-run wellness brands and the gap between public image and business reality. While Gomez has not personally addressed the latest allegations, her team appears to be working behind the scenes to steer the company forward.

As Wondermind faces this crossroads, eyes remain on Selena—will she publicly respond, or let the company’s next chapter speak for itself?