Episode 355: Overcoming Addiction: Dr. Scott Teitelbaum's Journey of Resilience and Redemption

Oct 13, 2025

Dr. Scott Teitelbaum, an addiction medicine leader and former pediatrician, shares his remarkable journey from addiction to redemption. He discusses the emotional toll of losing his medical license and family, highlighting how humility and the support of mentors helped him rebuild his life. Scott reflects on the paradoxes of recovery, emphasizing the need for vulnerability and teachability. He shares invaluable insights on creating supportive environments for recovery and delivers a powerful message of hope for those still struggling.

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ANECDOTE

From Pediatrician To Addiction Specialist

Scott Teitelbaum trained and worked as a pediatrician before addiction unraveled his life and career.
He later retrained in child psychiatry and addiction medicine after getting sober on August 22, 1996.

ANECDOTE

Family Crisis Triggered Treatment

Family consequences drove Scott to seek help after his substance use escalated and affected his marriage and children.
He faced discipline, divorce, and loss of his pediatric practice as addiction progressed and relapses occurred under monitoring.

INSIGHT

Denial Masked The Full Problem

Denial led Scott to minimize the severity and scope of his problems, treating substances separately instead of seeing a unified addiction.
He learned teachability and honesty were essential; willpower and professional success could not replace openness to help.

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Dr. Scott Teitelbaum's world came crashing down when his addictions to marijuana, alcohol, cocaine, and gambling threatened not only his medical career but also his family life. As a former pediatrician who found himself battling these demons, Scott's story is one of hitting rock bottom before finding the strength to climb back up. Hear how the loss of his medical license and the dissolution of his marriage became the catalysts for a transformative journey into addiction medicine and child psychiatry. His candid reflection on overcoming denial and embracing teachability offers invaluable insights into the challenges and triumphs of recovery.

Scott's path to redemption wasn't traveled alone. With the unwavering support of mentors who saw potential in him, he embarked on a journey marked by humility and gratitude. These mentors believed in his ability to rebuild his life even when he couldn't see it himself. As Scott recounts the steps he took to regain his medical license and rebuild his career, he emphasizes the importance of maintaining sobriety and helping others in their recovery journeys. A touching story about a gift from a mentor serves as a poignant reminder of the impact that support can have on one's journey to recovery.

In this episode, you will hear:

Dr. Scott Teitelbaum's personal journey from pediatrician to addiction medicine expert after battling his own addictions.
The role of denial and teachability in Dr. Teitelbaum's initial struggles with recovery and eventual transformation.
The importance of mentorship and support systems in Dr. Teitelbaum's path to regaining his medical license and rebuilding his life.
Establishment and impact of the Florida Recovery Center, a top facility in Gainesville, Florida, for addiction recovery.
The emotional and professional challenges faced by Dr. Teitelbaum, including the loss of his medical license and family, and his subsequent recovery.
The power of resilience, gratitude, and humility in overcoming addiction and helping others on their recovery journeys.

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Supporting Resources:

NovusMindfulLife.com

https://www.theaddictedmind.com/community

Episode Credits

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