Mitch Teitelbaum is a highly respected education attorney at Windsor Law, LLC in Sarasota, Florida, with licenses to practice law in California, New York, and Florida. He is also an award-winning international filmmaker.
A Legal Luminary with Hollywood Roots
Born in Los Angeles, California, Mitch Teitelbaum comes from a family deeply embedded in Hollywood’s legacy. Mitch’s grandfather and his brother shaped early Hollywood. Mitch’s uncle was a famous casting agent, contributing significantly to the industry’s talent pool. Mitch’s brother Jeremy was an innovator in the movie studios as part of craft services, ensuring that the sets ran smoothly and the cast and crew were well taken care of with delicious gourmet coffee. These familial influences played a pivotal role in shaping Mitch’s early interests in film and storytelling. While other children were getting toys, Mitch was given a Super 8 movie camera and started filmmaking at the age of 11.
Educational Pursuits and Film Inspirations
Mitch’s academic journey took him to New York University (NYU), where he earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. NYU is renowned for its esteemed Tisch School of the Arts, one of the leading film schools in the nation. During his time at NYU, Mitch was inspired by the vibrant community of young filmmakers who transformed Washington Square Park into a creative hub for their short films. Eager to learn, Mitch took several film classes, mastering the nuances of light and sound and cultivating a deep appreciation for the art of filmmaking.
A Decade of Service in Education
Before joining Windsor Law, Mitch served as General Counsel and Assistant Superintendent for the Manatee County School District for nearly a decade. In this capacity, he was responsible for overseeing legal matters, providing strategic counsel, and ensuring compliance with educational regulations. His extensive experience in education law and administration has equipped him with invaluable insights and expertise, making him a formidable advocate for students and families navigating the complexities of the education system. Mitch stated, “Nothing brings greater satisfaction than resolving student issues with my partner Jane Windsor at Windsor Law.”
A Family of Achievers
Mitch’s wife, Joanna Petriccione, is an award-winning host for American Dream TV. Joanna has been constantly recognized for her outstanding work in entertainment and television, with her episodes frequently airing on the Travel Channel. Their daughter Ashley followed in the family’s artistic footsteps, becoming a childhood actress, appearing in the major motion picture Annie, award-winning television shows, and music videos.
International Filmmaking and Awards
Mitch has also made significant strides in filmmaking internationally. He filmed for his wife’s episode “Taste of Italy” throughout Italy this past summer. While in the midst and height of tourist season, Mitch captured his subject without a sole person in frame. The Taste of Italy episode showcases the rich cultural and culinary heritage of Italy.
Mitch was again behind the lens of the New Orleans segment for American Dream TV’s episode “Gulf to Gulf”, a creative piece that showcased two cities. When other TV hosts change their wardrobe, Mitch and Joanna change cities.
Most recently, Mitch was behind the lens in Seattle filming an episode with Joanna titled “Coast to Coast”, a tribute to our military. This again showcased their creativity by filming in two cities and also captured beautiful cinematic shots.
The 46th Annual Telly Awards
The 46th annual Telly Awards were announced on May 20, 2025. Together with his wife, Mitch and Joanna were joint winners of seven Telly Awards in Television and Entertainment. Mitch was behind the lens and gorgeous Joanna was in front. The duo were simply unstoppable. Mitch was recognized for his craft and Joanna as host on American Dream TV. Mayfair Films and their post-production company received numerous accolades.
Expanding Horizons and Gaining Recognition
In addition to his legal practice and filmmaking endeavors, Mitch has always been passionate about expanding his horizons and gaining recognition for his work. His keen interest in storytelling and visual arts has led him to explore various aspects of filmmaking, from directing to producing, and even cinematography. Mitch’s dedication to his craft is evident in the quality and impact of the projects he undertakes.
When asked about the secret to his success as a filmmaker, Mitch said: “I am very blessed to have an amazing wife that the camera simply loves. Joanna makes it so easy. Her insight and creativity add to every aspect of an episode.”
Merging Legal Acumen with Filmmaking Passion
Mitch’s unique background as both a legal expert and a filmmaker allows him to approach his work with a creative and strategic mindset. His journey from Hollywood to the courtroom is a testament to his dedication to both education and the arts. Whether he’s advocating for students’ rights or exploring the intricacies of filmmaking, Mitch brings a blend of passion, expertise, and innovation to everything he does.
A Legacy of Excellence
Mitch Teitelbaum’s multifaceted career and personal achievements reflect his commitment to making a difference in the world of education and beyond. His story is one of resilience, creativity, and dedication, inspiring those around him to pursue their passions and stand up for what they believe in. As Mitch continues to excel in both his legal and filmmaking endeavors, his legacy of excellence and advocacy for education will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on his community and the broader film industry. We cannot wait for Mitch and Joanna’s next episode.
