Scott Wannenburg’s story is one of resilience and overcoming challenges, which is beautifully captured in his book. Through his book, he shares his journey of reaching rock bottom and finding his way back to success. Scott’s experiences and life lessons are a source of inspiration for anyone who is going through a tough time.
The story of a husband and a father who lost it all due to drugs and financial struggles is all too familiar in today’s society.
It’s a story that is often told in the media, and unfortunately, it’s a story that is repeated over and over again. However, what sets this particular story apart is the fact that Scott Wannenburg managed to get back up and fix his mistakes. He wrote a book about his ordeal, and he is now looking forward to inspiring others.
Finding his way back
Scott was a successful businessman and a loving husband and father. However, his life took a sharp turn for the worse when he became addicted to drugs.
His addiction soon took over his life, and he lost everything he had worked so hard for.
Scott’s addiction began with drugs. He started hanging out with the wrong crowd, people who were also addicted to drugs. Scott’s addiction quickly spiralled out of control, and he soon found himself spending all his money on drugs.
As a result, Scott lost his job and his family. He became incapable of providing for his family, and his wife left him. Scott had reached a point of complete destitution, having nothing but the clothes on his back.
With his family absent, he sought refuge at his parents’ home, where he slept on their couch with few possessions to his name. “At that time, all I had was the couch, and I was in a very challenging situation,” he explains.
It was at this point that Scott realised that he had hit rock bottom. He decided to make a change and began the long and difficult journey towards sobriety. He also began to reflect on his past mistakes and started to take responsibility for his actions.
Scott began to write about his experiences in the Covid-19 lockdown period. He wrote about his addiction, his mistakes, and his journey towards recovery. He wanted to share his story with others who were going through similar struggles and show them that there is always hope. Piece-by-piece he began to rebuild his life.
He reconnected with his family and worked hard to regain their trust. He also started a new business and began to focus on his passion for writing.
Scott’s book, From the Bottom Up was published and quickly became a bestseller. Over 150 copies of his book have been sold to date.
It was a new mindset and ultimatum that turned my life around
‘There is a song called – We started from the bottom now we here, written by Drake, that inspired me with the name of my book,’ he says.
This is what made his book so important as he, himself came clean of his past and his doings.
‘It was a new mindset and ultimatum that turned my life around.’
‘I used a pseudonym name for my book – Samuel Hunt – Samuel is my middle name and Hunt being my wife’s maiden name.’
His book was released straight after his first interview with JMM Productions, which was on July 20, 2022.
In it, he shared his story and offered advice to those struggling with addiction. His book became a source of inspiration for many people and helped them find the strength to overcome their struggles.
Today, Scott is sober, happy, and successful.
His story is a powerful reminder that no matter how far we fall, we can always get back up and start again. It is a testament to the power of perseverance and the strength of the human spirit. Scott’s book is a must-read for anyone struggling with addiction or looking for inspiration to overcome their challenges.
Fatherhood is the best feeling in the world
As a father of two, Scott believes that being a good dad means nurturing what’s best for his children and setting an example. In order to raise happy, accepting children, he strives to love and accept them for who they are.
One of his greatest memories was meeting his daughter for the first time and watching her grow into a blossoming young lady. A narcissistic stepfather affected Scott’s upbringing, but he celebrates Father’s Day with his family regardless.
He has learned to balance work and life while being a dad and advises others to be flexible yet firm with their kids.
Being a father means the world to him, and he takes pride in being a positive role model for his children. Whether it’s sharing a meal, attending school events, or going on family vacations, Scott believes in creating memories that will last a lifetime. He understands the importance of being present and engaged with his kids, and he loves nothing more than watching them grow and thrive.
On a personal note
He was born in Durban on November 30, 1968. Growing up in the 70s, he spent his childhood in Hillbrow, a bustling and diverse suburb with over 52 different nationalities living there.
Despite the challenges of the time, Scott found much to do, including visiting the indoor pool, going to the movie house called the Mini Cini One, and attending the Joubert Park recreation centre during school holidays.
Throughout his school years, Scott attended four primary schools: Roseneath Primary, Pietersburg English Medium Primary (a boarding school), Greenhills Primary, and Bramley Primary. He then attended two high schools: Northview High for only the first term of Grade Eight, and then Highlands North Boys High School. After graduating, Scott served in the army for two years before beginning his career in the workforce.
Scott got divorced in 1999 and got remarried in 2003. He is proud to say that he has been married to Lindy Leigh Wannenburg for the last 20 years.
Today, the couple work together at the same company. Scott is a sports fanatic and spends his weekends catching up on the latest games or binge-watching series on Netflix. His only hobby at the moment is promoting his book through social media.
‘I have been in the motor industry for almost 31 years. I have worked for brands such as Nissan, Hyundai, Mercedes, Jeep and Honda. I have also held several titles right from sales executive, auctioneer, sales manager, branch manager as well as regional wholesale manager.
‘I have also had my own business buying and selling cars for three and half years. I am currently with We Buy Cars and have been with them for just over two years now.’
He has had three mentors in the motor trade who have become close friends and are always there to offer advice.
One of his passions is auctioneering, which he discovered while working for Burchmores in Cape Town in 1993/94. He has a diploma in auctioneering from the SA College of Auctioneers and is fascinated by the fast-talking auctioneers in cattle auctions.
He believes that he could excel in this field due to his passion for it and his naturally fast-talking abilities. In terms of personality, he is an extroverted, sociable, fun-loving person who enjoys meeting new people and spending time with his friends. He stands firm in his beliefs and is not afraid to speak his mind when something isn’t right. Scott is also transparent, meaning that he is straightforward and honest with others, showing them his true self.
He believes that changing the inequalities in the world, including those based on gender, education, jobs, and healthcare, would make the world a better place for all to live in. With his drive and determination, Scott is sure to continue making a positive impact on the world around him.
Details: For any enquiries about Scott’s book, contact him on 083 274 4063.
Text: ELZAAN PIENAAR. Photo: JACQUI FERNANDEZ from Captivante’ Photography.
