Havenwood Academy Podcast
Hosted by Josh Gardner - CFO of Havenwood Academy - this show takes you behind the scenes of Havenwood Academy, a world-class residential treatment center in Cedar City, Utah.
Each episode shares real stories from our dedicated care providers - the people on the front lines helping young women heal from complex trauma, rebuild trust, and reclaim hope. You’ll hear the challenges, breakthroughs, and deeply human moments that make this work life-changing.
If you care about mental health, trauma-informed care, and the power of community, this is your inside look at how resilience is built and lives are transformed.
Havenwood Academy Podcast
Heather Lopez – Teacher at Havenwood Academy
In this episode, we sit down with Heather Lopez, a Physical Education and Health Teacher at Havenwood Academy, student council advisor, and new swim coach. Heather shares her unexpected journey into residential treatment, what daily life looks like working with students in a trauma-informed environment, and why relationships are at the heart of everything she does.
From witnessing the power of graduation to embracing the “sacred clown” mindset of teaching with purpose, humor, and heart, Heather reflects on growth, healing, and the realities of this work. She also opens up about her own personal transformation and what excites her most about expanding athletics and extracurricular opportunities for students at Havenwood.
This conversation offers an honest look behind the scenes at education, healing, and the impact of showing up consistently for young people.
