WE ARE PIUS: The Ashburn Family

Host and CAO Jeremy Eckler sits down with the Ashburn family—Taylor, Cara, and their son Jonathan—for a powerful conversation that bridges generations of faith, football, and community at Pius X Catholic High School.

Taylor, a Pius X alum and former football player, reflects on his formative years and the deep traditions that shaped his life. Cara shares her journey from a small Catholic school in Humphrey to becoming a passionate member of the Pius community. Jonathan, a current student-athlete, brings the energy of today’s Thunderbolts and speaks candidly about leadership, injury, and inspiration.

Together, they discuss the founding of the Junior Bolts program, the importance of Catholic education, and how homecoming is more than a game—it’s a celebration of legacy, unity, and faith. From Thursday night team prayers to the impact of campus ministry, this episode is a moving tribute to what it means to be a Thunderbolt.

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Lincoln Pius X Catholic High School
WE ARE PIUS: The Ashburn Family
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Chapters

00:30 – Meet the Ashburns: Taylor, Cara, and Jonathan share their family’s connection to Pius across three generations.

01:15 – Growing Up Pius: Taylor reflects on his background, his mother’s legacy, and now raising Thunderbolt kids.

02:06 – Family Life & School Connections: The Ashburns talk about raising four kids, including two current Pius students.

03:06 – Homecoming Traditions: Why homecoming feels like “coming home” for the Ashburns and the community.

04:20 – Cara’s Catholic School Roots: Cara shares her experience coming from Humphrey St. Francis and finding a home at Pius.

08:12 – Faith, Sports & Balance: The Ashburns discuss prioritizing faith while navigating athletics and family life.

08:43 – Taylor’s Homecoming Memories: Taylor recalls his playing days, including a tough loss and lessons learned.

11:42 – Jonathan’s Perspective: Jonathan shares what homecoming means to him as a current player and how he’s inspired by his dad’s legacy.

14:06 – Aldrich Field on Friday Nights: The family describes the electric atmosphere of Pius football under the lights.

17:06 – Community & Booster Club: How the Pius booster club and volunteers fuel the strong sense of community.

20:23 – Faith Formation at Pius: Reflections on campus ministry, chaplains, Restore nights, and faith-centered traditions.

22:03 – Junior Bolts Program: The story behind launching Junior Bolts, its mission, and its impact on young athletes and families.

32:27 – Lightning Round: Saints, Scripture, and Heroes: The Ashburns share their favorite saints, Bible verses, prayer intentions, and personal heroes.

43:44 – Best Part of Being a Thunderbolt: Each family member reflects on tradition, community, and faith as the heart of Pius.

45:01 – Closing & Thank You: Wrapping up with gratitude, encouragement for homecoming, and a reminder to live out faith boldly.