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Its Just Different Podcast is just what the title says... Different! Different people, Different conversations and different experiences! All with the same common goal... Success! I am your Host Ashley Roberts former collegiate player turned serial entrepreneur. We will talk all things youth/women's basketball and life. Join us on this journey as we share stories, give valuable insight and provide relevant information as it relates to all things basketball from dope people doing dope things. Episodes will drop every Tuesday!
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Episode SummaryIn this solo episode of It’s Just Different, Ashley breaks down how to stop being busy and start being productive—especially during the crucial fall prep period. September and October are “opportunity season,” and Ashley shares exactly what parents and athletes should be focused on right now to get better.She touches on everything from skill development and weight training to choosing credible showcases and avoiding overpriced camps. Whether you're navigating middle school basketball or prepping for a high school breakout season, this episode gives real, actionable game. Key Takeaways- Fall is the best time to train, plan, and gain momentum before spring recruiting.- Many parents confuse being busy with being productive—learn how to spot the difference.- Not all coaches and trainers are credible—do your homework before spending money.- Middle school basketball can either build confidence or break it—parents must guide wisely.- Start gathering content, relationships, and routines now that pay off in March and beyond.Helpful Links:Join the Basketball Parent Community for FREE for 7 days! https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% offhttps://itsjustdifferentapparel.com
Episode Summary:In this episode of the It’s Just Different podcast, Howard Juco Head Coach Al Davis joins Ashley Roberts to break down the real recruiting landscape that many families don’t hear about. From the myths around Division 1 to the overlooked benefits of JUCO programs, this conversation is a must-listen for basketball parents.Coach Davis shares what he looks for in athletes, how the transfer portal has changed the game, and why realistic expectations can be the key to your athlete’s success. If you're a parent navigating recruiting, this episode will give you clarity, perspective, and actionable insight. Key Takeaways:- JUCO is not a downgrade. It's a launchpad for many athletes to grow, mature, and earn scholarships to four-year schools.- Social media creates false expectations. Many athletes are chasing D1 offers without understanding the full picture.- The transfer portal changed everything. High school recruiting is harder than ever, and families need to adjust their approach.Know what questions to ask.- Don’t just fall for the name — ask coaches the hard questions about playing time, development, and academics.- Real development matters. Winning games is great, but preparing your child for life and college success matters more.Helpful Links:Join the Basketball Parent Community for FREE for 7 days! https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% offhttps://itsjustdifferentapparel.com
About the Guests:Kelsi Baker is the head girls basketball coach at Mesquite High School and a former standout at Texas Tech. She also works with EYBL and brings over a decade of experience to the game. Episode Summary:In this episode of It’s Just Different, Ashley Roberts sits down with Coach Kelsi Baker for a real conversation on the evolving landscape of youth basketball. From the tension between AAU and high school coaches to prep schools, college coach engagement, and the deeper challenges of coaching today — nothing is off-limits.This episode dives into the real stories and strategies that shape athlete development and recruitment. If you’re a parent, coach, or player trying to make sense of the system, this is your roadmap. Key Takeaways:- High school and AAU coaches must collaborate for athlete success- Prep schools aren’t always the right fit — know your why- Multi-sport athletes bring versatility but face unique challenges- College coaches want athletes with IQ, character, and grit- Competitive spirit and accountability still matter in today’s cultureHelpful Links:Join the Basketball Parent Community for FREE for 7 days! https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% offhttps://itsjustdifferentapparel.com
Episode Summary:In this episode of the It’s Just Different Podcast, host Ashley Roberts sits down with veteran coach Jessica Linson, who brings over 20 years of experience coaching at every level — from AAU to high school varsity.Coach Linson opens up about what it’s really like coaching today’s athletes, managing expectations, and still showing up for her players while balancing motherhood and her own growth. From the evolution of high school basketball to the ongoing tension between AAU and school ball, this conversation is packed with real insight for parents, coaches, and athletes.The episode covers everything from player development and recruiting strategy to discipline, accountability, and what it means to actually coach the whole athlete in today’s world. If you’ve ever questioned the value of high school coaching, this episode will remind you: they’re still doing the work that matters.Key Takeaways:- High School Coaches Do More Than Coach: From checking grades to guiding recruiting, their role is bigger than most realize.- AAU & High School Can Work Together: When both sides communicate, the athlete benefits.- Public vs Prep Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All: The best fit depends on the player’s goals, mindset, and support system.- Parents Need Realistic Perspective: If your athlete isn't playing or being recruited, the answer might be accountability — not politics.- Coaches Need Support Too: They’re guiding your kids while navigating their own families, careers, and emotional weight.Helpful Links:Join the Basketball Parent Community for FREE for 7 days! https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% offhttps://itsjustdifferentapparel.com
Episode Summary:We made it to 100 episodes! In this milestone edition of the It’s Just Different Podcast, host Ashley Roberts reflects on a journey that started with a mic, a mission, and a commitment to show up every week for the basketball community.This episode celebrates over 100 guests, countless stories, and unforgettable insights from some of the most respected names in sports — from WNBA star Ariel Atkins, to college coaches like Erik DeRoo, to parents and athletes just trying to figure it all out.Ashley revisits powerful moments from past episodes, shares behind-the-scenes reflections, and highlights what’s next for the show and the community. Whether you’ve been here since episode 1 or just joined the movement — this episode is a celebration of you, too.Key Takeaways:- Consistency Builds Community: 100 weeks straight of valuable content proves what happens when you stay committed to the mission.- Voices That Matter: Guests like Ariel Atkins and Erik DeRoo brought real insight into recruiting, development, and leadership.- Parents Deserve Support: From community building to tough conversations, this podcast has become a hub for families navigating youth sports.- Every Story Counts: From solo episodes to high school tour interviews, each voice has added to the growing legacy of It’s Just Different.- We’re Just Getting Started: The energy, the vision, the impact — this milestone is a moment, but the movement continues.Helpful Links:Join the Basketball Parent Community for FREE for 7 days! https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community
Episode Summary:In this powerful episode of the It’s Just Different Podcast, host Ashley Roberts sits down with Zay Green — professional basketball player and former McDonald’s All-American — to talk about the real journey behind the WNBA dream.Zay opens up about multiple ACL injuries, mental health battles, and the emotional rollercoaster of transferring between schools like Tennessee, Texas A&M, and UAPB. Through it all, she never gave up — and her story is a true testament to resilience, faith, and focus.This episode gives listeners an honest look into what it really takes to push through when the odds are stacked against you — and how parents, coaches, and athletes can better navigate injuries, recruiting, and the pressure of high-level basketball.Key Takeaways:- Resilience Through Injury: Zay’s story proves that adversity can build the mindset needed to go pro — if you don’t quit.- Authentic Communication Matters: Being real during the recruitment process helps athletes land in the right situation.- The Role of Parents: Support is important, but athletes need space to make their own decisions and learn from them.- Transfer Portal Talk: Zay shares honest thoughts on how the portal is being used — and how it’s affecting the game.- Inspiring the Next Generation: Her journey is a blueprint for any young female athlete who needs a reminder to keep going.Helpful Links:Join the Basketball Parent Community for FREE for 7 days! https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% offhttps://itsjustdifferentapparel.com
Episode Summary:In this powerful episode, Ashley Roberts sits down with Jeremie Hart, Assistant Coach and Recruiting Coordinator at SMU, to talk all things player development, adversity, and recruiting. Jeremie shares how his own setbacks shaped his career — and what parents need to understand about their role in the process.From overcoming personal challenges to finding his purpose through coaching, Jeremie breaks down the difference between training and true development, how faith and hard work go hand-in-hand, and why resilience is missing in today’s athletes.Whether you're a parent, coach, or athlete — this episode is packed with lessons that go far beyond basketball.Key Takeaways:- Adversity is part of development: Don’t protect your athlete from every challenge.- Coaches are watching parents too: Your sideline behavior matters more than you think.- Player development is more than drills: It’s about mindset, consistency, and patience.- Coaching should be purpose-driven: Integrity, value, and long-term growth always win.Stay in your lane: Everyone’s path is different — and that’s okay.
Episode Summary:In this episode of the It’s Just Different Podcast, host Ashley Roberts sits down with Ashley Frazier, former Director of Player Development for the Chicago Sky (WNBA) and founder of SYQ Hoops Academy.Frazier shares her journey from playing at the University of Arizona to shaping athletes at both the professional and youth levels. She opens up about the importance of choosing the right trainer, the value of JUCO as a pathway to D1, and why fundamentals remain the foundation of success — even at the pro level.The conversation also dives into the growing need for women coaches in girls’ basketball, how to empower young female athletes, and why social media can be both a powerful tool and a distraction for today’s players. Packed with practical advice, real talk, and inspiration, this episode is a must-listen for parents, athletes, and trainers looking to navigate the modern basketball landscape.Key Takeaways:- Trainer Selection: Not every trainer is for every athlete — find the right match for skill level and goals.- JUCO Opportunities: Junior college can be a game-changing step toward D1 basketball.- Fundamentals Matter: Footwork, shooting form, and core skills should never be overlooked.- Women in Sports: Female representation in coaching and mentorship is critical for growth.- Social Media’s Role: Build visibility but keep it authentic and purposeful. Helpful Links: Join the Basketball Parent Community for FREE for 7 days! https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% offhttps://itsjustdifferentapparel.com
In this solo episode of the It’s Just Different Podcast, host Ashley Roberts provides strategic guidance for basketball parents and athletes wondering what steps to take after AAU season and live period ends.From picking the right trainers to reaching out to college coaches the right way, Ashley breaks down exactly what to focus on next — especially if you’re uncommitted or still waiting on offers. This episode is packed with real talk, clear advice, and next steps for families serious about the recruitment journey. Key Topics Covered:- What to do when AAU season is over- How to plan your next steps if you're uncommitted- Picking the right basketball trainer (not just the hype)- The smart way to communicate with college coaches- How to vet fall showcases and avoid wasting money- Why a supportive parent community makes a differenceQuote from Ashley:"This is not the time to panic, player and parent, if you didn’t get the looks you wanted."🔗 Helpful Links:👥 Join the Basketball Parent Community: https://www.ashleynroberts.com/commun... 🛍️ Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% offhttps://itsjustdifferentapparel.com
Episode Summary: In this episode of the It’s Just Different Podcast, Ashley Roberts sits down with Coach Nate Levine, one of the most respected JUCO coaches in the country, to break down why junior college might be the smartest move for your athlete.From navigating JUCO levels to building meaningful coach-player relationships, Coach Levine shares what parents need to know when making one of the biggest decisions in their athlete’s journey.🎯 Whether you’re choosing between D1 and JUCO, or just trying to understand the recruiting game, this conversation is packed with honest advice, real examples, and the truth about what it takes.Key Takeaways:✅ JUCO = OpportunityJUCO gives players the minutes and development they may not get at a 4-year school.✅ Every Level Has LevelsThere are different regions, scholarship levels, and competition tiers within JUCO — parents need to understand the structure.✅ Recruiting Takes CommunicationResponding to coaches, asking the right questions, and being realistic about fit is what gets your athlete to the next level.✅ It’s Not About Where You StartIt’s about who you become — and JUCO gives athletes space to grow.💡 Key Quote:"JUCO is often considered the cheat code — it gives you the real college experience and more development opportunities." – Coach Levine🔗 Helpful Links:👥 Join the Basketball Parent Community: https://www.ashleynroberts.com/commun... 🛍️ Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% offhttps://itsjustdifferentapparel.com
Episode Summary: In this episode of the It’s Just Different Podcast, host Ashley Roberts sits down with Coach Valerie Huizar, head coach at St. Mary’s University, to unpack the truth behind college recruiting. With over a decade of experience across multiple levels, Coach Val brings an honest and clear perspective on what families need to understand — from social media impact to the difference between real and fake offers.They dive into the growing number of transfers, how the recruitment timeline differs between D1 and D2 programs, and what red flags families should be watching for. This episode is packed with gems for parents trying to navigate today’s complex recruiting world.About The Guest: Valerie Huizar, also known as Coach Val, is the head coach at St. Mary's University in San Antonio. She’s coached at the JUCO, NAIA, and NCAA D2 levels and brings a clear and honest approach to helping families understand what matters most in the recruiting journey.Key Takeaways: Recruitment Timing Differs by Level: D1 starts earlier, but that doesn’t mean D2 isn’t a great fit.Social Media Is a Recruiting Window: Coaches are watching — and poor behavior online can close doors.Not Every Offer Is Real: Ask questions and understand what’s actually on the table.Character Still Matters: Body language, respect, and presence go a long way.Parents Need to Support, Not Lead: Be involved, but let the athlete own the process.🔗 Helpful Links:👥 Join the Basketball Parent Community: https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community 🛍️ Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% offhttps://itsjustdifferentapparel.com
Episode Summary:In this episode of It’s Just Different Podcast, host Ashley Roberts sits down with Coach Steve Lowe, Head Coach at Grayson College, to uncover what families really need to know about junior college basketball. Together, they unpack the myths surrounding JUCO, share honest truths about AAU missteps, and offer clear guidance on how parents can better support their athlete's recruitment journey.Coach Lowe breaks down the real value of JUCO, why it’s often misunderstood, and what makes it a powerful stepping stone for athletes aiming for D1. If you’ve ever been unsure about the JUCO route, this conversation brings the clarity and insight you need.Key Takeaways: JUCO is not a backup plan—it’s a smart option for the right athlete.Academics matter—and most JUCO credits transfer easily to 4-year schools.Relationships > Hype—talk to current players and build real connections.AAU strategy matters—don’t just chase teams with hype; chase fit.Know your athlete—and what they truly need to thrive at the next level.🔗 Helpful Links:👥 Join the Basketball Parent Community for FREE for 7 days! https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community 🛍️ Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% offhttps://itsjustdifferentapparel.com
Episode Summary:In this solo episode, host Ashley Roberts delivers a powerful, no-fluff game plan to help parents and athletes dominate the July Live Period. Ashley breaks down exactly what college coaches are looking for—and what’s keeping your athlete from getting recruited.This episode goes beyond highlight tapes and stats. From body language on the bench to Instagram mistakes to knowing your role, Ashley unpacks the subtle things that are either helping or hurting your child’s recruitment. She also emphasizes why athletes need to focus on the RIGHT coaches—not just the biggest names.If you're a basketball parent trying to figure out how to support your athlete this summer, this episode is your cheat code. Key Takeaways:- Coaches notice everything—not just scoring. Bench energy, attitude, and resilience matter.- Your athlete’s social media is their portfolio. Make it clean, public, and highlight-focused.- Communication is key. Reach out to schools that actually align with your athlete’s level and values.- Know your role. Athletes who master their strengths and understand what coaches need stand out.- Parents play a role too. Don’t chase status—chase fit and long-term development.🔗 Helpful Links:👥 Join the Basketball Parent Community for FREE for 7 days! https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community 🛍️ Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% offhttps://itsjustdifferentapparel.com
Episode Summary:In this episode of It’s Just Different, Ashley Roberts sits down with Jake Stevens, Associate Head Coach at Texas Woman’s University, to break down why athletes and parents shouldn’t overlook D2 basketball. With years of experience at both D1 and D2 levels, Coach Stevens shares insight on the realities of college hoops, recruiting strategy, and how D2 programs often offer a better balance for student-athletes.From understanding the scholarship breakdowns to knowing when a JUCO route makes sense, this conversation gives parents clarity, confidence, and real advice for helping their athlete find the right fit — not just the most hyped one.Key Takeaways:- D2 isn't a downgrade — it’s a different lane. Many athletes thrive in D2 environments due to better academic-athletic balance and focused development.- Live period isn’t everything. Athletes can still stand out with smart communication, film, and targeted outreach.- Transparency is key. Be honest with coaches about your goals, especially around transferring or chasing D1.- JUCO vs. D2 is a strategic decision. Know when each makes sense based on where your athlete is right now.- Character counts. Coaches value how athletes handle adversity, communicate, and represent themselves.🔗 Helpful Links:👥 Join the Basketball Parent Community for FREE for 7 days! https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community 🛍️ Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% offhttps://itsjustdifferentapparel.com
About the Guests:Makenzie White is a rising D1 basketball player who earned her offer after transferring high schools and switching AAU programs. Her journey from Duncanville to Lancaster — and from Pro Skills to Drive Nation — highlights the importance of finding the right fit, gaining confidence, and maximizing visibility.Brittany White, Makenzie’s mom, is a former coach and player herself. She brings a parent’s perspective on navigating recruiting, switching teams, and making decisions that truly support an athlete’s long-term development.Episode Summary:In this episode of It’s Just Different, Ashley Roberts sits down with Makenzie and Brittany White to unpack the real story behind Makenzie's journey to a D1 offer. From transferring high schools to changing AAU programs, they break down the emotional and strategic decisions that helped Makenzie grow as both a player and a person.You’ll hear candid advice for parents navigating the recruiting process, how to recognize when it’s time to move on, and why visibility and opportunity should outweigh program prestige.Key Takeaways:- The Right Fit Over Big Names: Success often comes from being in a system that values you — not just from being on a big-name team.- Parent & Player Alignment: Having a parent who knows when to push and when to pivot makes all the difference.- Real Recruiting Talk: Learn how Makenzie secured her D1 offer and the lessons Brittany shares for parents coming up behind them.- Switching Teams Doesn’t Mean Failure: It can mean growth, maturity, and better opportunities — if done with the right mindset.- Balancing Pressure & Passion: The importance of mental health, confidence, and staying grounded throughout the journey.🔗 Helpful Links:👥 Join the Basketball Parent Community for FREE for 7 days! https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community 🛍️ Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% offhttps://itsjustdifferentapparel.com
Episode Summary:This week on the It’s Just Different Podcast, Ashley sits down with Zoderick Green — pro trainer, former hooper, and father of WNBA athlete Zay Green — to talk real about why athletes aren’t getting recruited and how parents may be unintentionally holding them back.From Zay’s inspiring story to the shift in parental roles in youth sports, Zoderick shares what every basketball parent needs to hear about training, camps, recruiting, and expectations. This is your behind-the-scenes blueprint to preparing your child for next-level basketball — mentally, physically, and emotionally.Key Takeaways:- Parents aren’t the problem… but they could be the pressure.You’ll learn how today’s parents unintentionally impact a coach’s ability to develop players — and what to do instead.- Real recruiting looks different than you think.Handwritten letters. Direct convos. Clear evaluations. Not all “interest” is real interest.- Not every camp is for your kid.Zoderick breaks down the difference between team camps, exposure camps, and developmental ones — and how to choose what fits.- Ask better questions.Parents should ask trainers who have they developed? What’s the plan for your kid? What results can they show?- More rest, less rush.Burnout is real. Pushing too early can backfire. Trust your child’s pace. Join the Basketball Parent Community for FREE for 7 days! https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community 🛍️ Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% offhttps://itsjustdifferentapparel.com
About the Guest:Charles Stoker is a respected basketball developer in the DFW Metroplex known for building players from the ground up. Notable for helping NBA athlete Jordan Walsh, Charles is committed to real development—not just flashy training. As a coach, father, and mentor, his approach is rooted in fun, consistency, and fundamentals. Episode Summary:In this episode of It’s Just Different, Ashley Roberts sits down with Charles to expose the difference between training and development. They break down what parents are getting wrong, how to choose the right person to guide your athlete, and the power of building a strong foundation—physically and mentally. If you're a basketball parent, this is the truth you’ve been needing. Key Takeaways:- Training ≠ Development – There’s a difference, and most parents don’t know it.- Development requires patience, not just reps.- You need someone who can grow the full player, not just their bag.- Family, fun, and fundamentals still win.🔗 Helpful Links:📥 Download my FREE Basketball Parent Guide: https://ashleyroberts.kit.com/subscri...👥 Join the Basketball Parent Community for a FREE 7 DAY TRIAL https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community 🛍️ Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% offhttps://itsjustdifferentapparel.com
Episode Summary:In this solo episode of It’s Just Different, host Ashley Roberts breaks down what every parent of an aspiring college athlete needs to know before the next live period. From choosing the right camps to managing AAU communication, this episode is your roadmap to navigating basketball recruitment the smart way.Ashley shares honest insight on how to maximize your athlete’s exposure, when to play up versus stick to grade level, and how highlight reels and outreach strategies are really viewed by coaches. Whether you’re new to the AAU scene or knee-deep in recruiting chaos, these strategies will help you prioritize what matters — and avoid costly mistakes.🎯 Want to make sure your athlete isn’t getting overlooked? This episode is packed with tips that will help parents stay ahead of the curve. Key Takeaways:- Recruitment Priorities by Class Year: Know what really matters in each phase of your athlete’s journey.- AAU Communication Strategy: Build strong relationships with coaches to understand where your athlete truly stands.- Camp Strategy: Focus on regional or local camps tied to real offers — not hype events.- Highlight Reels That Work: It’s not about fancy edits — it’s about what coaches need to see first.- Real Practice Over Politics: Get in the gym, get feedback, and stay consistent. That’s how you move forward.🔗 Helpful Links:👥 Join the Basketball Parent Community: https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community 🛍️ Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% offhttps://itsjustdifferentapparel.com
In this episode of It’s Just Different Podcast, Ashley Roberts sits down with three standout players from New Mexico Junior College to discuss the often-overlooked journey through JUCO basketball. Hear directly from athletes navigating their path to Division 1 success, including one who earned National Player of the Year honors!From overcoming language barriers to building team chemistry and chasing D1 dreams, this episode offers powerful lessons for parents, athletes, and coaches about growth, resilience, and making the right college decision.🔥 Key Takeaways:✔️ Why JUCO is a powerful stepping stone for D1 success✔️ How social media plays a critical role in today’s recruitment✔️ The mental and physical growth required to make the D1 leap✔️ Why personal development and team chemistry matter most🔗 Helpful Links:👥 Join the Basketball Parent Community: https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community 🛍️ Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% offhttps://itsjustdifferentapparel.com
Episode Summary:Think JUCO is just a fallback plan? Think again.In this episode of It’s Just Different Podcast, Ashley Roberts sits down with Coach Mefford of New Mexico Junior College to expose the real advantages of taking the JUCO path. From producing National Players of the Year to building programs that rival Division 1 facilities, this conversation will completely change the way you think about junior college basketball.If your athlete has Division 1 dreams, this episode shows why JUCO might actually be the BETTER path—providing elite development, game experience, and the exposure needed to level up.👀 Don’t miss this one—your athlete’s future could depend on it. Key Takeaways:- JUCO as a Launchpad: Why JUCO offers real opportunities for high-level development and D1 transfers.- Parents’ Role: How to guide without overstepping and help your athlete find the right fit.- D1 Isn’t Always the Best First Step: How JUCO helps athletes truly prepare for higher competition.I- International Influence: How JUCO is becoming a hub for global basketball talent.- Facilities and Development: Why some JUCO programs are outpacing D1 schools in athlete growth.🔗 Helpful Links:📥 Download my FREE Basketball Parent Guide: https://ashleyroberts.kit.com/subscri...👥 Join the Basketball Parent Community: https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community 🛍️ Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% offhttps://itsjustdifferentapparel.com
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