Its Just Different Podcast

Players everywhere are struggling with inconsistency, confidence, and slow development — and most of it has NOTHING to do with talent. In this solo episode, Ashley breaks down the 5 biggest reasons young hoopers stop improving and what parents must do differently before AAU season.Whether you’re a parent trying to guide your athlete or a player trying to stand out, these lessons will change how you train, compete, and grow. Key Takeaways: • Why players stay stuck despite training• The attitudes that kill confidence without anyone noticing• The real role parents play in development• How to study film the right way• The habits that separate “average” athletes from the ones who rise About AshleyAshley Roberts is a former college hooper, mentor, and creator of the It’s Just Different Podcast. She helps parents and athletes navigate youth basketball, recruiting, AAU decisions, and the mental side of the game with honesty and real-world experience. Resources for Parents & PlayersJoin the Basketball Parent Community (FREE 7-day trial):https://www.ashleynroberts.com/communityDownload the FREE Guide to Save Money, Time & Stress:https://ashleyroberts.kit.com/subscribeGet the Basketball Parent Toolkit (Your full roadmap):https://www.ashleynroberts.com/product-page/basketball-parent-toolkitShop DIFFERENT merch (Use code “Podcast” for 15% off):https://itsjustdifferentapparel.com

About the Guest(s):Jordan Jackson and Gigi Banks are top high school basketball recruits out of St. James. Jordan is committed to the University of Maryland, while Gigi is exploring programs that align with her growth and style. Both bring unique insights from national competitions like Hoopfest and share strategies for balancing athletics, academics, and NIL opportunities.Episode Summary:In this episode of It's Just Different, Ashley dives into elite high school basketball with Jordan Jackson and Gigi Banks. They discuss Texas vs DMV basketball culture, the benefits of prep school athletics, and navigating the intense schedule and exposure that comes with high-level competition. The conversation also explores choosing the right college program, factoring in playing style, coaching philosophy, and personal growth opportunities. Jordan talks about her journey to Maryland, while Gigi shares her process for finding the ideal fit. Additionally, they discuss balancing NIL opportunities, recovery strategies, and the importance of family and community support in a young athlete’s development.Key Takeaways:- Prep schools offer rigorous schedules and resources that prepare athletes for college-level competition.- Choosing the right college program requires consideration of fit, coaching style, and growth potential.- Recovery and physical wellness are critical to maintaining peak performance.- NIL opportunities must be balanced with authentic passion for the sport.- Family and community support play a crucial role in an athlete’s journey.Resources for Parents & PlayersJoin the Basketball Parent Community (FREE 7-day trial):https://www.ashleynroberts.com/communityDownload the FREE Guide to Save Money, Time & Stress:https://ashleyroberts.kit.com/subscribeGet the Basketball Parent Toolkit (Your full roadmap):https://www.ashleynroberts.com/produc...Shop DIFFERENT merch (Use code “Podcast” for 15% off):https://itsjustdifferentapparel.com

About the Guest(s)Kaleena “Special K,” Tati Griffin, and Chloe Jenkins are top recruits out of Ontario Christian High School in California.-Kaleena Smith, the #1 ranked player in the Class of 2027, sets the tone every time she steps on the court. A true floor general and proven scorer, she leads with IQ, confidence, and a competitive edge that elevates everyone around her.- Tati Giffin is a gold medalist and the #1 ranked player in the Class of 2028. Her decision-making under pressure is years ahead of her age, making her one of the most composed young guards in the country.- Chloe Jenkins, a 6'0 freshman combo guard, has already made her mark as a fierce rebounder and relentless competitor. She thrives in high-pressure situations and plays with the kind of intensity coaches dream about.Together, they represent the future of women's basketball: talented, dynamic, and hungry.Episode SummaryIn this episode of It’s Just Different, Ashley Roberts sits down with three top recruits— Special K, Tati Griffin, and Chloe Jenkins out of Ontario Christian, to talk about the real experiences behind today’s basketball culture.The conversation provides serious insight as the players compare AAU and school ball, break down their pregame routines, discuss the realities of recruitment, and open up about the pressures young athletes face on social media. From dealing with injuries to growing as leaders and teammates, this episode gives a raw look into what it takes to thrive as a young athlete today.Their stories bring listeners behind the curtain of elite competition, offering an honest perspective on preparation, team dynamics, and mental toughness. Whether you’re a parent, coach, or young athlete, this episode is full of wisdom, connection, and inspiration.Key Takeaways- AAU vs. School Ball — Different vibes, different chemistry, and different expectations.- Recovery Matters — Epsom baths, PT, treatments, and consistency are key to staying healthy.- Handling Pressure — Each guest shares their mental reset routine before big games.- Life Balance — Young athletes talk honestly about juggling sports, school, and social life.- Recruitment Insight — Genuine relationships with coaches matter more than constant communication.Resources for Parents & PlayersJoin the Basketball Parent Community (FREE 7-day trial):https://www.ashleynroberts.com/communityDownload the FREE Guide to Save Money, Time & Stress:https://ashleyroberts.kit.com/subscribeGet the Basketball Parent Toolkit (Your full roadmap):https://www.ashleynroberts.com/product-page/basketball-parent-toolkitShop DIFFERENT merch (Use code “Podcast” for 15% off):https://itsjustdifferentapparel.com

About the GuestShaitece Trigg is a seasoned sports psychology specialist with over eight years of experience helping athletes, teams, and coaches reach their highest potential. With a focus on mental performance, Shaitece supports high-level athletes by applying therapeutic practices from the field of sports psychology. She is the founder of Shift Performance, a company dedicated to securing happiness and facilitating positive transitions for athletes.Episode SummaryIn this episode of the It’s Just Different Podcast, host Ashley Roberts sits down with sports psychology specialist Shaitece Trigg to explore the mental challenges athletes face and how parents can best support their children through the ups and downs of competitive sports.From performance anxiety to dips in confidence, Shaitece breaks down the mental patterns that impact athlete performance and the core strategies that can help. Ashley and Shaitece discuss the importance of mental performance coaching, why athletes struggle with pressure, and how parents can shift from critics to true supporters in their child’s athletic journey.The conversation also dives into athlete identity, what happens when kids tie their self-worth entirely to sport, and how expanding that identity can build healthier, more resilient young people. This is a powerful episode for any parent looking to understand what their child is feeling, thinking, and battling behind the scenes.Key TakeawaysPerformance Anxiety & Confidence: Athletes often experience game-day paralysis due to fear, anxiety, or low confidence.Parental Influence: The way parents engage with their children after practices and games shapes athletic identity and performance.Value of Mental Coaching: Mental performance work helps athletes manage stress, build confidence, and unlock their full potential.Understanding Identity: Encouraging athletes to develop interests and identity beyond their sport supports healthier self-esteem.Communication Matters: Open, supportive conversations help parents better understand their child’s needs and athletic experiences.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(s):Coach Eubanks and Coach Sutton lead the Red Oak Lady Hawks with a shared vision: pushing their athletes beyond district success to compete at the state level. Coach Eubanks, the head coach, instills grit and determination, while Coach Sutton complements the program with discipline and a focus on team camaraderie. Together, they emphasize conditioning, skill growth, spiritual grounding, and creating a family-like culture that develops champions on and off the court.Episode Summary:In this episode of the It’s Just Different podcast, Coach Eubanks and Coach Sutton take us inside the Red Oak Lady Hawks program. They share their approach to building a championship-level team through discipline, spiritual grounding, and a strong, cohesive culture.Listeners will learn how these coaches balance on-court strategy, community support, and player development, while also adapting to the evolving, positionless style of modern basketball. From nurturing confidence in individual roles to establishing a culture that spans middle and high school programs, this episode offers a full view of what makes Red Oak’s program unique.Key Takeaways:- Spiritual Beliefs: The team prays on Mondays to foster focus, fearlessness, and purpose in their play.- Role Clarification: Clear role definitions ensure each athlete contributes effectively to team goals.- Cultural Evolution: Adapting to modern, positionless basketball while strategically using traditional positions.- Program Consistency: Building a consistent basketball culture from middle school through high school is key to long-term success.Join the Basketball Parent Community for FREE for 7 days! ⁠https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community⁠Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% off⁠https://itsjustdifferentapparel.com ⁠

About the Guest(s)This episode of It’s Just Different features Argyle High School’s coaching duo, Head Coach Chance Westmoreland and Assistant Coach Casey Wallis, alongside host Ashley Roberts. Coach Chance Westmoreland has over 23 years of coaching experience and currently leads Argyle’s program while serving as Assistant Athletic Director. His approach combines discipline, development, and academic balance to cultivate well-rounded student-athletes. Coach Casey Wallis, a former collegiate player at West Texas, brings over a decade of coaching experience and multiple state championships. She focuses on player growth, motivation, and maintaining the connection between athletes’ personal and athletic development. Together, they reveal what goes into building and sustaining one of Texas’s most consistent high school basketball programs.Episode SummaryIn this episode, host Ashley Roberts visits Argyle High School to dive into the heart of what makes their basketball program thrive. Coach Westmoreland shares how Argyle’s success is deeply rooted in community relationships, trust, and communication — both with parents and athletes. He explains how the program balances high-level performance with accountability and academic excellence. Coach Wallis offers insight into balancing coaching, family, and mentorship, providing a refreshing look at how female coaches influence program culture and player development. Throughout the conversation, Ashley draws out lessons every parent of an athlete can learn from — about commitment, teamwork, and creating the right environment for young athletes to grow.Key TakeawaysCollaboration between AAU and high school programs is key for player growth and consistency. Building trust with parents helps athletes thrive both academically and athletically. Success starts with clear communication and intentional coaching at every level. Balancing family life and coaching creates more relatable, grounded leaders for athletes. A strong community and support system are the foundation for long-term program success.Join the Basketball Parent Community for FREE for 7 days! https://www.ashleynroberts.com/communityShop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% offhttps://itsjustdifferentapparel.com ⁠

About the Guest(s)Jake Floyd is the head coach at Denton Guyer, leading the school's basketball program to new heights with a strong focus on fostering teamwork, discipline, and skill development. Under his leadership, the team has made significant strides, reflecting a commitment to cultivating a positive and competitive culture within high school sports. Ashley Roberts is a podcast host renowned for her engaging and insightful interviews focused on sports coaching and athlete development. In this episode, she draws on her experience as a coach to guide the conversation, bringing forward critical insights about navigating competitive sports dynamics at the high school level.Coach Green is a JV coach and varsity assistant at Denton Guyer, specializing in offensive strategy and giving personalized guidance to players looking to transition to college-level basketball. Coach Simpson acts as a freshman coach and varsity assistant, focusing largely on defensive strategy and fostering relationship-building among players. She places substantial emphasis on advocating for improvement from good to great defensive performance. Coach Kelly Folsom is known as the "team mom," providing emotional support and post coaching, contributing significantly to the Varsity's success through a blend of strategic coaching and mentoring.Episode SummaryIn this riveting episode of It's Just Different Podcast, Ashley Roberts takes us on a deep dive into the heart of high school basketball coaching with the dedicated staff of Denton Guyer. The episode kicks off as Ashley is joined by head coach Jake Floyd and assistants Coach Green, Coach Simpson, and Coach Kelly Folsom, who share their insights on what it takes to transform teenage athletes into successful, college-ready players. Diving into the nuances of basketball coaching, they discuss the pressures of social media, the evolution of gameplay, and the importance of cultivating a supportive and growth-oriented culture among high school teams. Throughout the conversation, Ashley emphasizes the changing dynamics of high school basketball, highlighting teamwork, coaching strategies, and motivation in today’s fast-paced sports environment.Denton Guyer's staff reveals their successful strategies in fostering team spirit, resilience, and a winning mindset — with a specific emphasis on tailoring roles to individual strengths and creating an environment where every player feels valued and important. This approach not only supports athletic success but also ensures players are equipped with lifelong skills that extend beyond the court.Key TakeawaysThe creation of a positive and competitive culture is vital for success in high school basketball, curated through trust and mutual encouragement among the coaching staff and players.Social media plays an influential role in high school sports today, shaping both opportunities and challenges for athletes.Effective basketball coaching hinges on blending offensive and defensive strategies tailored to individual player strengths and team dynamics. Building a complete coaching staff involves care, commitment, and an open-minded approach to differences in coaching styles and strategies.Parental support and involvement significantly influence the athlete's journey, reinforcing the team culture and supporting individual player development.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(s):This episode features three powerhouse coaches from North Crowley High School: Coach Shead, Head Coach — a seasoned leader whose passion for excellence and high standards has reshaped North Crowley’s basketball program.Coach Tory Branch, Associate Head Coach — known for her defensive focus and powerful voice, she brings discipline and intensity to the program.Coach Jamal Branch, Assistant Coach — a former state champion who leads with competitive fire and specializes in offense and player development. Episode Summary:In this episode of the It's Just Different Podcast, host Ashley Roberts sits down with the coaching staff of North Crowley Girls Basketball to explore what makes their program one of the most respected in Texas. From their unique “Alamo” mantra to fostering next-level discipline, the staff opens up about their coaching chemistry, high academic standards, and the mental toughness required to compete at the top.They also dive into how the game is evolving — especially in the girls’ space — and why training with intention (not just cones) is shaping more adaptable, elite athletes. Throughout the conversation, you’ll hear what truly sets North Crowley apart, from family dynamics on staff to how they’re preparing young women to succeed beyond the court. Key Takeaways:- Girls' skill development is catching up fast, thanks to access to high-level trainers and intentional reps.- The “Alamo” mindset instills discipline, accountability, and collective effort — no excuses, just execution.Strong coaching chemistry is built on trust, allowing each coach to lead in their lane with confidence.- Visibility matters: North Crowley isn’t seeking credit, but they’re ready for recognition.- Coaching as family comes with challenges, but the unity drives program success.

Episode Summary: In the kickoff episode of the High School Podcast Tour, Ashley Roberts sits down with the coaching staff at Mansfield Summit High School to explore the values, discipline, and relationships that power their girls’ basketball program.Coach Amy Gillum, Coach Purcell, and Coach Giddings open up about how they’ve built a tight-knit, defense-first culture and why trust, communication, and consistency are the foundation of everything they do. From balancing AAU relationships to using social media as a tool for exposure, this episode dives into the behind-the-scenes work that shapes great teams and better people.Whether you're a basketball parent, coach, or athlete, this conversation is full of gems — especially if you're navigating high school hoops, recruiting, and building strong coaching culture.Key Takeaways: - A diverse coaching staff brings balance and synergy to the program.- Defense, discipline, and teamwork are core pillars at Summit.- Parents and coaches must communicate clearly to best support the athlete.- Social media is a powerful tool for building exposure when used intentionally.- A “family feel” culture goes beyond basketball — it’s what builds legacy.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(s):Ashley Roberts is the host of the “It’s Just Different” Podcast and a former junior college basketball player who began her collegiate journey at South Plains Junior College before transferring to the University of Texas. Now a basketball consultant, speaker, and founder of the Different Community, Ashley uses her platform to educate and empower parents navigating their athlete’s basketball journey — especially those overlooked or misunderstood paths like JUCO.Episode Summary:In this episode, Ashley Roberts sets the record straight about JUCO — and why parents need to stop looking at it as a backup or “less than” option. Sharing her own experience as a JUCO athlete turned D1 graduate, Ashley explains why junior college can be the perfect fit for athletes who need development, more playing time, or a reset. She breaks down how JUCO events like the Jamboree draw D1 coaches, the difference between going JUCO vs D2, and how ego and misinformation keep parents from seeing JUCO for what it really is — an opportunity.This episode is for any parent who’s wondering if JUCO is “worth it,” any athlete considering their options, and any coach helping a player make the right decision.Key Takeaways:- Junior college provides real opportunities for development, playing time, and visibility- JUCO events like Jamborees are packed with D1 coaches looking for talent- Choosing JUCO doesn’t mean you’ve failed — it can be the smartest move- Many parents reject JUCO out of ego or misinformation- Honest conversations with coaches are essential when mapping out your athlete’s pathJoin 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(s):Ashley Roberts is the founder of the It’s Just Different Podcast and a former University of Texas basketball player. She began coaching varsity basketball at 23, created a successful AAU program, and now leads an empowering movement for parents of girl basketball players. Through her podcast and community, she guides families through college recruiting, branding, and building opportunities on and off the court.David Shands is known as the Podcast King and host of the Social Proof Podcast. As a mentor to countless podcasters, including Ashley, he’s helped transform their platforms into impactful media brands. His insight into entrepreneurship and media makes him one of the most influential voices in the podcasting space. Episode Summary:In this special 2-year anniversary episode, the host becomes the guest as David Shands interviews Ashley Roberts about her evolution from D1 athlete to AAU coach to community leader and podcast entrepreneur. They break down what it really takes to build something from nothing, especially as a Black woman in youth sports and media.Ashley shares how she turned a passion for helping parents and athletes into a full ecosystem — podcast, community, merch, showcases, and live events. The episode dives deep into the reality of youth sports politics, recruiting red flags, branding for athletes, the role of transfer portals, and what parents need to know today.It’s a transparent, inspiring, and actionable conversation about building legacy, mentorship, and ownership in sports — and how Ashley’s platform is changing the game for girl basketball players and their families. Key Takeaways:- You don’t need a huge platform to start — just a clear purpose and consistent value.- Parents must understand what’s really happening behind the scenes in AAU and college recruiting.- Social media branding matters more than ever for athletes — visibility creates opportunities.- Building relationships with the right people can take you further than talent alone.- Entrepreneurship is possible in youth sports — from running leagues to creating community-driven products.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:Coach Jazz is an internationally recognized clinician, former college and pro player, and basketball trainer with deep roots in athlete development. From training with Maya Moore to coaching camps around the world—from Egypt to Australia—Coach Jazz is a master teacher who blends experience, empathy, and strategy to transform the lives of athletes and their families. Episode Summary:In this episode of the It's Just Different Podcast, host Ashley Roberts sits down with the dynamic Coach Jazz for a powerful conversation on athlete development, training philosophies, and the future of youth sports. Jazz opens up about her own playing career, the lessons she’s learned from training athletes worldwide, and how she's helping shape a better system for both players and parents.From the debate over cones in training sessions to the mental health of athletes and the rise of women’s basketball visibility, Coach Jazz delivers gems for parents, players, and coaches alike. Whether you’re new to the game or knee-deep in the grind, this episode offers actionable takeaways and honest talk about what really matters in developing complete athletes. Key Takeaways:- Hard work + love of the game are the true foundation of elite performance- Parents must be active participants in their child’s emotional and physical development- Not all trainers are created equal – know the difference between skill development and true player development- Visibility for women’s sports is exploding, and athletes need to be prepared- Multi-sport athletes can succeed, but they need balance and structure- Fun matters – don’t let the pressure kill your athlete’s joyJoin 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 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 ⁠