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% off

https://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 joy

Join the Basketball Parent Community for FREE for 7 days! https://www.ashleynroberts.com/community

Shop ‘Different’ Merch: Use Code "Podcast" for 15% off

https://itsjustdifferentapparel.com ⁠