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

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Episode Summary

In 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:

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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 ⁠